Characteristics of phthalate concentrations in propellant- and trigger-type consumer spray products

The purposes of this study were to evaluate the bulk sample concentration and airborne concentrations of phthalate in different types of propellent and triggers in consumer spray products and estimate health risk assessment via inhalation. First, the phthalate concentrations were analyzed in the solutions of all products 174 from markets. Then, among 64 products containing phthalates, 10 propellant-type products were selected that contained high phthalate concentrations; airborne concentrations were measured at distances of 1, 3, and 5 m from the spray nozzle in a clean room. Four phthalates were detected in spray products: diisobutyl phthalate (DiBP), di-n-butyl phthalate (DnBP), butyl benzyl phthalate (BBzP), and bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP). Among propellant-type products, repellents contained the highest mean concentrations (3.90 ppm), whereas sterilized products contained the lowest mean concentrations (0.59 ppm). Among trigger-type products, cleaning products contained the highest mean concentrations (4.54 ppm), whereas coating products contained the lowest mean concentrations (0.73 ppm). In both propellant- and trigger-type products, DnBP and DEHP exceeded the standard set by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety of South Korea. No significant patterns were observed for the airborne DiBP, DnBP, and DEHP concentrations at 1, 3, and 5 m (p > 0.05). Children were one of the population groups most susceptible to health risks. Overall, phthalates were detected in both product solutions and the air in consumer spray products; some even exceeded safe limits. Therefore, consumer spray products should be used in well-ventilated areas to avoid respiratory exposure.