Replacement of hexanes with pentane for the column purification/chemical manipulations, hexanes is known neurotoxin.
The neurological effects of n-hexanes are well known since 1960 through occupational studies. n-Hexanes generates a specific metabolites called 2,5-hexanedionone, which is a peripheral neuropathy agent. However, pentane and other hexane isomers are not metabolized to 2,5-hexanedionone during metabolism. Therefore, pentane is not neurotoxic.
Please remember, I am not a toxicologist, and only toxicologist can interpret toxicological data.
Tilak
-----Original Message-----
From: ACS Division of Chemical Health and Safety [mailto:DCHAS-L**At_Symbol_Here**PRINCETON.EDU] On Behalf Of Stuart, Ralph
Sent: Tuesday, October 10, 2017 2:50 PM
To: DCHAS-L**At_Symbol_Here**PRINCETON.EDU
Subject: [DCHAS-L] Grassroots lab safety examples?
In a conversation with a colleague today, I was thinking of examples of lab situations in which lab workers "naturally" (i.e. without prompting from EHS offices) developed alternatives to the use of risky chemicals. Examples I came up with included the decrease of the routine use of benzene and Chromerge to wash glassware; and the development of nitric acid based microwave systems to replace boiling perchloric acid baths.
I wonder if there are other examples of such natural transitions that others on DCHAS-L can identify?
Thanks for any help with this.
- Ralph
Ralph Stuart, CIH, CCHO
Environmental Safety Manager
Keene State College
603 358-2859
ralph.stuart**At_Symbol_Here**keene.edu
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