The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), has published a draft risk assessment for Diisononyl Phthalate (DINP) to evaluate its health and environmental risks under existing usage conditions. Preliminary results suggest potential health hazards, and public comments are welcomed through November 4, 2024.
DINP and Diisodecyl Phthalate (DIDP), commonly used as plasticizers in polyvinyl chloride (PVC), are prevalent in various consumer and industrial products. DINP is known for its low water solubility and persistence in anaerobic environments. It tends to accumulate on indoor airborne particles, extending its presence. Key health risks include liver toxicity and developmental issues, notably affecting androgen levels and causing liver damage.
Request and Response
On May 24, 2019, ExxonMobil Chemical, Evonik, and Teknor Apex, via the ACC HPP, requested an EPA risk assessment for DINP and DIDP. The EPA is now seeking feedback during this public comment period on DINP's exposure analysis and its integration with peer-reviewed data, focusing on environmental emissions, occupational and consumer exposure, and potential health and environmental impacts.
Next Steps
After the risk assessment, EPA will determine if DINP poses unreasonable health or environmental risks under its current use. If risks are identified, EPA will quickly move to risk management, potentially imposing regulations on the chemical’s production, handling, distribution, use, or disposal to mitigate these risks.
