The Analysis of Water Samples for the Presence of BPA and Phthalates in Laboratory Water Sources, Consumer Water Sources, and Commercial Reusable Drinking Containers

Oral Presentation

Prepared by P. Atkins
SPEX CertiPrep, 203 Norcross Ave, Metuchen, NJ, 08840, United States


Contact Information: patkins@spex.com; 732-623-0470


ABSTRACT

The study’s purpose was to determine the presence and levels of phthalate & BPA in bottled water compared with tap water & laboratory water from commercial sources & DI systems. In addition, reusable drinking containers made of various types of plastic were tested to determine if phthalates & BPA were leaching from the containers. Phthalate and BPA levels were examined after heating to temperatures equivalent inside an automobile during the summer (60 degrees C). The concentration of target compounds found in all the bottled water & the municipal water were either not detected or below EPA RfD (oral reference dosage) guidelines. Exposure of bottled water to heat did not increase the level of phthalates. BPA was not detected in consumer tap or bottled water sources. Samples taken from consumer filtration systems varied in the level of phthalates & BPA according to type of system & amount of water flushed from the system. The reusable drinking containers constructed of plastics containing BPA did appear to leach small amounts of BPA into the contained water both at room temperature and heated conditions.