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=Abstract= Phthalates are known technically as dialkyl or alkyl aryl esters of 1,2 benzenedicarboxylic acid. We use this chemical to soften plastics so that they aren’t as rough for different items we may use them for. The chemicals also offer flexibility to the plastic itself. Phthalates are placed in a large variety of products that people use around the world. It is best known to be used in creating enteric coatings of pharmaceutical pills, but is also found in many lubricants and binders. Phthalates are used in most parts of the world today. One particular popular place of use is China. Because of its big industries with the use of plastic, it is one of the biggest consumers of phthalates.

Phthalates are shown to damage the liver, kidneys, lungs and reproductive systems in animal studies, phthalates can be absorbed through the skin or inhaled. Scientists at government agencies in both the U.S. and Canada agree that exposure to the chemicals could cause a wide range of health and reproductive problems in people. The environmental impact of phthalates is considered to be low due to their ready biodegradability and low toxicity.

Phthalates should be banned. We feel this way because they are dangerous. They can cause plastic to be stuck in our bodies. And can cause several malfunctions in the human body. Pthalates are used for many products, but phtalates can be replaced with some other chemical.

=Background= Phthalates are known technically as dialkyl or alkyl aryl esters of 1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid. There are many phthalates with many uses, and just as many toxicological properties. Phthalates were first produced during the 1920s, and have been produced in large quantities since the 1950s, when PVC was introduced. (Reference: Wikipedia)

How/why do we use this chemical?
We use this chemical to soften plastics so that they aren’t as rough for different items we may use them for. The chemicals also offer flexibility to the plastic itself. With having discovered its chemical its what made plastic pill casing. IF it weren’t for this we would be swallowing rough, tough plastic into our bodies.

What products is it used in?
Phthalates are placed in a large variety of products that people use around the world. It is best known to be used in creating enteric coatings of pharmaceutical pills, but is also found in many lubricants and binders. Its found in many other applications which include adhesives and glues, building materials, personal care products, detergents and surfactants, plastic objects, paints, printing inks and coatings, pharmaceuticals, food products and textiles. There are many other ways that the chemical is used but these are just a few of the most popular.

What benefits does this chemical offer these products?
Besides offering the flexibility and softness to the plastic that was discussed before, it offers easy accessibility to companies. Because they can get it so easily, the product tends to be cheap for the economy so it’s winding up in more products. As the cheap as the chemical gets, it usually lowers the consumer’s price.

Where is it used? / Where is it banned?
Phthalates are used in most parts of the world today. One particular popular place of use is China. Because of its big industries with the use of plastic, it is one of the biggest consumers of phthalates. If there were a place that something is accepted then there is usually a place where it is banned, in this case it would be Europe Union and the U.S. Both the Europe Union and the U.S. do not ban the entire use of phthalates there are just restrictions on some types. Types of phthalates restricted in toys are DEHP, BBP, and DBP because the serious health effect they can have on small children.

=Summary= In conclusion, we believe that phthalates should be band in all countries that have them in their plastics. We believe this because if it is so hazardous to humans, especially children then it shouldn’t be used. If countries aren’t willing to band the chemical phthalates then they should develop a better alternative.

= Public Service Announcement = media type="custom" key="3483154"

Brett Chapman McKelly Timothy
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