Core Viewpoint - The development of non-toxic medical plastics is crucial due to the health risks associated with DEHP, a common plasticizer in PVC medical devices, which poses reproductive health hazards [1][2][3] Group 1: Health Risks of DEHP - DEHP is widely used in PVC medical devices due to its excellent properties but has significant reproductive toxicity and carcinogenicity [2] - Long-term exposure to DEHP can lead to severe reproductive health issues, including male reproductive system damage and increased miscarriage rates in women [2] - The need for alternatives to DEHP is urgent, as existing substitutes lack reliable safety data and are not developed with domestic intellectual property [2] Group 2: Collaborative Research Efforts - The Beijing Chemical Industry Research Institute is leading a collaborative effort with five other organizations to develop non-phthalate plasticizers [3] - The collaboration encompasses the entire chain from molecular design to production and safety testing, integrating various expertise [3] - Key partners include the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Fudan University, which contribute to the design and safety evaluation of new plasticizers [3] Group 3: Challenges Ahead - The project faces three main challenges: designing a non-toxic molecular structure while avoiding patent barriers, conducting reproductive toxicity assessments, and ensuring compliance with medical standards for production [4] - A production line capable of annual output of 100 tons is planned, with a timeline set for completion of key tasks by June 2028 [4][5] - Successful implementation will lead to the introduction of safer medical devices, such as blood transfusion bags and dialysis tubes, into hospitals [5]