4,4'-Isopropylidenediphenol, ethoxylated

Endpoint summary

Description of key information

4,4-isopropylidenediphenol, ethoxylated (BPA 1-4.5 EO, EC 500-082-2) was assessed for the purpose of the evaluation of the long-term effects of the test item, after a single exposure, on nitrogen transformation activity of soil microorganisms, following the procedure described in the corresponding OECD 216 guideline. Although both parametric and non-parametric statistical tests did not show any significant inhibitory effect up to the highest tested concentration (i.e. 1000.0 mg test item/kg soil dry weight) 28 days after application, a NOEC equal to 31.0 mg test item/kg soil dry weight is proposed as a worst case given the raw data obtained.

The OECD 222 guideline compliant study was designed to determine the effects of the test item on the reproduction and growth of the earthworm, Eisenia fetida, in an artificial soil under GLP conditions. The test was conducted at treatment rates of 16.3, 29.4, 52.9, 95.3, 171.5, 308.6, 555.6 and 1000.0 mg/kg dry soil. One positive toxic control and a solvent control were included.

There were statistically significant differences between the solvent control and the treatment groups of 308.6, 555.6 and 1000.0 mg/kg dry soil; hence, the NOEC for reproduction was statistically determined to be 171.5 mg/kg dry soil. The EC50 for the number of juveniles on Day 56 could not be estimated because there was not a dose-response relationship and was therefore concluded to be >1000 mg/kg dry soil.

The LC50 for adult mortality could not be estimated due to a lack of significant mortality. LC50 and NOEC for adult mortality on Day 28 was therefore concluded to be >1000 and ≥1000.0 mg/kg dry soil, respectively.

There was no statistically significant adverse effect on adult bodyweight at any test concentrations in comparison to the control. A NOEC ≥ 1000 mg/kg dry soil is therefore proposed.