plasticizer

American  

[plas-tuh-sahy-zer] / ˈplæs təˌsaɪ zər /

noun

1. any of a group of substances that are used in plastics plastics or other materials to impart viscosity, flexibility, softness, or other properties to the finished product.

2. an admixture for making mortar or concrete workable with little water.

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plasticizer British  

/ ˈplæstɪˌsaɪzə /

noun

1. any of a number of substances added to materials in order to modify their physical properties. Their uses include softening and improving the flexibility of plastics and preventing dried paint coatings from becoming too brittle

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Etymology

Origin of plasticizer

First recorded in 1920–25; plasticize + -er ¹

Example Sentences

There also isn’t much historical data with which to compare the current amounts of pollutants such as plasticizers, fire retardants and other modern chemicals to pre-fire conditions.

From Los Angeles Times

Examples of these are UV stabilizers, plasticizers or associated processing aids that can be used to facilitate processing of the plastics or to lend them specific desired properties.

From Science Daily

Similarly, the scientists discovered that "distinct patterns of using multiple skin care products were predictive of higher urinary concentrations of phthalate and phthalate replacement chemicals that are typically used as plasticizers in packaging."

From Salon

Artificial turf contains a wide range of toxic compounds, including plasticizers, zinc, lead, and other toxic compounds.

From Seattle Times

The study also found that maternal exposure to plasticizers during pregnancy is associated with lower child IQ at age 14, which confirmed the results of two previous study on the topic.

From Science Daily