[MUSIC] Hello everyone. In this video, we will talk about Semi VOCs, SVOCs in short. Based on the volatility or the boiling points of different VOCs, we classify VOCs into 4 categories, VVOC, VOC, SVOC, and POM. In this video, we will introduce a common SVOC, phthalate. Phthalate is widely used as plasticizers. Phthalate is a colorless, odorless liquid in room temperature. Phthalate is not soluble in water ,but soluble inorganic solvents. These are some examples of phthalate that are commonly used - DBP, DEHP, DINP, and DIDP. Where can you find phthalates? At home, you can find phthalates in vinyl flooring and wall coverings. Consumer products also contain phthalates, such as detergents, toys, and other plastic products. Moreover, some personal care products like nail polish, hair sprays, soap, shampoos, perfumes, and other fragrance preparations also contain phthalates. Besides, food packaging, pharmaceutical packaging may involve phthalates. The health effects of phthalates for humans is still under debate. From studies in animals, low level of phthalates may lead to skin and/or eye irritation, and sensitization. According to studies in animals, phthalates have a negative impact on the male reproductive system such as infertility and decrease in sperm. Besides, phthalates lower sex and thyroid hormones, cause preterm birth, lead to premature breast development, and exacerbate dermatitis, such as skin lesions. When children are exposed to PVC toys that contain phthalates, they may suffer asthma, eczema, rhinitis, and chronic effects on kidney and liver. To minimize the health impacts caused by phthalates, there are several methods recommended. To reduce the concentration of phthalates in an indoor environment, use non-harmful phthalates or non-phthalates products. Besides, we should minimize exposure time to phthalates especially for pregnant women, since fetus is sensitive to phthalates. And therefore, for pregnant women, do not use flexible PVC products, and reduce use of personal care products such as cosmetics and fragrance. Moreover, better ventilation is recommended when using phthalate containing products like hair sprays and nail polish. Moreover, cleaning your home using vacuum cleaner regularly is helpful, so as to minimize building up dust and potential phthalate exposure. Besides, for people who work with phthalates, it is better to use personal protective equipment such as face masks and gloves. They are useful to prevent exposure to phthalates. To conclude, in this video we introduced a common SVOC, phthalates, and the sources. Then, we talked about different types of phthalates. Finally, we discussed the health effects and some methods to prevent exposure to phthalates.