The Impact of 1-Hydroxycyclohexyl Phenyl Ketone (1-HCHPK) on Freshwater Micro crustaceans in Natural Water

Rebecca Bailey^*
*Correspondence: Rebecca Bailey, Department of Environmental Science, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre 90010-150, RS, Brazil, Email:

Keywords

1-Hydroxycyclohexyl Phenyl Ketone (1-HCHPK) • Photo initiator • UV-curable coatings

Introduction

1-Hydroxycyclohexyl Phenyl Ketone (1-HCHPK), also known as Irgacure 184 or Darocur 1173, is a photo initiator widely used in the polymer and coatings industry. Its chemical formula is C13H16O2, and it belongs to the class of benzoin ether derivatives. 1-HCHPK is a white to pale yellow crystalline powder with a molecular weight of 204.27 g/mol. It is sparingly soluble in water but highly soluble in common organic solvents like acetone, ethyl acetate, and alcohols. The primary purpose of 1-HCHPK is to initiate or catalyse the polymerization of UV-curable materials, such as resins, adhesives and inks, upon exposure to Ultraviolet Light (UV). When subjected to UV radiation, 1-HCHPK absorbs photons and undergoes a photoreaction, generating highly reactive free radicals. These radicals, in turn, initiate the polymerization process in the surrounding materials. This property makes 1-HCHPK a crucial component in UV-curable formulations, allowing for rapid curing and improved performance of various products.

Literature Review

UV-curable inks and coatings are used for high-quality printing on paper plastics and packaging materials. UV-curable adhesives and encapsulants used for electronic component assembly and protection. UV-curable coatings are used for furniture, flooring and cabinetry offering excellent durability and aesthetics. UV-curable coatings are used for automotive refinishing and interior components. UV-curable adhesives and coatings are used for medical device assembly ensuring rapid bonding and biocompatibility. While 1-HCHPK plays a vital role in enhancing the performance of UV-curable materials, concerns have arisen regarding its environmental impact. The compound's limited solubility in water and tendency to remain in the solid state can lead to its release into natural water ecosystems during manufacturing processes, product use, or disposal. Once in the environment, 1-HCHPK may interact with aquatic organisms, including micro crustaceans, which are essential components of freshwater ecosystems.

Freshwater micro crustaceans, including species like Daphnia, copepods, and cladocerans, are keystone organisms in aquatic food webs. They serve as primary consumers, feeding on phytoplankton and detritus, and are a critical food source for higher trophic levels, including fish. Additionally, micro crustaceans play a vital role in nutrient cycling and water quality maintenance, making them ecologically significant in freshwater ecosystems. Freshwater micro crustaceans, like many aquatic organisms, are sensitive to changes in their environment. They are particularly vulnerable to various stressors, including pollution, temperature fluctuations, and alterations in water chemistry. Any disruption in their populations can have cascading effects on the entire ecosystem, affecting water quality, nutrient cycling, and biodiversity [1].

The presence of 1-HCHPK in natural water ecosystems can occur through several pathways, such as industrial effluent discharge, runoff from surfaces treated with UV-curable coatings and leaching from landfills. Once introduced into aquatic environments, 1-HCHPK may undergo various transformations, including dissolution, adsorption onto sediment particles, and interactions with aquatic organisms. Freshwater micro crustaceans can be exposed to 1-HCHPK through ingestion of contaminated particles, absorption through their cuticle, and the consumption of prey organisms that have accumulated the compound [2]. The bioavailability of 1-HCHPK to micro crustaceans depends on factors like water temperature, pH and the presence of natural organic matter, which can influence its solubility and mobility in aquatic systems.

Studies on the toxicological effects of 1-HCHPK on freshwater micro crustaceans are limited but raise concerns. Exposure to 1-HCHPK may lead to sub lethal effects in micro crustaceans, affecting their behavior, reproduction and growth rates. Changes in feeding behavior could disrupt the balance of phytoplankton populations, potentially impacting the entire aquatic food web. Micro crustaceans may accumulate 1-HCHPK in their tissues over time, potentially leading to bio magnification in higher trophic levels. The disruption of micro crustacean populations can have cascading effects on the structure and function of freshwater ecosystems, with potential consequences for water quality and biodiversity. The regulation of 1-HCHPK and its impact on the environment varies by region and country. In some jurisdictions, it may fall under existing chemical regulations, while in others, specific guidelines for its use and disposal may be lacking. Increased awareness of its potential environmental impact has led to calls for stricter regulations and monitoring.

To mitigate the potential adverse effects of 1-HCHPK on freshwater micro crustaceans and aquatic ecosystems, several strategies can be considered as industries using 1-HCHPK can adopt best practices for handling and disposing of the compound to minimize its release into natural water systems. The development and promotion of alternative photo initiators with lower environmental impact can reduce the reliance on 1-HCHPK. Continued research into the behavior and effects of 1-HCHPK in aquatic environments is essential for informed decision-making and the development of effective mitigation strategies. The implementation of water treatment technologies capable of removing 1-HCHPK from industrial effluents can help prevent its entry into natural water bodies [3].

Discussion

The interaction between 1-Hydroxycyclohexyl Phenyl Ketone (1-HCHPK) and freshwater micro crustaceans in natural water ecosystems presents a complex and nuanced issue. As discussed in the previous section, 1-HCHPK is a widely used photo initiator in UV-curable coatings and inks contributing to the rapid curing of various materials. However, its potential environmental impact has sparked concerns, especially regarding its effects on freshwater micro crustaceans. In this discussion, we will delve deeper into the implications of this interaction, considering the ecological significance of micro crustaceans, the potential risks associated with 1-HCHPK exposure, regulatory approaches, and possible mitigation strategies [4].

Freshwater micro crustaceans, including species like Daphnia, copepods and cladocerans, occupy a pivotal role in freshwater ecosystems. Their ecological significance extends across several dimensions. Micro crustaceans are primary consumers, feeding on phytoplankton and detritus [5]. They play a crucial role in controlling algal populations, thereby influencing water quality and clarity. By grazing on phytoplankton, they help regulate the composition and abundance of these microscopic plants, preventing excessive algal blooms. Micro crustaceans serve as a vital food source for various higher trophic levels, including fish, amphibians, and waterfowl. Their abundance and health directly impact the success and sustainability of these higher-level organisms, making them essential links in aquatic food webs.

Freshwater micro crustaceans contribute to nutrient cycling within ecosystems. Through their feeding and excretion processes, they help redistribute nutrients, such as carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus, facilitating their availability to other aquatic organisms. This nutrient cycling has profound implications for ecosystem productivity and stability. Micro crustaceans are often used as bio indicators of water quality. Their sensitivity to environmental changes, especially pollution and contaminants, makes them valuable tools for assessing the health of aquatic ecosystems. Shifts in micro crustacean populations can signal alterations in water chemistry and habitat quality. The diversity of micro crustacean species in freshwater ecosystems contributes to overall biodiversity. Each species occupies a unique niche and plays specific roles within the ecosystem. Losses or disruptions in micro crustacean diversity can have cascading effects on ecosystem structure and function.

To comprehend the potential risks posed by 1-HCHPK exposure to freshwater micro crustaceans, it is essential to recognize their vulnerability to environmental stressors. These small aquatic organisms are sensitive to changes in their surroundings, and various stressors can impact their populations. Micro crustaceans are highly sensitive to pollutants, including chemicals and heavy metals. Exposure to these substances can lead to reduced survival rates, impaired reproduction, and altered behavior. The presence of 1-HCHPK in aquatic environments adds another layer of potential pollution, which micro crustaceans may struggle to cope with. Temperature plays a critical role in the metabolic processes and life cycles of micro crustaceans. Sudden temperature changes, often associated with climate variability or anthropogenic influences, can disrupt their growth and reproductive patterns.

Alterations in water chemistry, such as changes in pH levels or dissolved oxygen concentrations, can affect micro crustacean physiology and behavior. These changes may impact their ability to acquire essential nutrients and reproduce. Micro crustaceans rely on specific habitats for shelter, feeding, and reproduction. Habitat loss and fragmentation due to urbanization, agriculture, or other land-use changes can lead to reduced micro crustacean populations or even extinctions. The introduction of non-native species to freshwater ecosystems can disrupt existing food webs and out compete native micro crustaceans. Invasive species can alter predation dynamics, leading to imbalances in micro crustacean populations [6].

Conclusion

1-Hydroxycyclohexyl Phenyl Ketone (1-HCHPK) is a versatile photo initiator used in a wide range of industrial applications, contributing to the rapid curing of UV-curable materials. However, its potential release into natural water ecosystems has raised concerns about its impact on freshwater micro crustaceans and the overall health of aquatic ecosystems. Freshwater micro crustaceans, as keystone organisms, play a crucial role in maintaining the balance and functionality of these ecosystems, making their protection a priority. While research on the ecological effects of 1-HCHPK is on-going, it is evident that this compound has the potential to disrupt micro crustacean populations and, by extension, the entire freshwater food web. To address these concerns, a multi-pronged approach is necessary, including improved regulatory oversight, the development of alternative photo initiators, and the implementation of mitigation measures to minimize environmental exposure.

Acknowledgement

None.

Conflict of Interest

There are no conflicts of interest by author.

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