Characteristics and uses of phthalates

Abstract

Phthalates are chemical compounds that are mainly used as plasticizers, to give flexibility to several materials in the production of polyvinyl chloride (PVC). High amounts of phthalates are produced globally for the production of plastic products; elimination of these plasticizers causes effects of pollution in the environment. Phthalates have been classified into different groups including the most prominent are di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate as it is produced in large quantities in the world. Dibutyl phthalate is also found in products for personal use as well as varnishes and paints. Phthalates are biodegraded by microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi as they excrete enzymes that act with these phthalates in order to be degraded without causing damage to the environment.