Phtalates (II)

The findings on the toxicological effects of twelve phthalate esters, among the most largely used, are reviewed. This review completes a previous article on six other phthalates. Phthalates are generally distributed into three categories based on their physicochemical and toxicological properties. Low molecular weight phthalates (which include methyl and ethyl phthalates) are commonly used as solvents or in cellulose acetate industry. Their water solubility is slightly greater than other phthalates. High molecular weight phthalates are used nearly exclusively as plasticizers in polyvinyl chloride. They are insoluble in water and have a very low vapour pressure. Transitional phthalates are substances with either linear or branched side chains, with the stipulation that the predominant fraction of the alkyl side chains have a linear portion with carbon numbers ranging from C4-C6. They are characterized by a greater toxicity potential compared to methyl, ethyl, and high molecular weight phthalates, especially regarding their reproductive and developmental effects.