Plastics have an indispensable place in modern life, but the use of plastics (and chemicals used to create them) have caused problems in the environment and in human health. Plastics have become infamous for their additives such as phthalates. Phthalates are added and can mimic natural biological metabolites such as endocrine and hormone compounds necessary in biological function. But, it is also true that many plastics are created using dangerous or potentially toxic metal additives or catalysts like antimony or lead which can have an impact on health. In addition, plastic manufacturing can add other elemental contamination like aluminum, chromium and other wear metals via manufacturing equipment. Spex standards allow consumer safety laboratories, plastic manufacturers and companies employing plastic packaging to monitor levels of toxic and wear metals in consumer goods to reduce exposure to metal contamination.
Plastic Standards and Additives Brochure