![]() ![]() In July 2002, an environmental watchdog group called Vermont Public Interest Research Group, Inc., (VPIRG) published a study concluding that polymer clay was potentially hazardous. With polymer clay, the question is whether dangerous levels of phthalates can enter the body through ingestion (such as when children place clay in their mouths), touch, or inhalation of vapors (especially during firing). Phthalates have been linked to a variety of health problems, including birth defects and neurological damage. ![]() In recent years there have been serious issues regarding their use in children's plastic toys. Phthalates are plasticizers they're what make polymer clay soft and workable. Since it's not biodegradable and usually not recycled, PVC also creates a general disposal concern.Īlthough PVC raises its own environmental and health issues, it's another ingredient in polymer clay - called phthalate - that has caused the most concern over safety. It's believed that these substances can also be released when PVC is disposed of and begins to break down, or when it is burned. ![]() PVC is made from a chemical known to cause cancer, and its manufacture creates some hazardous byproducts that are released into our environment, including dioxin. Polymer clay is made primarily out of PVC, a hard plastic that's commonly used in construction and other industries. Here's a brief look at these ingredients, what the experts have to say, and whether you should be concerned about polymer clay safety. It's true that polymer clay's two essential ingredients have been associated with environmental and health concerns. Scientific studies, package labels, and rumors create confusion over whether polymer clay may be hazardous to work with or even touch. The question of polymer clay toxicity has been controversial within the polymer clay artist community. ![]()
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