ATSDR - Toxic Substances - Benzene
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Benzene

CAS ID #: 71-43-2

Affected Organ Systems: Hematological (Blood Forming), Immunological (Immune System), Neurological (Nervous System)

Cancer Effects: Known to be a Human Carcinogen

Chemical Classification: Hydrocarbons (contain hydrogen and carbon atoms), Volatile organic compounds

Summary: Benzene is a colorless liquid with a sweet odor. It evaporates into the air very quickly and dissolves slightly in water. It is highly flammable and is formed from both natural processes and human activities.

Benzene is widely used in the United States; it ranks in the top 20 chemicals for production volume. Some industries use benzene to make other chemicals which are used to make plastics, resins, and nylon and synthetic fibers. Benzene is also used to make some types of rubbers, lubricants, dyes, detergents, drugs, and pesticides. Natural sources of benzene include volcanoes and forest fires. Benzene is also a natural part of crude oil, gasoline, and cigarette smoke.

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    Summary about a hazardous substance taken from Chapter One of its respective ATSDR Toxicological Profile.

  • ATSDR Camp Lejeune Site Information

    U.S. Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina was established in 1942. In 1982, the Marine Corps discovered specific volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the drinking water provided by two of the eight water treatment plants on base.

    Water from the Tarawa Terrace Treatment Plant was contaminated by PCE (perchloroethylene or tetrachloroethylene).

  • Midlothian

    ATSDR and Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) are conducting an extensive review of environmental health concerns raised by the community members in Midlothian, Texas to determine if chemical releases from local industries could or have affected the health of persons and animals in the area.

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