Benzene - C6H6
Benzene - C6H6
This page brings together the main information on benzene (C6H6) such as its physical characteristics, its effects on health, the means of detecting it (C6H6 gas detector) as well as the appropriate respiratory protection equipment (gas mask or assisted ventilation device with type A anti-gas filter ).
Main characteristics of benzene (C6H6)
Benzene (C6H6) is a volatile organic compound from the family of monocyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. It is found at about 1% in fuels, particularly unleaded gasoline. It is also present in certain sectors of activity, such as perfumeries as a solvent and in the chemical industries as an intermediate in the synthesis of a wide range of chemical products (rubber, solvent, food additives).
| CASE | LIE / LSE | VME / VLE | IP | Density / Air | Filter / ARI |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 71-43-2 | 1.2% | 1.0 ppm / 5.0 ppm | 9.24 eV | 2.7 | HAS |
Health effects of benzene
Classified as a category 1 carcinogen (R45 and R49) by the IARC*, benzene (C6H6) is also likely to cause hereditary genetic damage (R46). This organic compound, when ingested or inhaled, is harmful to the respiratory tract, particularly the lungs (R65), but also to the eyes (R36). In the event of prolonged exposure, by ingestion, inhalation or contact with the skin, benzene has serious consequences for health (R48/23/24/25).
*IARC: International Agency for Research on Cancer (part of the WHO World Health Organization)
C6H6 (Benzene) gas detector
Despite a discernible odor, only a C6H6 gas detector can accurately measure the concentrations of this gas. Although explosive at 1.2% volume, an explosiveness measurement is useless with this highly toxic gas, so we will move towards detecting benzene in ppm, or even ppb.
For the calibration and gas testing of your fixed or portable gas detectors, benzene standard gas cylinders are available for benzene detection in ppm, or even ppb.
Respiratory protection Benzene (C6H6)
Benzene is an eye irritant, so a full-face mask is recommended for short-term operations or a more comfortable assisted ventilation device with type A gas filters. If concentrations exceed 60 times the OEL, a self-contained breathing apparatus will be essential.