Isocyanates

Abstract

The strong reactivity of isocyanates is related to one or several -N= C= O groups. So these compounds are therefore worldwide used in large industrial fields. Likewise they are responsible for human reactivity and are the main cause of chemical occupational asthma in industrial countries, including in France. The severity of the pathology is related to asthma-induced impairment/disability or obstructive bronchiolitis after acute intoxication. Information on the complex pathomechanisms and mutagenic effects still lack. Industrial hygiene has to be more rigorous for better controlled methods of reducing exposure (in particular during spraying of paints…) and substitute products should be used if possible.