Determination of Propane-1,3-sultone in Workplace Air for Occupational Exposure Assessment.

Anna Jeżewska

doi:10.3390/ijerph17041414

Abstract

Propane-1,3-sultone (PS) is an alkylating substance used in the production of polymers, fungicides, insecticides, dyes, and detergents. It is absorbed into the human body by inhalation, digestion, and through the skin; it is also a possible carcinogen. Occupational exposure to this substance may occur on industrial or laboratory contact. In Poland, the maximum allowable concentration (MAC) for PS in workplace air is 7 µg/m3. The paper presents a method for determination of PS in workplace air using a gas chromatograph coupled with a mass spectrometer (GC-MS). Air containing PS is passed through a glass tube containing a glass fiber filter and two layers of silica gel. The substance is washed with acetonitrile and the solution obtained analysed using GC-MS. The measuring range for an air sample of 360 L is 0.7 ÷ 14 µg/m3. The limit of detection (LOD) is 13 ng/m3, limit of quantification (LOQ) is 40 ng/m3.

Highlights

IntroductionPS (CAS No: 1120-71-4) is a white crystalline solid or colourless liquid with an unpleasant odour
PS (CAS No: 1120-71-4) is a white crystalline solid or colourless liquid with an unpleasant odour.It is soluble in water (100 mg/mL), chloroform, esters, methanol, and aromatic hydrocarbons
The aim of the tests was to determine the conditions for sampling of air containing PS in order to ensure quantitative determination of its content in workplace air

Summary

Introduction

PS (CAS No: 1120-71-4) is a white crystalline solid or colourless liquid with an unpleasant odour. It is soluble in water (100 mg/mL), chloroform, esters, methanol, and aromatic hydrocarbons. According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), it is a probable human carcinogen (Group 2A) [8]. The European Union classifies PS in carcinogenic category 1B (concentration limit C ≥ 0.01%), as very toxic (harmful if swallowed), and harmful on contact with the skin [3]. Experts from the Scientific Committee on Occupational Exposure Limits [3], the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, and Occupational Safety and Health

Methods

Results

Conclusion