Since then, BPA-free plastics have been manufactured using alternative bisphenols such as bisphenol S and bisphenol F, but there is controversy around whether these are actually safer. Since 2008, several governments have investigated its safety, which prompted some retailers to withdraw polycarbonate products. Although the effect is very weak, the pervasiveness of BPA-containing materials raises concerns. īPA is a xenoestrogen, exhibiting estrogen-mimicking, hormone-like properties. In 2015, an estimated 4 million tonnes of BPA-derived chemical were produced, making it one of the highest volume organic chemicals produced worldwide. windows), automotive (headlight covers), data storage (e.g.
Major areas of application include electronics (e.g., housing for electrical gear), construction materials (e.g. BPA-based plastic is clear, tough, and flame resistant.
It is not a plasticizer, although is often wrongly labeled as such. īPA is a comonomer used in the production of polycarbonates, epoxy resins, some polysulfones and other niche materials. It is a colorless solid that is soluble in organic solvents, but poorly soluble in water (0.344 wt % at 83 ☌). Bisphenol A ( BPA) is an organic synthetic compound with the chemical formula (CH 3) 2C(C 6H 4OH) 2 belonging to the group of diphenylmethane derivatives and bisphenols, with two hydroxyphenyl groups.