Nonylphenols

Detergents, cleaning formulations, textiles, plastics, wastewater, contaminated surface water, breakdown of nonylphenol ethoxylates

Nonylphenols are a group of alkylphenol compounds consisting of a phenol ring attached to a nine-carbon alkyl group. They include multiple structural isomers, such as linear and branched nonylphenols. Nonylphenols are primarily used as chemical intermediates in the production of nonylphenol ethoxylates, a group of nonionic surfactants used in cleaning formulations, textile processing, and other industrial applications. Nonylphenols can also be released into the environment through the degradation of nonylphenol ethoxylates in wastewater and other environmental settings. Potential exposure may occur through contaminated water, sediments, food, and certain consumer materials. Some nonylphenol isomers are environmentally persistent and can accumulate in aquatic organisms. Examples include linear and branched nonylphenol isomers, such as 4-n-nonylphenol and branched 4-nonylphenols. Nonylphenols and related nonylphenol ethoxylates are subject to restrictions under the European Union's REACH Regulation. Annex XVII, Entry 46 restricts their use in specified applications, including cleaning products, cosmetics, and textile processing. Entry 46a additionally restricts nonylphenol ethoxylates in certain washable textiles. Specific nonylphenol substances and related ethoxylated compounds are also included on the REACH Candidate List of Substances of Very High Concern (SVHCs). These regulatory listings apply to defined substances and groups rather than all nonylphenol-related compounds universally.