Diethylhexyl phthalate, reproductive

The rapid movement in the global phthalates market away from using plasticisers 2-ethylhexanol (2-EH) and diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) in favour of alternative products was underscored recently when BASF revealed plans to close its 2-EH and DEHP plants in Germany. The restructuring in Europe will have no effect on BASF s plasticiser portfolio in Nafta and Asia, however, where the company will continue to offer 2-EH and DEHP. About 70% of the plasticiser maiket volume is phthalates, and plasticisers make up about 60% of the plastic additives maiket. PVC accounts for 80-90% of global plasticiser consumption. In October 2003, California added DEHP to the state s list of more than 750 chemicals known to cause birth defects or reproductive harm. Previous studies had shown that the chemical can leach from plastic bags that contain intravenous fluids, blood, tube feedings or other medical treatment, and thereby enter the bodies of patients. 

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NTIS (National Technical Information Service) (1988) Reproduction and Fertility Evaluation of Diethylhexyl Phthalate (CAS No 117-81-7) in CD-I Mice Exposed during Gestation (PB88-204300, 04-15-88), Springfield, VA... 

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NTP. 1982b. Diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) Reproduction and fertility assessment in CD-I mice when administered in the feed National Toxicology Program, Research Triangle Park, NC. NTP-82-FACB003. 

PriceCJ, Tyl RW, Marr MC, et al. 1986. Reproduction and fertility evaluation of diethylhexyl phthalate (CAS No. 117-81-7) in Fischer 344 rats exposed during gestation. Final report. Research Triangle Park, NC National Toxicology Program. NTP-86-309. 

Benson R (2009) Hazard to the developing male reproductive system from cumulative exposure to phthalate esters-dibutyl phthalate, diisobutyl phthalate, butylbenzyl phthalate, diethylhexyl phthalate, dipentyl phthalate, and diisononyl phthalate. Regul Toxicol Pharm... 

Some phthalates, like dibutyl phthalate, diethylhexyl phthalate, dimethoxyethyl phthalate, pentyl and dipentyl phthalates (mixed isomers) and benzyl butyl phthalate, are prohibited under Annex II of the EU Cosmetics Directive, on the basis of being classified as toxic for reproduction under Council Directive 76/769/EEC. 

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