Phthalate Esters

Phthalate esters are an important class of chemicals widely used in commercial applications, primarily as plasticizers to soften vinyl, but they are also used in consumer products. This book reviews the state of the scientific knowledge of phthalate esters in the environment. Key information reported includes: analytical methodologies; a compilation of concentration measurements in water, sediment, soil, air, dust, and food; plus an assessment of critical exposure pathways. In addition, key physical properties data and fate characteristics that control exposure are reviewed. Also included are pertinent ecotoxicity data and mammalian toxicity and human health information. Finally, the monograph addresses potential environmental risks.§Phthalate esters are an important class of chemicals widely used in commercial applications, primarily as plasticizers to soften vinyl, but are also used in consumer products. This book reviews the state of the science of phthalate esters in the environment. Key information reviewed includes analytical methodologies, a compilation of concentration measurements in water, sediment, soil, air, dust, and food, plus an assessment of critical exposure pathways. In addition, key physical properties data and fate characteristics that control exposure are reviewed. Pertinent ecotoxicity data and mammalian toxicity and human health information are reviewed. Finally, potential environmental risks are addressed.