Chemical additives are organic or inorganic compounds incorporated into polymer matrices to enhance the physiochemical properties of a plastic product. When a plastic reaches the end of its consumer lifetime and is discarded, physical and chemical degradation processes may result in the leaching of additives into the surrounding environment. These additives also have the potential to be transformed into new chemical species that may cause unanticipated risks to the environment and human health. Despite an ever-growing presence in plastic products, the factors governing the rate of additive release and potential toxic transformations remain undetermined. In the present research, we examined the release behavior of several benzophenone-type chemical additives from polystyrene and poly(methyl methacrylate) model composites in the presence of natural and artificial sunlight. Liquid chromatography coupled with high resolution-mass spectrometry was used to quantify the concentration of released additives, as well as identify any formed transformation products. Additional studies utilizing high-intensity, wavelength specific irradiation facilitated further examination of additive photodegradation. As public concern for plastic pollution increases, information regarding the environmental and health impacts of polymer additives is essential. This work identifies some of the key risks posed by plastics by providing insight into the relationship of rate of additive release and subsequent transformations.

Photo-enhanced release and transformation of benzophenone additives from model plastics

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