Indoor Exposures To Phthalates

Phthalate esters, or phthalates as they typically are termed

, are a class of chemicals used as plasticizers in a variety of products. They are added to solid materials and to coatings to impart flexibility. Indoor building products containing phthalates include polyvinylchloride (PVC) floor coverings and moldings, PVC backings on carpets, vinyl wall coverings, vinyl upholstery, wiring and cabling, and some specialty coatings. Phthalates also are present in some consumer and personal care products. As additives, phthalates are not chemically bound to materials and, thus, may diffuse within the material and become available for release into the environment. Because phthalates have very low vapor pressures, their resulting gas-phase concentrations in air are very low but they readily adsorb onto surfaces of airborne particles and to all surfaces in building interiors. There are health concerns related to a number of the commonly used phthalates which are now ubiquitous in the indoor environment. Because of this, chemical formulators are starting to switch to less toxic alternative plasticizers including other phthalates.

Researchers and other investigators may be interested to know what phthalates are present in the indoor environment; their concentrations in air, in dust, and on interior surfaces; and their potential sources. Field investigations involving indoor air quality testing can address some of these questions. Air sampling for phthalate analysis typically involves pulling large volumes of air through a sorbent medium such as a plug of clean polyurethane foam. This captures both gas and airborne particulate phase semi-volatile compounds. Phthalate testing also can include collection of dust samples and surface wipe samples. An environmental laboratory, such as one recognized by the Consumer Product Safety Commission as a toy testing lab, performs the phthalate analysis. A better understanding of the dynamics of semi-volatile pollutants indoor environments is developing as evidenced by recent articles in the scientific literature. The theoretical models and empirical studies that have been published suggest that the results of an IAQ testing study that includes phthalate testing may be used to estimate exposures of building occupants to this important class of pollutant chemicals.

by:Berkeley Analytical

POST COMMENT

Utilities & Features Of Bio Clinical Laboratories Install Latest Gas Detectors And Other Safety Measures For Fool Proof Safety Of Your Workers Hr Outsourcing Companies: The Other Side Of The Spectrum Dubai Souks: A Shopaholics Dream Come True! How Does Computer Technology Affect Our Lives In October Taiwan Electronic Industry: The Machine Manufacturing, Sealing Test, Touch Screen, Optica Spread Spectrum Clocking Simplified Degreasing Industrial Equipment Safely And Effectively Cover Every Inch Of Your Abode By Buying Home Appliances Online In India Home Appliance Purchasing Suggestions Achieving Regulatory Compliance (and Personal Safety) With An Asbestos Inspection Sydney Stickers For Home Appliances Broad Spectrum Antibiotic: Everything You Need To Know To Make The Safest Choices