Work

Beyond static loading: a dynamic, multifactorial assessment of dermal exposure to organophosphate esters

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: ). Children aged 2 - 6 years exhibited the highest dermal burden. A strong positive correlation linked skin OPE levels to those on smartphones, identifying phones as a key interface for OPE transfer to skin. Outdoor activity and lower body mass index (BMI) were associated with higher dermal loads, while exercise-induced sweating promoted OPE transfer to the skin surface. Calculated daily intake via dermal absorption was highest in young children (the total dermal exposure of OPEs: 3295 pg/kg bw/day), significantly exceeding that of older children and adults (837 - 1679 pg/kg bw/day). Although subsequent risk assessment indicated low carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks under current guidelines, the elevated exposure in vulnerable groups underscores the need for precautionary measures. These findings reveal dermal OPE exposure as a dynamic process shaped by behavior, physiology, and personal item use.

Source: Environment International

DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2026.110257

Authors: Ruirui Zhang, Chuanming Zhao, Wen Zhang, Tiantian Meng, Jianing Wang, Xinjian Zhang

Institutions: Qilu University of Technology, Shandong Academy of Sciences, Jinan Environmental Research Academy

Language: English

Topic: Toxic Organic Pollutants Impact

Subfield: Health, Toxicology and Mutagenesis

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $4,750