Phthalater

Phthalater is a term occasionally used in sources as a synonym or variant spelling of phthalate. In standard chemical usage, the correct term is phthalate, referring to esters of phthalic acid. Phthalates are a broad class of compounds primarily used as plasticizers to increase the flexibility and durability of plastics, especially polyvinyl chloride (PVC).

Production and structure: Phthalates are produced by esterifying phthalic anhydride with alcohols, yielding mixtures of diesters. Common examples include di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), dibutyl phthalate (DBP), benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP), and diisononyl phthalate (DINP). They are typically liquids at room temperature with low volatility.

Uses: The main role of phthalates is to soften and improve the flexibility of PVC-based products. They are used in vinyl flooring, cables and wires, coatings, adhesives, medical devices, toys, and numerous consumer goods. Some applications require high molecular weight phthalates for durability, while others use lower molecular weight variants for flexibility.

Health and environmental aspects: Phthalates can be absorbed by ingestion, inhalation, or skin contact. Several phthalates have raised health concerns, including potential endocrine-disrupting effects and reproductive toxicity in animal studies. The degree of risk depends on exposure level, duration, and the specific phthalate. Infants and young children are often a focus of regulatory action due to their higher exposure relative to body weight.

Regulation and substitutes: Regulatory measures in many jurisdictions restrict certain phthalates in toys, childcare articles, and medical devices. Alternatives include non-phthalate plasticizers such as adipates, citrates, and other eco-friendlier options. Environmental considerations include widespread presence in environmental media and consumer product waste, with ongoing research into degradation and long-term effects.

See also: phthalic acid esters, plasticizer.