Dibutyl phthalate: Environmental effects
Description
Dibutyl phthalate will exist as both a gas and a particle if released to the atmosphere. It also will be found in the soil and water. Dibutyl phthalate is highly toxic to aquatic life. The toxicity of dibutyl phthalate on plants, birds, and land animals has not been determined. Dibutyl phthalate will bioaccumulate in the tissues of fish and shellfish.
Entering the environment
Industrial emissions of dibutyl phthalate can produce elevated concentrations in the atmosphere around the source. Since it breaks down quickly in the air high levels are not likely to spread far from where it is used. It may also be transported through the environment in the water and the tissues of fish and shellfish.
Where it ends up
Dibutyl phthalate enters the environment during production and use. In the air it will break down into other chemicals in approximately one and a half days. In the water it will be broken down into other chemicals in between 2 and 20 days.
Environmental guidelines
Australian Water Quality Guidelines for Fresh and Marine Waters: (ANZECC, 1992):
Maximum of 4 micrograms/L (i.e. 0.000004 g/L)
Key
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