Bisphenol A

Context: Recent studies have reported that ‘Bisphenol A’, may shorten the life cycle  of a mosquito and lead to a population explosion.

About Bisphenol A:

• Bisphenol A is a synthetically obtained colourless, crystalline organic compound that occurs in the solid phase belonging to the diphenylmethane group.

It is soluble in organic solvents but poorly dissolves in water

• It is also used as eyewear glasses. It is a chemical is widely used to soften plastics, paints, and other products.
• It is known to impair reproduction and development in aquatic organisms.
• Its exposure is delayed larval development and pupation time in common fruit fly (Drosophila melanogaster).

Uses of Bisphenol A :

• BPA polycarbonate plastics are very sturdy in nature and are used to make large variants of microwave-proof utensils. 
• It is used as a material for safety glasses, bulletproof windows and helmets.
• Bisphenol A acts as a component in epoxy resins that are very good coating agents and therefore is used for the protective coating of pipelines and to cover the inner surface of food cans.
  • It is used in many medical devices such as heart-lung machines, incubators, artificial kidneys, dental fillers, and sealants.
  • It is also used as eyewear glasses , due to their optical clarity.

Environmental impacts of Bisphenol A:

• BPA can enter the environment directly through the leaching of chemicals or degradation of materials containing bisphenol A and may render the land unfertile and barren making it unsuitable for agriculture.
• It  affects the growth and reproduction of marine life.
• It causes endocrine effects in fish, amphibians, and reptiles.

Adverse effects of Bisphenol A on human health:

• When ingested, the chemical disrupts the endocrine system by interfering with the hormones and affecting the brain and       prostate gland of foetuses, infants, and children.
• It can cause high blood pressure, diabetes and cardiovascular disease in adults.
• BPA is a xenoestrogen and mimics estrogen present in the body, thus exhibiting hormone-like properties.
• It can indirectly aid in the spread of vector-borne diseases in humans and animals.

Source: DOWN TO EARTH

Previous Year Questions

Q.1) Bisphenol A (BPA), a cause of concern, is a structural/key component in the manufacture of which of the following kinds of plastics? (2021)

1. Low-density polyethylene
2. Polycarbonate
3. Polyethylene terephthalate
4. Polyvinyl Chloride

Q.2) “Triclosan” is considered harmful when exposed to high levels for a long time, is most likely present in which of the following? (2021)

1. Food preservatives
2. Fruit-ripening substances
3. Reused plastic containers
4. Toiletries