Harmful Chemicals Commonly Used in the Polymer Industry

The common synonyms used in the polymer industry for Isoprene are 1,3-Butadiene, 2-Methyl-, Isoprene (DOT), beta-Methylbivinyl, 2 Methylbutadiene, and 2-Methyl-1,3-Butadiene.
Isoprene can be poisonous if absorbed through the skin or inhaled. Contact between this chemical and skin can irritate or burn the eyes and skin. If the vapors of Isoprene are inhaled, they can cause suffocation or dizziness.
Isoprene is a flammable chemical. Heat, sparks, and flames can ignite it. Proper storage of Isoprene is imperative because the vapors of this chemical can travel to a source of ignition and flash back to cause a big fire. Fire near Isoprene can produce irritating or poisonous gases. Isoprene containers can explode in the heat of large fires. Improper handling of Isoprene can cause a vapor explosion hazard indoors, outdoors, or in sewers. Run-off from Isoprene wastes can cause an explosion or a fire hazard.
Exposure to Isoprene can irritate the mucous membranes of the nose, eyes, and upper respiratory tract. In vapor form, Isoprene does not have any effects except slight irritation in the eyes and upper respiratory tract. In liquid form, such as gasoline, Isoprene may induce severe irritation in the eyes.
Experiments on different species reveal that the toxic effects of this chemical are pronounced at the concentrations listed in Table 3-7:
| Species | Type | Dosage |
|---|---|---|
| Rat | ihl-rat | LC50: 180 g/m 3/4H |
| Mollusc | ihl-mus | LC50: 139 g/m 312H |