Acetone: Environmental effects
Description
Acetone has a slight toxicity when exposed to aquatic life. Acetone has caused membrane damage, a decrease in size and decrease in germination of various agricultural and ornamental plants. The effects on birds or land animals have not been fully determined. Acetone is not expected to bioaccumulate in plants, animals or humans.
Entering the environment
Acetone occurs naturally in the environment. However, industrial processes contribute more acetone to the environment than natural processes.
Acetone is mainly emitted to air. It can move from the atmosphere into the water and soil by rain and snow, and it can quickly volatilise back into the air. Acetone is also capable of moving into the groundwater from spills or landfills, where it can be degraded within days.
Where it ends up
Acetone quickly evaporates to a gas if it is released as a liquid. It degrades in sunlight to other chemicals, with the half life for this being approximately 22 days. It does not bind to the soil or bioaccumulate in animals. Microorganisms in the soil and water are capable of degrading acetone.
Environmental guidelines
Currently there are no environmental guidelines for acetone.
Key
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