Extractable substances from plastic materials used in solution contact applications: an updated review

Area of Science:

• Polymer Chemistry
• Materials Science
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• Plastic materials, including polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polyolefins, are widely used in various applications.
• The presence of extractable substances, such as di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), from these plastics is a concern.
• Understanding the nature and levels of these extractables is crucial for safety and regulatory assessments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an updated review on the identification and accumulation of organic and inorganic extractables from DEHP-plasticized PVC, polyolefin, and other plastic materials.
• To summarize reported levels of these extractables in material extracts.
• To discuss strategic issues in the investigation of extractables and leachables.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on plastic extractables.
• Analysis of reported identification methods for organic and inorganic substances.
• Compilation of data on extractable levels in various plastic matrices.
• Discussion of methodologies for investigating extractables/leachables.

Main Results:

• Identification of a range of organic and inorganic extractable substances from different plastic types.
• Variability in reported levels of extractables depending on plastic composition and extraction conditions.
• Key challenges and strategic considerations in the accurate identification and quantification of plastic extractables.

Conclusions:

• Accurate identification and quantification of plastic extractables are essential for risk assessment.
• Standardized methodologies are needed for consistent and reliable investigation of extractables/leachables.
• Continued research is necessary to fully understand the implications of plastic extractables.