BPA Used to Make Plastics and Coatings
Most of the BPA manufactured is used to make polycarbonate plastic – a high-performance, strong, durable and lightweight material that is a key component in many everyday items that make our lives safer and more convenient. The second most common use of BPA is in the manufacture of epoxy resins – which are used to make protective coatings on metal food and beverage containers to preserve the integrity and safety of the food by helping to prevent corrosion and contamination. These epoxy resins have many other consumer and industrial applications.
- Polycarbonate Plastic
- BPA is a key component used to make polycarbonate plastic.
Polycarbonate plastic is used to make a wide variety of everyday products.
- Plastic bottles and cups reduce the risk of cuts from broken and chipped glass.
- Sports safety glasses (many of which use polycarbonate lenses) are recommended by the American Academy of Ophthalmology.
- Bicycle and motorcycle helmets, many of which are made strong and impact-resistant with polycarbonate, are recommended to prevent head injuries.
- Safety equipment, such as face shields and face guards, help prevent and minimize sports injuries.
- Life-saving medical devices, such as incubators and kidney dialysis machines, are made with polycarbonate plastic.
- Blast and bullet resistant shielding help provide critical protection for government officials, police, prison officials, military personnel, as well as bank tellers and convenience store clerks, to do their jobs.
Learn more: Polycarbonate Plastic
- Epoxy Resins
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BPA is a key component used to make the epoxy resins that are used to make protective coatings on food and beverage cans. These coatings help protect contents from spoilage while extending their shelf life.
Epoxy resins are commonly used to make protective coatings and in such applications as:
- Marine and protective coatings, such as those used to protect the hulls of ships, offshore oil drilling platforms, water ballast tanks and cargo tank linings.
- Powder coatings used to protect things like steel furniture, metal roofing and garage doors, automotive parts and gardening tools and equipment.
- Coatings on electronic parts and printed circuit boards.
- Civil engineering uses, including industrial flooring, mortar and anti-skid coatings.
- Composites used to make equipment like tennis rackets, surfboards and helmets.
- Adhesives for use in the home and in building construction projects.
Learn more: Epoxy Resins