M9.2 Six Chemical Classes

Highly Fluorinated Chemicals (stain and water repellants)
Fluorochemicals have unique characteristics: oil and water repellency. They are commonly used in carpeting, upholstery, apparel, waxes, food packaging materials, non-stick cookware, and dental floss. They are resistance to breakdown in the environment under harsh conditions. These chemicals do not occur in nature. They are associated with a wide range of human health problems such as cancer, thyroid disease, developmental delays, hormone imbalances, and reduced immune response in children. Fluorochemicals have higher indoor air concentrations than outdoors. They often make their way into the environment through industrial discharge, wastewater, and being sent off to landfills. It is important to note that conventional wastewater treatments do not remove fluorochemicals. 

Antimicrobials (triclosan, triclocarban, quats)
The main concerns with  antimicrobials is their toxic properties and widespread exposure. They are often used as disinfectants in hospitals and are increasingly being used in home products such as hand soaps. Pharmacokinetic studies have demonstrated rapid uptake into our bloodstream. Antimicrobials have been demonstrated to be thyroid-blocking, estrogen-enhancing, and testosterone blocking. They are thought to remove "healthy" bacteria and stimulate the allergic response in children. A major environmental concern is the possible increase in resistant bacteria in the environment. One important thing to note is that there is no evidence that antimicrobials cut down on infections around the home. With that said, it is promising to note that major manufactures, such as Johnson and Johnson, have decided not to include triclosan in their products. 

Flame Retardants (organohalogens and organophosphates)
These are commonly used in electronics, building insulation, polyurethane foam, and wires and cables. These were used to meet flame retardant standards but were not researched on their safety and health effects. Brominated tris flame retardants are found in clothing, specifically in baby clothing and have been demonstrated to be a possible cancer hazard. Studies have shown that flame retardants are associated with lower birth weight, impaired attention, poorer concentration, and lower IQ's. It is concerning to note that these chemicals are semi-volatile, meaning they are continuously coming out of products. After watching this lecture, I will ensure I buy furniture with a TB117-2013 label and ask for products without flame retardants. 


Bisphenols & Phthalates (BPA, BPS, DPHP etc.)
These have been demonstrated to be endocrine disruptors. The endocrine system is responsible for a number of important bodily functions. It is concerning that these chemicals are all around us and have been suggested to interfere with our endocrine system and cause adverse health effects. BPA exposure occurs by leaching and inhalation. It is good to know that BPA has been banned in the US and internationally. Phthalates are also concerning because they are virtually everywhere are are detected in 97% of people. It is concerning that the US has only banned some phthalates in toys that can be placed in the mouth. Given the prevalence of these chemicals, it is almost impossible to avoid them but I will make sure to purchase BPA-free and phthalate-free products.  

Organic Solvents (aliphatic, aromatic, halogenated and oxygenated hydrocarbons)
These are used to dissolve and disperse materials, cleaning and stripping, and as a mixing medium. Some common products are paints, coatings, thinners, adhesives, and printing inks. There are also oxygenated solvents which are in products like nail polishes. These are thought to have board health concerns like neurotoxicity, carcinogenicity, liver and kidney toxicity, and reproductive toxicity. These chemicals are very volatile and high in inhalation exposure. 


Certain Metals (lead, mercury, chromium, cadmium, arsenic etc.)
Metals are found naturally on earth but some can bioaccumulate in humans which in turn interact with human biochemistry and cause health concerns. The metals above cause a variety of disorders in humans, from nervous system disorders, peripheral sensory issues, and skin and lung cancer.