Environmental And Human Safety Of Major Surfactants

The book summarizes and reviews the environmental and human safety of two classes of nonionic surfactants-alcohol ethoxylates (AE) and alkylphenol ethoxylates (APE). This unique resource contains critical data from published sources as well as from unpublished studies submitted by Soap and Detergent Association member companies. It reviews information on product chemistry and analysis, biodegradation, environmental levels (including fate and distribution), aquatic toxicity, and human safety. Recently developed analytical techniques for the extraction, separation, detection, and measurement of nonionic surfactants and their metabolites in environmental samples are described. Results of biodegradation studies performed with a variety of test systems are tabulated, as are results of field studies at wastewater treatment plants. Reported comparisons of environmental levels with results of acute and chronic aquatic toxicity tests are provided. The information on the toxicity and irritation potential of AE and APE surfactants includes data from in vitro, mammalian, and human studies.

Since their first industrial use polymers have gained a tremendous success. The two volumes of "Polymers - Opportunities and Risks" elaborate on both their potentials and on the impact on the environment arising from their production and applications. Volume 11 "Polymers - Opportunities and Risks I: General and Environmental Aspects" is dedicated to the basics of the engineering of polymers – always with a view to possible environmental implications. Topics include: materials, processing, designing, surfaces, the utilization phase, recycling, and depositing. Volume 12 "Polymers - Opportunities and Risks II: Sustainability, Product Design and Processing" highlights raw materials and renewable polymers, sustainability, additives for manufacture and processing, melt modification, biodegradation, adhesive technologies, and solar applications. All contributions were written by leading experts with substantial practical experience in their fields. They are an invaluable source of information not only for scientists, but also for environmental managers and decision makers.