Cumene

What is Cumene?

Cumene, also known as isopropyl benzene, is an organic compound with the formula C₉H₁₂. It is a flammable, colourless liquid with a sharp, aromatic smell and a boiling point of 152°C. It is found in crude oil and refined fuels.

What is Cumene used for?

Cumene is used to produce chemicals like phenol, acetone, acetophenone, and methyl styrene. It is also used as a thinner in paints, lacquers, and enamels, and as a component in high-octane fuels. Other uses include manufacturing rubber, iron, steel, pulp, paper, and various industrial products.

Cumene is used in manufacturing iron, steel, and various industrial products.

Sources & Routes of Exposure

Source of Exposure

Industrial sources: Industries producing or using cumene emit it into air, soil, and water. These include oil refineries, chemical plants, rubber manufacturers, and pulp and paper industries.
Other emitters: Vapours from spilt petrol, painting, varnishes, lacquer removals, and tobacco smoke release cumene into the air.
Natural sources: Cumene is found in crude petroleum, coal tar, plant oils, and some foods.
Transport: It is present in exhaust from vehicles, jet engines, and outboard motors.
Consumer products: Found in foam plastic insulation, rubber flooring, vinyl tiles, wood furniture, and thinners.

Routes of Exposure

Main routes: Breathing contaminated air or tobacco smoke.
Other routes: Skin contact or ingestion through contaminated food and water.

Health Effects

Acute Effects

Humans: Breathing cumene may cause headaches, dizziness, drowsiness, and unconsciousness. It is a skin and eye irritant.
Animals: Tests show moderate toxicity from inhalation or skin exposure and low to moderate toxicity from ingestion.

Chronic Effects

Humans: No long-term health data.
Animals: Inhalation studies in rats showed increased liver, kidney, and adrenal weights. Increased kidney weight was also observed when cumene was ingested. The Reference Concentration (RfC) for cumene is 0.4 mg/m³, and the Reference Dose (RfD) is 0.1 mg/kg/day.

Cancer Risk

Humans and animals: No data available. The EPA classifies cumene as Group D, meaning it is not classifiable as a human carcinogen.

Safety

First Aid Measures

Eye contact: Rinse eyes with water for 15 minutes. Avoid using ointments and seek medical attention.
Skin contact: Wash skin with water and soap. Cover irritated skin with an emollient and seek medical help if irritation persists.
Serious skin contact: Use antibacterial soap and cream. Seek immediate medical attention.
Inhalation: Move to fresh air and rest. Seek medical attention immediately.
Serious inhalation: Move to a safe area, loosen clothing, and provide oxygen if breathing is difficult. Perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation if necessary and seek medical attention.
Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting. Check for tissue damage in the mouth and seek medical attention.

Exposure Controls & Personal Protection

Engineering Controls

Use ventilation to keep vapour concentrations below safe levels.
Install eyewash stations and safety showers near work areas.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

For handling cumene: Use splash goggles, a lab coat, gloves, and a certified vapour respirator.
For large spills: Wear a full suit, splash goggles, boots, gloves, and a self-contained breathing apparatus. Always consult a specialist for proper protective clothing.