Investigation of Selected Potential Environmental Contaminants: Epichlorohydrin and Epibromohydrin

摘要

This report reviews the potential environmental and health hazards associated with the commercial use of epichlorohydrin and epibromohydrin. Epichlorohydrin is used primarily as a chemical intermediate in the production of glycerin and epoxy resins, with small amounts exported or used for elastomers or other products. Epibromohydrin was last produced on a commercial scale in 1975; the only current use of epibromohydrin appears to be as a laboratory research reagent. Information on physical and chemical properties, production methods and quantities, commercial uses and factors affecting environmental contamination, as well as information related to health and biological effects, are reviewed and evaluated.