Benzene is derived from oil and is known for its sweet smell and usefulness as a solvent. Unfortunately, it is also known for its carcinogenic side-effects. Used early on in shaving cream and for decaffeinating coffee, now its used as an intermediary to make other products such as styrene, plastics, resins, adhesives and Nylon. The harmful effects from direct contact with this substance include drowsiness, dizziness and, at high levels of exposure, death. Long term effects include damage to the bone marrow, the immune system and the onset of leukemia. Since the damaging effects of benzene have become better known, the chemical has been taken out of many consumer products such as paint, gasoline and thinners. However, unacceptable levels of benzene has been discovered in soft drinks as a byproduct of their manufacture.
Benzene
Last updated, 12/28/2008
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- twistedmelon - @jeremylimb you think that's bad.. have you seen a Benzene Ring?
- WildlifeProtect - 97count indictment against KOCH company 4 covering up discharge of 91 tons of carcinogen benzene in Corpus Christi, TX. http://ow.ly/2yGHJ
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