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Determination of isocyanate and aromatic amine emissions from thermally degraded polyurethanes in foundries

Journal Article · · Am. Ind. Hyg. Assoc. J.; (United States)
OSTI ID:6765898

Thermal degradation of polyurethanes can cause emissions of isocyanates and aromatic amines into work atmospheres. Results from laboratory studies on the use of 4,4'-methylenediphenyl isocyanate (MDI)-based polyurethane bound foundry core materials showed that anilines and phenyl isocyanates are major degradation products, but the possibility for emissions of MDI and its corresponding diamine, 4-4'-methylenedianiline, also was demonstrated. Results from field investigations in two different foundries showed that of these degradation products, mainly anilines and phenylisocyanates are found in foundry work atmosphere, whereas MDI and methylenedianiline concentrations were negligible. The selection of air sampling and analytical procedures for, as well as interpretation of results from, simultaneous determination of isocyanates and their corresponding amines are discussed.

Research Organization:
Univ. of Lund, Sweden
OSTI ID:
6765898
Journal Information:
Am. Ind. Hyg. Assoc. J.; (United States), Journal Name: Am. Ind. Hyg. Assoc. J.; (United States) Vol. 47:10; ISSN AIHAA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English