Bisphenol A

previous Molecules of the Month

Science Daily, February 4, 2008, cites research from the University of Cincinnati.
Several articles have appeared in the reputable magazine Science News.

	Structure of Bisphenol A
	Structure of BPA-containing polycarbonate polymer

Bisphenol A (BPA) is commonly used in polycarbonate plastics such as Lexan®, which have largely replaced glass and poly(methyl methacrylate), especially in applications that require light weight and high impact resistance, such as face shields and eyeglasses.

Polycarbonate polymers of BPA are also used in impact-resistant drinking bottles and baby bottles. Unfortunately, recent research has shown that

1. BPA is an endocrine disruptor, and
2. putting warm liquids, such as infant formula, in a polycarbonate container accelerates leaching of BPA from the plastic.

We can hope that the fact that we shouldn't be drinking warm milk from plastic containers won't negate the many important uses of polycarbonate polymers that don't involve eating from them.