ClimateAugust 15, 2026

plasticizers

PLAS-tih-sy-erz

Definition

Chemical additives incorporated into materials, especially plastics, to increase their flexibility, transparency, durability, and longevity.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek 'plastikos' (fit for molding) combined with the suffix '-ize' and the agentive suffix '-er'. It emerged in the early 20th century to describe substances used to improve the workability of plastics.

In the news

The article lists plasticizers alongside other industrial chemicals that accumulate in the land and ultimately contaminate water systems. It highlights how these substances are part of the 'diet' of pollutants that contribute to harmful algal blooms.

GUEST APPEARANCE: If 'gastronomy' could be applied to land diet

Read the full article ↗

Finger Lakes Times

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