Beta-Propiolactone is a chemical whose use has declined since it has been designated as reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen. It is a cyclic ester with a four-membered ring.
Features:
(1) soluble in water
(2) miscible with most solvents
(3) unstable in water and at room temperature
(4) stable at 5° C
(5) pungent, slightly sweet odor
Uses:
(1) vapor sterilant for blood, tissue grafts, vaccines, and surgical instrument
(2) sporicide
(3) viricide
(4) fungicide
Human exposure:
(1) inhalation
(2) dermal contact
(3) ingestion
Sources of exposure:
(1) laboratories
(2) industry
Tumors in animals include:
(1) skin
(2) nasal
(3) gastrointestinal tract
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