Unsaturated Halogenated Hydrocarbons

The document reviewed eleven unsaturated halogenated hydrocarbons, focusing on their uses, toxic effects, and exposure risks. Dichloroacetylene was noted for its high toxicity and spontaneous combustibility, often forming as an undesired by-product. Allyl chloride was associated with eye irritation, while hexachlorobutadiene was primarily an unwanted by-product in the U.S. β-chloroprene exposure led to eye and respiratory irritation, liver injury, and hair loss. Vinyl chloride exposure, mainly through inhalation, was linked to liver damage and cancer, with metabolism necessary for its toxic effects. Trichloroethylene and perchloroethylene were widely used as solvents, with the former noted for its use in dry cleaning and metal degreasing, and the latter for CNS depression at high concentrations. The document highlighted the importance of handling these compounds with care due to their potential health risks.