Document XOO4e0kobdakznOBJaED41GmK

\ June 30, 1969 Mr. Ted Ellas Chemical Engineer County of Los Angeles Health Dept. Room 400 220 North Broadway Los Angeles, California 90012 Dear Mr. Ellas 1 Mr. Cardlllo's letter of June 16 has been forwarded.to me for reply. In that letter he requested Information concerning our products designated as Aroclors. These compounds are chlorinated biphenyls, chlorinated terphenyla and mixtures of these materials. The enclosed table showing the nomenclature, physical properties and oral and skin lethal doses Indicates that these products vary from colorless oils to brittle resins depending on the degree of chlorination. The 1200 series are biphenyls chlorinated to the extent of the last two digits in the b2%.Aroclor designation. For example, Aroclor 1242 is bi phenyl chlorinated to the extent of The 5400 series are terphenyls chlorinated to 42$f and 60# respectively. The 4400and 2500 materials are mixtures of biphenyls and terphenyls chlorinated to The acute toxicity data typed at the bottom of the table Indicates that these materials are not seriously toxic from the standpoint of single oral doses or absorption through the unbroken skin (insofar as single exposure is concerned). I have enclosed also a reprint describing the results of chronic inhalation studies with two of these materials and a copy of the American Industrial Hygiene Association Hygienic Quids for chlorinated diphenyls (diphenyl and chlorinated biphenyl are the same materials--we prefer the biphenyl designation). DSW 282916 STLCOPCB4064245 Mr. Ted Ellas June 30, 1969 Page Two Although the Aroclors are not seriously toxic from the standpoint of single exposures and are not primary skin irritants or sensitizers, we do strongly recommend that prolonged and repeated skin contact be avoided. The liquid Aroclors are good solvents for the normal fats and oils on the skin and repeated exposure will lead to drying and chapping. More Important the liquid materi als can be absorbed through the unbroken skin with possi ble systemic effects. The degree of hazard increases if the Aroclors are in solution in oils. We further recommend that if the Aroclors are used at elevated temperatures, good mechanical exhaust ventilation be provided to remove any vapors which might be evolved. There is no necessity to consider the above information confidential. May I suggest for prompt handling of requests for toxi city information on Monsanto products that the request be directed to me or Dr. R. Emmet Kelly, Medical Director, at our St. Louis address. If we can be of further assistance, please do not hesi tate to let me know. Sincerely, EPW:Ju Enclosures Elmer P. Wheeler Manager, Environmental Health DSW 282917 STLCOPCB4064246