Frequently asked Questions Toluene 11. What is toluene? Toluene is a liquid composed of 7 carbon atoms and 8 hydrogen atoms, configured in a 6 atoms ring shape with a single atom appendix. All substances with a basic ring structure are called aromatic hydrocarbons, as they often have a characteristic, “aromatic” smell. Toluene is present in products such as gasoline, other fuels and coal tar. It is used extensively as starting material for the manufacture of industrial chemicals. For more on toluene uses, see: What is toluene used for? 12. What is toluene used for? Toluene is an important raw material for the manufacture of a large number of intermediates, such as toluene di-isocyanate, which is used for the production of polyurethanes. Polyurethanes are a set of versatile products which are used to make the foam in furniture, mattresses, car seats, building insulation, coatings for floors and furniture and refrigerators, sports equipment, etc. Toluene is found in solvents, such as used in paints and glues, in gasoline (as an octane booster) and is also used to produce explosives. This is far from exhaustive; for more, see the section Aromatics in everyday life. 13. Are consumers exposed to toluene? Toluene may be found as a solvent in paints, coating, thinners, inks, detergents, pharmaceuticals etc., and can be released in trace amounts from some plastics. It may be present in the air as a vapour resulting from its use as an octane booster in gasoline and as a solvent. The overall exposure of an individual to toluene is unique to that individual, since it is dependent on his/her life-style and daily activities, as well as the levels of toluene exposure associated with each of these. In rural areas, exposure due to gasoline is far lower than those found in the cities. Also, when a room is freshly painted with paint containing solvents, the exposure in the room is greater than in pristine air, which is why freshly painted rooms should always be carefully aired. However, it should be remembered that all products containing toluene are regulated by authorities in collaboration with the industry, so as to apply stringent standards and protect consumers from any risk. European regulations recommend an exposure limit in the air of 50 ppm. 14. Do workers run risks when handling toluene? According to our current state of knowledge, today’s very stringent "occupational exposure" limits, controls and working practices provide excellent protection against any risks associated to potential exposure to toluene. exposure is possible in industries where toluene and gasoline are produced (chemical industry and mineral oil and fuel industry) and where toluene is used as chemical agent or used as an ingredient (e.g. polymer, paints lacquer and varnishes, pulp paper and board, textile, processing and chemical industry). exposure to toluene is also possible whenever toluene containing products are used. When exposure to toluene occurs, it is primarily by inhalation of vapour and liquid aerosols (e.g. by spray painting). National and international authorities limit the exposure by imposing occupational exposure limits. The recommended limit is 188 mg/m3. In addition industries strive to reduce exposure with the application of engineering controls and protective equipment requirements in addition to continuous training among workers. 15. Are there risks for the health? At unusually high concentrations or in cases of abuse, toluene can produce central nervous system disorders, as can most solvents, including alcohol. There are conflicting data on reproductive risks in women. Miscarriages have been reported in pregnant women sniffing glues containing toluene. No reproductive effects have been noted in workers occupationally exposed to toluene alone. According to our current state of knowledge, today’s controls and working practices provide excellent protection against these risks. It should be remembered that zero-risk products, whether natural or man-made, do not exist. Even common, over-the-counter pain-killers, for example, have to be taken following strict precautions, such as not exceeding a certain dose, or not ingesting them on an empty stomach. This is what "managing the risks" means. 16. Why is there toluene in gasoline? What about “clean fuels”? Toluene is a natural component of crude oil, from which gasoline is produced after refining. Industry is taking significant steps to reduce the level of aromatic compounds, including toluene, in gasoline, by adapting its formulation. Automotive fuel quality plays an important role in determining the nature and quantity of pollutants emitted by motor vehicles. Cleaner fuels can significantly reduce this source of air pollution. The European Commission has already fixed stringent standards like the total aromatics content, to be reduced in the gasoline from 42% to 35% by January 1st 2005 at latest. 17. Is toluene transportation safe? Toluene transport is mainly carried out by sea or inland waterways, and is subject to a number of international guidelines for safe handling of cargoes. In Europe and the USA, toluene transport meets rigorous standards that exceed those prescribed by the European or American authorities. This forms part of our voluntary commitment to the responsible handling and transport of aromatics. For more details on the regulations governing chemicals transport, and indeed on the industry initiatives to minimise all risks related to it, click here Back to Home Page	:: F.A.Q. Aromatics in general Benzene Toluene Xylenes