plasticizer

[ plas-tuh-sahy-zer ]

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.

plasticizer

/ 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

Word History and Origins

Origin of plasticizer¹

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

Example Sentences

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

In other words: exposure to plasticizers before birth could lead to smaller total gray matter in childhood, which in turn could be related to a lower IQ.

From Science Daily

A bottle of orange fluid from The Dodge Company, 20 percent formaldehyde gas, dissolved in water — “20-index” — and mixed with plasticizers to keep the body from stiffening.

From New York Times