Question

Lead and cadmium compounds are added as stabilizers in PVC. Which statement is correct regarding lead and cadmium? 

I. Lead and cadmium can leach out during human contact, or when disposed in land-fills 

II. Lead and cadmium are known neurotoxins and nephrotoxins respectively 

III. These chemicals are used in the manufacture of soft plastic items such as vinyl flooring sheets, soft toys etc. to increase their durability 

(a) I & II (b) II & III (c) Only III (d) All the above

Answer 1

(d) Lead and cadmium compounds are added as stabilizers in PVC. These chemicals are used in the manufacture of soft plastic items such as vinyl flooring sheets, soft toys etc. to increase their durability. Lead and cadmium can leach out during human contact, or when disposed in land-fills. Incineration of such rejected plastic items produces ash with high heavy metal content. Use of lead compounds in the manufacturing process can be (a) potential hazard to workers in the PVC industry. Lead and cadmium are known neurotoxins and nephrotoxins respectively