1.
Where and how is it mined?
a.
There are many different types of phthalates found and mined in
different places, but they can be released from a product by heat agitation.
2.
What is the environmental impact of the mining? Is it regulated?
If so, by whom?
a.
Phthalates Dangers are so well-documented that action is being taken
against them.
b.
They are being phased out by many products in the United States, Canada
and the European Union.
c.
Health concerns due to legal
provisions and growing environmental awareness, producers are increasingly
forced to use non-phthalate plasticizers.
3.
What are the human health concerns when used to manufacture
consumer electronics?
a.
Interfere with the production of male reproductive hormones
b.
Lower testosterone levels
c.
Decreased sperm counts
d.
Lowers sperm quality
e.
Malfunctions in the male reproduction tract
f.
Hormone changes
g.
Birth Defects
h.
Breast Cancer
i.
Prostate/ Testicular Cancer
4.
What documented health impacts are associated with its de-manufacturing?
a.
Phthalates
are easily released into the environment because there is no covalent bond
between the phthalates and plastics in which they are mixed. As plastics age
and break down, the release of phthalates accelerates.
b.
Because
phthalate plasticizers are not chemically bound to PVC, they can easily leach
and evaporate into food or the atmosphere. Phthalate exposure can be through
direct use or by indirect means through leaching and general environmental
contamination.
c.
Because phthalates are not chemically bound to products, they easily
migrate or off-gas, especially with heat.
5.
What purpose does this compound serve in digital electronics?
a.
Phthalates
are esters of phthalic acid they are mainly used as a substance that are added
to plastic to increase flexibility, transparency, durability and longevity.
Phthalates are used in computers to make the plastics, more specifically
cables, used in them more flexible softer and durable.
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