Ethylene oxide: Environmental effects
Description
The immediate effects of exposure to high concentrations of ethylene oxide can mean death of animals, birds or fish and death or low growth rate in plants. Long-term effects on animal life may include shortened lifespan, reproductive problems, lower fertility, and changes in appearance or behaviour. Ethylene oxide has moderate long term toxicity to aquatic life.
Entering the environment
If spilled in water ethylene oxide will spread on the surface, vaporise, and mix with the water. Ethylene oxide can also be dispersed by the wind.
Where it ends up
Because it is so reactive ethylene oxide will not stay in the environment very long. Ethylene oxide is converted to ethylene glycol when released. Ethylene oxide is not persistent in air due to washout by rain and degradation by chemical processes. Short term ecological effects of larger contaminations are: death of animals including birds and fish, death of plants or low growth rates in plants. Ethylene oxide has moderate acute (short term) toxicity to aquatic life. Long term effects may include shortened lifespan, reproductive problems and lower fertility rates.
Environmental guidelines
No national guidelines.
Key
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