Document ZYXw4qnaO6VnLBLDVb6pjZNJ

Juna 30, 1969 Mr. Ted Silas Chemical Engineer County of Los Angeles Health Dept. Room 400 220 North Broadway Los Angeles, California 90012 Dear Mr. Ellast 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 Aroolors. These compounds are chlorinated biphenyls, chlorinated terphenyls 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 Aroclor designation. For example, Aroclor 1242 is bi phenyl chlorinated to the extent of 42J<. The 5400 series are terphenyls chlorinated to k2% and 60% respectively. The 4400and 2500 materials are mixtures of biphenyls and terphenyls chlorinated to 65 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 la ooncemed). 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 Guide for ohlorinated diphenyls (diphenyl and chlorinated biphenyl are the same materials--we prefer the biphenyl designation). DSW 018400 STLCOPCB4004944 Mr. Ted Elias 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 bo 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. Snmet 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, EPWiJu Enclosures Elmer P. Wheeler Manager, Environmental Health DSW 0X8401 STLCOPCB4004945