What is DEHP plasticizer?
Abstract. Di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP) is a widely used plasticizer to render poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) soft and malleable. Plasticized PVC is used in hospital equipment, food wrapping, and numerous other commercial and industrial products.
Is DEHP harmful to humans?
DEHP is very toxic and hazardous to organism health but is being widely used in our daily lives. DEHP exposure has been shown to have many adverse effects not only on animals but also on humans.
What is DEHP used for?
Di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) is extensively used as a plasticizer in many products, especially medical devices, furniture materials, cosmetics, and personal care products.
What items contain DEHP?
DEHP is present in plastic products such as wall coverings, tablecloths, floor tiles, furniture upholstery, shower curtains, garden hoses, swimming pool liners, rainwear, baby pants, dolls, some toys, shoes, automobile upholstery and tops, packaging film and sheets, sheathing for wire and cable, medical tubing, and …
Does all PVC contain DEHP?
Virtually all medical devices made from PVC utilise one plasticizer, di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, also known as di-octyl phthalate, universally referred to as DEHP.
Is DEHP harmful to touch?
It is concluded that DEHP is of no concern for workers with respect to acute toxicity, irritation, skin sensitisation, cancer or effects on the inherited genetic material of cells. However, for those workers who repeatedly inhale, or have skin contact, DEHP might have toxic effects on the testis, fertility and kidney.
Can DEHP be absorbed through the skin?
DEHP can be absorbed through skin. Approximately 2% of a dermal dose is absorbed in humans (6% in rats and 19–>50% in hairless guinea pigs).
Are plasticizers toxic?
Conclusion. Commonly used plasticizers, bisphenols and phthalates, are among the most pervasive environmental toxins in our environment. Numerous studies have revealed that exposure to these synthetic chemicals can lead to reproductive and developmental disorders including infertility and early puberty.
How do I remove DEHP?
DEHP was removed much more efficiently by handwashing with soap-and-water than with water alone. On average, one handwashing with soap-and-water removed more than 90% of DEHP in our study, whereas one handwashing with water alone removed only 10%.
Can I wash off DEHP?
In conclusion, a one-time wash with soap-and-water using a standardized Six-Step Hand Hygiene Technique removes most of the DEHP on hands and is better than washing with water-only. Because DEHP is not readily absorbed through the skin, it is likely that exposure would occur hand-to-mouth.