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Acute toxicity of marking pen emissions
Rosalind C Anderson1, Julius H Anderson
1Anderson Laboratories, Inc., West Hartford, Vermont 05084, USA. JHARCA@hotmail.com
Summary
Emissions from felt-tip markers and whiteboard cleaner caused respiratory irritation and neurotoxic effects in mice. These findings explain adverse reactions reported by humans exposed to these common office products.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Adverse reactions to marking pen emissions have been reported.
- The specific toxicological effects and chemical composition of emissions are not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the respiratory and neurological toxicity of emissions from felt-tip markers and whiteboard cleaner.
- To identify the chemical components responsible for observed adverse effects.
Main Methods:
- Mice were exposed to emissions from 8 brands of markers and whiteboard cleaner.
- Respiration changes were measured using pneumotachographs and a computerized ASTM E-981 method.
- Neurotoxicity was assessed using a functional observational battery.
Main Results:
- All marker brands and whiteboard cleaner caused sensory irritation (SI), pulmonary irritation (PI), and/or airflow limitation (AFL).
- Significant behavioral abnormalities, including tremors and hyperactivity, were observed in mice exposed to all marker emissions.
- Gas chromatography identified alcohols, acetates, and ketones as major components of the emissions.
Conclusions:
- Felt-tip markers and whiteboard cleaner emit chemical mixtures that cause acute respiratory and behavioral toxicity in mice.
- These findings provide a toxicological basis for human complaints of respiratory and neurological reactions to these products.