IPCS INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMME ON CHEMICAL SAFETY
Health and Safety Guide No. 45
ACRYLAMIDE
HEALTH AND SAFETY GUIDE
UNITED NATIONS ENVIRONMENT PROGRAMME
INTERNATIONAL LABOUR ORGANISATION
WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION
WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION, GENEVA 1991
This is a companion volume to Environmental Health Criteria 49:
Acrylamide
Published by the World Health Organization for the International
Programme on Chemical Safety (a collaborative programme of the United
Nations Environment Programme, the International Labour Organisation,
and the World Health Organization)
This report contains the collective views of an international group of
experts and does not necessarily represent the decisions or the stated
policy of the United Nations Environment Programme, the International
Labour Organisation, or the World Health Organization
WHO Library Cataloguing in Publication Data
Acrylamide : health and safety guide.
(Health and safety guide ; no. 45)
1.Acrylamides - standards I.Series
ISBN 92 4 151045 5 (LC Classification: QD 305.A7)
ISSN 0259-7268
(c) World Health Organization 1991
Publications of the World Health Organization enjoy copyright
protection in accordance with the provisions of Protocol 2 of the
Universal Copyright Convention. For rights of reproduction or
translation of WHO publications, in part or in toto, application
should be made to the Office of Publications, World Health
Organization, Geneva, Switzerland. The World Health Organization
welcomes such applications.
The designations employed and the presentation of the material in this
publication do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on
the part of the Secretariat of the World Health Organization
concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or
of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or
boundaries.
The mention of specific companies or of certain manufacturers'
products does not imply that they are endorsed or recommended by the
World Health Organization in preference to others of a similar nature
that are not mentioned. Errors and omissions excepted, the names of
proprietary products are distinguished by initial capital letters.
CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION
1. PRODUCT IDENTITY AND USES
1.1. Identity
1.2. Physical and chemical properties
1.3. Analytical methods
1.3.1. Classical
1.3.2. Colorimetry
1.3.3. Gas chromatography
1.3.4. Ultraviolet detection
1.3.5. High-pressure liquid chromatography
1.3.6. Polarography
1.4. Production and uses
2. SUMMARY AND EVALUATION
2.1. Human exposure to acrylamide
2.2. Uptake, metabolism, and excretion
2.3. Effects on organisms in the environment
2.4. Effects on animals
2.5. Effects on human beings
3. CONCLUSIONS
4. HUMAN HEALTH HAZARDS, PREVENTION AND PROTECTION, EMERGENCY ACTION
4.1. Main human health hazards, prevention and protection,
first aid
4.2. Advice to physicians
4.3. Health surveillance advice
4.4. Explosion and fire hazards
4.4.1. Explosion hazards
4.4.2. Fire hazards
4.4.3. Prevention
4.4.4. Fire-extinguishing agents
4.5. Storage
4.6. Transport
4.7. Spillage and disposal
4.7.1. Spillage
4.7.2. Disposal
5. HAZARDS FOR THE ENVIRONMENT AND THEIR PREVENTION
6. SUMMARY OF CHEMICAL SAFETY INFORMATION
7. CURRENT REGULATIONS, GUIDELINES, AND STANDARDS
7.1. Exposure limit values
7.2. Specific restrictions
7.3. Labelling, packaging, and transport
BIBLIOGRAPHY
INTRODUCTION
The Environmental Health Criteria (EHC) documents produced by the
International Programme on Chemical Safety include an assessment of
the effects on the environment and on human health of exposure to a
chemical or combination of chemicals, or physical or biological
agents. They also provide guidelines for setting exposure limits.
The purpose of a Health and Safety Guide is to facilitate the
application of these guidelines in national chemical safety
programmes. The first three sections of a Health and Safety Guide
highlight the relevant technical information in the corresponding EHC.
Section 4 includes advice on preventive and protective measures and
emergency action; health workers should be thoroughly familiar with
the medical information to ensure that they can act efficiently in an
emergency. Within the Guide is a Summary of Chemical Safety
Information which should be readily available, and should be clearly
explained, to all who could come into contact with the chemical. The
section on regulatory information has been extracted from the legal
file of the International Register of Potentially Toxic Chemicals
(IRPTC) and from other United Nations sources.
The target readership includes occupational health services, those in
ministries, governmental agencies, industry, and trade unions who are
involved in the safe use of chemicals and the avoidance of
environmental health hazards, and those wanting more information on
this topic. An attempt has been made to use only terms that will be
familiar to the intended user. However, sections 1 and 2 inevitably
contain some technical terms. A bibliography has been included for
readers who require further background information.
Revision of the information in this Guide will take place in due
course, and the eventual aim is to use standardized terminology.
Comments on any difficulties encountered in using the Guide would be
very helpful and should be addressed to:
The Manager
International Programme on Chemical Safety
Division of Environmental Health
World Health Organization
1211 Geneva 27
Switzerland
THE INFORMATION IN THIS GUIDE SHOULD BE CONSIDERED AS A STARTING POINT
TO A COMPREHENSIVE HEALTH AND SAFETY PROGRAMME
1. PRODUCT IDENTITY AND USES
1.1 Identity
Common name: acrylamide
Chemical formula: C3H5N0
Chemical Structure:
H H 0 H
' ' " '
C = C - C - N
' '
H H
Relative molecular mass: 71.08
Common synonyms: 2-propenamide, acrylamide monomer,
acrylic acid amide, acrylic amide,
ethylene carboxamide, propenamide,
propeneamide, propenoic acid amide.
Abbreviations: None
CAS Registry number: 79-06-1
RTECS number: AS3325000
United Nations number: UN 2074; Class 6.1
Conversion factors: 1 ppm = 2.91 mg/m3 air, or
1 mg/m3 = 0.34 ppm
at 25°C and 101.4 kPa (760 mm Hg)
1.2 Physical and Chemical Properties
Acrylamide is a colourless to white odourless solid that are melts at
84-85°C. On crystallization from benzene, leaf- or flake-like
crystals are formed. Heating results in polymerisation, which may be
violent. Polymerisation prevents the determination of a boiling point
at ambient pressures, but at 3.34 kPa (25 mm Hg) acrylamide boils at
125°C. Polymerisation also occurs with ultraviolet irradiation, and
commercial solutions are stabilised with cuprous salts, tert-
butylpyrocatechol or other antioxidants. The solid is stable if
stored in a cool dry place.
Dehydration of acrylamide by phosphorus pentoxide (P205) produces
acrylonitrile:
CH2CHC(O)NH2 - H20 --> CH2CHCN
The solubility (g/100 ml solvent at 30°C) of acrylamide is as follows:
water (215.5), methanol (155), ethanol (86.2), acetone (63.1), ethyl
acetate (12.6). It is sparingly soluble in benzene (0.35) and heptane
(0.0068).
Commercially, acrylamide is available as a crystalline solid or as a
50% or 30% solution in water. The solid is typically 98% pure
containing up to 0.8% water and 0.2% water-insoluble compounds. The
nominal 50% solution contains 48%-52% acrylamide and an inhibitor
(eg., 25 mg Cu++/kg). Trace components in either will depend on the
method of synthesis and may include sulphates, acrylic acid and
1-100 mg acrylonitrile/kg.
1.3 Analytical Methods
1.3.1 Classical
In the presence of sodium nitrite and acid (yielding nitrous acid in
situ), acrylamide reacts to yield acrylic acid and nitrogen. This is
the basis of a quantitative analytical method.
1.3.2 Colorimetry
Acrylamide reacts with diazomethane in methanol-ether solution to form
a pyrazoline derivative that reacts with 4-dimethylcinnamaldehyde to
form a bright purple Schiff base complex. However, this reaction is
not specific for acrylamide, and there can be interference by many
other organic compounds.
1.3.3 Gas chromatography
Acrylamide is brominated to give its 2,3-dibromopropionamide
derivative which is measured by gas chromatography using an electron
capture detector (ECD). It can also be measured by a flame ionization
detector (FID) but this is less sensitive.
1.3.4 Ultraviolet detection
Acrylamide or 2,3-dibromopropionamide are separated by means of high
pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) and measured by UV detection.
This is a rapid and sensitive method.
1.3.5 High pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC)
Reverse phase HPLC can be used to determine the concentration of
acrylamide or 2,3-dibromopropionamide.
1.3.6 Polarography
Direct current and differential pulse polarography methods can be used
to determine acrylamide levels in plastics, and in dust and airborne
samples (collected in a water impinger). Differential pulse
polarography is the more sensitive method.
1.4 Production and uses
Acrylamide is produced commercially by the catalytic hydration of
acrylonitrile. The most common catalysts are copper-based; other
inorganic catalysts include manganese, rhodium and cobalt compounds
and, recently, biocatalytic systems have been used for large-scale
production. Prior to 1970, sulphuric acid was used for the hydration,
and the acrylamide separated by neutralisation with ammonia. Other
methods include the reaction of acryl chloride with ammonia in
benzene, followed by filtration to remove ammonium chloride.
The principal use of acrylamide is in the production of high relative
molecular mass polyacrylamides or of copolymers, particularly with
unsaturated quaternary ammonium compounds (cationic copolymers) or
carboxylic or sulphonic acids (anionic copolymers). Polymers and
copolymers are widely used: in effluent and sludge treatment as
flocculants and coagulants, in crude oil recovery processes as
viscosity modifiers, and in the paper industry as binders and for
several other purposes. They are used as thickeners and binders in
paints and coatings, in toiletries and cosmetics, as
moisture-retaining additives to concrete, and as binding agents in
foundry sand. They play various roles in textile processing and in
the production of adhesives, tapes and gels, including gels used for
electrophoresis.
2. SUMMARY AND EVALUATION
2.1 Human Exposure to Acrylamide
Acrylamide is not known to occur naturally. When released into the
air, acrylamide will be precipitated in solution, because of its high
solubility, and will enter the surface water compartment. It is
readily biodegraded in water. Persistence and accumulation of the
monomer in the environment will not occur.
The general public may be exposed to small amounts of monomer
acrylamide, derived from polymeric acrylamide used in water treatment
and in the treatment of effluents, prior to their discharge to surface
waters. Concentrations of acrylamide in tap-water and river water, in
areas where acrylamide polymers were used for these purposes, were
less than 5 µg/litre. Polyacrylamides containing small amounts of
monomer are used in food preparation, the washing or peeling of fruit
and vegetables, the printing of gelatin capsules for pharmaceutical
use, and in food packaging. These uses result in negligible exposure
of the general population.
Occupational exposure by inhalation is generally low. Acrylamide is
readily absorbed through the skin and exposure by this route has
probably accounted for the most severe cases of occupational
poisoning.
2.2 Uptake, Metabolism and Excretion
Acrylamide is readily absorbed by all routes, but toxicologically
significant quantities are most likely to be absorbed unintentionally
through the skin after splashing of the skin or clothing.
Radiolabelled acrylamide, administered orally to rats at 10 mg/kg body
weight, resulted in rapid uniform distribution of the radioactivity,
which diminished biphasically with half-times of approximately 5 h and
8 days respectively. Some 70% of the label was recovered in the
urine, but none from the expired air. The amount of the label
detected in the faeces (6%), was less than that in the biliary
excretion, indicating some enterohepatic circulation. Acrylamide
binds to haemoglobin and reacts with nucleophilic groups. It reacts
with glutathione to form the S-ß-propionamide glutathione conjugate,
which is the degraded by normal routes to give cysteine and
N-acetylcysteine derivatives of this conjugate. The urine also
contains metabolites that do not contain sulphur. Radiolabelled
acrylamide administered to Porton Strain rats had a shorter
elimination half time of 1.9 h.
2.3 Effects on Organisms in the Environment
Acrylamide is biodegradeable. The biological oxygen demand (BOD) is
54-75% of the theoretical value based on conversion to nitrogen and
ammonia.
LC50 values in fingerling rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri) at 24,
48, 72 & 96 h were 300, 210, 170 and 162 mg acrylamide/litre,
respectively. There were no clinical effects on swimming behaviour in
goldfish (Carassius auratus) exposed to 50 mg acrylamide/litre for
30 days, but this concentration caused death in rainbow trout exposed
for 15 days and there were other generalised toxic effects which
impaired swimming behaviour. Though there were no behavioural effects
at 25 mg/litre, enzyme studies revealed adverse hepatic effects in
rainbow trout at this, and higher, concentrations. Metabolism studies
indicate that acrylamide is rapidly absorbed and distributed within
the bodies of trout, but that little biological concentration occurs
(overall less than 1.65 on exposure to 0.71 mg/litre, although kidneys
concentrated acrylamide four-fold). Excretion was biphasic and fairly
rapid (half-time of the slow phase was 7.7 days, after a 72-h exposure
to 0.71 mg/litre).
Some LC50 values in aquatic organisms are: (i) water flea (Daphnia
magna) (48-h exposure) 160 mg/litre; (ii) rainbow trout (Salmo
gairdneri) (96-h exposure) 110 mg/litre; (iii) fathead minnow
(Pimephales promelas) (96-h exposure) 120 mg/litre; and (iv)
bluegill (Lepomis macrochirua) (96-h exposure) 100 mg/l.
2.4 Effects on Animals
Single doses of 100-200 mg acrylamide/kg body weight are lethal by
most routes, in most species. A dermal LD50 in rats was 400 mg/kg
body weight. Acute lethal doses in the monkey resulted in
pathological changes in the lungs (congestion), liver (congestion,
fatty degeneration and necrosis), and kidneys (congestion and both
glomerular and tubular degeneration). Acrylamide is neurotoxic in a
number of animal species. Central nervous system effects predominate
in acute poisoning, whereas peripheral neuropathy occurs with repeated
exposures. Sensation is usually affected before motor function.
Repeated doses of 10-50 mg/kg body weight per day, by any route, in
most experimental species, causes a neuropathy affecting principally
the peripheral axons (both motor and sensory) and the visual system.
In some cases, early effects may be reversible on cessation of dosing.
In mice and rats, repeated doses cause testicular atrophy with
degeneration of the germinal epithelium, but preservation of
interstitial (Leydig) cells. In experimental animal studies, it has
been reported that acrylamide crosses the placenta.
Negative findings have been reported in studies investigating the
ability of acrylamide to produce gene mutations in bacteria
(Salmonella) and in insects ( Drosophila: sex-linked recessive
lethal assay).
Acrylamide consistently produced chromosome damage in a range of cell
types in vitro, and there was evidence of gene mutation in
mammalian cells (mouse lymphoma cell assay). The ability of
acrylamide to produce chromosomal damage was also shown in bone marrow
cells in vivo: there were positive findings in metaphase analysis
for chromosome damage and for the presence of micronuclei.
Evidence for in vivo effects on the chromosomes of male germ cells
has also been obtained. There were positive results in cytogenetic
studies on sperm cells and in dominant lethal assays. These effects
appear to be heritable, since positive results were obtained in a
heritable translocation assay, with effects (translocations) seen in
the germ cells of offspring.
These data indicate that acrylamide is an in vivo mutagen, capable
of producing heritable effects in germ cells.
In tests for potential as an initiator of carcinogenesis, acrylamide
was administered orally three times a week for two weeks, to mice in
amounts equivalent to cumulative doses of 75, 150 and 300 mg/kg body
weight. It was also given to other groups by intreperitoneal
injection, or by painting of the dorsal skin. Following these
treatments, animals were treated by thrice-weekly skin applications of
the promoter 12- o-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (1 µg in 0.2 ml
acetone), for 20 weeks. Treatment-related increases in squamous-cell
carcinomas were found with all routes of acrylamide administration,
indicating that acrylamide is a potential initiator.
Thrice-weekly administration to mice of acrylamide at 6.25, 12.5 or
25 mg/kg body weight (orally) and 1, 3, 10, 30 or 60 mg/kg body weight
(intraperitoneally) from the age of 8 weeks to 16 weeks, resulted in
dose-dependent increases in the frequency of adenomas of the lung.
In a 2-year study in which acrylamide was administered in the
drinking-water at 0, 0.01, 0.1, 0.5 or 2 mg/kg body weight per day,
male rats developed adrenal phaeochromocytomas, mesotheliomas of the
tunica of the testis, and follicular adenomas of the thyroid. Female
rats had increased incidences of pituitary adenomas, thyroid
follicular tumours, mammary tumours, oral papillomas, uterine
adenocarcinomas, and clitoral gland tumours.
There is sufficient evidence to classify acrylamide as an animal
carcinogen.
2.5 Effects on Human Beings
Acrylamide is moderately irritant on prolonged contact with the skin
and is irritant to the eyes. An exfoliative, erythematous rash,
particularly on the hands, can occur with chronic dermal exposure.
Polyneuropathy (characterised particularly by distal weakness and
paraesthesia, ataxia, impaired fine movements and, later, reduced
muscle power) is the best-recognised toxic effect. Repeated dermal
exposure has been the usual route of absorption. Control of exposure
in the early stages results in remission of the symptoms: advanced
symptoms may persist. Early signs of polyneuropathy may be erythema,
sweating, and coldness and cyanosis of the hands and feet. Changes
may occur in sensory nerve action potentials, vibration perception
threshold, peripheral nerve conduction velocity, or in the
electromyogram, before there are obvious symptomatic changes. Skin
examinations and neurophysiological studies have been recommended for
monitoring health effects. Neurotoxic effects can also follow
ingestion. With toxic doses, these may include hallucinations and
seizures and subsequent peripheral neuropathy. Ingestion can also
result in gastrointestinal tract irritation and haemorrhage,
hepatotoxicity, respiratory distress, and hypotension. These effects
may be delayed.
Acrylamide forms haemoglobin adducts and the determination of
S-(2-carboxyethyl) cysteine in hydrolysed haemoglobin by gas
chromatograph-mass spectrometry has been used, as a measurement of
absorbed dose, in monitoring exposure.
No epidemiological data are available to evaluate the carcinogenicity
of acrylamide for human beings. On the basis of experimental animal
data, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC)
classifies acrylamide as "possibly carcinogenic to humans".
3. CONCLUSIONS
Exposure of the general population to acrylamide is limited by: (a)
the low monomer levels permitted in polyacrylamides and acrylamide
co-polymers used for purposes where there may be direct or indirect
human contact, and (b) the low levels in drinking water. Occupational
exposure may occur in the manufacture and use of acrylamide and its
polymers and repeated skin contact presents the greatest risk of
poisoning. Proper working practices and hygiene measures, such as
frequent laundering of work clothing and decontamination of surfaces
with which body contact is possible, are important in preventing
excessive exposure. Skin and eye irritation occur with acute
exposures.
Neurotoxicity is well described. Presymptomatic changes may be
detectable in the electromyelogram (EMG) and nerve conduction
velocity. The earliest clinical signs are trophic changes in the
skin. Early local symptoms appear distally and include impaired fine
movements and ataxia and there may be generalised tiredness. Sensory
and power loss occur later. Early changes reverse rapidly on
cessation of exposure.
On the basis of experimental animal data, acrylamide is considered to
be possibly carcinogenic for human beings.
4. HUMAN HEALTH HAZARDS, PREVENTION AND PROTECTION, EMERGENCY ACTION
4.1 Main Human Health Hazards, Prevention and Protection, First Aid
Acrylamide vapour and solutions are irritating to the skin and eyes.
Acrylamide is well absorbed through the skin, and can damage the liver
and kidneys (see Summary of Chemical Safety Information, section 6).
While neurotoxic symptoms are unlikely after single exposures,
previous exposures to clinically subtoxic doses could result in
symptoms, apparently related to a single major exposure. The onset of
symptoms may be significantly delayed following exposure.
4.2 Advice to physicians
Thorough and vigorous washing of the skin with water will minimize
systemic absorption following skin contact. The absence of
progressive changes in the EMG or nerve conduction velocity signifies
that neuropathy is unlikely.
Following ingestion, effects maybe delayed and it is important to keep
the patient under observation. Gastric lavage, followed by supportive
treatment should be applied. Supportive treatment may involve
ventilatory support for respiratory distress, anticonvulsants, and
pressor agents for hypotension.
There is no specific antidote.
4.3 Health surveillance and advice
Control of exposure by containment and good working and hygiene
practices is most important. When monitoring the health of workers,
skin inspection for trophic changes is inappropriate for exposure
control, because it depends on the detection of an early disease
state. Neurological examinations are inappropriate for the same
reason.
Skin inspection, neurophysiological studies, and clinical examinations
are only indicated where: the best achievable engineering controls
cannot comply with prescribed atmospheric exposure limits; exposure
control is dependent on personal protective equipment; or these
examinations are required by law or for other reasons unrelated to
occupational health care.
4.4 Explosion and fire hazards
4.4.1 Explosion hazards
Acrylamide vapour does not form explosive mixtures with air. Milled
solid acrylamide could possibly form an explosive dust cloud.
4.4.2 Fire hazards
Acrylamide is combustible in the solid form, but does not represent a
fire hazard. However, acrylamide gives off toxic and irritant fumes
when heated in a fire. Solutions heated in a fire may undergo
spontaneous exothermic polymerisation, leading to vapourisation of
water, and possible rupture of containers. Acrylamide decomposition
products include ammonia, hydrogen and carbon monoxide.
4.4.3 Prevention
Solid acrylamide should be handled in such a way that particles do not
become airborne. Ensure that solutions are stabilized and properly
stored. In a fire, keep drums and tanks cool using a water spray.
4.4.4 Fire extinguishing agents
There is no special requirement. The type of fire-extinguishing agent
will be dictated by other materials involved.
4.5 Storage
Solid acrylamide should be stored in a cool, dry place in light-proof
containers, or in the dark. Solutions are normally stablized (see
section 1.2).
Loss of dissolved oxygen, as by blanketing or purging with an inert
gas, may impair stabilization by copper sulphate. Prevent contact
with bases, oxidizing materials, initiators and reducing agents.
4.6 Transport
In case of accident, stop engine. Remove all sources of ignition.
Keep bystanders at a distance and divert other traffic. In case of
spillage or fire, use methods advised in sections 4.4 and 4.7. Notify
the police and fire brigade immediately. In case of symptoms, follow
the advice in the Summary of Chemical Information (section 6).
4.7 Spillage and disposal
4.7.1 Spillage
Wear rubber boots, an apron, chemical gauntlets and a combined
dust/organic vapour respirator. If eye protection is not provided by
a full-face mask, chemical goggles should be worn.
(a) Solid acrylamide. Shovel spilled material into sealable
containers.
(b) Acrylamide solution. Minimize spread, dilute with an equal
quantity of water to reduce reactivity, and absorb in earth, sand or
other absorptive medium. Shovel the absorbent into sealable
containers. Do not allow spilled material to dry out.
Flush the area with copious amounts of water; prevent direct access
of run-off to water courses.
4.7.2 Disposal
Acrylamide should be handled with care, because of its toxicity.
The advice given by the International Register of Toxic Chemicals is:
"Treatment and disposal methods
Recommendable
Incineration (with provision for scrubbing of nitrogen oxides
from flue gases)
Hydrolysis
Discharge to sewer
Landfill."
"Peer review
Handle with care: highly toxic through cyanide effect. Potentially
polymerized and then landfill. Dissolve or suspend in much water, and
wash down sewer. Hydrolyse with hot sodium or calcium hydroxide
solution (care ammonia released) and wash down sewer with copious
amounts of water. (Peer review conclusions from an IRPTC Expert
Consultation - May 1985)."
5. HAZARDS FOR THE ENVIRONMENT AND THEIR PREVENTION
The emission of significant quantities of acrylamide into surface
water could lead to oxygen depletion, because of biodegradation
processes. The compound will not pose a significant hazard for
aquatic or terrestrial life, except in the vicinity of sites of
accidents or inappropriate disposal. Contamination of soil, water,
and the atmosphere can be avoided by proper methods of storage,
handling, transport, and waste disposal.
6. SUMMARY OF CHEMICAL SAFETY INFORMATION
This summary should be easily available to all health workers
concerned with, and users of, acrylamide. It should be displayed at,
or near, entrances to areas where there is potential exposure to
acrylamide, and on processing equipment and containers. The summary
should be translated into the appropriate language(s). All persons
potentially exposed to the chemicals should also have the
instructions in the summary clearly explained.
Space is available for insertion of the National Occupational
Exposure Limit, the address and telephone number of the National
Poison Control Centre, and for local trade names.
ACRYLAMIDE (MONOMER)
2-propen(e)amide; acrylic (acid) amide; ethylene carboxamide; propenoic acid amide
CH2=CH-C(=O)NH2
CAS registry no. 79-06-1
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES OTHER CHARACTERISTICS
Relative molecular mass 71.08 Colourless, odourless solid with flake- or leaf-like
Melting point (°C) 84.5 crystals on recrystallization from benzene or a 50%
Boiling point (°C) aqueous solution; on heating or exposure to UV
3.33 kPa (25 mmHg) 125 radiation, polymerization occurs; solutions are
at ambient pressure polymerizes stabilized with antioxidant, and acrylamide should be
Water solubility at 30°C stored in a cool dark place in a light-proof container
(g/litre) 215.5
Relative density (d 30/4) 1.122
Relative vapour density 2.47
Vapour pressure
(Pa at 84.5°C) 213 (solid)
(kPa at 125°C) 3.33 (solid)
(kPa at 20°C)
(50 & 30% solutions) 2
Flash-point None
HAZARDS/SYMPTOMS PREVENTION AND PROTECTION FIRST AID
SKIN: Vapour and solutions are Handle mechanically, where possible, Remove contaminated clothing immediately;
irritant; acrylamide is readily in proper enclosures or cabinets wash contaminated skin thoroughly with
absorbed through unbroken skin with exhaust ventilation; where clean running water while rubbing with
appropriate, wear clean, impervious a clean cloth; continue for at
gloves and apron to deflect least 10 minutes
splashes; wear freshly laundered
clothes; remove and wash them
thoroughly after contamination
EYES: Irritant and lacrimatory Ensure vapour concentrations are Irrigate eyes with potable water or
below occupational exposure limits; sterile eye-wash solution for at
wear chemical goggles, or face visor, least 15 minutes
when handling solutions
INGESTION AND SYSTEMIC Do not eat, drink, or smoke while Do not induce vomiting; obtain medical advice
ABSORPTION BY OTHER handling chemicals, and use good
ROUTES: Possibility of delayed work and personal hygiene practices
peripheral neuropathy, liver, and
kidney damage; acrylamide is
considered to be a possible
human carcinogen
SPILLAGE STORAGE: FIRE AND EXPLOSION:
SOLID: Wear rubber gloves and Store solids and stabilized Solid acrylamide is combustible
boots; shovel material into a liquids in a cool, dark place, and dust explosions are possible;
sealable container; wash in light-proof containers exothermic polymerization may occur
contaminated area with copious on heating; in fires, keep containers
amounts of water cool with water spray; fire-fighting
media are dictated by the other materials
SPILLAGE STORAGE: FIRE AND EXPLOSION:
SOLUTIONS: Wear rubber gloves involved
and boots; absorb spillage in earth
or sand, and shovel into a sealable
container; wash contaminated
area with copious amounts of water;
dispose of drummed material as
hazardous chemical waste; notify
authorities if acrylamide enters
water-courses
WASTE DISPOSAL LABELLING
Incinerate or bury in an approved United Nations: 2074
landfill, or hydrolyse Class 6.1 A
7. CURRENT REGULATIONS, GUIDELINES AND STANDARDS
The information given in this section has been extracted from the
International Register of Potentially Toxic Chemicals (IRPTC) legal
file. A full reference to the original national document from which
the information was extracted can be obtained from IRPTC. When no
effective date appears in the IRPTC legal file, the year of the
reference from which the data are taken is indicated by (r).
The reader should be aware that regulatory decisions about chemicals,
taken in a certain country, can only be fully understood in the
framework of the legislation of that country. Furthermore, the
regulations and guidelines of all countries are subject to change and
should always be verified with appropriate regulatory authorities
before application.
7.1 Exposure Limit Values
Some exposure limit values are given in the table on pages 28-31.
7.2 Specific Restrictions
Maximum permitted acrylamide monomer content in polymers used for
various purposes are specified in national regulations. Some of these
are listed in the table of Exposure Limit Values on pages 28-31.
7.3 Labelling, Packaging and Transport
For transport purposes, acrylamide is classified in United Nations
Hazard Class 6.1 (poisonous substance) and Packing Group 111
(substance presenting minor danger).
EXPOSURE LIMIT VALUES
Medium Specification Country/ Exposure limit description Value Effective
organization (mg/m3) date
AIR Occupational Argentina Maximum permissible concentration (MPC) 1979
Time-weighted average (TWA) 0.3
Short-term exposure limit (STEL) 0.6
(skin absorption)
Australia Threshold limit value (TLV) 1983
Time-weighted average (TWA) 0.3
(skin absorption)
Belgium Tolerable limit value (TLV) 1988
Time-weighted average (TWA) 0.3
(skin absorption)
Canada Threshold limit value (TLV)
Time-weighted average (TWA) 0.3 1980
Short-term exposure limit (STEL) 0.6
Finland Maximum permissible concentration (MPC) 1988
Time-weighted average (TWA) 0.3
Short-term exposure limit (STEL) 0.6
Germany, Maximum worksite concentration (MAK) 1989
Federal (Carcinogenic material Group III AZ; no value
Republic of proven in animal experiments: assigned
skin absorption)
Hungary Maximum allowable concentration (MAC) 1978
Time-weighted average (TWA) 0.3
Short-term exposure limit (STEL) 1.5
(30 min)
Medium Specification Country/ Exposure limit description Value Effective
organization (mg/m3) date
AIR Occupational Italy Threshold limit value (TLV) 0.3 1985
(skin absorption)
Japan Maximum allowable concentration (MAC) 1987
Time-weighted average (TWA) 0.3
(skin absorption)
Netherlands Maximum limit (MXL) 1989
Time-weighted average (TWA) 0.3
(skin absorption)
Romania Maximum permissible concentration (MPC) 1983
Time-weighted average (TWA) 0.3
Ceiling value 0.5
Sweden Hygienic limit value (HLV) 1988
Time-weighted average (TWA) 0.3
Short-term exposure limit (STEL) 0.9
(STEL = 15-min TWA)
(skin absorption)
Switzerland Maximum worksite concentration (MAK) 1987
Time-weighted average (TWA) 0.3
(Carcinogen: skin absorption)
United Guidance limit 1989
Kingdom Time-weighted average (TWA) 0.3
Short-term exposure limit (STEL) 0.6
(STEL = 10-min TWA)
(skin absorption)
Proposed change to Maximum Exposure
Limit (MEL) of 0.3 mg/m3 (8-h TWA) in 1990
Medium Specification Country/ Exposure limit description Value Effective
organization (mg/m3) date
AIR Occupational USA Permitted exposure limit (PEL) 0.3 1987
(NIOSH/ Time-weighted average (TWA) 0.3
OSHA)
USA Threshold limit value (TLV)
(ACGIH) Time-weighted average (TWA) 0.3 1989
(skin absorption)
(suspected human carcinogen)
USSR Maximum allowable concentration (MAC) 1985
Ceiling value (vapour) 0.2
Yugoslavia Maximum allowable concentration (MAC) 1971
Time-weighted average (TWA) 0.3
(skin absorption)
SURFACE Environmental USSR Maximum allowable concentration (MAC) 10 1983
WATER (0.01 mg/litre)
STEAM Food contact USA Maximum permissible concentration (MPC) 0.05% 1981
(acrylamide of acrylamide-sodium acrylate resin used
sodium acrylate as a boiler-water additive in the preparation
resin) of steam that will contact food
POLY- Food contact USA Maximum permissible concentration (MPC) 0.2% 1983
ACRYLAMIDE in polyacrylamide used to wash, or in lye -
SOLUTIONS peeling of, fruits and vegetables
POLY- Food additive USA Maximum permissible concentration (MPC) 0.05%-0.2% 1983
ACRYLAMIDE (various
applications)
BIBLIOGRAPHY
ACGIH (1986) Documentation of the threshold limit values and
biological exposure indices, Cincinnati, American Conference of
Governmental Industrial Hygienists.
CLAYTON, G.D. & CLAYTON, F.E. (1981) Patty's Industrial Hygiene and
Toxicology, Vol. 2A, New York, Wiley - Interscience, John Wiley &
Sons.
GOSSELIN, R.E., HODGE H.C., SMITH, R.P. & GLEASON, M.N. (1976)
Clinical toxicology of commercial products, 5th ed., Baltimore,
Maryland, Williams and Wilkins Company.
HANDLING CHEMICALS SAFELY (1980) Handling chemicals safely. 2 ed.,
Dutch Association of Safety Experts, Dutch Chemical Industry
Association, Dutch Safety Institute.
IRPTC Data profile (legal file, waste disposal file, treatment of
poisoning file), Geneva, International Register for Potentially Toxic
Chemicals, United Nations Environment Programme.
MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEETS COLLECTION PLUS UPDATING SERVICE (1984)
New York, Genium Publishing Corporation.
SAX, N.I. (1984) Dangerous properties of industrial materials, New
York, Van Nostrand Reinhold Company, Inc.
US NIOSH (1976) A guide to industrial respiratory protection,
Cincinnati, Ohio, US National Institute for Occupational Safety and
Health.
US NIOSH/OSHA (1981) Occupational health guidelines for chemical
hazards, Washington DC, US National Institute for Occupational
Safety and Health Association 3 Vols (Publication No. 01-123).
US NIOSH/OSHA (1985) Pocket guide to chemical hazards, Washington
DC, US National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health,
Occupational Safety and Health Association (Publication No. 85.114).
WHO (1985) Environmental Health Criteria No. 49: Acrylamide,
Geneva, World Health Organization.
See Also:
Toxicological Abbreviations
Acrylamide (EHC 49, 1985)
Acrylamide (ICSC)
Acrylamide (WHO Food Additives Series 55)
ACRYLAMIDE (JECFA Evaluation)
Acrylamide (PIM 652)
Acrylamide (IARC Summary & Evaluation, Volume 60, 1994)