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Activity: Propellant,
Fumigant, Insecticide, US EPA List 2 Inert (Halogenated organic)
Structure:
Adverse
Effects:
Bone
Brain
CNS
Endocrine:
Breast
Heart
Leukemia
Lung
Environmental
Trichlorofluoromethane (Freon®-11) -
One of the principal greenhouse gases, a gas with absorption
bands in the infrared portion of the spectrum. There is
extensive evidence showing that a class of synthetic compounds,
the chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), are responsible for the
destruction of the ozone layer. CFCs are molecules that
contain one or more atoms of both chlorine and fluorine.
In September of l992, the ozone hole over Antarctica was
the largest ever recorded and was almost THREE times as
large as the area of the U.S. Because CFCs are so unreactive,
they do not break down when released into the air in the
troposphere where they are spilled. In time, air currents
and diffusion carry them into the stratosphere, where, under
the influence of UV radiation, they release chlorine radicals
that initiate the destruction of ozone. Data collected by
NASA have shown conclusively, that there is an inverse relationship
between ozone concentration and the chlorine monoxide radical
in the stratosphere; ClO is formed by chlorine atom attack
on O3. CFCs are very useful inert, nontoxic, nonflammable
compounds that had been used for years as coolants and as
spray can propellants for aerosol forms of hair sprays and
deodorants. They had been unsurpassed as solvents for cleaning
electronic microcircuits. Commercially, the most important
CFCs are the halogenated methanes, Freon-11 (trichlorofluoromethane)
and Freon-12 (dichlorodifluoromethane). Over 50% of asthma
inhalers contain chlorofluorocarbns as the solvent and gaseous
propellent. These CFCs have relatively recently been prohibited
in all products except in those medicinal inhaler dispensers
for asthmatics and a few other limited exceptions. In
Finland alone there are over a million medicinal dispensers
that disperse freons into the atmosphere. This is equal
to the freon concentration of the cooling devices in approximately
l00,000 refrigerators.
[Buell and Girard, Chemistry, Prentice-Hall, Inc., l994.]
Ref:
http://www.shsu.edu/~chemistry/Glossary/tuvwz.html
|
•
Body Burden:
7 of 8 samples of mother's milk from
4 urban sites in US positive for trichlorfluoromethane(1).
It was detected in 4 of 8 samples of respired air
at a range of 0.007 to 0.041 ug/hr, positive subjects having
been previously occupationally exposed (laboratory technicians)(2).
[(1) Pellizzari ED et al; Bull Environ Contam Toxicol 28:
322-8 (1982) (2) Conkle JP; Arch Environ Health 30: 290-5
(1975)]
•
... TWO CASES OF PHOSGENE POISONING
FROM DISINTEGRATION OF FC 11 PROPELLANT AT AN OPEN FLAME
IN AN ENCLOSURE /REPORTED/. [Clayton, G. D. and F.
E. Clayton (eds.). Patty's Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology:
Volume 2A, 2B, 2C: Toxicology. 3rd ed. New York: John Wiley
Sons, 1981-1982. 3075]
•
A SPECIAL CLASS OF CHEMICALS SUBJECT TO ABUSE BY INHALATION
ARE THE FLUOROHYDROCARBONS, SUCH AS
... TRICHLOROFLUOROMETHANE ... THE "SNIFFING" OF
SUCH AEROSOL SPRAYS IS HAZARDOUS PRACTICE. ... 110 "SUDDEN
SNIFFING DEATHS" /HAVE BEEN IDENTIFIED/ ... IN EACH CASE
THE VICTIM SPRAYED THE AEROSOL INTO A PLASTIC BAG, INHALED
THE CONTENTS, BECAME EXCITED, RAN 90 M OR SO, COLLAPSED,
& DIED. NECROPSY FINDINGS WERE LARGELY NEGATIVE. [Goodman,
L.S., and A. Gilman. (eds.) The Pharmacological Basis of
Therapeutics. 5th ed. New York: Macmillan Publishing Co.,
Inc., 1975. 910]
Fluorocarbon
vapors are 4 to 5 times heavier than air. Thus
high concn tend to accumulate in low-lying areas, resulting
in hazard of inhalation of concentrated vapors, which
may be fatal. /Fluorocarbons/ [Clayton, G.D., F.E. Clayton
(eds.) Patty's Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology. Volumes
2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 2E, 2F: Toxicology. 4th ed. New York, NY:
John Wiley & Sons Inc., 1993-1994. 1195]
Ref:
Hazardous Substances Data Base for TRICHLOROFLUOROMETHANE.
http://www.fluoridealert.org/pesticides/Trichlorofluorometha.TOXNET.htm
|
Accidental
Death:
A
4-yr-old boy, playing with an antiperspirant deodorant in
the bathtub, inhaled the propellants, 50.5% trichloromonofluoromethane
(fluorocarbon 11) and 43%
dichlorodifluoromethane (fluorocarbon
12), became deeply unconscious
with no spontaneous respiration, and no cerebral activity,
and died 5 days later.
Ref: Accidental
death of child playing with deodorant aerosol ;
Lancet; VOL 1 ISS Apr 8 1978; Letter by IG Jefferson.
|
Freon
11. Standards for Inhalation Exposure
A. Occupational Exposure Limits (NIOSH, 1997; ACGIH,
1994).
|
1.
Ceiling Limit (C) (not to be exceeded at any time):
|
1,000
ppm (5,600 mg/m 3 )
|
2.
Short-Term Exposure Limit (STEL or ST):
|
Not
established.
|
3.
8-Hour Time Weighted Average (TWA):
|
1,000
ppm (5,600 mg/m 3 )
|
4.
10-Hour Time Weighted Average (TWA):
|
Not
established.
|
5.
Immediately Dangerous to Life & Health (IDLH):
|
2,000
ppm (11,240 mg/m 3 )
|
Freon
11. Acute
Reference Exposure Levels (1-hour exposure)
(OEHHA, 1999)
|
1.
Level protective against mild adverse effects:
|
Not
established
|
2.
Level protective against severe adverse effects:
|
Not
established
|
3.
Level protective against mild adverse effects:
|
Not
established
|
Freon
11. Chronic
Reference Exposure Level (multiple years)
(OEHHA, 2002A)
|
Level
protective of adverse health effects:
|
Not
established.
|
Freon
11. Chronic
Reference Concentration (lifetime exposure)
(IRIS, 2003)
|
Level
protective of adverse health effects:
|
Not
established.
|
Ref:
September
24, 2003 (Revised). Released November 7, 2003)
- FREON [11, 12,
113]. Technical Support Document: Toxicology. Clandestine
Drug Labs/ Methamphetamine. Volume 1, Number 11. California
EPA, Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA),
Department of Toxic Substances Control.
|
Bone
(click
on for all fluorinated pesticides)
-- Aerosol sprays containing
fluorocarbon propellants are another source of solvent intoxication.
Prolonged exposure or daily use may result in damage to several
organ systems. Clinical problems include cardiac arrhythmias,
bone marrow depression, cerebral
degeneration, and damage to liver, kidney, & peripheral nerves.
Death occasionally has been attributed to inhalant abuse, probably
via the mechanism of cardiac arrhythmias, especially accompanying
exercise or upper airway obstruction. /fluorocarbon propellants/
[Hardman, J.G., L.E. Limbird, P.B. Molinoff, R.W. Ruddon, A.G.
Goodman (eds.). Goodman and Gilman's The Pharmacological Basis
of Therapeutics. 9th ed. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill, 1996. 575]
-- MUSCULOSKELETAL 0.2.15.1 ACUTE EXPOSURE - Rhabdomyolysis
has been reported in a worker susceptible to malignant hyperthermia
after exposure to fluorinated hydrocarbons and also following
intentional freon inhalation. Compartment syndrome is a rare complication
of severe exposure.
Ref: Hazardous Substances Data Base for
TRICHLOROFLUOROMETHANE.
http://www.fluoridealert.org/pesticides/Trichlorofluorometha.TOXNET.htm
•
Definition
Rhabdomyolysis
- The destruction of skeletal muscle cells.
Often the result of electrical injury, alcoholism, injury (or
laying in one position for an extended period of time), drug
side effects or toxins.
Brain
(click
on for all fluorinated pesticides)
-- Chronic effects ... Chronic Effects
Chronic use of Freon 11 has been linked to diseases of the mucous
membranes, lungs, and central nervous system (Hazardtext, 2003B).
In the occupational setting, chronic fluorocarbon exposure has
been associated with a syndrome of impaired psychomotor speed,
impaired memory and learning, and
emotional instability (Reprotext, 2003). Repeated or prolonged
skin contact may cause dermatitis (NIOSH, 2001E; NIOSH, 2001D).
Ref: September
24, 2003 (Revised) - FREON
[11, 12, 113]. Technical Support Document: Toxicology. Clandestine
Drug Labs/ Methamphetamine. Volume 1, Number 11. California EPA,
Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA), Department
of Toxic Substances Control.
-- An estimated BCF of 49 was calculated for trichlorofluoromethane(SRC),
using a log Kow of 2.53(1) and a regression-derived equation(2).
According to a classification scheme(3), this BCF suggests the
potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is moderate.
The levels of trichlorofluoromethane in three species of mollusks
and five species of fish are only slightly enriched (usually 2-25
times on a dry weight basis) over the seawater levels(4). The
usual order of enrichment was found to be brain > liver > gill
> muscle(4). [(1) Hansch C et al; Exploring QSAR. Hydrophobic,
Electronic, and Steric Constants. ACS Prof Ref Book. Heller SR,
consult. ed., Washington, DC: Amer Chem Soc p. 3 (1995) (2) Meylan
WM et al; Environ Toxicol Chem 18: 664-72 (1999) (3) Franke C
et al; Chemosphere 29: 1501-14 (1994) (4) Dickson AG, Riley JP;
Mar Pollut Bull 7: 167-9 (1976)]
-- There is a significant accumulation of
propellant in the brain, liver and lung compared to blood
levels, signifying a tissue distribution of propellant similar
to that of chloroform. /Fluorocarbons/ [Clayton, G.D., F.E. Clayton
(eds.) Patty's Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology. Volumes 2A,
2B, 2C, 2D, 2E, 2F: Toxicology. 4th ed. New York, NY: John Wiley
& Sons Inc., 1993-1994. 1203]
-- Aerosol sprays containing fluorocarbon propellants are another
source of solvent intoxication. Prolonged exposure or daily use
may result in damage to several organ systems. Clinical problems
include cardiac arrhythmias, bone marrow
depression, cerebral degeneration,
and damage to liver, kidney, & peripheral nerves. Death occasionally
has been attributed to inhalant abuse, probably via the mechanism
of cardiac arrhythmias, especially accompanying exercise or upper
airway obstruction. /fluorocarbon propellants/ [Hardman, J.G.,
L.E. Limbird, P.B. Molinoff, R.W. Ruddon, A.G. Goodman (eds.).
Goodman and Gilman's The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics.
9th ed. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill, 1996. 575]
Ref: Hazardous Substances Data Base for
TRICHLOROFLUOROMETHANE.
http://www.fluoridealert.org/pesticides/Trichlorofluorometha.TOXNET.htm
CNS
(click
on for all fluorinated pesticides)
-- MAY BE /CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM DEPRESSANT/ ... IN HIGH CONCN.
[Budavari, S. (ed.). The Merck Index - Encyclopedia of Chemicals,
Drugs and Biologicals. Rahway, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 1989.
1517]
-- Workers ... /involved in a spill of/ large volume of CFC-11
were exposed to high concentrations and developed /CNS depressant/
effects. In one case, unconsciousness occurred, and in another,
potentiation of the endogenous adrenaline effect and tachycardia.
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 113: Fully Halogenated Chlorofluorocarbons
p.93 (1990)]
-- Freons are toxic to humans by several mechanisms. Inhaled fluorocarbons
sensitized the myocardium to catecholamines,
frequently resulting in lethal ventricular arrhythmias. Because
they are gases heavier than air, fluorocarbons can displace atmospheric
oxygen, thus resulting in asphyxiation. These
compounds also have a central nervous system (CNS) anesthetic
effect analogous to a structurally similar general anesthetic,
halothane. Pressurized refrigerant or liquid fluorocarbons
with a low boiling point have a cyrogenic effect on exposed tissues,
causing frostbite, laryngeal or pulmonary edema, and gastrointestinal
perforation. Certain fluorocarbons degrade at high temperatures
into toxic products of chlorine, hydrofluoric acid, or phosgene
gases. /Freons/ [Haddad, L.M., Clinical Management of Poisoning
and Drug Overdose. 2nd ed. Philadelphia, PA: W.B. Saunders Co.,
1990. 1281]
-- Non-occupational exposure and accidental or abusive inhalation
of aerosols /due to Fluorocarbon propellants/ have also been documented,
the main symptoms being CNS depression and
cardiovascular reactions. Cardiac
arrhythmia, possibly aggravated by elevated levels of catecholamines
due to stress or by moderate hypercapnia, is suggested as the
cause of these adverse response, which may lead to death. /Aerosols/
[WHO; Environmental Health Criteria 113: Fully Halogenated Chlorofluorocarbons
p.20 (1990)]
Ref: Hazardous Substances Data Base for
TRICHLOROFLUOROMETHANE.
http://www.fluoridealert.org/pesticides/Trichlorofluorometha.TOXNET.htm
-- Health
Hazards - General. ...At high concentrations, Freon vapor
may cause pulmonary edema and neurological problems such as
central nervous system depression, dizziness, headache,
drowsiness, tremors, seizures, confusion, in-coordination, loss
of consciousness, and paralysis (Hazardtext, 2003B; Dupont, 1996A;
OSHA, 1998; NIOSH, 2003C).
-- Chronic effects ... Chronic Effects
Chronic use of Freon 11 has been linked to diseases of the mucous
membranes, lungs, and central nervous system
(Hazardtext, 2003B). In the occupational setting, chronic fluorocarbon
exposure has been associated with a syndrome of impaired psychomotor
speed, impaired memory and learning, and emotional
instability (Reprotext, 2003). Repeated or prolonged skin
contact may cause dermatitis (NIOSH, 2001E; NIOSH, 2001D).
-- Predisposing Conditions. Individuals
with pre-existing diseases of the central
nervous or cardiovascular system may have increased susceptibility
to the effects of Freons (Dupont, 1996A; OSHA, 1998; Dupont, 1996B;
Dupont, 1996D). Persons exposed to epinephrine or other sympathomimetic
amines, e.g., bronchodilators and nasal decongestants (e.g., Sudafed
¥), might be at increased risk for the cardiotoxic effects of
Freons (Reprotext, 2003).
-- Special Concerns for Children.
Children may inhale relatively larger doses of Freon because,
relative to their body weight, they have a greater lung surface
area and larger minute volume than adults. Since Freon has a high
vapor density, children could also receive high doses due to their
short stature and the higher levels of Freon vapor that may be
present near the ground when Freon is spilled.
Ref:
September 24, 2003 (Revised)
- FREON [11, 12, 113].
Technical Support Document: Toxicology. Clandestine
Drug Labs/ Methamphetamine. Volume 1, Number 11. California EPA,
Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA), Department
of Toxic Substances Control.
Endocrine:
Breast
(click
on for all fluorinated pesticides)
/was/ tested by inhalation
on Sprague-Dawley rats and Swiss mice. The animals were exposed
for 4 hr a day, 5 days a week; rats were exposed for 104 weeks,
and mice were exposed for 78 weeks. Animals were observed until
spontaneous death. Trichlorofluoromethane exposure to rats caused
no carcinogenic effects. Trichlorofluoromethane exposure to mice
caused increased numbers of total tumors in females which was
dose related, mammary tumors in females
at 5000 ppm, lung adenomas and leukemias in females, both dose
related.
Ref: Maltoni C et al; Annals of the New
York Academy of Sciences 534: 261-82 (1988)
Website: Hazardous Substances Data Base
for TRICHLOROFLUOROMETHANE.
http://www.fluoridealert.org/pesticides/Trichlorofluorometha.TOXNET.htm
Heart
(click
on for all fluorinated pesticides)
-- Populations at Special Risk: Employees
/with cardiovascular disease are/ at increased risk. [Mackison,
F. W., R. S. Stricoff, and L. J. Partridge, Jr. (eds.). NIOSH/OSHA
- Occupational Health Guidelines for Chemical Hazards. DHHS(NIOSH)
PublicationNo. 81-123 (3 VOLS). Washington, DC: U.S. Government
Printing Office, Jan. 1981.]
-- There are isolated reports of poisoning from exposure to refrigerants
and solvents, and some studies showing a higher incidence of coronary
heart disease among hospital personnel are required to
establish causal relationship between fluorine containing organic
compounds, and cardiovascular and bronchopulmonary diseases among
exposed workers. The high incidence of cancer among hospital personnel
repeatedly exposed to fluorine-containing general anesthetics
raises a fundamental need to examine other chlorofluorocarbon-exposed
workers for similar effects. /Fluorocarbons/ [Clayton, G.D., F.E.
Clayton (eds.) Patty's Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology. Volumes
2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 2E, 2F: Toxicology. 4th ed. New York, NY: John
Wiley & Sons Inc., 1993-1994. 1209]
-- Clinical pathologists exposed to fluorocarbons in the preparation
of frozen tissue sections have been seen to develop coronary
heart disease. /Fluorocarbons/ [Clayton, G.D., F.E. Clayton
(eds.) Patty's Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology. Volumes 2A,
2B, 2C, 2D, 2E, 2F: Toxicology. 4th ed. New York, NY: John Wiley
& Sons Inc., 1993-1994. 1209]
-- Fluorocarbon propellants are anesthetic and cardiotoxic.
... Aerosol propellants produce hallucinogenic effects, and, rarely,
contact dermatitis. /Fluorocarbon propellants/ [Ellenhorn, M.J.
and D.G. Barceloux. Medical Toxicology - Diagnosis and Treatment
of Human Poisoning. New York, NY: Elsevier Science Publishing
Co., Inc. 1988. 528]
-- Deaths resulting from cardiovascular
collapse after arrhythmias have been reported after inhalation
of Freons 11 and 12. [Ellenhorn,
M.J. and D.G. Barceloux. Medical Toxicology - Diagnosis and Treatment
of Human Poisoning. New York, NY: Elsevier Science Publishing
Co., Inc. 1988. 528]
-- The toxicity of Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) had been considered
to be low; it is absorbed via the lungs and undergoes little subsequent
biotransformation. In the United States when sudden unexplained
deaths of aerosol "sniffers" were reported they were considered
to be possibly due to cardiac arrhythmias
induced by the CFC propellants. /CFCs/ [Rom, W.N. (ed.).
Environmental and Occupational Medicine. 2nd ed. Boston, MA: Little,
Brown and Company, 1992. 1299]
-- Ten subjects /were exposed/ to CFC-11,
CFC-12, CFC-114, two mixtures of CFC-11 and CFC-12, and a mixture
of CFC-12 and CFC-114 (breathing concentrations between 16 and
150 g/cu m) for 15, 45, or 60 seconds, and found
significant acute reduction of ventilatory lung capacity (FEV50,
FEF25) on exposure to each chlorofluorocarbon, as well as bradycardia
and increased variability in heart
rate in seven subjects, negative T-waves in two subjects
(one was exposed to CFC-11 and CFC-12), and atrioventricular block
in 1 subject (CFC-114). Mixtures exerted
stronger respiratory effects than individual chlorofluorocarbon
at the same level of exposure. [WHO; Environmental Health Criteria
113: Fully Halogenated Chlorofluorocarbons p.90 (1990)]
-- Propellant /fluorocarbon/ gases were generated from commercial
aerosol units and applied to the from distance of 50 cm for periods
of 15 to 60 sec. At a measured concn of 95,000 mg/cu m (1700 ppm),
there was a biphasic change in ventilation capacity, the first
reduction occurring within a few minutes after exposure, and second
delayed until 13 to 30 min after exposure, and second delayed
until 13 to 30 min after exposure. Most
subjects developed bradycardia, and inversion of the T-wave.
/Propellant gases/ [Clayton, G.D., F.E. Clayton (eds.) Patty's
Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology. Volumes 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 2E,
2F: Toxicology. 4th ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons Inc.,
1993-1994. 1201]
-- Freon 11, inhaled at 5% concentration, sensitizes the myocardium
to epinephrine. A 6% concentration results in apnea and areflexia.
A 10% concentration produces cardiac arrhythmias. Deaths resulting
from cardiovascular collapse after arrhythmias
have been reported after inhalation of /Freon 11/ ... .
[Ellenhorn, M.J. and D.G. Barceloux. Medical Toxicology - Diagnosis
and Treatment of Human Poisoning. New York, NY: Elsevier Science
Publishing Co., Inc. 1988. 528]
-- Non-occupational exposure and accidental or abusive inhalation
of aerosols /due to Fluorocarbon propellants/ have also been documented,
the main symptoms being CNS depression and cardiovascular
reactions. Cardiac arrhythmia, possibly aggravated by elevated
levels of catecholamines due to stress or by moderate hypercapnia,
is suggested as the cause of these adverse response, which may
lead to death. /Aerosols/ [WHO; Environmental Health Criteria
113: Fully Halogenated Chlorofluorocarbons p.20 (1990)]
-- A SPECIAL CLASS OF CHEMICALS SUBJECT TO ABUSE BY INHALATION
ARE THE FLUOROHYDROCARBONS ... THE "SNIFFING" OF SUCH AEROSOL
SPRAYS IS HAZARDOUS PRACTICE. ... 110 "SUDDEN SNIFFING DEATHS"
/HAVE BEEN IDENTIFIED/ ... IN EACH CASE THE VICTIM SPRAYED THE
AEROSOL INTO A PLASTIC BAG, INHALED THE CONTENTS, BECAME EXCITED,
RAN 90 M OR SO, COLLAPSED, & DIED. NECROPSY FINDINGS WERE LARGELY
NEGATIVE ... ALTHOUGH AMOUNT OF PROPELLANT ABSORBED INTO BLOOD
FROM USE OF HAIRSPRAY, COSMETIC, HOUSEHOLD, & MEDICATED AEROSOLS
MUST VARY WITH CIRCUMSTANCES, PHYSICIAN IS ADVISED TO COUNSEL
... PATIENT ON POTENTIAL DANGERS, PARTICULARLY FROM THEIR USE
IN POORLY VENTILATED CONFINED AREAS. IT
IS POSSIBLE THAT PATIENTS WITH CARDIAC OR RESPIRATORY DISORDERS
MAY PROVE ESPECIALLY SUSCEPTIBLE. /FLUOROHYDROCARBONS/
[Goodman, L.S., and A. Gilman. (eds.) The Pharmacological Basis
of Therapeutics. 5th ed. New York: Macmillan Publishing Co., Inc.,
1975. 910]
-- -- Freons are toxic to humans by several mechanisms. Inhaled
fluorocarbons sensitized the myocardium
to catecholamines, frequently resulting in lethal ventricular
arrhythmias. Because they are gases heavier than air, fluorocarbons
can displace atmospheric oxygen, thus resulting in asphyxiation.
These compounds also have a central nervous
system (CNS) anesthetic effect analogous to a structurally similar
general anesthetic, halothane. Pressurized refrigerant or liquid
fluorocarbons with a low boiling point have a cyrogenic
effect on exposed tissues, causing frostbite, laryngeal or pulmonary
edema, and gastrointestinal perforation. Certain fluorocarbons
degrade at high temperatures into toxic products of chlorine,
hydrofluoric acid, or phosgene gases. /Freons/ [Haddad, L.M.,
Clinical Management of Poisoning and Drug Overdose. 2nd ed. Philadelphia,
PA: W.B. Saunders Co., 1990. 1281]
-- ... Workers who spilled a large volume of CFC-11 were exposed
to high concentrations & developed signs of narcosis. One of the
workers became unconscious, & another experienced tachycardia.
[American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists, Inc.
Documentation of the Threshold Limit Values and Biological Exposure
Indices. 6th ed. Volumes I,II, III. Cincinnati, OH: ACGIH, 1991.
1621]
Ref: Hazardous Substances Data Base for
TRICHLOROFLUOROMETHANE.
http://www.fluoridealert.org/pesticides/Trichlorofluorometha.TOXNET.htm
-- Health Hazards - General ...
Inhalation of high concentrations may also result in temporary
alteration of the heartÕs electrical activity by increasing the
sensitivity of the heart to the arrhythmogenic action of epinephrine,
causing irregular pulse, palpitations, or inadequate circulation
(Dupont, 1996A; Dupont, 1996F; OSHA, 1998; Reprotext, 2003). Deliberate
inhalation (ÒsniffingÓ) may cause death without warning (Dupont,
1996A; Dupont, 1996F; OSHA, 1998).
-- Acute Effects ... Inhalation of
high concentrations (~5,000 ppm) is associated with the development
of arrhythmias and sudden death due to myocardial
sensitization to endogenous catecholamines (e.g., epinephrine).
-- Predisposing Conditions. Individuals
with pre-existing diseases of the central nervous or cardiovascular
system may have increased susceptibility to the effects
of Freons (Dupont, 1996A; OSHA, 1998; Dupont, 1996B; Dupont, 1996D).
Persons exposed to epinephrine or other sympathomimetic amines,
e.g., bronchodilators and nasal decongestants (e.g., Sudafed ¥),
might be at increased risk for the cardiotoxic
effects of Freons (Reprotext, 2003).
-- Special Concerns for Children.
Children may inhale relatively larger doses of Freon because,
relative to their body weight, they have a greater lung surface
area and larger minute volume than adults. Since Freon has a high
vapor density, children could also receive high doses due to their
short stature and the higher levels of Freon vapor that may be
present near the ground when Freon is spilled.
Ref: September
24, 2003 (Revised) - FREON
[11, 12, 113]. Technical Support Document: Toxicology.
Clandestine Drug Labs/ Methamphetamine. Volume 1, Number 11. California
EPA, Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA),
Department of Toxic Substances Control.
Abstract: Ten subjects were exposed to the propellants freon
11, freon 12, freon 114, to two mixtures of freon 11 and 12 and
to a mixture of freon 12 and 114. The length of exposure was 15,
45 or 60 seconds. Maximum expiratory flow-volume (MEF) curves
and ECG were recorded before, and intermittently up to 1 hour
after, exposure. Breathing level concentrations of propellants
during exposure were determined by gas chromatography. All freons
induced biphasic reduction of ventilatory capacity on inhalation.
The first fall occurred within a few minutes of exposure while
the second was delayed 13-30 minutes after exposure. The effects
of mixtures were greater than those of individual freons. The
relative fall in MEF 75% was more pronounced than that in MEF
50%. No clear-cut pathological changes in ECG were found. Nevertheless,
most subjects developed variations in heart
rate exceeding those noted before exposure. In a few cases inversion
of the T wave, and in one case atrioventricular block, were observed.
Ref: Valic F et al. (1977). Effects
of fluorocarbon propellants on respiratory flow and ECG. Br
J Ind Med May;34(2):130-6.
Abstract: When respiratory
alterations associated with the inhalation of aerosol propellants
were eliminated, it was demonstrated that a ten-minute exposure
to trichloromonofluoromethane (Freon 11) at concentrations below
15% never caused death. Rarely, at a concentration of exactly
15% minimal sinus slowing occurred (change less than 10% the base
line rate). At concentrations between 15% and 17%, nine animals
survived while seven succumbed. Ranges between 17.5% and 21% resulted
in seven survivors of 19 animals, while no animal survived a ten-minute
exposure to a concentration in excess of 21%. The
mode of death was most commonly and ultimate asystole. Concentrations
of dichlorodifluoromethane (Freon 12) greater than 95% were necessary
to produce death in ten minutes, and severe oxygen deficit was
evident.
Ref: Flowers NC et al. (1975). Concentrations
of fluoroalkanes associated with cardiac conduction system toxicity.
Arch Environ Health Jul;30(7):353-60.
•
Definition: asystole -
Cessation
of electrical activity of the heart - a necessary transitional
stage between ventricular fibrillation and the establishment
of a viable rhythm.
Leukemia
(click
on for all fluorinated pesticides)
-- Trichlorofluoromethane
... /was/ tested by inhalation on Sprague-Dawley rats and Swiss
mice. The animals were exposed for 4 hr a day, 5 days a week;
rats were exposed for 104 weeks, and mice were exposed for 78
weeks. Animals were observed until spontaneous death. Trichlorofluoromethane
exposure to rats caused no carcinogenic effects. Trichlorofluoromethane
exposure to mice caused increased numbers
of total tumors in females which was dose related, mammary tumors
in females at 5000 ppm, lung adenomas and leukemias
in females, both dose related. [Maltoni C et al; Annals
of the New York Academy of Sciences 534: 261-82 (1988)]
Ref: Hazardous Substances Data Base for
TRICHLOROFLUOROMETHANE.
http://www.fluoridealert.org/pesticides/Trichlorofluorometha.TOXNET.htm
Lung
(click
on for all fluorinated pesticides)
-- Chronic
effects ... Chronic Effects Chronic use of Freon 11 has
been linked to diseases of the mucous membranes,
lungs, and central nervous system
(Hazardtext, 2003B). In the occupational setting, chronic fluorocarbon
exposure has been associated with a syndrome of impaired psychomotor
speed, impaired memory and learning, and emotional instability
(Reprotext, 2003). Repeated or prolonged skin contact may
cause dermatitis (NIOSH, 2001E; NIOSH, 2001D).
-- Special Concerns for Children.
Children may inhale relatively larger doses of Freon because,
relative to their body weight, they have a greater lung surface
area and larger minute volume than adults. Since Freon has a high
vapor density, children could also receive high doses due to their
short stature and the higher levels of Freon vapor that may be
present near the ground when Freon is spilled.
Ref:
September 24, 2003 (Revised)
- FREON [11, 12, 113].
Technical Support Document: Toxicology. Clandestine
Drug Labs/ Methamphetamine. Volume 1, Number 11. California EPA,
Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA), Department
of Toxic Substances Control.
-- Ten subjects /were
exposed/ to CFC-11, CFC-12, CFC-114, two mixtures of CFC-11 and
CFC-12, and a mixture of CFC-12 and CFC-114 (breathing concentrations
between 16 and 150 g/cu m) for 15, 45, or 60 seconds, and found
significant acute reduction of ventilatory
lung capacity (FEV50, FEF25) on exposure to each chlorofluorocarbon,
as well as bradycardia and increased variability in heart rate
in seven subjects, negative T-waves in two subjects (one was exposed
to CFC-11 and CFC-12), and atrioventricular block in 1 subject
(CFC-114). Mixtures exerted stronger respiratory effects than
individual chlorofluorocarbon at the same level of exposure. [WHO;
Environmental Health Criteria 113: Fully Halogenated Chlorofluorocarbons
p.90 (1990)]
-- ... BRADYCARDIA IS THE USUAL RESPONSE IN HUMAN SUBJECTS INHALING
10% OF CFC 11. ... IT IS REASONABLE TO SUGGEST THAT BRADYCARDIA
IN MAN ORIGINATES FROM IRRITATION OF THE UPPER
RESPIRATORY TRACT, & THAT CARDIAC EFFECTS CAN BE INITIATED
PRIOR TO ABSORPTION OF CFC 11 IN THE LUNGS.
[Clayton, G.D., F.E. Clayton (eds.) Patty's Industrial Hygiene
and Toxicology. Volumes 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 2E, 2F: Toxicology. 4th
ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons Inc., 1993-1994. 1182]
-- Twelve guinea pigs divided into 4 groups of 3 each were exposed
for 5 min, 30 min, 1 hr, & 2 hr, respectively. Exposure of 2.5%
for 30 min caused occasional tremors & the rate of respiration
became irregular. Exposure to 10% for 1 hr resulted in coma. The
guinea pigs exposed to this concn for 2 hr were sacrificed 8 days
later. Whereas their lungs were found to
contain mottled areas of congestion, other organs showed
no pathological changes. ... Exposure to a concn of 20% for 1
hr was lethal. [Clayton, G.D., F.E. Clayton (eds.) Patty's Industrial
Hygiene and Toxicology. Volumes 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 2E, 2F: Toxicology.
4th ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons Inc., 1993-1994. 1180]
-- Trichlorofluoromethane ... /was/ tested by inhalation on Sprague-Dawley
rats and Swiss mice. The animals were exposed for 4 hr a day,
5 days a week; rats were exposed for 104 weeks, and mice were
exposed for 78 weeks. Animals were observed until spontaneous
death. Trichlorofluoromethane exposure to rats caused no carcinogenic
effects. Trichlorofluoromethane exposure to mice caused increased
numbers of total tumors in females which was dose related, mammary
tumors in females at 5000 ppm, lung adenomas
and leukemias in females, both dose related. [Maltoni C
et al; Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences 534: 261-82
(1988)]
-- A 15-year old boy found dead with a plastic bag and a 9 oz
aerosol can of a spray on coating for frying pans lying adjacent
to him. ... CFC 11 ... used as propellants were detected in the
tissues removed at the autopsy: CFC (ul/100g): blood 0.86, kidney
1.65, brain 1.33, liver 0.83, stomach contents 5.78. ... Death
of a teenager due to inhalation of fluorocarbon CFC-containing
aerosols ... /noted/ distribution of fluorocarbons: CFC 11 (mg/100
g): blood 3.2, brain 6.1, liver 4.5, lung
3.2, kidney 2.5, trachea 2.1, and bile 0.6. [Clayton, G.D., F.E.
Clayton (eds.) Patty's Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology. Volumes
2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 2E, 2F: Toxicology. 4th ed. New York, NY: John
Wiley & Sons Inc., 1993-1994.,p. 1202-3]
-- Absorption of fluorocarbons is much lower after oral ingestion
(35-48 times) than after inhalation. ... The lung
generally has the highest fluorocarbon concentrations on autopsy.
/Fluorocarbons/ [Ellenhorn, M.J. and D.G. Barceloux. Medical Toxicology
- Diagnosis and Treatment of Human Poisoning. New York, NY: Elsevier
Science Publishing Co., Inc. 1988. 884]
Ref: Hazardous Substances Data Base for
TRICHLOROFLUOROMETHANE.
http://www.fluoridealert.org/pesticides/Trichlorofluorometha.TOXNET.htm
Environmental
(click
on for all fluorinated pesticides)
US
EPA: Class 1 Ozone Depleting Substance. Lifetime
of Global Warming Potential: 45 years
Ref:
http://www.epa.gov/ozone/ods.html
Many
gases emitted as a result of industrial and agricultural
activities can accumulate in the earth's atmosphere and
ultimately contribute to alterations
in the vertical distribution and concentrations of stratospheric
ozone. Among the most important are those trace gases
that have long residence times in the atmosphere. This allows
accumulation in the troposphere and a gradual upward migration
of the gases into the stratosphere where they contribute
to depletion of stratospheric ozone layer. The atmospheric
and chemical processes involved are extremely complex.
Trace gases of particular concern include certain long lived
chlorofluorocarbons, such as CFC-11, CFC-12, and
CFC-113. Since the transport of these gases to the stratosphere
is slow, their residence times there are long, and the removal
processes are slow, any effect on stratospheric ozone already
seen is probably the result of anthropogenic emissions of
these gases several decades ago. Those
gases already in the atmosphere will continue to exert stratospheric
ozone depletion effects well into the next century.
/Chlorofluorocarbons/ [WHO; Environmental Health Criteria
113: Fully Halogenated Chlorofluorocarbons p.47 (1990)]
Ref:
Hazardous Substances Data Base for TRICHLOROFLUOROMETHANE.
http://www.fluoridealert.org/pesticides/Trichlorofluorometha.TOXNET.htm
Environmental
Contamination Concerns
A. Surface Water Volatilization
from water surfaces is expected to be an important fate
process with estimated volatilization half-lives for a model
river and a model lake being four hours and five days, respectively.
Hydrolysis is not expected to occur. Bioconcentration
in organisms is low to moderate; BCF (Bioconcentration factor:
the ratio of the chemical concentration in the organism
to that in surrounding water) is from 11-86. Biodegradation,
adsorption to sediment, and abiotic degradation are insignificant.
Large volumes of Freon may sink to the bottom and gradually
bubble up to the surface if the water is not too cold (Hazardtext,
2003B; HSDB, 2001A; HSDB, 2001B).
B. Groundwater In general,
Freons that are spilled onto soil
have the potential to leach into groundwater, because they
do not bind well to soil (Hazardtext, 2003B; HSDB,
2001A; HSDB, 2001B). Fully halogenated
hydrocarbons such as Freons 11, 12, and 113 are very resistant
to chemical and biological degradation and are likely to
be persistent contaminants if they reach groundwater.
D. Soil
If Freon is spilled onto soil, a portion
may evaporate from the surface and the remainder will leach
downward into the soil. Mobility through
the soil is expected to be moderate based on estimated Koc
values. Freon does not bind well to soil, and leaching to
groundwater is possible (Hazardtext, Preliminary
Remediation Goals for Residential Soil (U.S. EPA, 2002,
Region IX):
Freon 11 - 390 mg/kg
Freon 12 - 94 mg/kg
Freon 113 - 5600 mg/kg
E. Air
Once released to air, Freon exists solely as a gas. In the
atmosphere, fully halogenated Freons diffuse
to the troposphere, where they are very stable and
can be transported great distances. Wet deposition may result
in some loss, but re-volatilization
into the atmosphere is likely. The only degradation
process is diffusion to the stratosphere, where photolytic
destruction of Freons results in depletion
of stratospheric ozone, thereby increasing the amount
of ultraviolet-B (UV-B) radiation reaching the earthÕs surface
(Hazardtext, 2003B; HSDB, 2001A; HSDB, 2001B). Preliminary
Remediation Goals for Ambient Air (U.S. EPA, 2002, Region
IX):
Freon 11 - 0.73 mg/m 3
Freon 12 - 0.21 mg/m 3
Freon 113 - 31 mg/m 3
Ref:
September
24, 2003 (Revised)
- FREON [11, 12,
113]. Technical Support Document: Toxicology. Clandestine
Drug Labs/ Methamphetamine. Volume 1, Number 11. California
EPA, Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA),
Department of Toxic Substances Control.
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