Overview

Ethylbenzene is an organic compound most commonly used in the production of plastics. It is a clear liquid with an irritating odor similar to gasoline.

Uses

Ethylbenzene is found in the following products:

• Paints (Arts and Craft and Interior/Exterior Building)
• Pesticides
• Rust Prevention Spray
• Synthetic Rubber
• Auto and Airplane Fuel
• Plastics

Toxicity

Human Health Effects

• The International Agency for Research on Cancer lists ethylbenzene as possibly carcinogenic.
• Exposure to high concentrations can cause people to become, dizzy, lightheaded, and to pass out.
• Chronic exposure through the air has been shown to cause hearing kidney damage in animals.
• Ethylbenzene is considered the most sever irritant of all of the benzene compounds.
• Direct skin exposure to liquid can cause first degree burns.
• Toxic to the central nervous system
• Irritant of mucous membranes and eyes
• Prolonged exposure to vapors may cause upper respiratory tract irritation, hematological (blood) disorders, and functional disorders
• Populations at higher risk of effects include people with pulmonary, liver, blood, kidney, and nervous system disorders as well as existing skin conditions.
• In a study, it was detected in 8 of 8 samples of mother's milk from around the United States.

Environmental Effects

• Moderate acute toxicity to algae, aquatic invertebrates, and fish.
• Low threat of bioconcentration in aquatic organisms
• Half-life: 55 hours in air; 5 days in seawater; 4 days in groundwater.

References

Agency for Toxic Substance and Disease Registry- Ethylbenzene

Hazardous Substances Data Bank- Ethylbenzene

IARC Monographs on the Evaluation of Carcinogenic Risks to Humans

New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services Hazardous Substance Fact Sheet- Ethylbenzene