What Is Benzene, And What Is It Used For?
Benzene is a clear, colorless and highly flammable aromatic liquid that evaporates quickly into the air, and can dissolve in water. It is formed from both natural processes and human activities; natural sources of benzene include volcanoes and forest fires.
Benzene is present in crude oil, gasoline and cigarette smoke. It is industrially used as a solvent in paints and other chemicals and products such as dyes, detergents, nylon, plastics, drugs and pesticides. Benzene is widely used in the United States; it ranks in the top twenty chemicals for production volume and makes up about one percent of every gallon of gasoline.
Other Benzene Exposure FAQs
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Q:
Are There Health Hazards To Benzene Exposure, I.E. Can Benzene Cause Cancer?
A: The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has determined that benzene is a human carcinogen, and can cause various forms of cancer from prolonged … More -
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How Can I Be Exposed To Benzene? Who Is Most Likely To Be At Risk?
A: Undoubtedly, the greatest risk for high level exposure to benzene is in the workplace. Occupational exposure to benzene is likely to occur in the rubber … More -
Q:
Is Benzene Regulated By The U.S. Government?
A: Yes. Because of the dangerous health effects benzene exposure is known to cause, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency now regulates benzene in the air and … More -
Q:
Do I Have Legal Rights If I Have Been Occupationally Exposed To Benzene?
A: Yes. Despite being banned as a solvent in the U.S. for over twenty years, and the decrease of benzene in other manufactured products, workers continue to be … More