RR943 - Development of analytical methods for low molecular weight isocyanates in workplace air - Part 2 - Isocyanic Acid and Methyl Isocyanate
Monoisocyanates cause irritation to the eyes, skin and respiratory system. Existing methods for the determination of isocyanates were developed primarily to detect large di-isocyanate molecules and the analytical techniques employed are such that low molecular weight mono-isocyanates are not detected. The current work describes a modified detection method that enables separation, and therefore quantification, of mono isocyanates.
This modified method can be applied to suitable samples to enable an assessment of the contribution of monoisocynates (isocyanic acid and methyl isocyanate) to the total concentration of isocyanates in workplace air.
This report and the work it describes were funded by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Its contents, including any opinions and/or conclusions expressed, are those of the authors alone and do not necessarily reflect HSE policy.
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