Toxicity of Phthalate Esters Used to Lubricate Breathing
Air Compressors

The toxicity of Phthalate Esters (Diesters) used to lubricate breathing air compressors has been confirmed by a number of Public Health, Environmental and Government Organizations.

Ingestion of Phthalate Esters which takes place as a result of Ester Lubricated Breathing Air Compressors, has now been linked to Kidney, Liver and Reproductive Toxicity in a number of studies. There are also possible carcinogenic effects which may occur as a result of ingesting Phthalate Esters. This toxic effect has now been documented on a number of public health and environmental Internet sites and TV news programs such as ABC's 20/20, and CNN.

The majority of the research into Phthalate Esters has been carried out due to the concern related to children ingesting Esters used to soften PVC toys. The Ester content in PVC toys varies, but is usually between 15 and 40%. These same types of Esters are used to lubricate Breathing Air Compressors where the Ester content is usually above 90%.

Organizations and Governments now supporting the removal of Phthalate Esters from possible ingestion by humans are:

National Environmental Trust
Greenpeace
- Toxic Chemical Section
Berkeley
School of Public Heath
Boston
University School of Public Heath
UCLA
School of Medicine
The
Government of Austria - Requested voluntary action
The
Government of Australia - Ban in effect
The
Government of Canada - Ban in effect
The
Government of Denmark - Ban in effect
The
Government of Germany - Requested voluntary action
The
Government of Italy - Requested voluntary action
The
Government of The Netherlands - Requested voluntary action
The
Government of Sweden - Ban pending

A number of responsible lubricant suppliers have now recommended against the use of Esters in Breathing Air Applications. These include Mobil in Australia, our own lubricant supplier and numerous others. The Center for Disease Control in Atlanta (Dr. Richard Jackson) states" ...if products can be provided that don't contain some of these chemicals (Phthalates) that is to the good" and why not use them. Undersea Breathing Systems has, since its inception, promoted the use of Food Grade lubricants for Breathing Air Compressors. These NON-Ester containing lubricants have demonstrated excellent performance in breathing air applications and we believe should become the standard for the Breathing Air Industry.

Follow the links below for more information:

Typical Use and Application Of EZ-1000
Material Safety Data Sheet
Safety of Breathing Air Compressor Fluids
Toxins found in Common High Pressure Compressor Lubricants
Toxicity of Phthalate Esters used to Lubricate Breathing Air Compressors