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duces toxic gases.

Since the compound is a suitable solvent for many organic molecules, it is
o en used to bind cosme cs and fragrances. Other industrial uses include
plas cizers, detergent bases and aerosol sprays. Because of the frequent der-
mal exposure of humans to the chemical, the ques on of toxicity is crucial.
Several studies suggest that DEP can cause damage to the nervous system as
well as to the reproduc ve organs in males and females.

18-Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs). PBDEs are used as flame retard-
ants in plas c building materials and are par cularly widespread in polyure-
thane foam products (insula on and cushions). In May, 2010, the EPA re-
leased an exposure assessment for PBDEs, providing informa on on the ex-
tent to which humans are exposed to and have a body burden of the chemi-
cals. Key routes of human exposure are thought to be from their use in
household consumer products, and their presence in house dust, and not
from dietary routes. PBDEs have been associated in animal studies with liver
toxicity, thyroid toxicity, developmental and reproduc ve toxicity, and devel-
opmental neurotoxicity.
19.Short-chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs) SCCPs’ primary use is as a lubri-
cant and coolant in metal cu ng and metal forming opera ons – so they may
be present in the life-cycle of metal building products. The second most sig-
nificant use is as a secondary plas cizer in PVC in many of the same applica-
ons as the phthalate plas cizers listed above. To a lesser extent it is also
used in other plas cs, including acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene resins (ABS),
unsaturated polyester resins, polyethylene, polypropylene, and urethane
foam for rubbers, paints, adhesives, caulks, and sealants as either plas cizers
or flame retardants. Although no studies have been completed on humans,
SCCPs are classified as toxic to aqua c organisms, and carcinogenic to rats
and mice.

20-Benzene is a carcinogen that can cause cancer in humans. It has caused
cancer in workers exposed to high levels from workplace air. Sodium or po-
tassium benzoate may be added to beverages to inhibit the growth of bacte-
ria, yeasts, and molds. Benzoate salts also are naturally present in some fruits
and their juices, such as cranberries, for example. Vitamin C may be present
naturally in beverages or added to prevent spoilage or to provide addi onal
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