Exposure Assessment of Acrylates/Methacrylates in Radiation-Cured Applications

摘要

Occupational exposures to radiation cured acrylates/methacrylates during their processing and use in coatings, inks, and adhesives were evaluated in 12 walk through surveys at formulator and applicator sites. Inhalation and dermal exposure routes were studied. According to the authors, the basic process used to formulate coatings, inks, and adhesives consists of blending raw materials in closed mixing vessels using local exhaust ventilation in the form of elephant trunks at vessel charging and packaging locations. Application methods surveyed included reverse roll coaters, direct roll coaters, curtain/rain coaters, laminators, pneumatic injection, spray guns, and manual application. At the sites surveyed, the number of workers potentially exposed at each site ranged from two to 142. Process operators at applicator sites had the greatest potential for dermal exposure. Generally, the potential for inhalation exposure was low due to low volatility of the multifunctional acrylates/methacrylates used in the formulations. No reliable air monitoring data was available at any site. Respirator use was limited and sporadic.