Benefits and Attributes of Phthalates

American Chemistry Council
Phthalate Esters Panel  

Phthalate ester plasticizers have been used to impart softness and flexibility in polyvinyl choride (PVC) products since commercial development of flexible vinyl began over 50 years ago. In order to impart the desired physical properties, plasticizers must remain an integral part of the vinyl article, providing flexibility for years of product use.

Properties of plasticizers

Plasticizer properties that are vital to quality flexible vinyl products include softening efficiency, low temperature efficiency, resistance to extraction by aqueous and oily liquids, low volatility to minimize loss in hot environments, as well as, other properties necessary for efficient processing within the manufacturing facility. Depending on the specific flexible vinyl article and its intended use, light stability, low density, or low odor also may be important.

Phthalate ester plasticizers, a family of compounds that are included in numerous products with many special performance properties, are popular because of their versatility and excellent performance. For example, vinyl wire and cable products use phthalates that provide high electrical insulation and long service life in severe operating environments, as might be found in a hot telephone switching center or under the hood of any automobile. Vinyl toys use plasticizers that are excellent softeners and provide a long useful life for the toy. Vinyl products used in medical devices such as blood bags, use phthalate ester plasticizers that allow for products that can be steam sterilized, are resistant to kinking and provide optical clarity and weldability. Different attributes associated with this class of compounds allow for unique applications for many industrial and consumer products.

Because of their extensive use in a variety of applications, phthalate ester plasticizers have been subject to extensive health and safety scrutiny. In fact, phthalate esters constitute some of the most studied and best understood compounds in the US from a health and environmental viewpoint. No other class of plasticizer has ever been subjected to toxicity and safety testing to the same degree.

Frequently Asked Questions About Phthalate Esters