Plastics, Rubber and Health

Plastics and rubber are important materials in our life. The majority of these materials are safe to use, but misconceptions and scare stories have led to controversy surrounding the use of certain polymers and possible negative effects on human health. Many polymers are used in medical applications without adverse effects on patients. Not the polymers themselves, but their monomers or additives can be responsible for negative effects. The dividing line whether something is toxic and harmful to health or not is a critical issue. The title Plastics, Rubber and Health offers comprehensive information on the effects of polymers on health. The book introduces the basic concepts and definitions of plastics, rubber and health; it discusses a general toxicity approach due to additives, followed by a consideration of health effects due to the polymers and other non-additive ingredients. It outlines health effects of plastics and rubbers as food and packaging materials, of plastics used in healthcare, construction, sports and leisure, automotive and transportation, agriculture, electrical and electronic applications, and consumer products. The book also deals with sustainability through plastics and rubbers, health hazard causing solvents, monomers and chemicals, and lists some extremely hazardous substances and carcinogens related to plastics and rubbers. Plastics, Rubber and Health widens the readers understanding of the effects on health of these materials and clears misconceptions.