TOXICOLOGIC STUDIES ON POLYPHENYL COMPOUNDS USED AS ATOMIC REACTOR MODERATOR-COOLANTS

Journal Article · Tue Sep 01 04:00:00 EDT 1959 · Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology (U.S.)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/0041-008X(59)90104-8· OSTI ID:4207564

Haley, T J; Detrick, L E; Komesu, N; Williams, P; Upham, H C; Baurmash, L

A study has been made of certain aspects of the toxicology of organic polyphenyl compounds proposed for use as moderator-coolants in atomic reactors. Only monoisopropylbiphenyl, irradiated monoisopropylbiphenyl, and terphenyl mixtures (OMRE) were irritating to the conjunctiva in rabbits and oniy the unirradiated moderator-coolants caused skin irritation in rabbits. Both the moderators and their components were highly damaging to guinea pig skin following intracutaneous injection. All the polyphenyl compounds except irradiated monoisopropylbiphenyl produced sensitization and chemical necrosis. The latter produced only necrosis. Monoisopropylbiphenyl and o- and m-terphenyl were the only polyphenyls that caused death after inhalation, although all of the compounds produced some of the following symptoms: nasal congestion with rhinitis, lachrymation, labored respiration, and erythema of the ears and paws. The following histopathologic changes were also observed: acute tracheal necrosis, acute tracheobronchitis, pulmonary edema, bronchopneumonia, atelectasis, and petechial hemorrhages. All such toxic effects can be prevented by protective clothing and respirators. (auth)

• Research Organization: Univ. of California, Los Angeles
• NSA Number: NSA-13-021892
• OSTI ID: 4207564
• Journal Information: Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology (U.S.), Journal Name: Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology (U.S.) Vol. Vol: 1; ISSN TXAPA
• Country of Publication: Country unknown/Code not available
• Language: English

Related Subjects

BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE
CLOTHING
COOLANTS
EYES
GUINEA PIGS
HEMORRHAGE
INFECTIONS
LUNGS
MODERATORS
POLYPHENYLS
RABBITS
REACTORS
SAFETY
SKIN
TISSUES
TOXICITY