A Preliminary Report on the Formation and Detection of Bis-Chloromethyl Ether in the Industrial and Medical Environment

摘要

Formation of bis-chloromethyl ether (542881) (BCME) from formaldehyde (50000), hydrochloric acid (7647010) or other ionic chloride compounds was investigated at unspecified paper (SIC-2621), textile (SIC-22) and medical and scientific facilities (SIC-8922). After evaluation of chemicals and production processes used in the paper industry, BCME sampling was considered unnecessary. No BCME was detected in samples collected in the medical and scientific laboratories, including areas where histological procedures was performed. BCME was detected in various concentrations in most areas of the textile factory. The authors recommend development of improved short term sampling procedures for BCME, and in depth studies of BCME formation in other industries where formaldehyde is used, such as plywood manufacturing and leather tanning industries.