Ethylbenzene ,100-41-4

Summary: Ethylbenzene is a colorless, flammable liquid that smells like gasoline. It is found in natural products such as coal tar and petroleum and is also found in manufactured products such as inks, insecticides, and paints. Ethylbenzene is used primarily to make another chemical, styrene. Other uses include as a solvent, in fuels, and to make other chemicals.
Overview

Ethylbenzene is an organic compound most commonly used in the production of plastics. It is a clear liquid with an irritating odor similar to gasoline.

Uses

Ethylbenzene is found in the following products:

• Paints (Arts and Craft and Interior/Exterior Building)
• Pesticides
• Rust Prevention Spray
• Synthetic Rubber
• Auto and Airplane Fuel
• Plastics

ToxicityHuman Health Effects

• The International Agency for Research on Cancer lists ethylbenzene as possibly carcinogenic.
• Exposure to high concentrations can cause people to become, dizzy, lightheaded, and to pass out.
• Chronic exposure through the air has been shown to cause hearing kidney damage in animals.
• Ethylbenzene is considered the most sever irritant of all of the benzene compounds.
• Direct skin exposure to liquid can cause first degree burns.
• Toxic to the central nervous system
• Irritant of mucous membranes and eyes
• Prolonged exposure to vapors may cause upper respiratory tract irritation, hematological (blood) disorders, and functional disorders
• Populations at higher risk of effects include people with pulmonary, liver, blood, kidney, and nervous system disorders as well as existing skin conditions.
• In a study, it was detected in 8 of 8 samples of mother's milk from around the United States.

Environmental Effects

• Moderate acute toxicity to algae, aquatic invertebrates, and fish.
• Low threat of bioconcentration in aquatic organisms
• Half-life: 55 hours in air; 5 days in seawater; 4 days in groundwater.