NOXIOUS AND TOXIC COMPOUNDS IN THE RUBBER INDUSTRY - N-NITROSAMINES - THEIR FORMATION AND METHODS OF DETERMINATION

Toxic hazards from chemical compounds, mainly from cancerogenic N-nitrosamines present during the manufacture and application of rubber articles were presented. Emission of these compounds into the environment during the manufacturing processes and utilization of articles intended for direct contact with humans, particularly children (nipples, toys etc.) offers immitent hazards. Reported types and concentration levels of toxic chemical substances involved in the manufacture and use of rubber products and articles have been characterized and methods of identification and quantification of toxic and cancerogenic N-nitrosamines have been presented. The most modem and useful method is the gas chromatography using a thermal energy detector (TEA detector).