Synthetic Polymers

Abstract The global annual production of plastic is approaching a half‐billion tonnes and two families of synthetic polymers, polyethylene and polypropylene, account for approximately 45% of this production. The most common applications for synthetic polymers are in packaging and consumer/household goods and they are often referred to as single‐use plastics. However, other applications for synthetic polymers include medical/medical device, construction, agriculture, automotive, and industrial uses. Exposure to monomers, polymers, resins, and plastics can occur during the initial polymerization and manufacturing of the resins, the subsequent polymerization and manufacturing of the plastics and finished products, during use of the finished product, and during the product's end‐of‐life stage. This chapter focuses on understanding and mediating the toxicological issues with synthetic polymers in the workplace, including the production of the polymers, the resins, and the finished plastic products. In addition to the toxicology profiles, this chapter discusses production and uses, potential exposures, hazard classification, thermo‐decomposition products, sensitive applications such as food‐contact and medical applications, and exposure guidelines. The environmental impact of these synthetic polymers can be significant, so this chapter also touches on the life cycle of these polymers including recycled and bio‐based feedstocks, carbon emissions, macroplastic and microplastic pollution, degradation in the environment, additives, and end‐of‐life scenarios.