A quantitative method for estimating dermal benzene absorption from benzene-containing hydrocarbon liquids

Area of Science:

• Environmental Health
• Toxicology
• Occupational Health

Background:

• Benzene exposure through skin contact with hydrocarbon liquids is a concern.
• Estimating dermal absorption is crucial for risk assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and present a method for estimating dermal benzene absorption from various hydrocarbon liquids.
• To account for the impact of evaporation on benzene flux through the skin.

Main Methods:

• Fitting a curve to experimental data to determine benzene flux as a function of concentration.
• Developing a time-averaging method to estimate reduced dermal flux during evaporation.
• Applying the method to example scenarios involving gasoline and less volatile liquids.

Main Results:

• Benzene flux is supralinear at concentrations less than or equal to 5% vol/vol.
• Evaporation of benzene from liquids can significantly decrease dermal absorption.
• The time-averaging method provides estimates for reduced dermal flux under evaporative conditions.

Conclusions:

• The developed method provides a practical approach for estimating dermal benzene absorption.
• Evaporation is a critical factor to consider in assessing benzene exposure risks.
• The study highlights the importance of considering liquid composition and physical properties in dermal absorption assessments.