TABLE OF CONTENTS The acute oral toxicity of perfluorinated ionomers is quite low. For rats the oral LD50 is higher than 20,000 mg/kg body weight. However, perfluorinated ionomers will release toxic gases when exposed to temperatures in excess of about 250 C. There are three likely scenarios for such an exposure:
Fire. While perfluorinated ionomers will not sustain combustion in air, they could be involved in a fire of other materials. Self-contained breathing apparatus should be worn under these conditions.
Heat sealing and repair exposes the polymer briefly to temperatures of about 300 C. Adequate ventilation should be provided for these operations.
Contamination of tobacco products.
A great deal of fluorinated ionomers have been safely used over the last decades. No injury has been reported during this time arising from handling or exposure to these materials.
Testing perfluorinated sulfonic acids (PFSAs) in rabbits has not revealed irritation of the skin. Human volunteers underwent tests to determine skin irritation and sensitization potential of PFSA. The results revealed that no unusual dermatitis hazard in the normal use of membranes in industrial applications. Skin irritation to some individuals after prolonged contact may occur [1].
Fumes generated from the decomposition of plastics including fluoropolymers, such as polytetrafluoroethylene and perfluorosulfonic acid, bear health hazards to different extents. Fluoropolymers are generally more resistant to decomposition as a result they tolerate exposure to high temperatures better than other thermoplastics.
Perfluorosulfonic acid copolymer with tetrafluoroethylene has a maximum operating temperature of 175 C under...
