Related Experiment Videos
Manganese in the U.S. gasoline supply
1Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
American Journal of Industrial Medicine
|January 1, 1997
Summary
Methylcyclopentadienyl manganese tricarbonyl (MMT) is a gasoline additive approved in the US. Its use may increase population manganese exposure, raising concerns about potential nervous system and developmental toxicity.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Toxicology
- Public Health
Background:
- Methylcyclopentadienyl manganese tricarbonyl (MMT) is an organic manganese compound.
- MMT has been approved for use as a gasoline additive in the United States.
- The use of MMT is projected to increase.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the impact of MMT use on population exposure to manganese.
- To evaluate the health effects associated with manganese exposure from MMT.
- To assess the potential for MMT use to lead to population toxicity.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on MMT, manganese exposure, and health effects.
- Analysis of potential exposure pathways and susceptible populations.
- Evaluation of current evidence regarding manganese toxicity.
Main Results:
- MMT use is expected to cause a small increase in average manganese exposure, but disproportionate exposure in certain populations.
- High-level manganese exposure is linked to severe nervous system toxicity, pulmonary toxicity, and potential developmental toxicity.
- Specific subpopulations may be more vulnerable to manganese toxicity.
Conclusions:
- Current evidence is insufficient to definitively conclude whether widespread MMT use will result in toxic effects.
- Prudence suggests withholding MMT use until further safety data are available.
- Recommendations are provided to manage the risks associated with MMT in the U.S. gasoline supply.