The research presents an analysis of the chemicals used as additives in the production and processing of plastics, their environmental release, and occupational exposure. It describes in detail each chemical additive used in the plastics industry. The plastics additives are presented as major functional groups of chemicals and are further subdivided into chemically, functionally, or physically similar chemicals. An overview of each major functional group includes the properties and application of the subclasses, their environmental impact and occupational exposure. A notation is made for specific chemicals on the Appendix VIII, Michigan Hazardous Waste List and/or the priority pollutant list. Common worker exposure practices for each functional group of additives are also prepared. The overview references a series of three appendices which detail the physical and chemical properties and polymer application of each chemical within the functional groups, the industrial, commercial, and consumer uses and consumption volumes for each chemical, data on toxicological and worker exposure concerns for each chemical.

"July 1985." EPA Contract No. 68-02-3171 and 68-02-3994.