nonphthalates

Nonphthalates are plasticizers used to impart flexibility to polymers, most commonly polyvinyl chloride (PVC), without containing phthalate esters or phthalic acid. They were developed and promoted as alternatives to phthalates in response to health concerns and regulatory restrictions on certain phthalates in toys, childcare articles, medical devices, and other consumer products. Nonphthalates aim to provide similar plasticizing performance while reducing potential exposure to phthalates.

Common families of nonphthalate plasticizers include adipates, citrate esters, terephthalates, and cycloaliphatic esters. Examples are di(2-ethylhexyl) adipate (DEHA) and diisodecyl adipate (as adipates); acetyl tributyl citrate (ATBC) and acetyl triethyl citrate (ATEC); di-2-ethylhexyl terephthalate (DOTP) and di(2-ethylhexyl) terephthalate (DEHT); and diisononyl cyclohexane dicarboxylate (DINCH). These compounds are chosen for differing properties such as lower volatility, migration behavior, and compatibility with various polymers and processing conditions.

Regulatory and safety considerations vary by region and product type. While nonphthalates are promoted as safer alternatives in many applications, they are not without scrutiny; toxicology, exposure pathways, and long-term effects continue to be evaluated. Migration from plastics into skin contact, food, or the environment remains a concern for some plasticizers, and regulations may limit or mandate testing in specific products, particularly those intended for children or medical use.

Applications span a range of PVC products, coatings, adhesives, medical devices, and some consumer goods where phthalate restrictions apply. In practice, the choice among nonphthalates depends on performance requirements, regulatory context, and compatibility with the target polymer.