Substitutes to phthalates

There are less common plasticizers in the market which potentially may be used as phthalate replacements. Some of these plasticizers have been widely used in PVC manufacturing, such as adipates, while others have been used only for specific purposes, mostly because of their higher price in comparison to phthalates. These plasticizers may belong to the following chemical groups  

Toxicological and carcinogenic aspects are very important for plasticizers destined to be used in toy manufacture but they are not known at this time for most of these plasticizers to ensure their safe use in this application. Presently known facts seem to indicate that some of the plasticizers may be potentially useful to replace phthalates. A report prepared for the European Commission Directorate-General Enterprise indicates a lower health risk with acetyl tributyl citrate, ATBC. It was also reported that the substitution of phthalates by benzoates (such as the diethylene glycol dibenzoate), alkylsulfonic phenyl esters, and possibly some adipates, trimellitates, sebacates and azelates should reduce health hazards however it is also recognized that the information available for DOA and ATBC is much less extensive than that available for phthalates. 

Recently, a study by EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) in the USA, dated November 2001, has revealed that isodecy 1 benzoate does not pose an unacceptable risk to human health. In this respect, it is also worth mentioning a report issued by the Danish EPA in 2001, in which different plasticizers are recommended for different purposes. Table 13.2 points out to substitute phthalates in toys by a derivative of citric acid and contains many other suggestions. 

Name of substitute Expected most relevant application 

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