Carbon Tetrachloride
CAS Number: 56-23-5
Sources of exposure:
Historical dry-cleaning fluids, household cleaning products, fire extinguishers, chemical manufacturing, and contaminated air or groundwater
Description:
Carbon tetrachloride is a volatile chlorinated solvent historically used in cleaning fluids, fire extinguishers, and industrial processes. Most consumer uses have been discontinued because of its toxicity and environmental effects, but it remains relevant in certain industrial applications. Exposure may occur through contaminated air, water, or occupational settings.
Health concerns:
Cancer
Known or suspected to increase cancer risk in humans.
Reproductive Toxicity
May alter hormone function and harm reproduction.
Genotoxicity
May cause mutations or damage DNA in cells.
Neurotoxicity
May impact brain function or development.
Organ System Toxicity
May cause organ damage and disease.
Immunotoxicity & Allergens
May impact immune system function or cause allergic reactions.
Ecotoxicity
May be toxic to ecosystems and wildlife.
Banned/restricted lists:
- California Proposition 65 - OEHHA - cancer
- EU Cosmetics Regulation Annex II - Prohibited
- Health Canada Cosmetic Ingredient Hotlist - Prohibited
References
- US Environmental Protection Agency. Cheminformatics Modules, Computational Toxicology and Exposure Informatics (CompTox).
- California Department of Public Health. California Safe Cosmetics Reportable Ingredients List. US National Library of Medicine. PubChem database.