Levels, Distributions, and Potential Risks of Hexachlorobutadiene from Two Tetrachloroethylene Factories in China

Abstract

A systematic investigation was conducted on the emission of hexachlorobutadiene (HCBD) from two tetrachloroethylene factories that used the acetylene method (F1) and the tetrachloride transformation method (F2). The levels of HCBD in the air for F1 were found to be in the range of 1.46–1170 µg/m3, whereas F2 had levels in the range of 1.96–5530 µg/m3. Similarly, the levels of HCBD in the soil for F1 were found to be in the range from 42.2 to 140 µg/kg, whereas F2 had levels in the range from 4.13 to 2180 µg/kg. Samples obtained from the air, soil, and sludge in the reaction area of the tetrachloroethylene factories in China showed high levels of HCBD. The F1 method unintentionally produced more HCBD than the F2 method during tetrachloroethylene production, leading to greater harm. The results of the risk assessment suggested the presence of harmful health effects on workers in the workplace. The investigation findings highlight the need for improved management systems to ensure the safe production of tetrachloroethylene.