| Emission of Volatile Oganic Compounds from Wood and
Wood-Based Materials Appendix 7: Evaluation of single
substances
ACIDS
Butanoic acid
Pentanoic acid
ALCOHOLS
Aliphatic alcohols
1-Butanol
1-Heptanol
2-Methyl-1-propanol
1-Octen-3-ol
1-Pentanol
3-Pentanol
Aromatic alcohols
Benzyl alcohol
Phenol
ALDEHYDES
Saturated aldehydes
Acetaldehyde
Butanal
Decanal
Formaldehyde
Heptanal
Hexanal
Nonanal
Octanal
Pentanal
Propanal
Unsaturated aldehydes
Acrolein
Benzaldehyde
2-Decenal
Furfural
2-Heptenal
2-Nonenal
2-Octenal
2-Pentenal
2-Undecenal
ESTERS
Benzyl acetate
Butyl acetate
Butyl butyrate
2-Ethylhexyl acetate
Heptyl acetate
Heptyl formate
Isobutyl acetate
Pentyl formate
GLYCOLS, -ETHERS, -ESTERS
2-(2-Butoxyethoxy)-ethanol
Butoxy propanol
Butoxy propyl acetate
2-Ethoxy-ethyl acetate
2-Ethoxy hexyl acetate
Methoxy propyl acetate
Propylene glycol acetate and propylene glycol diacetate
2,2,4-Trimethyl-1,3-pentanediol-monoisobutyrate
HYDROCARBONS
Aliphatic hydrocarbons
Alkanes
Aromatic hydrocarbons
C2-Alkylbenzenes
Ethylbenzene
Xylenes
C3-Alkylbenzenes
Isopropylbenzene
n-Propylbenzene
Trimethylbenzenes
C4-Alkylbenzenes
KETONES
Acetone
Ô-Butyrolactone
Cyclohexanone
2,9-Decane dione
Ethyl vinyl ketone
2-Heptanone
3-Heptanone
2-Nonanone
2-Octanone
4-Octene-3-one
TERPENES
Camphene
2-Carene
3-Carene
Limonene
ß-Myrcene
a-Phellandrene
a-Pinene
ß-Pinene
a-Terpinene
y-Terpinene
Terpene alchohols and ketones
4-Terpineol
a-Terpineol
Verbenone
Terpene epoxides
Limonene oxide
OTHERS
Acetals
Formaldehyde butyl isobutylacetal
Formaldehyde dibutylacetal
Formaldehyde diisobutylacetal
Epoxides
Pentyl oxirane
Nitriles
2,2'-Azobis-isobutyronitrile
REFERENCES
ACIDS
In general:
Organic acids cover a wide range of substances with a variety in the
chemical structure. Organic acids are primary irritant and some cause severe tissue damage
similar to those seen with strong mineral acids.
Butanoic acid CAS. no. 107-92-6
Acute toxicity LD50 oral, rat: 2940 mg/kg
LD50 dermal, rabbit: 530 mg/kg
Severely irritant to eyes and skin in experimental animals.
Chronic toxicity No information was available.
Human health effects RD50 x 0.03/40 has been
calculated to 0.78 mg/m3 (VOCBASE, 1996).
Odour Odour threshold value is reported to be 0.015 mg/m3;
(VOCBASE, 1996).
LCI LCI-value: 0.78 mg/m3
Justification: The LCI-value refers to sensory irritation.
Pentanoic acid CAS. no. 109-52-4
Acute toxicity LD50 oral, mouse: 600 mg/kg
LC50 inhalation, mouse: 4100 mg/m3/h
Corrosive to eyes, skin and mucous membranes in experimental animals.
Chronic toxicity No information was available.
Odour Odour threshold value is reported to be 0.02 mg/m3;
(VOCBASE, 1996).
LCI LCI-value: 0.78 mg/m3
Justification: The LCI-value is assumed analogical to Butanoic acid.
ALCOHOLS
In general:
Alcohols are organic compounds characterized by rather low acute
toxicity in single-dose oral toxicity experiments.
Repeated or prolonged exposure to alcohols may lead to depression of
the central nervous system (narcotic action).
Alcohol vapours are characterized by their irritative properties in
particular to the eyes but also to the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract.
In view of the widespread industrial use reports of severe adverse
effects on humans are relatively few.
Aliphatic alcohols
1-Butanol CAS. no.. 71-36-3
Acute toxicity LD50 oral, mouse: 5200 mg/kg
LD50 dermal, rabbit: 3400 mg/kg
LC50 inhalation, rat: 24,000 mg/m3;
Chronic toxicity Inhalation study in rats for 4 months at
concentrations of 0.8, 6.6 and 40 mg/m3; showed, already after 30 days, effects
on the central nervous system e.g. decrease in hexobarbital sleeping time and increase in
reflex activity. Furthermore, other signs of toxicity were noted, e.g. increase in thyroid
activity, increase in cholinesterase levels, dilatations of vessels and pulmonary edema.
Inhalation study in mice of 4 months' duration at a concentration 0.8,
6.6 and 40 mg/m3 showed already after 30 days an increase in reflex activity.
Human health effects: Inhalation: The primary effects of
exposure to vapours for short periods have varying degrees of irritation of the mucous
membranes and central nervous system depression.
Vapour concentration of above 75 mg/m3 produced mild
irritation of nose, throat and eyes. At a vapour concentration of 150 mg/m3
effects were more pronounced and associated with headache.
A 10-year study on workers indicated that systemic intoxication was
unlikely when exposure was kept below 300 mg/m3, whereas slight headache,
vertigo and drowsiness were noted. In some cases dermatitis on fingers or hands was seen.
Skin contact: Prolonged or repeated skin contact may produce dermatitis
due to defatting action.
Eye contact: Irritation. Some people develop corneal inflammation
associated with burning sensation.
RD50 x 0.03/40 has been calculated to 8.9 mg/m3
(VOCBASE, 1996).
Odour Odour threshold value is reported to be 0.09 mg/m3 (VOCBASE,
1996)
LCI LCI-value: 0.2 mg/m3
Justification: The LCI-value refers to irritation and corresponds to
the C-value.
1-Heptanol CAS. no. 111-70-6
Acute toxicity LD50 oral, rat: 3250 mg/kg
LD50 oral, mouse: 1500 mg/kg
LD50 oral, rabbit: 750 mg/kg
Chronic toxicity No information was available.
Human health effects RD50 x 0.03/40 has been
calculated to 0.36 mg/m3 (VOCBASE, 1996).
Odour Odour threshold value is reported to be 0.12 mg/m3
(VOCBASE, 1996).
LCI LCI-value: 1 mg/m3
Justification: The LCI-value refers to irritation and neurotoxicity and
corresponds to the C-value.
2-Methyl-1-propanol CAS. no. 78-83-1
Acute toxicity LD50 oral, rat: 2400 mg/kg
Chronic toxicity No information was available.
Human health effects Inhalation: Exposure to high concentration
vapours caused vertigo, nausea, vomiting and headache with effects on hearing.
Skin contact: When applied for 15 minutes on hands of volunteers only
slight irritation was seen. Causes defatting and dehydration on the skin.
Eye contact: Irritation, blurred vision and transient corneal va-cuoli
zation.
RD50 x 0.03/40 has been calculated to 4.2 mg/m3
(VOCBASE, 1996).
Odour Odour threshold value is reported to be 2.6 mg/m3
(VOCBASE, 1996).
LCI LCI-value: 0.4 mg/m3
Justification: The LCI-value refers to irritation and neurotoxicity and
corresponds to the C-value.
1-Octen-3-ol CAS. no. 3391-86-4
Acute toxicity LD50 oral, rat: 340 mg/kg
LD50 skin, rabbit: 3300 mg/kg
Odour Odour threshold value is reported to be 0.016 mg/m3
(VOCBASE, 1996).
LCI LCI-value: 0.016 mg/m3;
Justification: The LCI-value corresponds to the odour threshold value.
1-Pentanol CAS. no. 71-41-0
Acute toxicity LD50 oral, rat: 3030 mg/kg
LClo inhalation, rat: 14,000 mg/m3/6 hr
Chronic toxicity No information was available.
Human health effects:
Inhalation: Irritation of the nose and throat, headache, dizziness and
drowsiness.
Skin contact: Irritation. Prolonged skin contact may result in skin
defatting and cracking.
Eye contact: Stinging sensation and lachrymation. Furthermore, blurred
vision and a burning sensation which may last for several days.
RD50 x 0.03/40 has been calculated to 4.3 mg/m3
(VOCBASE, 1996).
Odour Odour threshold value is reported to be 0.02 mg/m3
(VOCBASE, 1996).
LCI LCI-value: 4.3 mg/m3
Justification: The LCI-value refers sensory irritation.
3-Pentanol CAS. no. 584-02-1
Acute toxicity LD50 oral, rat: 1870 mg/kg
Significant percutaneous absorption in experimental animals.
Chronic toxicity No information was available.
Human health effects:
Inhalation: Irritation of nose and throat, headache, dizziness and
drowsiness. Burning sensation of the eyes.
Skin contact: Irritation. Prolonged exposure may result in skin
defatting and cracking.
Eye contact: Stinging sensation and lachrymation. Furthermore, blurred
vision and a burning sensation which may last for several days. Irritation from exposure
to high concentrations.
RD50 x 0.03/40 has been calculated to 4.3 mg/m3
for 1-pentanol. Although no data were available the expected sensory irritation may be of
the same magnitude.
Odour Odour threshold value is not reported (VOCBASE, 1996).
LCI LCI-value: 4.3 mg/m3
Justification: The LCI is based on an assumption that the sensory
irritation of 3-pentanol is comparable to those of 1-pentanol.
Aromatic alcohols
Benzyl alcohol CAS. no. 100-51-6
Acute toxicity LD50 oral, rat: 1230 mg/kg
LC50 inhalation, rat: 4420 mg/m3/8 hr
Chronic toxicity No information was available.
Human health effects:
Inhalation: Vapours containing high concentrations of benzyl al-cohol
together with several impurities e.g. benzene, cause temporary he adache, vertigo nausea
and loss of weight. Benzyl alcohol affects the central nervous system, in serious cases it
may cause unconsciousness.
Skin contact: Irritation.
Eye contact: Irritation.
Odour Odour threshold value is reported to be 25 mg/m3
(VOCBASE, 1996)
LCI LCI-value: 0.1 mg/m3
Justification: The LCI-value refers to irritation and neurotoxicity and
corresponds to the C-value.
Phenol CAS. no. 108-95-2
Subacute toxicity Rats exposed to vapours at a concentration of
100 mg/m3 for 15 days showed excitement, twitching and depression.
Dermal exposure of rabbits (dose of 250 mg/kg, 5 hours per day in 18
days) produced tremor, skin hyperaemia and hyperkeratosis.
Chronic toxicity Inhalation study in rats for 3 months, at a
concentration of 5 mg/m3.
Toxic effects including damage of the liver function and chronaxie (increased nerve
sensitivity to stimulation) were seen.
Human health effects
Inhalation: Phenol is a general poison with symptoms developing rapidly
after 15-20 minutes. Liver and kidney damage after systemic absorption and a serious risk
of unconsciousness, death or serious damage of the central nervous system. As symptoms
from the central nervous system headache, dizziness, visual disturbances and weakness were
seen.
Intermitted exposure to vapour at a concentration of 185 mg/m3; results
in a marked nose and throat irritation.
Skin contact: Severe skin burns. Repeated or prolonged contact with
skin may cause dermatitis and darkening of skin. Exposure of eczematous skin to a solution
of 2.5% phenol can cause coma within a few minutes. After prolonged exposure to a solution
of low phenol concentration skin eruptions, nervous disorders and digestive disturbances
were reported. Furthermore, fatalities were reported due to extensive liver and kidney
damage.
Eye contact: Marked irritation. Concentrated solutions cause severe
irritation, and in some cases loss of vision was reported.
There is no evidence that phenol acts as mutagen or specific carcinogen
when humans are exposed to low concentrations.
RD50 x 0.03/40 has been calculated to 0.49 mg/m3
(VOCBASE, 1996).
Odour Odour threshold value is reported to be 0.43 mg/m3
(VOCBASE, 1996)
LCI LCI-value: 0.020 mg/m3
Justification: The LCI-value refers to irritation and corresponds to
the C-value.
ALDEHYDES
In general:
Aldehydes are volatile organic compounds characterized by their
irritative properties. Aldehydes irritate skin, eyes and the upper respiratory system.
Especially lower aliphatic aldehydes and unsaturated aliphatic aldehydes are irritant.
Minor amounts of aldehydes are quickly oxidized in the body to organic
acids while they do not accumulate.
Saturated aldehydes
Acetaldehyde CAS. no. 75-07-0
Acute toxicity LD50 oral, rat: 1930 mg/kg. LDlo,
inhalation, rat: 7,200 mg/m3/4h.
LC50 inhalation, rat: 36,000 mg/m3;/30 min
Application of acetaldehyde in hamster eyes results in eye injury,
lacrimation and photophobia.
Chronic toxicity Acetaldehyde causes genetic damage to somatic
cells in vivo.
Increased incidence of tumours has been observed in inhalation studies on rats and
hamsters exposed. In both animal species a tissue damage of the respiratory tract was
seen. In rats, a dose-related increase in nasal adenocarcinomas and squamous cells
carcinomas at doses of 1350 mg/m3 and greater were reported.
Human health effects:
Inhalation: Vapour at a concentration of 45 mg/m3 did not
induce any toxicological effects as shown in a study in volunteers whereas exposure
vapours of 90 mg/m3 caused a minor eye irritation.
RD50 x 0.03/40 has been calculated to 5.2 mg/m3
(VOCBASE, 1996).
Skin contact: Repeated exposure may cause dermatitis and
conjunctivitis.
Eye contact: Industrial exposure to the vapours results in irritation
of the eyes and mucous membranes, headache and sore throat. Vapours at a higher
concentration and extended exposure may injure the corneal epithelium, causing persistent
lachrymation, photophobia and body sensation.
Odour Odour threshold value is reported to be 0.34 mg/m3
(VOCBASE, 1996).
LCI LCI-value: 5.2 mg/m3
Justification: The LCI-value refers to sensory irritation.
Butanal CAS. no. 123-72-8
Acute toxicity LD50 oral, rat: 2940 mg/kg
LD50 dermal, rabbit: 530 mg/kg
Severe eye irritant and moderate to severe skin irritant in rabbits.
Chronic toxicity No information was available.
Human health effects RD50 x 0.03/40 has been
calculated to 2.8 mg/m3 (VOCBASE, 1996).
Odour Odour threshold value is reported to be 0.028 mg/m3;
(VOCBASE, 1996).
LCI LCI-value: 2.8 mg/m3;
Justification: The LCI-value refers sensory irritation.
Decanal CAS. no. 112-31-2
Acute toxicity LD50 oral, rat: 3730 mg/kg
LD50 dermal, rabbit: 5040 mg/kg
Severe skin irritant in laboratory animals.
Chronic toxicity No information was available.
Odour Odour threshold value is reported to be 0.006 mg/m3;
(VOCBASE, 1996).
LCI LCI-value: 3.1 mg/m3
Justification: The LCI-value refers to the sensory irritation of
saturated aldehydes and corresponds to the value of pentanal.
Formaldehyde CAS. no. 50-00-0
Acute toxicity LD50 oral, rat: 800 mg/kg
LD50 inhalation, rat: 590 mg/m3
TClo inhalation, man: 300 µg/m3 (effects on nose
and CNS)
Chronic toxicity Formaldehyde in a long-term inhalation study
carried out in rats causes squamous metaplasia of the nasal mucosa in two-third of the
exposed animals. In one-third of animals, tumours of nasal cavity, mainly squamous-cell
carcinoma were seen.
Human health effects: Inhalation: Exposure to vapours of low
concentrations causes irritation of the respiratory tract, limited to upper respiratory
airways only. Vapour concentrations of approximately 2.4 mg/m3; cause slight formication
of the nose and pharynx.
At a higher concentration discomfort rapidly increases and
lacrimation, olfactory changes, aggression and pulmonary changes were reported.
Asthmatic symptoms may occur due to allergic sensitivity, even at low
concentrations as well as urticaria.
Skin contact: Sensitization, leading to allergic contact dermatitis is
frequent.
Eye contact: Vapours at a concentration of 2.4 mg/m3 cause
slight formication, at higher concentrations burning of the eyes and severe lachrymation.
Eye irritation is reported from at vapour concentrations from 0.6 to 0.06 mg/m3.
RD50 x 0.03/40 has been calculated to 0.0038 mg/m3
(VOCBASE, 1996).
The World Health Organization has reassessed formaldehyde in 1996 and
concluded: "The lowest concentration which has been associated with nose and throat
irritation in humans after short-term exposure is 0.1 mg/m3;, although some individuals
can sense the presence of formaldehyde at lower concentrations. To prevent significant
sensory irritation in the general population, an air quality guideline value of 0.1 mg/m3
as a 30 minute average is recommended. Since this guideline value of (0.1 mg/m3)
is over one order of magnitude lower than a presumed threshold for cytotoxic damage to the
nasal mucosa, this guideline value presents an exposure level at which there is negligible
risk of upper respiratory tract cancer in humans." Larsen, J.C., Inst. for
Toxicology, National Food Agency of Denmark, (Personal information), April 1997. Mølhave,
L., Inst. of Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Aarhus University (Personal
information).
The International Agency for Research on Cancer, IARC, has assessed the
carcinogenic potential of formaldehyde and classified it as probably carcinogenic to
humans (allocated to group 2A) on basis of certain evidence for carcinogenicity in
experimental animals and limited evidence for humans. Cytotoxicity is considered to play
an significant essential role in the carcinogenic effect of formaldehyde, and there is
some genetic changes in the nasal mucosa of humans exposed to concentrations lower than
0.1 mg/m3;. It is, therefore, probable that the concentration by lifelong exposure should
be under 0.1 mg/m3 as a yearly average to take adequate account for the
carcinogenic effect.
The Danish Building Code contains requirements concerning formaldehyde
emission from wood-based panels to secure that the formaldehyde concentration in the
indoor air at realistic conditions for use does not exceed 0.15 mg/m3.
(Building Code 1995, Ch. 11.3.2).
The Statutory Order from the Ministry of Environment, No. 289 of June
22, 1983, contains requirements concerning particle boards, plywood and similar panels for
use in furniture, fixture and similar. These panels are only to be used if the equilibrium
concentration of formaldehyde determined by chamber testing does not exceed the 0.15 mg/m3
air. It should be noted that the requirements are given to the panels and not to the
finished furniture in total and that the test conditions (material load and air exchange
rate) corresponding to requirements in the Danish Building Code and statutory order from
the Ministry of the Environment are different, and thus the results cannot be compared
directly.
Odour Odour threshold value is reported to be 1.1 mg/m3
(VOCBASE, 1996).
LCI LCI-value: 0.1 mg/m3
Justification: The LCI-value of 0.1 mg/m3; refers to the
1996 evaluation for WHO Air Quality Guidelines.
Heptanal CAS. no. 111-71-7
Acute toxicity LD50 oral, rat: 14 g/kg
Chronic toxicity No information was available.
Odour Odour threshold is reported to be 0.023 mg/m3
(VOCBASE, 1996).
LCI LCI-value: 3.1 mg/m3
Justification: The LCI-value refers to the sensory irritation of
saturated aldehydes and corresponds to the value of pentanal.
Hexanal CAS. no. 66-25-1
Acute toxicity LD50 oral, rat: 4890 mg/kg
LClo inhalation, rat: 8195 mg/m3/4 hr (effects
not given)
An irritant to skin and eyes of laboratory animals.
Chronic toxicity No information was available.
Human health effects: RD50 x 0.03/40 has been
calculated to 3.4 mg/m3 (VOCBASE, 1996).
Odour Odour threshold value is reported to be
0.058 mg/m3 (VOCBASE, 1996).
LCI LCI-value: 3.4 mg/m3
Justification: The LCI-value refers to sensory irritation.
Nonanal CAS. no. 124-19-6
Acute toxicity Severe skin irritant.
Chronic toxicity No information was available.
Odour Odour threshold value is reported to be 0.014 mg/m3; (VOCBASE,
1996).
LCI LCI-value: 3.1 mg/m3
Justification: The LCI-value refers to the sensory irritation of
saturated aldehydes and corresponds to the value of pentanal.
Octanal CAS. no. 124-13-0
Acute toxicity LD50 oral, rat: 4622 mg/kg
LD50 dermal, rabbit: 5213 mg/kg
Chronic toxicity No information was available.
Odour Odour threshold value is reported to be 0.007 mg/m3;
(VOCBASE, 1996).
LCI LCI-value: 3.1 mg/m3
Justification: The LCI-value refers to the sensory irritation of
saturated aldehydes and corresponds to the value of pentanal.
Pentanal CAS. no. 110-62-3
Acute toxicity LD50 oral, rat: 3200 mg/kg
LD50 dermal, rabbit: 6000 mg/kg
LClo inhalation, rat: 14,000 mg/m3;
Moderate skin irritant and severe eye irritant in rabbits.
Chronic toxicity No information was available.
Human health effects: RD50 x 0.03/40 has been
calculated to 3.1 mg/m3 (VOCBASE, 1996).
Odour Odour threshold value is reported to be 0.022 mg/m3;
(VOCBASE, 1996).
LCI LCI-value: 3.1 mg/m3
Justification: The LCI-value refers to sensory irritation.
Propanal CAS. no. 123-38-6
Acute toxicity LDlo oral, rat: 800 mg/kg
LDlo dermal, rabbit: 3400 mg/kg
LClo inhalation, rat : 464,000 mg/m3;
A skin irritant and severe eye irritant.
Chronic toxicity No information was available.
Human health effects: RD50 x 0.03/40 has been
calculated to 4.3 mg/m3(VOCBASE, 1996).
Odour Odour threshold value is reported to be 0.014 mg/m3
(VOCBASE, 1996).
LCI LCI-value: 4.3 mg/m3;
Justification: The LCI-value refers sensory irritation.
Unsaturated aldehydes
Acrolein CAS. no. 107-02-8
Acute toxicity LDLo oral, man: 10 mg/kg
TCLo inhalation, man: 2.3 mg/m3 (irritation)
Chronic toxicity No long-term studies in rats and mice were
carried out. A one year study in hamsters did not show an increased tumour incidence.
Acrolein is genotoxic in in vitro and in vivo test systems.
Human health Inhalation: Exposure to vapour at a concentration
of 2.3 mg/m3 effects causes lachrymation and marked eye, nose and throat
irritation within 5 minutes. Severe pulmonary irritant and a higher concentration causes
injury to lungs. Respiratory insufficiency may persist for at least 18 months. Delayed
hypersensitivity was reported with a multiple organ involvement.
Considered a reproductive toxicant at high doses.
Skin contact: Corrosive.
Eye contact: Burning sensation in the eyes at low concentration
vapours. Vapours violently irritant and lachrymation at high concentrations.
RD50 x 0.03/40 has been calculated to 0.003 mg/m3
(VOCBASE, 1996).
Odour Odour threshold value is reported to be 0.410 mg/m3
(VOCBASE, 1996).
LCI LCI-value: 0.003 mg/m3;
Justification: The LCI-value refer to sensory irritation
Benzaldehyde CAS. no. 100-52-7
Acute toxicity LD50 oral, rat: 1300 mg/kg
Moderate skin and eye irritant.
Chronic toxicity No information was available.
Human health effects:
Inhalation: Workers chronically exposed to the vapours complained of
headache, fatigue, itching of the throat, lachrymation, loss of sense of taste, numbness
of the tongue and tremor. Symptoms usually disappeared rapidly after removal from the
exposure.
Skin contact: Moderate skin irritant and skin sensitizer. Repeated
exposure may cause irritant as well as allergic contact dermatitis.
Eye contact: Moderate eye irritation.
RD50 x 0.03/40 has been calculated to 1.2 mg/m3
(VOCBASE, 1996).
Odour Odour threshold value is reported to be 0.190 mg/m3;
(VOCBASE, 1996).
LCI LCI-value: 1.2 mg/m3
Justification: The LCI-value refers to sensory irritation.
2-Decenal CAS. no. 2497-25-8, cis-2-Decenal CAS no. ?,
trans-2-Decenal CAS no. 3913-81-3
Acute toxicity LD50 oral, rat: 5000 mg/kg
LD50 dermal, rabbit: 3400 mg/kg
Application of 500 mg/24h results in severe skin irritation.
Odour Odour threshold value is reported to be 0.001 mg/m3; for
cis-2-decenal and 0.002 mg/m3 for trans-2-decenal (VOCBASE, 1996).
LCI LCI-value: 0.002 mg/m3
Justification: The LCI-value refers to the assumed irritation and
allergy effects of unsaturated aldehydes and corresponds to the value of furfural.
Furfural CAS. no. 98-01-1
Acute Toxicity LD50 oral, rat: 65 mg/kg
Acute toxicity by inhalation in various laboratory animal species was
moderate to high. Inhalation caused effects on several sites including liver, lungs,
forestomach, kidney and the central nervous system. Inhalation caused nasal damage in
hamsters.
Acute toxicity by the dermal route in rabbits was moderate. Furfural
was irritant to the skin of rabbits and guinea pigs and caused damage to the eyes of
rabbits.
Chronic toxicity In oral long-term feeding studies in rats and
in mice furfural gave evidence of liver, carcinogenicity, namely increased incidence of
hepatochamberular adenomas and hepatocelular carcinomas. Furfural caused chromosome
abnormalities in mice treated orally and in mammalian chambers in culture. Furfural was
mutagenic in the mammalian chamber system, bacteria system and in the fruit fly.
Human health effects:
Inhalation: Irritation and sensitization of the skin and mucous
membranes of the eyes, nose and upper respiratory tract.
Chronic exposure to the vapours may develop headache, fatigue, itching
of the throat, lachrymation, loss of the sense of taste, numbness of the tongue and
tremor. Symptoms disappear rapidly after removal from exposure. Workers exposed to
concentrations of 7.5-53 mg/m3; for an indefinite period of time
develop throat irritation and headache.
Skin contact: Sensitization, leading to allergic contact dermatitis and
photosensitivity have been described.
Eye contact: Vapours at a concentration of approximately 50 mg/m3; or
lower were reported to cause reddening of human eyes, tearing and irritation.
RD50 x 0.03/40 has been calculated to 0.78 mg/m3 (VOCBASE,
1996).
Odour Odour threshold value is reported to be 0.25 mg/m3
(VOCBASE, 1996).
LCI LCI-value: 0.002 mg/m3
Justification: The LCI-value refers to irritation and corresponds to
the C-value.
2-Heptenal CAS. no. 2463-63-0, cis-2-Heptenal CAS. no. 57266-86-1,
trans-2-Heptenal CAS. no.18829-55-5
Toxicity No information was available.
Odour Odour threshold value is reported to be 0.028 mg/m3 for
cis-2-heptenal and 0.063 mg/m3 for trans-2-heptenal (VOCBASE, 1996).
LCI LCI-value: 0.002 mg/m3
Justification: The LCI-value refers to the assumed irritation and
allergy effects of unsaturated aldehydes and corresponds to the value of furfural.
2-Nonenal CAS. no. 2463-33-8, cis-2-Nonenal CAS no. 60784-31-8,
trans-2- Nonenal CAS. no. 18829-56-6,
Toxicity No toxicological information available.
Odour Odour threshold value is reported to be 0.00001 mg/m3
for cis-2-nonenal and 0.001 mg/m3 for trans-2-nonenal (VOCBASE, 1996).
LCI LCI-value: 0.002 mg/m3
Justification: The LCI-value refers to the assumed irritation and
allergy effects of unsaturated aldehydes and corresponds to the value of furfural.
2-Octenal CAS. no. 2363-89-5, cis-2-Octenal CAS no. 20664-46-4,
trans-2-octenal CAS.no. 2548-87-0
Toxicity No information was available.
Odour Odour threshold value is reported to be 0.004 mg/m3 for
cis-2-octenal and 0.011 mg/m3 for trans-2-octenal (VOCBASE, 1996).
LCI LCI-value: 0.002 mg/m3
Justification: The LCI-value refers to the assumed irritation and
allergy effects of unsaturated aldehydes and corresponds to the value of furfural.
2-Pentenal CAS. no. ?, trans-2-Pentenal CAS.no. 1576-87-0
Toxicity No toxicological information available.
Odour Odour threshold value is reported to be 0.69 mg/m3 for
trans-2-pentenal (VOCBASE, 1996).
LCI LCI-value: 0.002 mg/m3
Justification: The LCI-value refers to the assumed irritation and
allergy effects of unsaturated aldehydes and corresponds to the value of furfural.
2-Undecenal CAS. no. 2463-77-6, cis-2-Undecenal CAS no. ?,
trans-2-
Undecenal Cas. no. 53448-07-0
Toxicity No information was available.
Odour Odour threshold is reported to be 0.012 mg/m3 for
cis-2-undecenal and 0.005 mg/m3; for trans-2-undecenal (VOCBASE,
1996).
LCI The LCI-value: 0.002 mg/m3
Justification: The LCI-value refers to the assumed irritation and
allergy effects of unsaturated aldehydes and corresponds to the value of furfural.
ESTERS
Benzyl acetate. CAS. no. 140-11-4
Acute toxicity LD50 oral, rats 2500 mg/kg and 830
mg/kg in mice.
Inhalation, mice: 1300 mg/m3 (7-13 h) resulted in dyspnea,
narcosis and death. Cats: 1103 mg/m3; (8-9 h, 7 days) caused
irritation, gradual weakness, loss of appetite and weight and drowsiness.
Chronic toxicity Gavage administration induces acinar cell
adenomas in the pancreas of male rats. Benzyl acetate has been reviewed by IARC and in
1986 classified as Group 3 and by EPA, NTP Carcinogenesis Studies in 1986 (gavage): 'some
evidence in mouse and rat' and in 1993 (feed): 'no evidence in mouse and rat'. In several
in vitro and in vivo assays benzyl acetate was not mutagenic.
Human health effects:
The compound is described as moderate toxic. When ingested it can cause
general intestinal irritation, and it also makes irritation to the eyes, skin and
respiratory system. Slight throat irritation has been reported at 1000 mg/m3
and nose irritation at 497 mg/m3.
Odour The odour threshold value is reported to be 0.91 mg/m3;
(VOCBASE, 1996).
LCI LCI-value: 1.1 mg/m3.
Justification: The LCI is based on an inhalation study on cats, where
1103 mg/m3 caused irritative and other effects.
LCI = 'LOEL'/ SF I x SF II x SF III =
1103/10 x 10 x 10 mg/m3= 1.1 mg/m3
Butyl acetate (all isomers). CAS. no. 123-86-4
Acute toxicity LD50 oral, rats, rabbits and mice
14100, 7400 and 7100 mg/kg body weight respectively.
LC50 inhalation, rats 9480 mg/m3 (4 h). 14220
mg/m3 (12 h) resulted in eye irritation in guinea pigs.
Chronic toxicity Butyl acetate did not induce lesions in mice or
rats given in oral doses up to 2000 mg/kg (four weeks). No gross lesions were seen in rats
receiving 600 mg/kg (oral) for 90 days. No teratogenic effects were found when rabbits and
rats inhaled a concentration of
7110 mg/m3.
Negative results were reported when tested for the mutagenic potential.
No studies on the carcinogenic potential have been found.
Human health effects:
The lowest concentration inducing an observable adverse effect in
humans is 948 mg/m3 (throat irritation) and 1422 mg/m3; (nose and
eye irritation). Observed effects on skin are fissures and degreasing. One case of contact
allergy in man has been reported.
RD50 x 0.03/40 has been calculated to 2.7 mg/m3 (VOCBASE,
1996).
Odour The odour threshold value is reported to be 0.047 mg/m3
(VOCBASE, 1996).
LCI LCI-value: 2.7 mg/m3
Justification: Based on an inhalation study in humans, with a LOEL for
throat irritation at 948 mg/m3.
LCI = LOEL/ SF I x SF II x SF III =
948 mg/m3/ 1 x 10 x 10 = 9.50 mg/m3.
By using the RD50-calculation the LCI is 2.7 mg/m3.
Because the C-value is based on an estimated odour threshold value, it
does not correspond to the LCI-value.
Butyl butyrate. CAS. no. 109-21-7
Acute toxicity LD50 oral, rabbits 9520 mg/kg. Butyl
butyrate causes moderate irritation onto skin. Inhalation exposure of 26150 mg/m3
(6 h) was lethal to two out of three rats. A lower dose of 2615 mg/m3 for 6 hrs
exposure produced no symptoms or death.
Chronic toxicity No data available
LCI LCI-value: 1.1 mg/m3
Justification: No adequate data for an assessment. The LCI is based on
the LCI for benzyl acetate.
2-Ethylhexyl acetate. CAS. no. 103-09-3
Acute toxicity LD50 oral, rats 3 g/kg
The higher alkyl homologue of esters is described as relatively
nontoxic (> 3 g/kg), causes mild to moderate irritation of the skin and eyes.
Chronic toxicity No data available
Odour The odour threshold value is reported to be 2.3 mg/m3
LCI LCI-value: 1.1 mg/m3
Justification: The LCI is based on the LCI for benzyl acetate.
Heptyl acetate. CAS. no. 112-06-1, 5921-82-4/5/6
Acute toxicity LD50 oral, rats > 5 g/kg. It is a
mild skin irritant. The concentrated vapour inhaled by rats for 8 hrs proved to be
non-lethal. Commercially, these acetates serve as a flavouring agents. Because of the high
boiling point of this compound hazards from exposure to its vapours is quite remote.
Chronic toxicity No data available
Odour The odour threshold value is reported to be 2.0 mg/m3;(VOCBASE,
1996).
LCI LCI-value: 2.0 mg/m3
Justification: No adequate data for an assessment of effects. The LCI
is based on the odour threshold value 2.0 mg/m3, which is assumed to be below a
concentration causing health effects of the compound.
Heptyl formate CAS. no. 112-23-2
Acute toxicity It is a primary irritant, moderate irritating
onto skin. The allyl formates and the higher homologue appear to be much more toxic than
their lower homologue and may cause hepatic damage. This may be due to the action of
acrolein, one of its metabolic products. The formates are irritating to skin and mucous
membranes including eyes and lungs. Ethyl formate caused eye irritation in humans at 1564
mg/m3.
Chronic toxicity No data available
LCI LCI-value: 1.1 mg/m3
Justification: No adequate data for an assessment. The LCI is based on
the LCI for benzyl acetate.
Isobutyl acetate. CAS. no. 110-19-0
Acute toxicity LD50 oral, rabbits 4800 mg/kg.
Exposure to 18960 mg/m3 for 4 hrs caused no death in rats. LClo
inhalation, rats 37920 mg/m3. It is a mild-moderate skin and eye irritant.
Chronic toxicity No data available
Human health effect:
Isobutyl acetate is relatively non-toxic in humans. Exposure to a
concentration of 4500 mg/m3 for 30 min caused irritation of the nose and eyes,
headaches and weakness.
RD50 x 0.03/40 has been calculated to 3 mg/m3 (VOCBASE,
1996).
Odour The odour threshold value is reported to be 1.7 mg/m3
(Woodfield, 1994).
LCI LCI-value: 3.0 mg/m3
Justification: Based on an inhalation study on humans, with a LOEL for
nose and eye irritation 4500 mg/m3 .
LCI = LOEL/ SF I x SF II x SF III =
4500 mg/m3;/1 x 10 x 10 =
45 mg/m3
By using RD50 in the calculation the LCI is 3 mg/m3.
The C-value (0.3 mg/m3) is based on an odour threshold value
and does not correspond to the LCI-value.
Pentyl formate. CAS. no. 638-49-3
Acute toxicity LD50 oral, rats >5 g/kg. Mild
irritant onto skin. Pentyl formate is an amyl formate. High concentrations by acute and
chronic exposure may cause narcosis and low CNS effects.
The formates are irritating to skin and mucous membranes including eyes
and lungs. Ethyl formate caused eye irritation in humans at 1564 mg/m3.
LCI LCI-value: 1.1 mg/m3
Justification: No adequate data for an assessment. The LCI is based on
the LCI for benzyl acetate, which is assumed to be below the probable irritative effects
of pentyl formate.
GLYCOLS, -ETHERS, -ESTERS
In general:
Glycol ether acetates have the same systematic toxicological effects as
their parent glycol ethers and it is reasonable to consider that their toxicity is
equivalent on a molar basis. The short chain ethylene glycol methyl and ethyl ethers and
their acetates as well as other glycol ethers capable of being converted to ethylene
glycol methyl or ethyl ethers, cause testicular atrophy, teratogenicity/foetotoxicity and
bone marrow depression.
In contrast, longer chain ethylene glycol ethers (ethylene glycol butyl
ether, -propyl ether,-isopropyl ether and -phenyl ether) do not cause these effects, but
do cause erythrocyte fragility in rats. No testicular or bone marrow effects have been
reported for the propylene glycol ethers, but teratogenic effects have been reported for
1-propylene glycol 2-methyl ether and the acetate.
The glycol ethers do not pose a genotoxic risk to man in valid test
systems. The multitude of data on effects on man is compatible with experimental data in
several animal species.
In most studies on glycol-ethers and their acetates it has not been
described in detail whether the studies have been done on special isomers or on mixtures
of isomers. In this evaluation it has, however, not been possible to distinguish between
effects of special isomers and mixtures of isomers.
2-(2-Butoxyethoxy)-ethanol- (DGBE) CAS. no. 112-34-5
Acute toxicity DGBE has low acute toxicity by the oral, dermal
and inhalation routes.
LD50 oral, mice, rat, guinea pigs and rabbit is 5.5 , 5-6, 2
and 2.2 g/kg respectively. No rats died by exposure to 120 mg/m3 (the highest
attainable vapour concentration). The substance is moderate-severe irritant to the eyes in
rabbits and slight skin irritating.
NOEL (five weeks) was by inhalation 120 mg/m3 in rats.
Chronic toxicity DGBE has been extensively tested by the dermal
and oral routes in animals and caused no effects to target organs, fertility,
developmental or nervous system. There are no reports of adverse effects in humans from
use of DGBE-containing products.
DGBE has been tested in many in vitro and in vivo systems. There was no
evidence of genotoxicity in several test systems.
Human health effect:
A case of hypersensitivity in an office worker has been reported. Patch
test elicited a positive reaction to DGBE. Furthermore, one case of sensitization to DGBE
with erythema and urticaria has been reported.
Odour The odour threshold value has been measured to 0.009 mg/m3;
(VOCBASE, 1996) and 0.022 mg/m3 (Boholt, 1992).
LCI LCI-value: 0.12 mg/m3
Justification: LCI is based on an inhalation study on animals, with a
NOEL 120 mg/m3; for irritation. LCI = NOEL/ SF I x SF II
x SF III = 120 mg/m3/10 x 10 x 10 = 0.12 mg/m3.
The odour threshold value 0.02 mg/m3 correspond to the
C-value.
Butoxy propanol (PGBE) CAS. no. 5131-66-8, 15821-83-7,
29387-86-8
(mixture).
Acute toxicity PGBE is low in single dose oral toxicity. LD50
oral, rats 1.9-5.2 g/kg. It is markedly irritating and somewhat injurious to the eyes, but
only mildly irritating to the skin. 31 days inhalation study showed no effects in rats at
541 mg/m3. No sensitization in guinea pigs has been found.
Chronic toxicity NOEL by oral administration (13 weeks) to rats
was 350 mg/kg/day. In reproduction studies (oral, dermal or injection studies) on mice,
rats and rabbits there has been found no effects on maternal toxicity or on fetuses.
In Ames test PGBE was not mutagenic. It did not produce chromosomal
aberrations in hamster ovary cells. No carcinogenic data available.
Odour The adjusted odour threshold value has been measured to
0.381 mg/m3 (Boholt, 1992).
LCI LCI-value: 0.55 mg/m3 (based on 0.541 mg/m3)
Justification: LCI is based on an inhalation study on animals, with a
NOEL for eye lesions and irritation on 541 mg/m3.
LCI = NOEL/SFI x SF II x SF III = 541
mg/m3/10 x 10 x 10 = 0.541 mg/m3.
The odour threshold value (0.4 mg/m3;) corresponds to the C-value.
Butoxy propyl acetate CAS. no. 85409-76-3.
Toxicity No data available
LCI LCI-value: 0.55 mg/m3
Justification: No data available. The LCI is based on the fact that the
glycol ether acetates have the same systemic toxicological effects as their parent glycol.
The LCI for propylene glycol monobutyl ether is 0.541 mg/m3 and this value is
used as LCI for the acetate as well.
2-Ethoxy-ethyl acetate-Ethoxy-ethyl acetate (EGEEA) CAS. no.
111-15-9
Acute toxicity LD50 oral, mice, rats and guinea pigs
respectively is 1.4 g/kg,
5.1 g/kg and 1.9 g/kg. It is moderate irritating to the eyes of
rabbits, slight irritating to the skin, poorly absorbed through the skin.
LC50 inhalation, rats 12100 mg/m3 (8 h). No
animals died after exposure for 1 hr to an atmosphere saturated with vapour. No gross
pathological lesions were observed.
Chronic toxicity EGEEA causes effects on the haemapoitic system,
on CNS and in liver and kidneys. EGEEA is a developmental toxicant and a teratogen in rats
and rabbits when exposed by oral, dermal, or inhalation routes of exposure. EGEEA causes
testicular effects in mice. The NOEL for teratogenic effects has been reported to be 270
mg/m3 in rats and rabbits. No data are available on carcinogenic effects. No
genotoxic effects were found in a number of in vivo and in vitro studies.
NIOSH has recommended a guideline (occupational) on 2.7 mg/m3.
Human health effects: RD50 x 0.03/40 has been
calculated to 3.0 mg/m3 (VOCBASE, 1996).
Odour The odour threshold value is reported to be 0.1 mg/m3;
(VOCBASE, 1996). The odour threshold value (adjusted) has been measured to 0.447 mg/m3
(Boholt, 1992).
LCI LCI-value: 0.27 mg/m3.
Justification: LCI is based on an inhalation study on animals
(teratogenicity study), with a NOEL on 270 mg/m3.
LCI = NOEL/SF I x SF II x SF III = 270
mg/m3/10 x 10 x 10 = 0.27 mg/m3.
2-Ethoxy hexyl acetate- CAS. no. ?
Toxicity No data available
LCI LCI-value: 0.27 mg/m3. Justification: No data
available. The LCI is based on the fact that the glycol ether acetates have the same
systemic toxicological effects as their parent glycol. The LCI for ethylene glycol monoethyl
(not hexyl) ether is 0.27 mg/m3 and is used as LCI for this acetate as well.
Methoxy propyl acetate (PGMEA) CAS. no. 108-65-6, 70657-70-4,
84540-57-8 (mixture).
Acute toxicity LD50 oral, rats 4-14 g/kg.
Chronic toxicity
LC50 inhalation, rats >23500 mg/m3 (6h). It is not skin
irritating in rabbits and only slightly eye irritating. No sensitization has been observed
in guinea pigs. Exposure to 1620, 5400 or 16200 mg/m3 in rats and mice for 9
days caused increased liver weight. All exposure levels caused histological irritation of
the nasal mucosa for mice and the highest concentration in rats.
In an inhalation study (reproduction) in rats, 21600 mg/m3
2PG1MEA caused maternal toxicity. At 2700 mg/m3 no toxicological effects were
observed. No teratogenic or other developmental effects were seen in foetuses in any of
the dose levels.
In another reproduction study on rats, 1PG2MEA caused maternal effects
(irritation, sedation, weight decrease) at 2970 and 14580 mg/m3, but not at 594
mg/m3. At the highest concentration there also was an increased rate of fetal
resorptions and decrease in fetal weights.
Studies of the metabolite 2PG1ME do not indicate effects on
reproduction. There are no indications of mutagenicity or genotoxicity.
Odour The adjusted odour threshold value has been measured to
0.014 mg/m3 for 2PG1MEA (Boholt 1992).
LCI LCI-value: 0.6 mg/m3 (based on 0.594 mg/m3)
Justification: The LCI is based on an inhalation study on animals, with
a NOEL for irritation, sedation and weight decrease for 1PG2MEA on 594 mg/m3.
LCI = NOEL/SF I x SF II x SF III =
594 mg/m3/10 x 10 x 10 = 0.594 mg/m3;.
Propylene glycol acetate and propylene glycol diacetate CAS. no.
627-69-0, 6214-01-3, 1331-12-0.
Acute toxicity LD50 oral, rats and guinea pigs
13530 and 3420 mg/kg respectively.
Propylene glycol acetate is of a low degree of toxicity. No injuries
have been reported from the compound.
Chronic toxicity No data available
LCI LCI-value: 0.55 mg/m3
Justification: No adequate data for an assessment. Propylene glycol
(not the acetate) has in a number of studies been found relatively untoxic, acute and
chronic, without irritative, genotoxic, reproductive or carcinogenic effects.
The LCI is here based on the LCI for the propylene glycol ethers.
2,2,4-Trimethyl-1,3-pentanediol-monoisobutyrate, (TexanolR)
CAS. no. 25265-77-4
Toxicity The tentative exposure limit estimate of 1 mg/m3;
was published (Nielsen GD, 1997).
Odour Odour threshold value is not reported.
LCI LCI-value: 1 mg/m3
Justification: The LCI-value corresponds to the tentative exposure
limit estimate.
HYDROCARBONS
Aliphatic hydrocarbons
Alkanes C2-C4: ethane, propane, n-butane,
iso-butane
C5-C6: n-pentane, iso-pentane, neo-pentan, hexane, n-hexane
C7-C12: heptane, octane, decane, undecane, dodecane
The toxicological evaluation is here based on C7-C12
-alkanes.
Toxicity For many of the aliphatic hydrocarbons dermatitis,
irritation, CNS depression and anaesthesia have been noted. The effect of the aliphatic
hydrocarbons increases with the molecular weight. Methane and ethane are not irritating,
but hexane causes eye irritation at 1800 mg/m3;. Methane and ethane and propane are
practically nontoxic as well as decane and undecane.
In general, aliphatic mixtures have an neurotoxic effect on the level
about 100 ppm (200-600 mg/m3;). Low molecular alkanes (C2-C4)
are relatively non-toxic, have a low vapour pressure and a boiling point below 0oC.
Human health effects:
RD50x 0.03/40 for heptane has been calculated to 54.5 mg/m3
(VOCBASE, 1996).
Odour The odour threshold value has been reported to: Heptane(C7)
40.7 mg/m3, Octane (C8) 27.5 mg/m3, Nonane (C9)
6.8 mg/m3, Decane (C10) 4.4 mg/m3, Undecane (C 11)
3.5 mg/m3 and Dodecane (C 12) 37.0 mg/m3.
LCI LCI-value: 20 mg/m3
Justification: LCI for C7-C12-alkanes is based on
the general neurotoxic effect at 200-600 mg/m3; in humans.
LCI = NOEL/ SF I x SF II x SF III =
200-600 mg/m3/1 x 10 = 20-60 mg/m3.
By using RD50 (heptane) the LCI is 5.45 mg/m3.
Aromatic hydrocarbons
In general:
The aromatics are primary skin irritants, and repeated or prolonged
skin contact may cause dermatitis. Eye contact may cause lacrimation and irritation. The
acute toxicity is higher for toluene than for benzene, and decreases further with
increasing chain length, except for the highly branched derivatives (C8 to C18).
The alkylbenzenes are CNS depressants and neurotoxics.
C2-Alkylbenzenes (i.e. Ethylbenzene, Xylene).
Ethylbenzene CAS. no. 100-41-4
Acute toxicity LD50 oral, rats 3.5 to 5.5 g/kg. It is
a severe irritant to the eyes in rabbits and a mild skin irritant. Exposure to 668 mg/m3
is irritating the eyes. Dermal contact causes erythema and inflammation.
Chronic toxicity 13.6-136 mg/kg (oral) 182 days caused no
effects in rats. There was no effects (inhalation) in rabbits and guinea pigs at
concentrations of 1736 to 2604 mg/m3;. It has not been fetotoxic in rats, mice
or rabbits. Reproductive studies have been inconclusive.
Human health effects:
Inhalation of 434 mg/m3 in humans caused irritation. The
lowest published toxic concentration in humans has been reported to 434 mg/m3 (8H)
with irritation in nose and eyes.
RD50 x 0.03/40 has been calculated to 8 mg/m3
(VOCBASE, 1996).
Odour The odour threshold value is reported to 2-2.6 mg/m3 (van
Gemert, 1977) and to 10.2 mg/m3 (VOCBASE, 1996).
LCI LCI-value: 4.3 mg/m3
Justification: LCI is based on the irritation on humans with a LOEL on
434 mg/m3.
LCI = LOEL/ SF I x SF II x SF III =
434 mg/m3/ 1 x 10 x 10 = 4.3 mg/m3.
The LCI does not correspond to the C-value 0.5 mg/m3. The
criteria for standard setting (C-value) has not been available.
Xylenes (isomers). CAS. no. 108-38-3
Acute toxicity LC50 inhalation, rats 17000-23000 mg/m3
(6H).
Chronic toxicity Prolonged exposure to organic solvents cause
organic brain damage. In general concentrations about 100 ppm have been found to be a NOEL
for organic brain damage. High concentrations caused abortion and damage to fetuses in
animals. 10 mg/m3; have been found to be NOEL for teratagenic effects in
animals. Xylenes have not been genotoxic.
Human health effects:
Exposure to 400 mg/m3; causes irritation in the eyes, nose
and throat.
At higher concentrations nausea, vertigo and headache have been
reported. Exposure to 870 mg/m3 caused prolonged reaction time in humans.
Odour The odour threshold value is reported to be 1.4 mg/m3
(VOCBASE, 1996) and the 'best estimated threshold value' is 0.078 mg/m3; (Woodfield,
1994).
LCI LCI-value: 0.1 mg/m3
Justification: LCI is based on the animal study on a NOEL of
10 mg/m3.
LCI = LOEL/SF I x SF II x SF III = 10
mg/m3/10 x 10 x 1 = 0.1 mg/m3.
The LCI corresponds to the C-value.
C3-Alkylbenzenes C3-Alkylbenzene
i.e. trimethylbenzene, n-propylbenzene and isopropylbenzene (cymene). The LCI for the C3-alkylbenzenes
are estimated from the lowest LCI of the evaluated compounds.
Isopropylbenzene CAS. no. 98-82-8
Acute toxicity LD50 oral, rats 1.4-2.9 g/kg.
LC50 inhalation, mice 11000 mg/m3.
Cymene appears slightly less toxic than its n-propyl isomer, but more
so than benzene and toluene. It is an irritant to eyes and skin and a CNS depressant.
Chronic toxicity 154 mg/kg (oral), rats 194 days caused no
effects.
2745 mg/m3 for 150 days caused lung, liver and kidney
effects.
Human health effects:
It is irritating in humans 1098 mg/m3;. The irritation threshold has
been reported to 175 mg/m3 in humans.
RD50 x 0.03/40 has been calculated to 8.5 mg/m3 (VOCBASE,
1996).
Odour The odour threshold value is reported to be 0.12 mg/m3
(VOCBASE, 1996).
LCI LCI-value: 1.75 mg/m3
Justification: LCI is based on the irritation effect in humans, with a
LOEL at 175 mg/m3.
LCI = LOEL/SF I x SF II x SF III = 175
mg/m3;/1 x 10 x 10 = 1.75 mg/m3.
n-Propylbenzenen. CAS. no. 103-65-1
Acute toxicity LD50-value has been reported to 6g/kg
and 4.4 g/kg in rats and mice respectively. The lowest concentration causing death (LClo)
in mice was 20000 mg/m3.
Chronic toxicity No genotoxicity has been found for
n-propylbenzene in vitro or in vivo.
No other data on chronical toxicity has been found.
Human health effects: RD50 x 0.03/40 has been
calculated to 5.8 mg/m3 (VOCBASE, 1996).
Odour The odour threshold value is reported to be 0.048-0.100
mg/m3 (VOCBASE, 1996, Woodfield).
LCI LCI-value: 5.8 mg/m3.
Justification: The RD50 calculation has been used for the
LCI.
Trimethylbenzenes. CAS. no. 96-63-6, 108-67-8, 526-73-8,
In general:
The trimethylbenzenes occur in three isomeric forms hemimellitine,
pseudocumene, mesitylene.
Acute toxicity LDlo oral 5000 mg/kg.
Chronic toxicity Exposure to 1000 mg/m3 caused
inhibition of phagocytic actions.
Human health effects:
Exposure to a mixture containing 30% mesitylene and 50% hemimellitine
in concentrations of 50-300 mg/m3 caused respiratory problems, headache,
tiredness and thrombocytopenia.
Odour The odour threshold value is reported to be 0.5 mg/m3.
LCI LCI-value: 0.5 mg/m3;
Justification: LCI is based on the effects in humans, with a LOEL on 50
mg/m3.
LCI = LOEL/SF I x SF II x SF III = 50
mg/m3/1 x 10 x 10 = 0.5 mg/m3.
The LCI-value does not correspond to the C-value 0.03 mg/m3;
estimated on the basis of odour.
C4-Alkylbenzenes i.e. Tetramethylbenzene
(prenitine, isodurene, durene), cymene, diethylbenzene, butylbenzene.
Acute toxicity LD50 oral, rats >5 g/kg (durene),
2-5 g/kg (butylbenzene) and
5 g/kg (cymene). A single oral dose of 0.075 ml monobutylbenzene
produced irreversible foreleg paralysis in rats.
LClo inhalation >20.000 mg/m3.
Chronic toxicity Rabbits exposed to tetraline in 30 days had
lens opacities. Tetraline causes green coloured urine in humans. 1100 mg/m3 C9-C10-aromates
90 days caused haematological changes, tremor, throat irritation and sedation in monkeys.
In rats the same symptoms were observed, but at higher concentrations.
Exposure to 380 mg/m3 (13 weeks) caused no symptoms.
Human health effects:
Workers handling tert-butyltolouene experience nasal irritation,
nausea, malaise and headache. Exposure to 55 mg/m3; cymene caused irritation in
humans and 110 mg/m3 caused acute CNS-symptoms.
RD50 x 0.03/40 (butylbenzene) has been calculated to 3 mg/m3
(VOCBASE, 1996).
Odour The odour threshold value has been reported to:
durene 0.08 mg/m3, isodurene 0.01 mg/m3,
tetraline 97 mg/m3.
LCI LCI-value: 0.55 mg/m3
Justification: LCI is based on the irritating effect in humans at
55 mg/m3.
LCI = LOEL/SF I x SF II x SF III = 55
mg/m3/1 x 10 x 10 = 0.55 mg/m3.
The LCI-value for C4-alkylbenzenes does not correspond to
the C-value 0.02 mg/m3 (based on 10% mixture of isodurene and an estimated
odour threshold value of 0.002 mg/m3).
KETONES
In general:
Ketones are volatile organic compounds which can act on the central and
peripheral nervous system, respiratory system, and kidney and liver function.
Ketones produce, when inhaled at lower concentrations, nausea and
vomiting. They possess narcotic properties when inhaled in high concentrations.
Some ketones are neurotoxic, e.g. methylethylketone. Rat experiments
showed nerve changes which were characteristic for peripheral neuropathy.
Recent reports indicate that prolonged exposure of workers to ketones
may be associated with the possible development of peripheral neuropathy.
Ketones are irritating to the eyes and respiratory system. These
properties are more distinct among the unsaturated ketones and in the higher members of
the group.
Acetone CAS. no. 67-64-1
Acute toxicity LD50 oral, rat: 9750 mg/kg
LD50 oral, rabbit: 5300 mg/kg
LClo inhalation, rat: 38,000 mg/m m3/4 hours
Mild skin irritation and moderate eye irritation were shown in
experimental animals.
Chronic toxicity No mutagenic, genotoxic or carcinogenic effects
were reported.
Human health effects:
Inhalation: High concentrations of acetone cause severe effects on the
central nervous system, e.g. dizziness, nausea, loss of coordination. Inhalation of
vapours at concentrations above 28500 mg/m3 leads to acute intoxication shown
as headache, vomiting, weakness, loss of consciousness. Acetone has no known effects on
the peripheral nervous system.
The critical effect of exposure to acetone is most probably irritation
of the mucous membranes and eyes. Irritation of nose and throat was reported at 700 mg/m3,
but not at 475 mg/m3.
Skin contact: Skin contact with acetone for 30-90 minutes results in
irritation and reversible changes within epidermis.
Eye contact: Irritation.
RD50 x 0.03/40 has been calculated to 77.5 mg/m3
(VOCBASE, 1996).
Odour Odour threshold value is reported to be 14 mg/m3
(VOCBASE, 1996).
LCI LCI-value: 0.4 mg/m3
Justification: The LCI-value refers to irritation, systemic toxicity
and consider the low odour threshold value. The LCI-value corresponds to the C-value.
Ô-Butyrolactone CAS. no. 96-48-0
Human health effects:
After oral administration of large doses mild sedation was reported.
IARC evaluation: possibly carcinogenic to humans, group 2B. No case reports or
epidemiological studies were available for the evaluation of the carcinogenicity in
humans.
Odour Odour threshold value is not reported (VOCBASE, 1996).
LCI The LCI-value can not be estimated and consequently
Ô-butyrolactone is considered as an "unknown" compound.
Cyclohexanone CAS. no. 108-94-1
Acute toxicity LD50 oral, rat: 1620 mg/kg
LD50 inhalation, rat: 32,000 mg/m3
Chronic toxicity Inhalation study was carried out in rats
exposed for 6 months, 4 hours per day for concentration of vapours of 64 mg/m3.
Decreased reflex strength and decreased liver functions were seen as main results.
Human health effects:
Inhalation: Cyclohexanone acts on the central nervous system increasing
stimulatability and decreasing respiration rate.
Volunteers were exposed for 3-5 minutes to a range of concentrations of
cyclohexane in air. At the lowest concentration, of approximately 40 mg/m3,
irritation of the eyes was reported.
At a concentration of 80 mg/m3 a marked irritation of the
eyes, nose and throat was noted, whereas concentrations of 200 mg/m3 resulted
in irritation of the mucous membranes.
Workers exposed in industrial environment for 5 years had changes in
liver function and spermatozoa changes (deficient amount, absence, immobile or lifeless
spermatozoa).
RD50 x 0.03/40 has been calculated to 2.3 mg/m3
(VOCBASE, 1996).
Odour Odour threshold value is reported to be 0.083 mg/m3
(VOCBASE, 1996).
LCI LCI-value: 2.3 mg/m3;
Justification: The LCI-value refers to sensory irritation.
2,9-Decane dione CAS. no. ?
Toxicity No data available.
Odour Odour threshold value is not reported (VOCBASE, 1996).
LCI The LCI-value can not be estimated and consequently
2,9-decane dione is considered as an "unknown" compound.
Ethyl vinyl ketone CAS. no. 1629-58-9
Toxicity No toxicological information was available.
Odour Odour threshold value is reported to be 0.0017 mg/m3
(VOCBASE, 1996).
LCI LCI-value: 0.002 mg/m3
Justification: The LCI-value corresponds to the odour threshold value,
which is assumed to be below the concentration causing irritation.
2-Heptanone CAS. no. 110-43-0
Acute toxicity LD50 oral, rat: 1670 mg/kg
LClo inhalation, rat: 18,685 mg/m3
Chronic toxicity No information was available.
Human health effects:
Inhalation of vapours induces headache and may lead to dizziness and
unconsciousness. Reports on abuse of 2-heptanone indicate severe peripheral nervous system
damage that may lead to irreversible paralysis and death.
Skin contact: Prolonged or repeated skin contact results in drying and
cracking of skin although 2-heptanone was not irritating or sensitizing.
Eye contact: Irritation and in some cases impaired vision were
reported.
RD50 x 0.03/40 has been calculated to 2.3 mg/m3
(VOCBASE, 1996)
Odour Odour threshold value is reported to be 0.68 mg/m3 (VOCBASE,
1996).
LCI LCI-value: 2.3 mg/m3
Justification: The LCI-value refers to sensory irritation
3-Heptanone CAS. no. 106-35-4
Acute toxicity LD50 oral, rat: 270 mg/kg
LClo inhalation, rat: 9340 mg/m3
Mild irritant when applied on rabbit skin, whereas in rabbit eyes
moderate irritant.
Chronic toxicity No information was available.
Human health effects: Inhalation: Exposure to vapours of a
concentration above
230 mg/m3 results in irritation of skin whereas at higher
concentrations narcosis was reported. No neurotoxicity or other chronic effects were
reported.
Odour Odour threshold is not reported (VOCBASE, 1996).
LCI LCI-value: 2.3 mg/m3
Justification: The LCI-value is based on an assumption that the
effects of 3-heptanone is comparable to those of 2-heptanone.
2-Nonanone CAS. no. 821-55-6
Toxicity No information was available.
Odour Odour threshold value is reported to be 0.23 mg/m3
(VOCBASE, 1996).
LCI LCI-value: 1.9 mg/m3
Justification: The LCI-value is based on the assumption that the
effects of 2-nonanone is comparable to those of 2-octanone.
2-Octanone CAS. no. 111-13-7
Human health effects: Irritant to skin and mucous membranes.
RD50 x 0.03/40 has been calculated to 1.9 mg/m3
(VOCBASE, 1996).
Odour Odour threshold value is reported to be 0.09 mg/m3
(VOCBASE, 1996).
LCI LCI-value: 1.9 mg/m3
Justification: The LCI-value refers sensory irritation.
4-Octene-3-one CAS. no. ?
Toxicity 4-Octene-3-one is a 8 carbon ketone. Several of such
ketones e.g. 3,6-octanedione, 5-methyl-3-heptanone and 3,4-dimethyl-2,5-hexandione have
been shown neurotoxic causing polyneuropathy.
Odour The odour threhold value is reported for 8 carbon ketones.
For e.g. methyl-ethyl-ketone (2-butanone) the odour threshold is reported to be 15 mg/m3,
for methyl-isobutyl-ketone 2.9 mg/m3 and for diisobutylketone 0.6 mg/m3
(VOCBASE, 1996).
The lowest odour threshold value of 0.6 mg/m3 is considered
relevant.
LCI LCI-value: 0.6 mg/m3
Justification: The LCI-value corresponds to the defined odour threshold
value and is assumed to be below the health effects for the compound.
TERPENES
Terpenes. CAS. no. 68956-56-9
Human health effect
Monoterpenes may irritate the skin and mucous membranes and
prolonged exposure in allergic and non-allergic contact dermatitis.
Turpentine (diterpene) is the oleoresin from pine species. The irritant
and sensitizing potential varies according to the content of terpenes as a-pinene,
3-carene, limonene and camphene. The main allergen seems to be oxidation products of the
diterpenes, in particular of 3-carene.
Higher frequencies of symptoms involving mouth and throat as well as
feeling of chest oppression were observed in workers occupationally exposed to
monoterpenes. Impairment in the lung function was observed after a weekend. The mean
exposure was calculated to 254 mg/m3 (range 100-550 mg/m3). Exposure
to the monoterpenes a-pinene, ß-pinene, 3-carene and d-limonene (the mixture of the
compound) caused discomfort in the nose, throat and airways at 225 mg/m3.
Short-term-exposure to turpentine caused an increase in airway
resistance. Workers from saw-mills were exposed to water and not water stored wood in
concentrations of terpenes <25 mg/m3 (low exposure group) and 50-240 mg/m3
(mean 125 mg/m3) (high exposure group). There was a higher frequency of
chronic bronchitis in the higher exposure group. In the low exposure group there were no
complaints of any symptoms neither of irritation.
Chronic toxicity No data available
Odour Specific for each of the monoterpenes.
Standards The Danish occupational exposure limit for monoterpenes,
single or all together is 140 mg/m3 and in the USA 556 mg/m3.
LCI LCI-value: 0.25 mg/m3
Justification: LCI is based on an inhalation study on humans, with a
NOEL for lung symptoms on 25 mg/m3. LCI = NOEL/ SF I x SF II
x SF III = 25 mg/m3/1 x 10 x 10 = 0.25 mg/m3
Camphene. CAS. no. 79-92-5
Acute toxicity LD50 intra peritoneal, mice >500
mg/kg. LD50 oral, rats
>5 g/kg, LD50 dermal, rabbits >2.5 g/kg. It inhibits
plant and fungal growth and is a natural protector against insects and mites.
Chronic toxicity No data available
Odour The odour threshold value is reported to be 28 mg/m3
(VOCBASE, 1996)
LCI LCI-value: 0.25 mg/m3
Justification: No adequate data for an assessment. The LCI is based on
the LCI for terpenes (general).
2-Carene. CAS. no. 4497-92-1
Acute toxicity It has been shown that 2-carene is a sensitizer,
because of the hydroperoxides common in both 2-carene and 3-carene.
Chronic toxicity No data available
LCI LCI-value: 0.25 mg/m3
Justification: No adequate data for an assessment. The LCI is based on
the general LCI for terpenes.
3-Carene. CAS. no. 13466-78-9
Acute toxicity LD50 oral, rats 4800 mg/kg. Exposure
to 5000 mg/m3 10-20 min of 3-carene induced a marked bronchi-constriction in
isolated, perfused and ventilated lungs from pigs and rats.
Chronic toxicity 3-Carene has been found mutagenic in Ames test
without but not with metabolic activation.
Human health effects:
An oxidation product of 3-carene (probably a hydroperoxide) is thought
to be the causal factor to the observed irritative and sensitizing effects. 3-Carene
induces contact allergy in pigs and sensitize guinea pigs. In case studies 3-carene has
been found to be the specific sensitizer in the terpenes.
450 mg/m3 3-carene caused discomfort in the eyes
experimentally inhumans. No effects were found at 225 mg/m3.
Odour No data available.
LCI LCI-value: 0.25 mg/m3
Justification: LCI is based on an inhalation study in humans, with a
NOEL on 225 mg/m3.
'LCI' = NOEL/SFI x SF II x SF III =
225 mg/m3/1 x 10 x 10 = 2.25 mg/m3.
The LCI is based on the LCI-value for terpenes in general.
Limonene. d,l-limonene CAS. no. 138-86-3, d-limonene CAS. no.
5989-27-5, l-limonene CAS. no. 5989-54-8
Acute toxicity LD50 oral, rats and mice 5.6-6.6
and 4.4-5.2 g/kg respectively.
d-Limonene (high concentrations) is a skin irritant. The oxidation
product of limonene, the hydro peroxides is proved to be a potent contact allergen when
tested on guinea pigs.
Chronic toxicity Slightly lower mean body weights in rats at 150 mg/kg
(2 y) and in mice at 1000 mg/kg were seen. Oral dose levels 400-500 mg/kg (1-3 months)
induced changes in liver enzymes in rats. 75 mg/kg (3 months) caused increased liver
weight but no other toxic effects.
Reproduction studies on rats, mice and rabbits have shown increased
incidence of skeletal abnormalities and decreased organ weights in fetuses at doses
showing maternal toxicity. The highest dose level without effects was 591 mg/kg.
d-Limonene causes kidney effects (including increased incidence of
renal tumours) in male rats. Production of the protein a-2u-globulin is considered to be
the origin to the observed lesions. This protein has not been observed to occur in any
other species than male rats. Experimental studies on guinea pigs have shown, that
d-limonene itself gives no significant contact allergy, but it caused contact allergy,
while air oxidized.
Limonene did not show any mutagenicity when tested in several in vivo
or in vitro systems.
Human health effects: A slight decrease in vital
capacity (2%), probably of no functional significance, was noted in an experimental
exposure study in concentrations of 450 mg/m3 in humans. d-Limonene is
considered as the principal sensitizer in citrus species. It is also included among the
fragrance allergens. A number of case reports on dermal contact allergy to limonene have
been found.
Odour The odour threshold value is reported to be 2.5 mg/m3
-(VOCBASE, 1996).
LCI LCI-value: 0.3 mg/m3
Justification: The LCI is based on an inhalation study on animals, with
a LOEL on 75 mg/kg, and conversion from oral exposure to inhalation.
LCI = LOEL x 75 kg/SF I x SF II x SF III
x 20 m3 =
75 mg/kg x 70 kg/10 x 10 x 10 x 20 m3 = 0.3 mg/m3.
ß-Myrcen. CAS. no. 123-35-3
Acute toxicity LD50 oral, rats >5 g/kg in rats. It
is a moderate skin irritant in rabbits.
Chronic toxicity Myrcene resulted in an oral reproduction study
in decreased birth weight and increased perinatal mortality and skeletal system disorders
in fetuses. There were no adverse effects in maternal or fetuses at doses below 500 mg/kg.
Human health effects:
One case of type 1 allergy (asthma and rhino conjunctivitis) to
ß-myrcene has been reported (positive scratch test).
Odour The odour threshold value is reported to be 0.14 mg/m3
(VOCBASE, 1996).
LCI LCI-value: 1.7 mg/m3
Justification: LCI is based on a reproduction study (oral) in animals,
with a NOEL on 500 mg/kg and a conversion from oral to inhalation exposure.
LCI = NOEL x 70 kg/SF I x SF II x SF III
x 20 m3 =
500 mg/m3 x 70 / 10 x 10 x 10 x 20 = 1.7 mg/m3
a-Phellandrene. CAS. no. 99-83-2
Acute toxicity LD50 oral, rats 5.7 g/kg.
Chronic toxicity No data available
Human health effects: Concentrated a-phellandrene causes
severe skin irritation.
Odour The odour threshold value is reported to be 3.4 mg/m3
(VOCBASE, 1996).
LCI LCI-value: 0.25 mg/m3
Justification: No adequate data for an assessment. The LCI is based on
the LCI for terpenes (general).
a-Pinene. CAS. no. 80-56-8
Acute toxicity LD50 oral, rats 2.3-5.1 g/kg.
LC50 inhalation, rats 11700 mg/m3; (6 h).
a-pinene is a skin and throat irritant. LClo inhalation, rats and guinea pigs
625 mg/m3 and 572 mg/m3 respectively.
Guinea pigs were sensitized by a-pinene in one study, but this could
not be repeated by another research group. In general, allergic reactions to a-pinene are
considered to be due to 3-carene present as an impurity.
Chronic toxicity Pinene caused leukemic changes in fowl, and
deviations in plasma proteins and erythroblastosis. It is not mutagenic in Ames test. By
dermal exposure a-pinene was found to be a promoter (cancer), but the effect is probably
caused by the skin irritation.
Human health effects:
The human oral fatal dose is 180 g. Few patients have been reported
specifically allergic to a-pinene. Subjects with cardiac diseases may experience increased
olfactory sensitivity toward pinene.
450 mg/m m3 of a-pinene caused irritation of the eyes, nose
and/or throat during experimental exposure, while 225 mg/m3 caused no symptoms.
Odour The odour threshold value is reported to be 3.9 mg/m3
(VOCBASE, 1996).
LCI LCI-value: 0.25 mg/m3
Justification: LCI is based on an inhalation study in humans, with a
NOEL on 225 mg/m3.
LCI = NOEL/ SF I x SF II x SF III =
225 mg/m3;/ 1 x 10 x 10 = 2.25 mg/m3;.
The LCI is based on the LCI on terpenes (general).
This value differs from the C-value 0.05 mg/m3; because
of using a SF III on 100 and a LOEL on 50 mg/m3;.
ß-Pinene. CAS. no. 18172-67-3, 127-91-3
Toxicity No data available
Odour The odour threshold value is reported to be 36 mg/m3;
(VOCBASE, 1996)
LCI LCI-value: 0.25 mg/m3;
Justification: No adequate data for an assessment. The LCI is based on
the LCI for terpenes (general).
a-Terpinene. CAS. no. 99-86-5
Acute toxicity LD50 oral, rats 1680 mg/kg.
a-Terpinene may be a minor allergen although d-limonene is considered to be the principal
sensitizer in Citrus species.
Chronic toxicity No data available
Odour Odour threshold value is reported to be 2.3 mg/m3;
(VOCBASE, 1996)
LCI LCI-value: 0.25 mg/m3;
Justification: No adequate data for an assessment. The LCI is based on
the LCI for terpenes (general).
?-Terpinene (p-menthadiene-1,3). CAS. no. 99-85-4
Toxicity No data available
Odour Odour threshold value is reported to be 1.5 mg/m3;
(VOCBASE, 1996)
LCI LCI-value: 0.25 mg/m3;
Justification: No adequate data for an assessment. The LCI is based on
the LCI for terpenes (general).
Sesquiterpenes (unidentified). i.e. cadinene. CAS. no. 29350-73-0.
Acute toxicity No data available
Chronic toxicity Cadinene has been found to be a mutagen in Ames
test. No other data available.
Human health effects
Sesquiterpene-lactones as allantolactone, parthenin, costunolide
etc are potent skin sensitizers. Air borne plant remains may cause symptoms. These
sensitizing sesquiterpene-lactones are mainly found in plants from the compositae plant
family, and probably not present among the unidentified sesquiterpenes in emissions from
the tested wood-based materials.
LCI LCI-value: 0.25 mg/m3;
Justification: No adequate data for an assessment. The LCI is based on
the LCI for terpenes (general).
Terpene alchohols and ketones 4-Terpineol-Terpineol CAS. no.
98-55-5 and a-Terpineola-Terpineol CAS. no. 10482-56-1
Acute toxicity LD50 oral, rats 5.17 mg/kg.
Chronic toxicity No data available
Odour Odour threshold value is reported to be 12 mg/m3;
(4-Terpineol) and 0.24 mg/m3; (a-Terpineol) (VOCBASE, 1996).
LCI LCI-value: 0.25 mg/m3;
Justification: No adequate data for an assessment. The LCI is based on
the LCI for terpenes (general).
Verbenone. CAS. no. 18309-32-5
Acute toxicity LDlo intra peritoneal, rats 250 mg/kg.
Chronic toxicity No data available
LCI LCI-value: 0.25 mg/m3;
Justification: No adequate data for an assessment. The LCI is based on
the LCI for terpenes (general).
Terpene epoxides
Limonene oxideLimonene oxide. CAS. no. 1195-92-2.
Acute toxicity Limonene-1,2-oxide has been found to be a potent
contact allergen.
Chronic toxicity No data available
LCI LCI-value: 0.25 mg/m3;
Justification: No adequate data for an assessment. The LCI is based on
the LCI for the terpenes (general).
OTHERS
Acetals
In general:
Acetals are polymers containing formaldehyde and alcohols or aldehydes.
Skin irritation and sensitization tests in humans have shown mild to moderate erythema. In
one person known sensitive to formaldehyde no reaction was found.
Formaldehyde butyl isobutylacetal
Toxicity No data available
LCI The LCI-value can not be estimated and consequently the
substance is considered as an "unknown" compound.
Formaldehyde dibutylacetal
Toxicity No data available
LCI The LCI-value can not be estimated and consequently the
substance is considered as an "unknown" compound.
Formaldehyde diisobutylacetal CAS. no. 2568-91-4
Toxicity No data available
LCI The LCI-value can not be estimated and consequently the
substance is considered as an "unknown" compound.
Epoxides
Pentyl oxirane. CAS. no. ?
Toxicity The toxicity ranges from highly active low
molecular-weight mono- and diepoxides to the inert cured resin systems possessing only few
epoxy groups per molecule. Effects most commonly observed in animals have been dermatitis,
eye irritation, throat and pulmonary irritation, gastric irritation. Although most
compounds are mutagenic to bacteria, not all have produced tumours in animals. A few of
the epoxides have been shown teratogenic in animals. Ethylene oxide has been placed as a
CAR 2 carcinogen with a C-value on 0.005 mg/m3; and propylene oxide as CAR 2,
R45 with a C-value on 0.003 mg/m3;.
LCI The LCI-value can not be estimated and consequently the
substance is considered as an "unknown" compound.
The lowest C-value for other epoxides i.e. ethylene oxide and propylene
oxide (methyl oxirane): propylene oxide 0.003 mg/m3; might be used as a guiding
value.
Nitriles
2,2'-Azobis-isobutyronitrile. CAS. no. 78-67-1.
Toxicity LD50 oral, rats 700 mg/kg and LD lo
30 mg/kg. Nitriles display toxicologic effects that appear to be related to cyanide
toxicity. However, not all nitriles dissociate readily to produce cyanide. The toxicity of
the individual nitriles is very different. It is therefore difficult to consider them
collective. The C-value for acetonitrile is 0.1 mg/m3; and for acrylonitrile
0.002 mg/m3;.
The TLV's for the compounds are 70 and 4 mg/m3; respectively.
LCI This compound is considered unknown because of lack of data.
The C-value for acrylonitrile 0.002 mg/m3; might
be used as a guiding value.
REFERENCES for Appendix 7
Unless otherwise stated the toxicological assessments are based on
information obtained from the databases: NIOSH-tis, RTCECS and ECDIN (the Environmental
Chemical Data and Information Network, the Commission of the European Communities) and in
the references below.
ESTERS
Brusewitz S, Wennberg A. Kriteriedokument för gränsvärden :
Butanol och butylacetat. Arbete och Hälsa. 1984:3.
Clayton GD, Clayton FE. Patty's Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology. New
York, Chichester, Brisbane, Toronto, Singapore. 1994.
Nielsen GD, Hansen MK, Mølhave L. Toksikologisk vurdering af en række
forureningsstoffer i indeluften. Arbejdstilsynet. Arbejdsmiljøinstituttet. Denmark. 1982.
Strube M. Evaluation of health hazards by exposure to the butyl
acetates, n-butyl acetate and isobutyl acetate and estimation of limit values in ambient
air. National Food Agency. Institute of Toxicology. Feb 1995.
Woodfield M, Hall D. Odour measurement and control- An update. AEA
Technology. National Environmental Technology Centre. Oxfordshire. Aug 1994.
GLYCOLS
Boholt K. Bestemmelse af lugttærskelværdier for 32 rene stoffer.
DK-Teknik. Miljøstyrelsen. København. 1992.
Clayton GD, Clayton FE. Patty's Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology. New
York, Chichester, Brisbane, Toronto, Singapore. 1994.
Johanson G. NEG and NIOSH basis for an occupational health standard.
Propylene Glycol Ethers and their acetates. Arbete och hälsa. Arbetsmiljöinstitutet.
Solna. Sweeden. 1990:32.
Lundberg P. Scientific basis for swedish occupational standards XVI.
Arbete och Hälsa. Arbetslivsinstitutet. Solna. Sweden. 1995:19
Tordoir WF, Verschuuren H, Bøckman NG et al. The toxicology of glycol
ethers and its relevance to man. ECETOC Technical Report No.64. European Centre for
Ecotoxicology and Toxicology of chemicals. Brussels. Belgium. Aug 1995.
ALIPHATIC HYDROCARBONS
Clayton GD, Clayton FE. Patty's Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology.
New York, Chichester, Brisbane, Toronto, Singapore. 1994.
Nielsen GD, Hansen MK, Mølhave L. Toksikologisk vurdering af en række
forureningsstoffer i indeluften. Arbejdstilsynet. Arbejdsmiljøinstituttet. Denmark. 1982.
Rondahl L, Ahlborg U. Medicinska och hygieniska effekter av alkaner i
omgivningsluft. Litteraturgennemgang och toxikologisk utvärdering. MUST. Rapport nr.12.
Naturvårdsverket. Solna. Sweeden. 1986.
AROMATIC HYDROCARBONS
Clayton GD, Clayton FE. Patty's Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology.
New York, Chichester, Brisbane, Toronto, Singapore. 1994.
Engström K, Elovaara E. Nordiska expertgruppen för
gränsvärdesdokumentation. 67. Etylbensen. Arbetet och Hälsa. Arbetarskyddsverket.
Solna. 1986:19.
Larsen PB. Benzin- og dieselolieforurenede grunde. Toksikologisk
vurdering. Miljøprojekt nr.223. Miljøstyrelsen. Miljøministeriet. København. 1993.
Nielsen GD, Hansen MK, Mølhave L. Toksikologisk vurdering af en række
forureningsstoffer i indeluften. Arbejdstilsynet.
Arbejdsmiljøinstituttet. Denmark. 1982.
TERPENES
Clayton GD, Clayton FE. Patty's Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology.
New York, Chichester, Brisbane, Toronto, Singapore. 1994.
Cronin E. Contact dermatitis. New York. London. 1980
Filipsson AF. Toxicokinetics and acute effects of inhalation exposure
to monoterpenes in man. Arbete och Hälsa. Arbetsmiljöinstitutet. Solna. 1995:3.
Hedenstierna G, Alexandersson R, Rosén G, Wimander K, Randma E.
Subjektiva besvär och lungfunktion vid yrkesmässig exponering för sågångor. Arbete
och hälsa. Arbetarskyddsverket. 1984:8.
Johansson M, Ladefoged O. Vurdering af de sundhedsmæssige skader ved
udsættelse for a-pinen med henblik på vurdering af grænseværdi. Miljøstyrelsen. 1988.
rev 1991 (internt dokument).
Karlberg AT, Lindell B. Nordiska expertgruppen för
gränsvärdesdokumentation. 107. Limonen. Arbetsmiljöinstitutet. Solna. 1993:14.
Lindberg E. Exposition för sågångor. Samband mellan exposition och
vissa lungfunktionsvariabler. Arbete och hälsa. Arbetarskyddsverket. Stockholm. 1979:27.
Malmberg P, Rask-Andersen A, Eriksson K et al. Bronkiell reaktivitet
och lungfunktion hos sågare och justerverksarbetare. Arbete och Hälsa.
Arbetsmiljöinstitutet. Solna. 1994:26.
Söderkvist P. Kriteriedokument för gränsvärden: Terpentin/terpener
(a-pinen, ß-pinen, 3-carene. Arbetsmiljöinstitutet. Solna. 1987:23.
ALDEHYDES
Larsen, J.C., Institute for Toxicology, National Food Agency of
Denmark, Personal Information, April 1997.
Mølhave, L.: Institute of Environmental and Occupational Medicine,
Aarhus University, Personal Information, April 1997.
World Health Organization (WHO): Air Quality Guideline for
Formaldehyde, In preparation.
World Health Organization (WHO): IARC Monographs on the Evaluation of
Carcinogenic Risks to Humans. An Updating of IARC Monographs Volume 1 to 42. Supplement 7,
1987.
OTHERS
Clayton GD, Clayton FE. Patty's Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology.
New York, Chichester, Brisbane, Toronto, Singapore. 1994.
Nielsen G D, Frimann Hansen L and Wolkoff P, Chemical and Biological
Evaluation of Building Material Emissions, II. Approaches for Setting Indoor Air Standards
or Guidelines for Chemicals. Indoor Air. Vol. 7, No 1 p. 17-32, 1997. |