plasticizer

American  

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

noun

1. any of a group of substances that are used in 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

They know associated additive and plasticizer compunds — such as Bisphenol A and phthalates — have been linked to illness and disease in humans and animals.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 15, 2023

Celluloid production also required camphor, a tree-derived solvent and plasticizer sourced principally from Taiwan.

From Washington Post • Jan. 14, 2022

As concerns mount over people’s exposure to the plasticizer bisphenol A in everyday products, it’s also contaminating the air near manufacturing plants: U.S. companies emitted about 26 tons of the hormone-disrupting compound in 2013.

From Scientific American • Oct. 14, 2014

BPA, a hormone-disrupting plasticizer used in food-can linings and bottles, has been linked to heart disease, reproductive problems, behavioural problems and cancers.

From Nature • Apr. 4, 2012

I didn't have a chance to say a thing before he bellowed at me, "Mr. Saddle, do you know what a plasticizer is?"

From The Professional Approach by Schoenherr, John