Plasticizers

Plasticizers

Plasticizers are chemical additives used to enhance the flexibility, softness, and workability of polymer materials, particularly plastics. By reducing the intermolecular forces within the polymer chains, plasticizers make otherwise rigid materials more pliable and easier to process. They are commonly added to materials like polyvinyl chloride (PVC), transforming it from a brittle, rigid polymer into a flexible material suitable for products like cables, hoses, and medical tubing.

The most widely used plasticizers are phthalates, although non-phthalate alternatives are gaining popularity due to environmental and health concerns. While plasticizers improve the functionality of plastics, they can migrate out of the material over time, leading to issues like reduced performance and potential health risks. As a result, research and regulations focus on developing safer and more sustainable plasticizer options to meet both industrial demands and environmental standards.