Chemical and Materials Selection One of the most important steps during product design and development is the selection of raw materials. The chemicals or materials that you choose determine potential future liability concerns in terms of health and the environment during the manufacture, use, and disposal of the product. In addition, as purchasers become more concerned about environmental characteristics of raw materials, your choices may ultimately impact how marketable a product is. This list of chemicals and materials includes those that are most frequently cited as as chemicals to avoid by international eco-label programs . Toxic Metals Mercury and lead are neurotoxins and potential endocrine disrupters.
Copper can adversely affect the lungs, liver and kidneys.
Hexavalent chromium is a potential carcinogen. Nickel compounds are potential carcinogens. All of these metals are persistent and bioaccumulate in the environment. Use synthesized organic pigments in place of inorganic pigments that contain these metals, or educate customers to choose colors that do not contain toxic metals. Formaldehyde Respiratory irritant and potential carcinogen.