Thermal Paper and BPA/BPS：”A History of Emotional Entanglement”

In the world of thermal paper, the story of BPA and BPS plays out like a complicated love affair. Since the mid-20th century, thermal paper has quickly gained popularity for its convenience and efficiency, becoming the go-to material for receipts, tickets, and labels. At the heart of this success are two key chemicals: BPA and BPS. Like the sweet moments in a relationship, these chemicals give the thermal paper its crisp, readable charm. But over time, more and more research has revealed their potential threats to human health and the environment, casting a shadow over what once seemed like a perfect match. Now, with growing public concern and increasingly strict regulations, the relationship between thermal paper and BPA/BPS has become a tangled web that’s proving difficult to unravel.

thermal receipt paper

I. Why Does Thermal Paper Contain BPA/BPS?

To understand why BPA and BPS are used in thermal paper, we first need to take a closer look at how thermal paper works. The concept of thermal paper was developed in the 1930s by Charles Stewart in the U.S., and the technology and formulas have been refined over the decades. By the late 1940s, thermal paper was ready for commercial use. At its core, thermal paper consists of a base layer coated with a chemical mixture. This coating includes color developers and sensitizers that make the paper produce clear images when heated.

Early thermal paper relied on Bisphenol A (BPA) primarily because it performed exceptionally well as a color developer in thermal materials. BPA reacts to heat, producing a sharp, readable image, which makes it a go-to for manufacturers. It was also stable and cost-effective, further solidifying its place in thermal paper production.

However, by the 2000s, scientific studies started to link BPA to potential health risks, particularly its role as an endocrine disruptor. This sparked widespread concern, and media coverage fueled public suspicion of products containing BPA.

As awareness of these risks grew, governments began to take action. In 2006, the European Union introduced the REACH regulation to limit harmful chemicals. California’s Proposition 65, which had been in effect since 1986, also turned up the heat on BPA. These regulations pressured many companies to find alternatives.

California Proposition 65 Warning label

Enter Bisphenol S (BPS). Touted as a safer replacement for BPA, BPS quickly became the new favorite in thermal paper production. Manufacturers hoped it would offer the same thermal performance while reducing health risks and meeting regulatory standards.

However, as with many rebound relationships, it wasn’t long before research began raising concerns about BPS as well. The potential risks of BPS triggered new fears, leaving manufacturers and consumers alike searching for even safer alternatives.

BPA-BPS-comparison

Here’s a quick timeline of how this relationship has unfolded:

• Early Adoption (1970s): When thermal paper first hit the market, BPA was like the rising star everyone was excited about. Its impressive thermal properties made it a popular choice for producing clear receipts and labels. Thermal paper quickly became a staple in the commercial world.
• Awareness of Health Risks (Early 2000s): As scientific research advanced, the potential dangers of BPA started to come to light. Public concern began to grow, and the media covered the issue extensively. Social media was abuzz with conversations about BPA, and consumers who once thought little about it suddenly became more aware of the risks.
• Search for Alternatives (Mid-2000s): Under pressure from both the public and regulatory bodies, manufacturers began exploring alternatives to BPA. BPS, the new contender, was seen as the solution everyone had been waiting for. However, research soon suggested that BPS might not be as harmless as hoped, leading to a rocky road for the industry.
• Regulatory and Market Pressure (2010s): As regulations continued to tighten, companies felt the squeeze to phase out BPA. California’s Proposition 65 sounded the alarm for major brands, forcing them to reconsider their supply chains and seek BPA-free alternatives. The demand for safer thermal paper soared.
• The Rise of Green Technology (2020s): Fast forward to today, and the push for eco-friendly solutions is stronger than ever. Manufacturers are no longer just looking for quick fixes but are investing in greener technologies. Inorganic pigments and bio-based materials have entered the scene, offering safer, BPA-free and BPS-free options that cater to consumers’ growing desire for sustainable products.

II. What are the hazards of thermal paper containing BPA/BPS?

Bisphenol A (BPA) is considered a synthetic estrogen, meaning it can mimic the effects of estrogen, a natural hormone, in the body. BPA is classified as an endocrine-disrupting chemical (EDC), which means it can interfere with the body’s hormonal systems, including the reproductive, nervous, and immune systems. Specifically, BPA can bind to estrogen receptors, potentially causing effects similar to natural estrogen, even at low exposure levels.

The synthetic estrogenic properties of BPA were first discovered in the 1930s, and since then, studies have raised concerns about its potential health impacts, including links to reproductive disorders, developmental problems, and increased cancer risks, particularly related to hormonal imbalances.

The Harm of BPA

Bisphenol S (BPS) is chemically similar to Bisphenol A (BPA) and is often used as a substitute in “BPA-free” products. However, like BPA, BPS also exhibits estrogenic activity and is classified as an endocrine-disrupting chemical (EDC). Studies have shown that BPS can bind to estrogen receptors and mimic estrogen’s effects in the body, similar to BPA, potentially disrupting normal hormone function.

Research suggests that BPS, though used as a safer alternative, may have comparable health risks to BPA. It can interfere with the endocrine system, affecting processes like reproduction, development, and metabolism. In some studies, BPS has been found to be less biodegradable and more persistent in the environment compared to BPA, raising additional concerns about its long-term impact on health and ecosystems.

III. Government Measures to Restrict BPA/BPS

Governments around the world have implemented restrictions on BPA and BPS primarily to protect public health. Research indicates that these chemicals can negatively affect the human body, particularly by disrupting the endocrine system. As a result, many countries have recognized that limiting the use of these substances can reduce consumer exposure and better safeguard public health. Additionally, the potential environmental pollution caused by BPA and BPS has raised government concerns. Reducing the use of these chemicals helps protect ecosystems and preserve biodiversity.

Various BPA-Free Certification Labels

Below are some examples of government regulations concerning Bisphenol A (BPA) restrictions in various countries:

1. European Union
   Regulation Name: REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals)
   Regulation Number: 1907/2006/EC
   Date Enacted: December 2006
   Reason: To protect human health and the environment by ensuring the safe use of chemicals in the market and gradually restricting harmful substances, including BPA.
2. United States
   Law Name: California Proposition 65 (Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act)
   Law Number: California Health and Safety Code Section 25249.5
   Date Enacted: 1986
   Reason: To increase consumer awareness of chemical risks and protect the public from known toxic substances, including BPA.
3. Canada
   Law Name: Canadian Environmental Protection Act (CEPA)
   Law Number: CEPA 1999
   Date Enacted: 1999
   Reason: To regulate toxic substances and protect both the environment and public health, with BPA being classified as a toxic substance.
4. Japan
   Law Name: Food Sanitation Act
   Law Number: Implemented in 1950, with several amendments
   Date Enacted: Initially enforced in 1950
   Reason: To ensure food safety by limiting harmful chemicals, such as BPA, in materials that come into contact with food.
5. Australia
   Law Name: Industrial Chemicals (Notification and Assessment) Act
   Law Number: 2019 Act
   Date Enacted: 2019
   Reason: To ensure the safe use of chemicals, including the regulation of harmful chemicals like BPA.
6. New Zealand
   Law Name: Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act
   Law Number: 1996 Act
   Date Enacted: 1996
   Reason: To protect the environment and public health by ensuring proper management of harmful chemicals.

IV. Green Alternatives to BPA/BPS in Thermal Paper

The latest advancements in green thermal paper technology typically involve the use of the following color-developing materials:

• Inorganic Pigments: Such as titanium dioxide and iron oxides, which are stable and safe under thermal stimulation.
• New Organic Dyes: Some bio-based or low-toxicity organic dyes are being developed using plant extracts or modified synthetic dyes.
• Thermochromic Materials: Some new polymer coatings, like polyamides or polyurethanes, can change color at specific temperatures.
• Microencapsulation Technology: This technique encapsulates color developers in microcapsules, releasing the pigments only when heated, reducing the risk of direct exposure.

Microencapsulation Technology

In recent years, significant progress has been made in developing alternatives to BPA and BPS in thermal paper. For example, in 2017, a study led by Sarah M. Smith in the Journal of Applied Polymer Science explored the use of inorganic pigments in thermal paper. The study found that titanium dioxide and iron oxides performed better than traditional BPA-based color developers in terms of both color stability and thermal performance. This discovery has practical value because these inorganic materials not only reduce the dependence on harmful chemicals but also enhance the durability of thermal paper, aligning with market demand for sustainable products.

In 2019, Ana P. Oliveira and her team from Brazil published research in Industrial Crops and Products on the application of natural pigments in thermal paper. They discovered that natural pigments extracted from plants retained good color performance and stability during heat treatment. This research is valuable because it offers an eco-friendly solution that meets consumer demand for safer products, providing the thermal paper industry with innovative, sustainable alternatives.

In 2021, Hans Müller from Germany published a study in Materials Science and Engineering: B on the application of polymer microencapsulation in thermal paper. His research demonstrated that polymer microcapsules can effectively encase color developers, controlling their release and enabling rapid color development upon heating while significantly improving safety. This technology not only reduces the risk of exposure to harmful chemicals but also maintains the performance of thermal paper, enhancing its market competitiveness.

V. Why Are BPA/BPS Thermal Papers Still on the Market?

Thermal paper containing BPA and BPS is still in circulation in some countries and regions. While certain U.S. states have implemented restrictions, there is no federal ban, so these products may still be found in some markets. Similar situations exist in Canada and parts of Europe, particularly in niche markets or specific industries. In developing countries, where regulations may be looser and environmental awareness lower, BPA/BPS thermal paper is still widely used. Weak regulatory enforcement in some regions also allows these products to continue circulating.

BPA/BPS thermal paper is still widely used in certain regions

Even though many countries are working to limit the use of these harmful substances, economic and technological factors make it challenging to fully eliminate BPA/BPS thermal paper from the market. The key reasons include:

• Cost: Traditional BPA/BPS thermal paper is cheaper to produce, and many manufacturers, under economic pressure, may prefer to stick with these materials to remain competitive and maintain profit margins.
• Slow Technological Transition: Switching to BPA-free or BPS-free alternatives requires investment in research and development, which can be a significant financial burden for smaller manufacturers. Additionally, it takes time for new materials to prove their reliability and gain market acceptance.
• Diverse Market Demand: While demand for safer products is growing, there are still consumers who prioritize lower costs and are willing to opt for cheaper, traditional thermal paper, keeping the market for BPA/BPS products alive.
• Regulatory Differences: Regulations on BPA and BPS vary from country to country. In regions with more lenient regulations, BPA/BPS thermal paper can still be legally sold.
• Established Supply Chains: Many businesses have long-established supply chains for BPA/BPS thermal paper. Transitioning away from these materials can be costly and risky, so some companies continue using existing stocks until regulatory or market forces push them to change.

In conclusion, despite the growing availability of alternatives and regulatory efforts driving change, economic, technological, and market factors continue to support the presence of BPA/BPS thermal paper in today’s marketplace.

VI. How to Avoid the Harmful Effects of BPA/BPS in Thermal Paper?

Although more companies are transitioning to BPA/BPS-free thermal paper for receipts, it is still challenging to completely avoid thermal paper containing BPA/BPS in circulation. As a consumer, identifying whether thermal paper is BPA/BPS-free can be a bit tricky because it typically looks the same as traditional thermal paper.

Therefore, we can take the following precautions to protect ourselves from the potential harm of BPA/BPS exposure:

1. Limit Contact with Thermal Paper: If you don’t need the receipt, it’s best to decline it or dispose of it immediately. Often, we receive receipts, glance at them, and either discard them or leave them somewhere, which wastes resources and increases exposure risk.
   While shopping, you can inform the cashier that you don’t need a receipt or ask them to discard it directly.
   If you need a receipt for returns or reimbursements, consider taking a picture or scanning it to store it on your phone or computer. Then, discard or recycle the paper version.

2. Avoid Handling Thermal Paper with Wet or Wounded Hands: Try not to handle receipts with wet hands or if you have open cuts, and avoid placing receipts in your mouth or near food.
   Wet or broken skin can increase the absorption of BPA or other harmful chemicals, leading to greater potential harm. Placing receipts in your mouth or near food could introduce these chemicals into your digestive system, causing irritation or other health risks.

3. Wash Your Hands After Contact: Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling thermal paper to avoid transferring chemicals to other surfaces.
   After touching thermal paper, you may inadvertently touch your face, eyes, or mouth or come into contact with items like phones, keyboards, or other objects. This can spread BPA or other harmful chemicals, increasing the risk of secondary exposure.

4. Store Thermal Paper Properly: If you must keep receipts, store them in a cool, dry, and dark place, away from direct sunlight or heat. Avoid mixing them with other items.
   Important receipts, such as invoices, warranties, or tickets that need to be kept for a long time, should be stored with care to minimize both the degradation of the paper and the harmful effects of the chemicals it contains.

Always wash hands after handling thermal paper

By adopting these habits, you can significantly reduce your exposure to BPA/BPS and protect your health.

VII. Where to buy BPA-free and BPS-free thermal paper rolls?

Many businesses are switching to BPA/BPS-free thermal paper to ensure the safety of their customers and employees and to comply with stricter health regulations. BPA/BPS-free thermal paper is especially crucial for sectors that require constant printing of receipts, like supermarkets, retail stores, and restaurants, where minimizing chemical exposure is a priority.

BPA-free and BPS-free thermal paper rolls

You can purchase BPA-free and BPS-free thermal paper from several retailers online:

1. POS Supply Solutions offers a wide range of BPA/BPS-free thermal paper rolls that are also phenol-free. These are ideal for businesses using cash registers, credit card machines, or mobile printers.

2. www.sunavin.com, a Chinese manufacturer known for offering affordable options in wholesale and retail, you can contact the factory directly through their official website or distributor channels. Sunavin provides cost-effective thermal paper solutions suitable for businesses seeking BPA/BPS-free options.

3. ThermalRoll.com sells phenol-free (BPA and BPS-free) thermal receipt paper in various sizes. They offer bulk pricing and free shipping on their products.

4. Blue4est® Thermal Paper from NCCO is another BPA and BPS-free option, using a physical reaction instead of chemical processes for printing. It’s eco-friendly and long-lasting, making it a great alternative for those looking to reduce environmental impact.

5. Staples carries BPA-free thermal paper rolls in packs of 10, suitable for various point-of-sale systems.

Conclusion

As technology advances and public awareness of health risks increases, the relationship between thermal paper and BPA/BPS is undergoing a profound transformation. The emergence of new materials offers hope for a safer future, but the shadows of the past still loom large. Like a complicated breakup, some memories are hard to let go of, but reality demands new choices. The thermal paper industry is striving to find safer, more environmentally friendly alternatives, seeking to break free from a history fraught with controversy. Looking ahead, there may be a new, promising relationship on the horizon, one where thermal paper can move forward safely and confidently, writing a new chapter full of hope and reduced risk.