Possible mechanisms involved in degradation of phthalic acid esters in the environment

Phthalic acid esters(PAEs) are commonly used organic substances, and the substantial use of PAEs results in a significant release into the environment. Therefore, PAEs have been frequently detected in aqueous environment. PAEs are mainly used as plasticizers for polyvinyl chloride in a wide range of industrial activities. Due to their teratogenicity, mutagenicity and carcinogenicity, PAEs have been received considerable attention recently. It has been reported that PAEs are one of environmental endocrine disruptors, which pose serious risk to human health and the environment. In this current work, heavy emphasis is placed on their degradation mechanisms involved as well as the pollution status of PAEs in the environment worldwide. Previous work has showed promising results in assimilation of PAEs in hydrolysis, photo-decomposition, biodegradation and phytoremediation, with different rates of assimilation.