Document 6RzJjNkV849MDLXN3omNrrnko

ISA-15 CHEMICAL WEEK WEEKLY 55,400 SEP 6 1978 (SI) Why PC8* lost out PCB fluids (askarels) came into use in the electrical industry in 1929, as dielec trie insulating fluids with fire-resistant properties. On certain installations, they replaced hydrocarbon mineral oil, which is flammable. Mineral oil is still used In many applieslions. It is well-suited for filling transformers in rural areas, for example, but might prove hazardous if tbs installation is near schools, hospitals, subway systems and other populated areas. The askarels are nonflammable, longlasting and inert--ironically, the proper ties that caused their downfall. Records of Monsanto, the only US. produoar, show that before 1971, production waa 55 million lbs./year, which west to thousands of customers (e.g., for lubricants, carbon less carbon paper, adhesives, surface cost ings)- By 1971, however, research had indi cated the persistence of PCBs and the company begin phasing out aalea for open applications Salea were cut to 45 million Ihaypanr. From 1971 to 1976, Monsanto reports, average production was 27 million IbeVyeer, with aaiei to fewer than 40 customers, all manufacturer! of tealed electrical equipment. Even those uses seemed to offer potential hazards howev er. and indications of sdverse health effects--possibly causing cancsr, birth defects, and liver, nerve end sldn demage in humans-muled PCBs' fate. Monsanto halted production in July 1977. September f, 1975 CHEMCAL WEEK 1M