Abstract
A detailed literature search was performed to assess the sources, magnitudes and extent of human inhalation exposure to propylene. Exposure evaluations were performed at both the community and occupational levels for those living or working in different environments. The results revealed a multitude of pyrogenic, biogenic and anthropogenic emission sources. Pyrogenic sources, including biomass burning and fossil fuel combustion, appear to be the primary contributors to atmospheric propylene. Despite a very short atmospheric lifetime, measurable levels could be detected in highly remote locations as a result of biogenic release. The indoor/outdoor ratio for propylene has been shown to range from about 2 to 3 in non-smoking homes, which indicates that residential sources may be the largest contributor to the overall exposure for those not occupationally exposed. In homes where smoking takes place, the levels may be up to thirty times higher than non-smoking residences. Atmospheric levels in most rural regions are typically below 2 ppbv, whereas the values in urban levels are much more variable ranging as high as 10 ppbv. Somewhat elevated propylene exposures may also occur in the workplace; especially for firefighters or refinery plant operators who may encounter levels up to about 10 ppmv.
Highlights
Propylene (CAS#115-07-1) is a highly flammable colorless gas that is widely distributed in the environment
Laboratory studies suggest that agricultural soils and forest debris may release considerable amounts of propylene and that the rates can be impacted by temperature, sunlight and microbiology
Much higher levels of 389 ppbv were found in the exhaust vent of a barbecue restaurant cooking over charcoal. These results are consistent with independent experiments showing that glowing charcoal could result in propylene levels ranging from about 20 to 1000 ppbv depending on the source of the fuel [203]. These studies demonstrate that the cooking of foodstuffs may have an impact on the indoor air levels of propylene; the relative contribution is a function of the fuel type
Summary
Propylene (CAS#115-07-1) is a highly flammable colorless gas that is widely distributed in the environment. There are numerous pyrogenic and biogenic sources of the propylene in the environment. These arise from photosynthetic pathways or the incomplete combustion of fuel hydrocarbons [4,5]. The following review summarizes available information on ambient air levels, emission factors and emission rates of propylene from known sources. A supplemental file has been included that chronologically lists the findings from ambient air monitor studies conducted throughout the world. This compendium of available information reveals that ambient air levels are generally about 3-fold lower than the levels found in occupational environments
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: International journal of environmental research and public health
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
