Phthalates, or phthalate esters, are esters of phthalic acid. They are mainly used as plasticizers, i.e., substances added to plastics to increase their flexibility, transparency, durability, and longevity. They are used primarily to soften polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Note that while phthalates are usually plasticizers, not all plasticizers are phthalates. The two terms are specific and unique and cannot be used interchangeably.
Plasticised PVC has excellent electrical insulation properties and is extensively used as sheathing for wires and cables.
Market trend in decreasing use of low orthophthalates including DEHP
Toy dolls manufactured in China and seized by U.S. Customs and Border Protection in 2013 due to high phthalate levels
Update on non-classified plasticisers and the European REACH Candidate Classification including pending authorisation
In organic chemistry, phthalic acid is an aromatic dicarboxylic acid, with formula C6H4(CO2H)2 and structure HO(O)C−C6H4−C(O)OH. Although phthalic acid is of modest commercial importance, the closely related derivative phthalic anhydride is a commodity chemical produced on a large scale. Phthalic acid is one of three isomers of benzenedicarboxylic acid, the others being isophthalic acid and terephthalic acid.
Phthalic acid crystals
