Summary Review of the Health Effects Associated with Propylene: Health Issue Assessment

Abstract

Propylene's major use is as a starting material in the manufacture of polypropylene, acrylonitrile, propylene oxide, and as a component in fuel. Ambient concentrations in urban areas of the United States range from about 1 to 10 ppb, with rural air levels being an order of magnitude lower. Propylene is a precursor of photochemical oxidants and other smog components. The atmospheric half-life has been estimated to be 7.7 hours. Propylene is readily metabolized following inhalation exposure. Limited data from acute studies (exposure to a 40% concentration for 6 hours) indicate that propylene is not very toxic to rats. Similarly, no compound-related toxic effects were found in subchronic studies with exposure levels up to 10,000 ppm. Propylene was not carcinogenic in the NTP rat and mice studies with exposure levels up to 10,000 ppm. Propylene is classified as a Group C carcinogen, possibly a human carcinogen.

Citation

U.S. EPA. Summary Review of the Health Effects Associated with Propylene: Health Issue Assessment. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C., EPA/600/8-88/070 (NTIS PB89119739).

• SUMMARY REVIEW OF THE HEALTH EFFECTS ASSOCIATED WITH PROPYLENE: HEALTH ISSUE ASSESSMENT