INFORMATION REGARDING MINERAL SPIRITS (SYNONYMS: PETROLEUM ETHER, VARNISH MAKERS' AND PAINTERS' NAPHTHA)
http://toxnet.nlm.nih.gov/cgi-bin/sis/search/f?./temp/~M1QI2s:1
PETROLEUM ETHER
SYNONYM: MINERAL SPIRITS, VARNISH MAKERS' AND
PAINTERS' NAPHTHA)
CASRN: 8030-30-6
Human Health Effects:
Human Toxicity Excerpts:
... Petroleum ether applied to the skin may
... induce severe irritation ... .
Subjective symptoms originating from the
central nervous system, such as headache, fatigue, poor concentration, emotional
instability, impaired memory and other intellectual functions, and impaired
psychomotor performance have been reported in a series of cross-sectional
studies of paint industry workers, house painters, car painters, shipyard
painters and floorlayers, all of whom had been exposed to a mixture of solvents,
including petroleum solvents ... Some of these are short- or mid-term effects,
others are potentially persistent. In some studies, dose-response relationships
were observed between symptoms and lifetime exposure (duration and intensity) to
solvents. /Petroleum solvents/
A rubber solvent /SRP: C5-C7 aliphatic and
alicyclic hydrocarbons/ induced chromosomal aberrations but not sister chromatid
exchange in human whole-blood cultures ... . /Rubber solvent/
In workers exposed to a glue solvent (rubber
solvent; C5-C7 aliphatic and alicyclic hydrocarbons), indications of slight
renal tubular effects were reported ... . /Rubber solvent/
A case-control study of cancer at many sites
was performed in Montreal, Canada, to generate hypotheses on potential
occupational carcinogens ... About 20 types of cancer were included, and, for
each cancer site analyzed, controls were selected from among cases of cancer at
other sites. Job histories and information on possible confounders were obtained
by interview from 3726 men aged 35-70 years with cancer diagnosed at one of 19
participating hospitals between 1979 and 1985. The response rate was 82%. Each
job was translated into a series of potential exposures by a team of chemists
and hygienists using a check-list of 300 of the most common occupational
exposures in Montreal. Cumulative indices of exposure were estimated for a
number of occupational exposures: exposure below the median was considered to be
'nonsubstantial' and that above the median to be 'substantial'. Risks associated
with exposure to petroleum-derived liquids were analyzed separately. A total of
739 men were classified as having been potentially exposed to 'mineral
spirits'. The term 'mineral spirits' included
white spirits, Stoddard solvent, VM & P naphtha,
rubber solvent, benzine and ligroin (30-90% aliphatics,
1-20% aromatics). Those with long (>20 years), substantial potential exposure
were found to have a RR for squamous-cell cancer of the lung of 1.7 (90% CI,
1.2-2.3), based on 44 cases, and a RR for prostatic cancer of 1.8 (90% CI,
1.3-2.6), based on 43 cases. Men with 'substantial' exposure also had a RR for
Hodgkin's lymphoma of 2.0 (90% CI, 1.0-4.1), based on 12 cases. There was no
increased risk for cancers of the bladder (1.0; 0.8-1.2; 91 cases) or kidney
(1.1; 0.8-1.4; 39 cases) or for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (0.8; 0.6-1.1; 35 cases).
The risks were adjusted for age, socioeconomic status, ethnic group, cigarette
smoking and blue-/white-collar job history, and for all potential confounders on
which information was available. Of the 739 exposed men, 21% had been employed
in the construction trade, mostly as painters.
Acute neurotoxic effects of petroleum ether
include anesthesia, euphoria, abuse, vertigo, and limb numbness. Chronic
neurotoxic effects include motor polyneuropathy /From table/
... Patch-tested petroleum solvents of various
boiling ranges on the skin of human volunteers. They found a correlation between
the boiling ranges of the petroleum products of paraffinic origin and their
irritant and defatting action on the skin. Both effects decreased, the higher
the boiling range. Petroleum solvents with boiling ranges up to and including
that of kerosene (approx 230 deg C) were found to be primary irritants.
Petroleum solvents of naphthenic origin or with a high aromatic content were
more irritant than solvents of paraffinic origin of the same boiling range. The
skin of Negroes showed a higher tolerance than that of Caucasians. /Petroleum
solvents/
The effects of various solvents on the horny
layer of the skin were examined ... They found that petroleum ether (SBP 40/65)
caused serious irritation of human forearm skin, when applied for periods of
10-30 min. When applied for 15 min on 6 successive days, injury occurred in the
horny layer. Recovery - as measured by water vapor loss - could take up to 6 wk.
The skin irritation and the changes in the composition of the horny layer were
independent phenomena.
... Studied the gynecological disease rate in
more than 5000 female operators in plants producing rubber articles (petroleum
solvent vapor concn in the air of 250-350 mg/cu m). They observed disturbances
in the menstrual cycle in workers with more than 5 years' service and a high
frequency of metrorrhagia. As the period of service increased, a reduction in
the frequency of miscarriages was noticed, which was interpreted by the authors
as possible adaptation. A disturbance of the ovarian function was noted in 24.4%
of the workers examined, mostly in the form of a functional deficiency of corpus
luteum. /Petroleum solvent vapor/
Women who had been in contact with petroleum
solvents were found to have a reduced estrogen level in the blood. ...
Essentially, no changes were observed in the excretion of the
follicle-stimulating and luteinizing hormone pregnanediol. /Petroleum solvents/
... Studied lactation in 332 nursing mothers
288 of whom worked in the rubber industry (vulcanizers, pressers, gluers). The
concn of petroleum solvents (the physicochemical properties of which are not
described) in the air of the operating premises was predominantly 300 mg/cu m.
Hypolactation, found in 23.8% of the women compared with 6.7% in the control
group was related to length of service. Hydrocarbon solvents were found in the
milk of all the persons examined (71) in concn of 0.50 + or - 0.05 mg to 0.60 +
or - 0.09 mg/l. The serotonin content of the blood of these women was
significantly lower than in the control group. It is assumed that hypolactation
was the result of the effect of solvents on the lactation control mechanism via
the hypothalamus and the serotoninergic system. /Petroleum solvents/
Most cases, however, /of accidental ingestion
of petroleum solvents/ are caused by gasoline and kerosene and fewer by
petroleum solvents. The symptomatology is the same in all cases. Coughing,
choking, and gagging are often noted at the time of ingestion of these
substances. Respiratory embarrassment may be present early, indicating the
aspiration has taken place. Epigastric discomfort may develop, followed by
vomiting with a further risk of aspiration. ... In cases where aspiration does
not take place, and especially with the lower-boiling solvents, CNS symptoms may
develop such as lethargy, convulsions, and coma. With smaller doses, the
symptoms include vertigo, headache, and signs of drunkenness. Nausea, vomiting,
and diarrhea may occur and the stools may be blood-tainted. In uncomplicated
cases, the GI symptoms will disappear within 48 hr. Pulmonary symptomatology
will not develop, if aspiration has not occurred and if there was no massive
exposure to vapors ... Chemical pneumonitis with pulmonary oedema and
hemorrhagic frothy sputum may develop extremely rapidly following aspiration of
petroleum solvents. Roentgenographic changes may be seen within a few hours,
especially at the lung bases. Later, bacterial pneumonia can complicate the
situation.
In 1971, ... examined employees working in a
furniture factory who were exposed to n-hexane. Air samples of hexane were found
to average 2286 mg/cu m and peaked at 4573 mg/cu m. The patients complained of
one or more of the following symptoms: abdominal cramps, burning sensations,
numbness and weakness of the distal extremities, and paresthesia. The peripheral
neuropathy (sensory and motor) caused by n-hexane is due to the metabolite
2,5-hexanedione. /n-Hexane/
Petroleum naphtha
vapor is a CNS depressant as well as an irritant of the mucous membranes and
respiratory tract. Exposure to high concn of the vapor can produce headache,
dizziness, nausea, and shortness of breath. Dermal contact to vapor or liquid
can produce dermatitis.
A petroleum distillate with a viscosity below
45 SSU (Sable universal seconds, petroleum ether) petroleum naphtha,
gasoline, mineral spirits, kerosene, lamp oil, and
mineral seal oil) is highly toxic by aspiration.
Aspiration of a petroleum distillate results
in chemical pneumonitis. Bronchospasm, hyperemia, edema, and atelectasis are
noted. Diffuse hemorrhagic alveolitis with granulocytic infiltrates occurs soon
after aspiration and peaks at about 3 days. Frank necrosis of bronchial,
bronchiolar, and alveolar tissues can occur, along with vascular thrombosis and
micro abscess formation. A late proliferative process with alveolar thickening
may occur later and peaks at about 10 days. Late complications may include
bacterial pneumonia, residual small airway abnormalities, and pneumatoceles.
/Petroleum distillates/
Upper airway pathology may occur with or
without aspiration and includes hyperemia, mucosal irritation, and inflammation
of the oropharynx. /Petroleum distillates/
Although petroleum distillates are poorly
absorbed from the GI tract, some systemic absorption does occur. The GI
pathology of petroleum distillate ingestion is generally mild and self limited.
Mucosal inflammation and superficial ulceration is common, and although fatty
infiltration of the liver may occur, frank necrosis is uncommon. Petroleum
distillate ingestion may cause myocarditis and mild degenerative changes of
myofibrils. At least one case of petroleum distillate ingestion resulted in
electrocardiographic and vectorcardiographic evidence of myocardial infarction.
Petroleum distillates are said to sensitize the myocardium to catecholamines.
Petroleum distillates have also been reported to cause intravascular hemolysis
and renal damage, which usually consists of mild degenerative changes of the
renal tubules but may rarely result in acute tubular necrosis. /Petroleum
distillates/
... A wide range of presentations occurs, from
the asymptomatic patient to the patient with significant pulmonary or neurologic
manifestations. ... Presenting symptoms and signs, however, are usually related
to three main organ systems: pulmonary, central nervous, and GI. /Petroleum
distillates/
Complaints relating to pulmonary involvement
include coughing paroxysms, choking, or gagging, and these are indicative of a
high likelihood of aspiration. Symptoms of CNS involvement include
light-headedness, headache, visual changes, impaired memory, or unusual
behavior. Physical exam may reveal fever, tachypnea, and tachycardia. Stridor
may be present and is an indication to consider upper respiratory obstruction as
an immediate concern. ... Dyspnea, tachypnea, tachycardia, intercostal
retractions, and nasal flaring are often noted within 30 min of aspiration, but
may not manifest for up to 2 days. Auscultation may reveal rales, wheezes, or
coarse or decreased breath sounds, specially in the lower lobes. /Petroleum
distillates/
... The general effects of intoxication are
peripheral nerve disorders, CNS depression, and skin and respiratory irritation
... .
Ingestion of furniture polish or lighter fluid
which may contain ligroin has caused chemical pneumonia
and pneumatoceles in children.
On human skin, it has caused erythema, edema,
disruption of the horny layer, and peeling.
Acute inhalation of petroleum ether, when
mistakenly used as an anesthetic agent, caused reversible cerebral edema.
Numerous reports point to the neurotoxic
effects on prolonged inhalation of petroleum ether in inadequately ventilated
business establishments where employees experienced polyneuropathy. Signs and
symptoms included loss of appetite, muscle weakness, impairment of motor action,
and paresthesia ... .
The association between recent and long term naphtha
exposure and urinary markers of renal dysfunction was studied among workers at a
facility that made fuel injectors for motor vehicles. Renal function was
assessed at two time points separated by a 1 year interval with relatively high
exposure to naphtha and a comparison group with low
exposure. In June of 1988 248 subjects participated of whom 181 participated
again in June of 1989. Urine samples were collected and a self administered
questionnaire concerning confounding variables was provided. Naphtha
air concentrations ranged from 9 to 590 mg/cu m in June of 1988 and from 4 to
790 mg/cu m in June of 1989. Naphtha levels were
significantly higher inside calibration rooms than outside calibration rooms .
Fluctuations in measures of renal function among 17 individuals over one work
week period indicated no changes associated with naphtha
exposure. In longitudinal analyses there was a change in beta-N-acetyl-D-glucosaminidase
which was positively associated with the change in recent naphtha
exposure. The /results suggest/ that this study does not provide strong evidence
of an association between either cumulative or recent exposure to naphtha
and adverse renal effects on this group of naphtha
exposed workers.
The neuropsychological effects of exposure to naphtha
in automotive factory workers were investigated. A total of 248 workers (119
from calibration rooms and 129 from outside) participated in June 1988 and 185
workers (87 from inside and 98 from outside the calibration rooms) did so again
in June 1989. The naphtha blend used was 50% paraffins,
25% monocyclic naphthenes, 18% benzenes and less than 5% each of dicyclic
naphthenes, indans or teralins, naphthalenes, and olefins. Mean naphtha
air levels were calculated from 514 personal air samples. Behavioral functions
were measured through questionnaires and psychological tests on mood states
(MS), trails (Tr), delayed recognition (DR), visual reproduction (VR), pattern
memory (PM), symbol/digit substitution (SD), vocabulary (VO), the Wisconsin card
sorting test (WCST), and the Rey Osterreith complex figure test (ROT). Results
showed that mean naphtha levels were significantly
higher in calibration rooms than outside and higher in June 1988 than in June
1989. Of the subjective symptoms, fatigue was the most intensely endorsed at all
threshold values. Nausea and inflamed gums were significantly associated with
cumulative exposures in 1988. Of the behavioral tests, Tr, WCST, and VR were
marginally associated with cumulative exposure in 1988. Threshold models showed
that for 1988, the strongest association was with Tr; a significant association
with SD was evident in the 90th percentile threshold model. For 1989, the only
test with significant association in the no threshold model was SD. It showed a
significant increase in the 90th percentile threshold model and showed a
significant association for VR. Longitudinal multiple regression models showed
significant associations with acute exposure for SD and MS, with marginal
significance for Tr. The /results suggest that/ that the effects of naphtha
exposure are mild and transitory and recommend factory ventilation systems to
limit exposure to less than 90 ppm/hr.
Skin, Eye and Respiratory Irritations:
Petroleum naphtha
vapor is an irritant of the mucous membranes and respiratory tract. /Petroleum
naptha/
Populations at Special Risk:
Pre-existing skin disease may increase the
susceptibility of the skin to the effects of contact with petroleum solvents and
will also facilitate uptake by this route ... . /Petroleum solvents/
Probable Routes of Human Exposure:
Occupational exposure to hydrocarbons, such as
petroleum ether, can occur through inhalation, dermal contact, and ingestion(1).
Personnel exposure to petroleum ether through various normal household
activities and for small businesses in ppm are as follows: average material
handling, 0.46; average laboratory, 0.09 (both for a large-scale hazardous waste
treatment, storage, and disposal facility); varnishing/sealing household wooden
doors, 34.74; activity in a paint mixing booth, 0.16; automotive brake and rotor
cleaning, 0.314; emptying/cleaning fuel oil holding tank, 0.17; and refinishing
furniture, 2.872; concentrations in various work area monitoring results in ppm
are as follows: average work area vapor concentration (for a large-scale
hazardous waste treatment, storage, and disposal facility), 0.22; paint booth
mixing room, 0.068; wooden door staining-room, 18.721; household remodeling -
bathroom, 0.1; and household paint stripping-room, 7.326(2).
NIOSH (NOES Survey 1981-3) has statistically
estimated that 387,363 workers are potentially exposed to petroleum ether in the
USA(1).
Animal Toxicity Studies:
Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts:
Acute neurotoxic effects of petroleum ether
include restlessness and ataxia. Chronic effects include motor polyneuropathy
and CNS depression. /From table/
... Examined various aspects of the acute
toxicity of 10 samples of petroleum solvents that contained components
representative of the range of hydrocarbons found in commercial petroleum
solvents /described in table/ ... findings ... showed that all the solvents
tested could be considered of low hazard to health unless aspirated or inhaled
in extremely high concentrations. Aromatic solvents were more toxic than
non-aromatic materials, the dose of solvent required to kill 50% of rats, when
administered orally or percutaneously, being lower for aromatic than for
non-aromatic solvents. Skin and eye irritancy were also greater with aromatic
solvents. The toxicity of the vapors could not be compared, because the
volatility of samples varied greatly. All solvents induced similar toxic
effects, whatever the route of administration, including CNS depression
(characterized by incoordination, prostration, and coma) followed by death.
Convulsions sometimes occurred. All solvents caused skin and eye irritation
though, in general, as the chain length of the non-aromatic solvents increased
their irritant properties decreased. Repeated skin exposure led to skin
irritation and necrosis with all solvents. /Petroleum solvents/
Mature female Wistar rats were exposed to
petroleum solvents vapor properties not given) at a concn of 300 + or - 8.2
mg/m3 for 30-45 days, for 4 hr/day. The serotonin content of the myometrium in
exposed rats equalled 75.7 + or - 2.6 ug/kg compared with 68.47 + or - 2.5 ug/kg
in the control group. Uterine contractions were more numerous and stronger in
exposed animals. The level of solvent in the venous blood was 2.0 + or - 0.4
mg/l. In the uterine tissues it was almost twice as high (3.8 + or - 0.6 mg/kg).
The increase in serotonin content in the organism could cause disturbances in
the transport of the fertilized egg cell and the nidation, and subsequently,
early abortion ... . /Petroleum solvents/
Tests for teratogenicity induced by inhalation
of high and low doses of ... rubber solvent ... were all negative /Rats; rubber
solvent/
...VARIOUS LIQUID HYDROCARBONS OF PETROLEUM
CAUSE LITTLE OR NO INJURY ON DIRECT EXTERNAL CONTACT WITH THE EYE. /PETROLEUM
PRODUCTS/
A white spirit/naphtha,
three kerosines, two gas oils and a catalytically cracked light cycle oil (LCO)
were applied topically to mice three times a week for up to 6 weeks and skin
changes were examined histopathologically at intervals. The changes within 1
week of treatment appeared to depend on the effect that the physicochemical
properties of each type of product had on their penetration through the skin
surface or via hair follicles. With white spirit the most prominent change was
widespread epidermal necrosis occurring after the second treatment implying that
the lowest boiling point materials penetrate mainly through the surface
epidermis. The earliest effects with kerosines were within and around hair
follicles with epidermal degeneration developing later suggesting a predominance
of follicular entry. Gas oils and LCO produced similar changes to kerosines
within 1 week, gas oils producing a slower and less severe response and LCO a
more severe response. In skin examined after 1-6 weeks of treatment with all
middle distillates repeated cycles of necrosis and healing responses were
evident; this implied that once the epidermal barrier layer had been damaged
follicular entry became less important. The severity of the skin changes
observed with these middle distillates was probably sufficient for skin tumors
to arise by a non-genotoxic mechanism if a similar treatment regime was used in
a long-term skin painting study. A method of avoiding excessive skin irritation
is therefore essential if such a study in order to obtain a reliable prediction
of the human hazard of such materials.
Non-Human Toxicity Values:
LD50 Rat oral >25 ml/kg bw /Special boiling
range 65-75 deg C solvents, from table/
LC50 Rat inhalation 73,680 ppm for 4 hr
/Special boiling range 65-75 deg C solvents, from table/
LD50 Rabbit percutaneous 4 hr >5.0 mg/kg bw
/Special boiling range 65-75 deg C solvents, from table/
Ongoing Test Status:
The NTP Toxicology Research and Testing
Program releases a Management Status Report on a quarterly basis. This report
gives the status of chemicals studied, under study, or proposed for study by NTP.
The 07/11/2001 issue indicates that the laboratory study report in preparation
of the two year study for stoddard solvent is in progress. Route: inhalation;
Species: rats and mice.
Metabolism/Pharmacokinetics:
Absorption, Distribution & Excretion:
The highly volatile C-5, C-6, and C-7
paraffins, cycloparaffins, and aromatic hydrocarbons readily pass across the
alveolar membrane /of rats/ into the bloodstream and are transported within
minutes to the CNS. Longer-chain homologues can, to a certain extent, also pass
the alveolar membrane, but their principal effects is local. /Petroleum
solvents/
The elimination of the lower-boiling solvents
(SBP type) in both animals and man is usually /rapid/ and mainly occurs via the
respiratory tract. /Petroleum solvents/
Environmental Fate & Exposure:
Environmental Fate/Exposure Summary:
Petroleum ether is a mixture of hydrocarbons
having carbon numbers predominately in the range of C5 through C6, which have
boiling point ranges of 38 to 93 degrees C. The hydrocarbons used for the
estimation of petroleum ether's chemical properties were cyclopentane, pentane,
cyclohexane, isohexane, and 1,1-dimethylcyclopentane. Petroleum ether's use as a
solvent and pharmaceutic aid may result in its release to the environment
through various waste streams. If released to water, volatilization of petroleum
ether will be rapid with estimated half-lives of 2.5 to 2.7 hours and 3.3 to 3.7
days from a model environmental river and a model lake, respectively. Adsorption
to sediment will vary based on estimated Koc values of 81 to 650.
Bioconcentration of petroleum ether in aquatic organisms may not be an important
fate process. Petroleum ether is expected to biodegrade quickly in soil and
aquatic conditions. If released to the atmosphere, petroleum ether will exist
primarily in the vapor phase. Vapor-phase petroleum ether will degrade in the
atmosphere by reaction with photochemically produced hydroxyl radicals with
estimated half-lives of approximately 4 to 8 days. Removal of atmospheric
petroleum ether may occur through wet deposition. If released to soil, petroleum
ether is expected to have low to high mobility based on estimated Koc values of
81 to 650. Volatilization of petroleum ether is expected from both moist and dry
soils. Occupational exposure to petroleum ether can occur through inhalation,
dermal contact, and ingestion. (SRC)
Probable Routes of Human Exposure:
Occupational exposure to hydrocarbons, such as
petroleum ether, can occur through inhalation, dermal contact, and ingestion(1).
Personnel exposure to petroleum ether through various normal household
activities and for small businesses in ppm are as follows: average material
handling, 0.46; average laboratory, 0.09 (both for a large-scale hazardous waste
treatment, storage, and disposal facility); varnishing/sealing household wooden
doors, 34.74; activity in a paint mixing booth, 0.16; automotive brake and rotor
cleaning, 0.314; emptying/cleaning fuel oil holding tank, 0.17; and refinishing
furniture, 2.872; concentrations in various work area monitoring results in ppm
are as follows: average work area vapor concentration (for a large-scale
hazardous waste treatment, storage, and disposal facility), 0.22; paint booth
mixing room, 0.068; wooden door staining-room, 18.721; household remodeling -
bathroom, 0.1; and household paint stripping-room, 7.326(2).
NIOSH (NOES Survey 1981-3) has statistically
estimated that 387,363 workers are potentially exposed to petroleum ether in the
USA(1).
Artificial Pollution Sources:
Petroleum ether is a mixture of hydrocarbons
having carbon numbers predominately in the range of C5 through C6, which have
boiling point ranges of 38 to 93 degrees C(1). Petroleum ether's use as a
pharmaceutic aid(2) and solvent for varnishing or sealing wood/furniture,
automotive brake and rotor cleaning, fuel oil tank cleaning, and painting(3) may
result in its release to the environment through various waste streams(SRC).
Environmental Fate:
TERRESTRIAL FATE: Petroleum ether will have
low to high mobility(1) in soil based on estimated Koc values of 81 to
650(2,SRC). Volatilization of petroleum ether is expected from both moist and
dry soils based on estimated Henry's Law constants of 0.19 to 1.7 atm-cu
m/mol(3,SRC) and an estimated vapor pressure of 35 mm Hg(4,SRC). Petroleum ether
will biodegrade in soil conditions based on a variety of biodegradation
studies(5,6,SRC).
AQUATIC FATE: Volatilization of petroleum
ether from water is rapid based upon estimated Henry's Law constants of 0.19 to
1.7 atm-cu m/mol, using cyclopentane and isohexane(1,2,SRC). Volatilization
half-lives from a model river (1 m deep flowing 1 m/sec with a wind velocity of
3 m/sec) and a model lake (1 meter deep) can be estimated to be 2.5 to 2.7
hours(2,SRC) and 3.3 to 3.7 days(2,SRC), respectively. Adsorption to sediment
will vary based on a wide range of estimated Koc values from 81 to 650(3,SRC).
Bioconcentration of petroleum ether in aquatic organisms is not expected to be
an important fate process because of the expected moderate water solubility of
petroleum ether fractions(SRC). Petroleum ether will biodegrade in natural
waters based on a variety of biodegradation studies(4,5,SRC).
ATMOSPHERIC FATE: Based on an estimated vapor
pressure of approximately 35 mm Hg at 25 deg C(1), and a suggested
classification scheme(2), petroleum ether will exist primarily in the vapor
phase in the atmosphere(SRC). It will degrade in the ambient atmosphere by
reaction with photochemically produced hydroxyl radicals with estimated
half-lives of 4 to 8 days based on cyclohexane and pentane(1,SRC). Removal of
atmospheric petroleum ether may occur through wet deposition(SRC).
Environmental Biodegradation:
Oxidation of petroleum ether in a normal town
sewage, active silt (6 mg/L) and prepurified petroleum containing sewage mixture
was 82 and 93 percent after 24 and 48 hours, respectively(1). However, poisoning
of the silt organisms occurred after 48 hours(1). The ratios of BOD5/COD and
BOD5/TOC were 1.29 and 1.04, respectively, after 7 days, corresponding to a
removal of COD and TOC of 79 and 85 percent(2).
Environmental Abiotic Degradation:
Petroleum ether is classified as reactive and
volatile and will participate in smog formation(1). Using a structure estimation
method(2) the rate constants for the vapor phase reaction of petroleum ether
with photochemically produced OH radicals has been estimated to be 4.05X10-12 cu
cm/molecule(SRC), based on pentane and cyclohexane, which correspond to
atmospheric half-lives of 4 to 8 days at an atmospheric concentration of 5X10+5
hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(2,SRC).
Environmental Bioconcentration:
Based upon estimated water solubilities of 32
to 107 mg/l, for 1,1-dimethylcyclopentane and cyclopentane(1), the
bioconcentration factor for petroleum ether is in the range of 44 to 88 from a
regression derived equation(1). According to these estimated bioconcentration
factors, bioconcentration of petroleum ether in aquatic organisms is not
expected to be an important fate process(SRC).
Soil Adsorption/Mobility:
Using a structure estimation method based on
molecular connectivity indexes, the Koc for petroleum ether can be estimated to
be about 81 to 213 using pentane and 1,1-dimethylcyclopentane(1). Based upon
estimated water solubilities of 32 to 107 mg/l(2,SRC), the Koc for petroleum
ether can be estimated to be 330 to 650 using benzene and
1,1-dimethylcyclopentane. According to a suggested classification scheme(3),
these estimated Koc values suggest that petroleum ether components have high to
low soil mobility(SRC).
Volatilization from Water/Soil:
The Henry's Law constant for petroleum ether
can be estimated to be 0.19 to 1.7 atm-cu m/mole, for cyclopentane and isohexane,
using a structure estimation method(1). These Henry's Law constant values
indicate that petroleum ether volatilizes rapidly from water(2). Based on these
Henry's Law constants, the volatilization half-lives from a model river (1 m
deep flowing 1 m/sec with a wind velocity of 3 m/sec) can be estimated to be
about 2.5 to 2.7 hours(2,SRC). The volatilization half-life from a model
environmental lake (1 meter deep) can be estimated to be about 3.3 to 3.7
days(2,SRC).
Effluent Concentrations:
On site contamination of petroleum ether has
been reported in groundwater through leachate from the Onalaska, Wisconsin
municipal landfill, however, no concentrations were reported(1).
Chemical/Physical Properties:
Molecular Formula:
UNKNOWN
Color/Form:
Clear, colorless liquid
Reddish-brown mobile liquid.
Odor:
Gasoline odor
Aromatic odor.
Boiling Point:
38-93 deg C
Density/Specific Gravity:
0.6 (water= 1)
Solubilities:
Miscible with absolute alcohol, benzene,
chloroform, ether, carbon disulfide, carbon tetrachloride, and oils except
castor oil
Vapor Density:
2.5 (air= 1)
Other Chemical/Physical Properties:
Does not solidify in the cold
Boiling Point: 95-140 deg F (35-60 deg C)
Chemical Safety & Handling:
DOT Emergency Guidelines:
Fire or explosion: HIGHLY FLAMMABLE: Will be
easily ignited by heat, sparks or flames. Vapors may form explosive mixtures
with air. Vapors may travel to source of ignition and flash back. Most vapors
are heavier than air. They will spread along ground and collect in low or
confined areas (sewers, basements, tanks). Vapor explosion hazard indoors,
outdoors or in sewers. Those substances designated with a "P" may
polymerize explosively when heated or involved in a fire. Runoff to sewer may
create fire or explosion hazard. Containers may explode when heated. Many
liquids are lighter than water. Substances may be transported hot.
Health: Inhalation or contact with material
may irritate or burn skin and eyes. Fire may produce irritating, corrosive
and/or toxic gases. Vapors may cause dizziness or suffocation. Runoff from fire
control or dilution water may cause pollution.
Public safety: CALL Emergency Response
Telephone Number. ... Isolate spill or leak area immediately for at least 25 to
50 meters (80 to 160 feet) in all directions. Keep unauthorized personnel away.
Stay upwind. Keep out of low areas. Ventilate closed spaces before entering.
Protective clothing: Wear positive pressure
self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Structural firefighters' protective
clothing will only provide limited protection.
Evacuation: ... Fire: If tank, rail car or
tank truck is involved in a fire, isolate for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all
directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all
directions.
Fire: Caution: All these products have a very
low flash point: Use of water spray when fighting fire may be inefficient. Small
fires: Dry chemical, CO2, water spray or regular foam. Large fires: Water spray,
fog or regular foam. Use water spray or fog; do not use straight streams. Move
containers from fire area if you can do it without risk. Fire involving tanks or
car/trailer loads: Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned hose holders
or monitor nozzles. Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well
after fire is out. Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting
safety devices or discoloration of tank. Always stay away from tanks engulfed in
fire. For massive fire, use unmanned hose holders or monitor nozzles; if this is
impossible, withdraw from area and let fire burn.
Spill or leak: Eliminate all ignition sources
(no smoking, flares, sparks or flames in immediate area). All equipment used
when handling the product must be grounded. Do not touch or walk through spilled
material. Stop leak if you can do it without risk. Prevent entry into waterways,
sewers, basements or confined areas. A vapor suppressing foam may be used to
reduce vapors. Absorb or cover with dry earth, sand or other non-combustible
material and transfer to containers. Use clean non-sparking tools to collect
absorbed material. Large spills: Dike far ahead of liquid spill for later
disposal. Water spray may reduce vapor; but may not prevent ignition in closed
spaces.
First aid: Move victim to fresh air. Call 911
or emergency medical service. Apply artificial respiration if victim is not
breathing. Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult. Remove and isolate
contaminated clothing and shoes. In case of contact with substance, immediately
flush skin or eyes with running water for at least 20 minutes. Wash skin with
soap and water. Keep victim warm and quiet. Ensure that medical personnel are
aware of the material(s) involved, and take precautions to protect themselves.
Skin, Eye and Respiratory Irritations:
Petroleum naphtha
vapor is an irritant of the mucous membranes and respiratory tract. /Petroleum
naptha/
Fire Potential:
Highly flammable
NFPA Hazard Classification:
Health: 1. 1= Materials that, on exposure,
would cause irritation, but only minor residual injury, including those
requiring the use of an approved air-purifying respirator. These materials are
only slightly hazardous to health and only breathing protection is needed.
Flammability: 4. 4= This degree includes
flammable gases, pyrophoric liquids, and Class IA flammable liquids. The
preferred method of fire attack is to stop the flow of material or to protect
exposures while allowing the fire to burn itself out.
Reactivity: 0. 0= This degree includes
materials that are normally stable, even under fire exposure conditions, and
that do not react with water. Normal fire fighting procedures may be used.
Flammable Limits:
Lower: 1.1%; upper: 5.9%
Flash Point:
Less than 0 deg F (less than -18 deg C)
(Closed cup)
Autoignition Temperature:
550 deg F (288 deg C)
Fire Fighting Procedures:
Foam, carbon dioxide, or dry chemical
Explosive Limits & Potential:
The vapors mixed with air explode if ignited.
Hazardous Reactivities & Incompatibilities:
Strong oxidizers.
Prior History of Accidents:
SURFACE WATER: In 1991, 210 gallons of
petroleum ether were released into Newark Bay and its major tributaries(1).
Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health:
1000 ppm [10% LEL - the IDLH was based on 10%
of the lower explosive limit for safety considerations even though the relevant
toxicological data indicated that irreversible health effects or impairment of
escape existed only at higher concentrations.]
Protective Equipment & Clothing:
Goggles or face shield.
Recommendations for respirator selection. Max
concn for use: 1000 ppm. Respirator Class(es): Any supplied-air respirator
operated in a continuous flow mode. Eye protection is needed. Any chemical
cartridge respirator with a full facepiece and organic vapor cartridge(s). Any
air-purifying, full-facepiece respirator (gas mask) with a chin-style, front- or
back-mounted organic vapor canister. Any powered, air-purifying respirator with
organic vapor cartridge(s). Eye protection is needed. Any self-contained
breathing apparatus with a full facepiece. Any supplied-air respirator with a
full facepiece.
Recommendations for respirator selection.
Condition: Emergency or planned entry into unknown concn or IDLH conditions:
Respirator Class(es): Any self-contained breathing apparatus that has a full
facepiece and is operated in a pressure-demand or other positive pressure mode.
Any supplied-air respirator with a full face piece and operated in
pressure-demand or other positive pressure mode in combination with an auxiliary
self-contained breathing apparatus operated in pressure-demand or other positive
pressure mode.
Recommendations for respirator selection.
Condition: Escape from suddenly occurring respiratory hazards: Respirator
Class(es): Any air-purifying, full-facepiece respirator (gas mask) with a
chin-style, front- or back-mounted organic vapor canister. Any appropriate
escape-type, self-contained breathing apparatus.
Wear appropriate personal protective clothing
to prevent skin contact.
Wear appropriate eye protection to prevent eye
contact.
Preventive Measures:
The worker should immediately wash the skin
when it becomes contaminated.
Work clothing that becomes wet or
significantly contaminated should be removed and replaced.
Stability/Shelf Life:
Volatile
Shipment Methods and Regulations:
No person may /transport,/ offer or accept a
hazardous material for transportation in commerce unless that person is
registered in conformance ... and the hazardous material is properly classed,
described, packaged, marked, labeled, and in condition for shipment as required
or authorized by ... /the hazardous materials regulations (49 CFR 171-177)./
The International Maritime Dangerous Goods
Code lays down basic principles for transporting hazardous chemicals. Detailed
recommendations for individual substances and a number of recommendations for
good practice are included in the classes dealing with such substances. A
general index of technical names has also been compiled. This index should
always be consulted when attempting to locate the appropriate procedures to be
used when shipping any substance or article.
Storage Conditions:
Keep tightly closed in a cool place and away
from fire.
Cleanup Methods:
1. Remove all ignition sources. 2. Ventilate
area of spill or leak. 3. For small quant, absorb on paper towels. Evaporate in
a safe place (such as a fume hood). Allow sufficient time for evaporating vapors
to completely clear the hood ductwork. Burn the paper in a suitable location
away from combustible materials. Large quant can be collected and atomized in a
suitable combustion chamber. Petroleum distillates should not be allowed to
enter a confined space, such as a sewer, because of the possibility of an
explosion.
Disposal Methods:
SRP: At the time of review, criteria for land
treatment or burial (sanitary landfill) disposal practices are subject to
significant revision. Prior to implementing land disposal of waste residue
(including waste sludge), consult with environmental regulatory agencies for
guidance on acceptable disposal practices.
Petroleum distillates may be disposed of by
atomizing in a suitable combustion chamber.
Incineration: Dispose of the adsorbed material
or free waste liquid by incineration or via a licensed solvent disposal company.
Occupational Exposure Standards:
OSHA Standards:
Permissible Exposure Limit: Table Z-1 8-hr
Time Weighted Avg: 100 ppm (400 mg/cu m).
Threshold Limit Values:
8 hr Time Weighted Avg (TWA): 400 ppm.
Excursion Limit Recommendation: Excursions in
worker exposure levels may exceed three times the TLV-TWA for no more than a
total of 30 min during a work day, and under no circumstances should they exceed
five times the TLV-TWA, provided that the TLV-TWA is not exceeded.
NIOSH Recommendations:
Recommended Exposure Limit: 10 Hr
Time-Weighted Avg: 100 ppm (400 mg/cu m).
Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health:
1000 ppm [10% LEL - the IDLH was based on 10%
of the lower explosive limit for safety considerations even though the relevant
toxicological data indicated that irreversible health effects or impairment of
escape existed only at higher concentrations.]
Manufacturing/Use Information:
Major Uses:
SOLVENT IN PAINT & VARNISH INDUSTRY;
MEDICINAL AGENT-COUNTERIRRITANT
Used in the manufacture of Pearl glue as an
extractant
As a solvent for varnishing or sealing
wood/furniture, automotive brake and rotor cleaning, fuel oil tank cleaning, and
painting.
Manufacturers:
AMOCO OIL CO (NAPHTHA
SOLVENTS), CHICAGO, IL 60601
APCO OIL CORP (NAPHTHA
SOLVENTS), OKLAHOMA CITY, OK 73101
CPS CHEM CO (NAPHTHA
SOLVENTS), OLD BRIDGE, NJ 08857
CHARTER INTERNAT'L OIL CO (NAPHTHA
SOLVENTS), CHARTER CHEMS, HOUSTON, TX 77012
CITIES SERVICE OIL CO (NAPHTHA
SOLVENTS), TULSA, OK 74102
CROWLEY CHEM CO (NAPHTHA
SOLVENTS), NEW YORK, NY 10016
CROWLEY TAR PRODUCTS CO, INC (NAPHTHA
SOLVENTS), NEW YORK, NY 10016
EXXON CO USA (NAPHTHA
SOLVENTS), HOUSTON, TX 77001
GETTY REFINING & MARKETING CO (NAPHTHA
SOLVENTS), TULSA, OK 74102
PIERCE & STEVENS CHEM CORP (NAPHTHA
SOLVENTS), BUFFALO, NY 14240
SUN PETROLEUM PROD CO (NAPHTHA
SOLVENTS), PHILADELPHIA, PA 19103
UNION OIL CO OF CALIF (NAPHTHA
SOLVENTS), UNION CHEM DIV, SHAUMBERG, IL 60196
WITCO CHEM CORP (NAPHTHA
SOLVENTS), KENDELL/AMALIE DIV, BRADFORD, PA 16701
Atlantic Richfield Co, ARCO Chem CO Div, 260
Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19101
Skelly Oil Co, Kansas City, MO 64141
Union Oil Co of California, Amsco Div, 3100 S
Meacham Rd, Palatine Rd, IL 60067
Methods of Manufacturing:
FRACTIONAL DISTILLATION OF PETROLEUM
(BENZIN IS THE LOW BOILING FRACTION OF PETROLEUM WHICH CONSISTS MOSTLY OF
PENTANES & HEXANES)
Source (by various cracking processes) of
gasoline, special naphthas, petroleum chemicals, especially ethylene. Cracking
for ethylene also produces propylene, butadiene, pyrolysis gasoline, and fuel
oil, source of synthetic natural gas.
Formulations/Preparations:
Available with less than 8% aromatic content
U. S. Exports:
(1972) 9.75X10+8 GRAMS (NAPHTHA
SOLVENT)
(1975) 7.60X10+9 GRAMS (NAPHTHA
SOLVENT)
Laboratory Methods:
Clinical Laboratory Methods:
Analyte: petroleum distillate; matrix: air;
procedure: adsorption on charcoal, desorption with carbon disulfide, gas
chromatography; range: 937-3930 mg/cu m. /Petroleum distillate/
Analytic Laboratory Methods:
NIOSH Method #1550, analyte: naphtha,
hydrocarbons; matrix: air; procedure: adsorption on coconut shell charcoal,
desorption with carbon disulfide, gas chromatography with flame ionization
detection; range: 0.5-10 mg/sample; estimated LOD: 0.1 mg/sample. /Naphthas/
Special References:
Special Reports:
Lehman-McKeeman LD; Male Rat Specific
Hydrocarbon Nephropathy in Hook JB, Goldstein RS (eds). Target Organ Toxicology
Series: Toxicology of the Kidney 2nd ed. 558 pp. Raven Press, NY, NY (1993)
U.S. Dept Health & Human Services/Agency
for Toxic Substances Disease Registry; Toxicological Profile for Stoddard
Solvent (1995) NTIS# PB/95/264263
Synonyms and Identifiers:
Synonyms:
AROMATIC SOLVENT
**PEER REVIEWED**
BENZIN
**PEER REVIEWED**
BENZINE
**PEER REVIEWED**
BENZOLINE
**PEER REVIEWED**
CANADOL
**PEER REVIEWED**
HERBITOX
**PEER REVIEWED**
HI-FLASH NAPHTHAYETHYLEN
**PEER REVIEWED**
HYDROFINING
**PEER REVIEWED**
HYDROREFINING
**PEER REVIEWED**
LIGHT LIGROIN
**PEER REVIEWED**
LIGROIN
**PEER REVIEWED**
MINERAL SPIRITS
**PEER REVIEWED**
MINERAL SPIRITS NO 10
**PEER REVIEWED**
MINERAL THINNER
**PEER REVIEWED**
MINERAL TURPENTINE
**PEER REVIEWED**
NAPHTHA
**PEER REVIEWED**
NAPHTHA, PETROLEUM
**PEER REVIEWED**
NAPTHA, VM AND P
**PEER REVIEWED**
PAINTERS' NAPHTHA
**PEER REVIEWED**
PETROLEUM BENZIN
**PEER REVIEWED**
PETROLEUM DISTILLATES (NAPHTHA)
**PEER REVIEWED**
REFINED SOLVENT NAPHTHA
**PEER REVIEWED**
Rubber solvent
**PEER REVIEWED**
SKELLY-SOLVE-F
**PEER REVIEWED**
SKELLY-SOLVE H
**PEER REVIEWED**
SKELLY-SOLVE R
**PEER REVIEWED**
SKELLY-SOLVE S
**PEER REVIEWED**
SKELLY-SOLVE S-66
**PEER REVIEWED**
SOLVENT NAPHTHA
**PEER REVIEWED**
STODDARD SOLVENT
**PEER REVIEWED**
VARNISH MAKERS' AND PAINTERS' NAPHTHA
**PEER REVIEWED**
VARNISH MAKERS' NAPHTHA
**PEER REVIEWED**
VARSOL
**PEER REVIEWED**
VM AND P NAPHTHA
**PEER REVIEWED**
WHITE SPIRIT
**PEER REVIEWED**
WHITE SPIRITS
**PEER REVIEWED**
Formulations/Preparations:
Available with less than 8% aromatic content
Shipping Name/ Number DOT/UN/NA/IMO:
UN 1271; Petroleum ether
IMO 3.1; Petroleum ether
Administrative Information:
Hazardous Substances Databank Number: 2892
Last Revision Date: 20030124
Last Review Date: Reviewed by SRP on 5/16/1996
Update History:
Complete Update on 01/24/2003, 1 field
added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 07/22/2002, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 01/18/2002, 5 fields added/edited/deleted.
Field Update on 01/14/2002, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 10/10/2001, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 08/09/2001, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 09/12/2000, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 06/12/2000, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 02/02/2000, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 09/21/1999, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 08/26/1999, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 08/24/1999, 7 fields added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 01/27/1999, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 11/12/1998, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 09/02/1998, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 06/02/1998, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 10/26/1997, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 04/23/1997, 2 fields added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 12/17/1996, 19 fields added/edited/deleted.
Field Update on 06/06/1996, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Field Update on 03/29/1996, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 02/07/1996, 48 fields added/edited/deleted.
Field Update on 01/26/1996, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Field Update on 11/09/1995, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Field Update on 05/26/1995, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 01/24/1995, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 12/30/1994, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 11/07/1994, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 09/01/1994, 29 fields added/edited/deleted.
Field Update on 08/02/1994, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Field Update on 03/25/1994, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Field update on 12/27/1992, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Field Update on 04/16/1992, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Field Update on 01/23/1992, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Field Update on 07/17/1991, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Field Update on 05/14/1990, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Field Update on 05/05/1989, 1 field added/edited/deleted.
Complete Update on 10/14/1986
GLCC
RELATED TOXIC SUBSTANCES FOUND IN THE CAMP POND AND CAMP WATER WELL 2003 AND
2004