Antimony Trioxide (Polyester Catalyst)
The question

Is Antimony Trioxide (Polyester Catalyst) safe in activewear?

CautionActivewear

A catalyst used in the manufacturing of polyester fibers. Classified as a possible human carcinogen (IARC Group 2B) in inhaled form. Found in 80–85% of virgin polyester; studies show 0.05–2% can be mobilized into artificial sweat during wear — raising concern for prolonged skin contact with synthetic activewear.

What the research flags

  • IARC Group 2B possible carcinogen (occupational inhalation)
  • Leaches from polyester fabric under sweat conditions — dermal exposure concern
  • Accumulates in aquatic organisms during textile washing
  • Occupational exposure limits exist for workers in PET manufacturing

Regulatory
IARC Group 2B possible carcinogen

Other activewear ingredients on file

Sources & references

  1. [1]
    Peer-reviewedPubMed / NCBI — pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov · ref 33221423
  2. [2]
    Peer-reviewedPubMed / NCBI — NBK524833
  3. [3]
    RegulatoryGovernment agency

Research disclaimer: Ratings reflect peer-reviewed research and regulatory assessments available at the time of publication, not the dose or formulation of any specific activewear product. This is not medical advice.