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.
Regulation
Occupational Exposure Limits
United States
NIOSH: TWA 50 ppm (245 mg/m3) [skin]
OSHA: TWA 50 ppm (245 mg/m3) [skin]
Australia
Safe Work Australia: Safe Work Australia has set an 8-hour time weighted average (TWA) of 25ppm and a short-term exposure limit (STEL) of 75ppm
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