plasticizer

technology

Written by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

July 1, 2026

Quick Summary

Plasticizers are additives used to alter the glass-transition temperature (T_g) of a polymer, making it more flexible. For example, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is often mixed with nonvolatile liquids like di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DOP) to achieve desired flexibility for products such as garden hoses. While other polymers can be plasticized, PVC uniquely accepts a wide range of plasticizers. These additives can also affect flammability, odor, biodegradability, and cost. Some chemicals used as plasticizers, such as phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA), are also known as endocrine disruptors, which can interfere with the body's hormones and pose health and environmental risks.12

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

3 Britannica Sources

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.

rubber
Plasticizers and processing aids
Liquids are added to elastomer mixes in order to soften and plasticize the compound, either in processing or later in use. For example, elastomers with high glass transition temperatures (and correspondingly slow molecular motions) can be improved by adding low-temperature plasticizers—i.e.,…
Read More
Liquids are added to elastomer mixes in order to soften and plasticize the compound, either in processing or later in use. For example, elastomers with high glass transition temperatures (and correspondingly slow molecular motions) can be improved by adding low-temperature plasticizers—i.e.,…
Read More

plastic
Additives
Among these additives are plasticizers, colorants, reinforcements, and stabilizers. These are described in turn below.
Read More
Among these additives are plasticizers, colorants, reinforcements, and stabilizers. These are described in turn below.
Read More

PVC
…is heated and mixed with plasticizers, which are sometimes added in concentrations as high as 50 percent. The most commonly used plasticizer is the compound di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP), also known as dioctyl phthalate (DOP). Plasticized PVC is familiar to consumers as floor tile, garden hose, imitation leather upholstery, and shower…
Read More
…is heated and mixed with plasticizers, which are sometimes added in concentrations as high as 50 percent. The most commonly used plasticizer is the compound di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP), also known as dioctyl phthalate (DOP). Plasticized PVC is familiar to consumers as floor tile, garden hose, imitation leather upholstery, and shower…
Read More