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ABS Resin

Hazardous Substances DataBank Number
8243

1 Human Health Effects

1.1 Toxicity Summary

IDENTIFICATION AND USE: ABS resin is a plastic material made from acrylonitrile, butadiene and styrene. It is used in piping, automotive components, appliance components, components of business machines, telephones and electrical and electronic equipment, pipe fittings, recreational vehicle components. Other uses of acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymers include packaging; luggage and cases; toys and sporting goods; and furniture. Since September 1977, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymers are no longer permitted in the fabrication of beverage containers. HUMAN EXPOSURE AND TOXICITY: The findings of epidemiology study conducted in Taiwan implied the ABS plastic injection-moulding process may worsen olfactory function among workers. Notably, this effect decreased olfactory threshold scores, not odor identification scores. ANIMAL STUDIES: The acute toxicity of ABS degradation products was found to be comparable with the toxicity of the thermal decomposition products of other common polymeric materials. Rats exposure to thermo-oxidation degradation products produced a decrease in tissue reduced glutathione concentration in liver and kidney but not in lung. Superoxide dismutase activity increased in liver and brain during the three-day exposure. In liver the activity reached the control value after the two-week exposure but the cerebral activity was significantly lower than in controls. In guinea pigs repeated exposure resulted in sensory irritation, coughing, and airways constriction and deaths, and there was evidence of cumulative respiratory effects, and slower recoveries among survivors. In mice recovery from the effects of exposure to ABS resin smoke was slower than recovery from exposure to smoke from Douglas fir chips, which was used as a comparison.

1.2 Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete)

/EPIDEMIOLOGY STUDIES/ Plastics manufacturing factories are the fifth largest category of factories in industrial estates in Taiwan. It is known that complex airborne compounds and pungent odors are emitted during plastic injection-moulding processes. Workers exposed to acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) thermal decomposition products (TDP) may have olfactory loss. This study examined olfactory loss in injection-moulding workers exposed to ABS TDP. The method recommended by the Connecticut Chemosensory Clinical Research Center (CCCRC) was used to test the olfactory function of subjects, including 1-butanol threshold and odor identification, both pre- and post-work. The study sample included 52 ABS plastic injection-moulding workers (exposed group), as well as 72 workers from other departments (reference group). The results revealed that the exposed group had lower olfactory function after work than the reference group. The decrease in olfactory function after 1 workday was statistically significant. The prevalence of abnormal olfactory function post-work in the exposed group was higher than in the reference group. The findings of this study implied the ABS plastic injection-moulding process may worsen olfactory function among workers. Notably, this effect decreased olfactory threshold scores, not odor identification scores.
Cheng CF et al; Occup Med (Lond) 54 (7): 469-74 (2004)

1.3 Skin, Eye, and Respiratory Irritations

Pulmonary irritation, respiratory function. /Pyrolysis products/
Werley MS et al; Inhal Toxicol 21 (14): 1186-99 (2009)

2 Emergency Medical Treatment

2.1 Antidote and Emergency Treatment (Complete)

/SRP:/ Immediate first aid: Ensure that adequate decontamination has been carried out. If patient is not breathing, start artificial respiration, preferably with a demand-valve resuscitator, bag-valve-mask device, or pocket mask, as trained. Perform CPR as necessary. Immediately flush contaminated eyes with gently flowing water. Do not induce vomiting. If vomiting occurs, lean patient forward or place on left side (head-down position, if possible) to maintain an open airway and prevent aspiration. Keep patient quiet and maintain normal body temperature. Obtain medical attention. /Aromatic hydrocarbons and related compounds/
Currance, P.L. Clements, B., Bronstein, A.C. (Eds).; Emergency Care For Hazardous Materials Exposure. 3rd revised edition, Elsevier Mosby, St. Louis, MO 2007, p. 209
/SRP:/ Basic treatment: Establish a patent airway (oropharyngeal or nasopharyngeal airway, if needed). Suction if necessary. Watch for signs of respiratory insufficiency and assist ventilations if necessary. Administer oxygen by nonrebreather mask at 10 to 15 L/min. Monitor for pulmonary edema and treat if necessary ... . Monitor for shock and treat if necessary ... . Anticipate seizures and treat if necessary ... . For eye contamination, flush eyes immediately with water. Irrigate each eye continuously with 0.9% saline (NS) during transport ... . Do not use emetics. For ingestion, rinse mouth and administer 5 mL/kg up to 200 mL of water for dilution if the patient can swallow, has a strong gag reflex, and does not drool. Administer activated charcoal ... . /Aromatic hydrocarbons and related compounds/
Currance, P.L. Clements, B., Bronstein, A.C. (Eds).; Emergency Care For Hazardous Materials Exposure. 3rd revised edition, Elsevier Mosby, St. Louis, MO 2007, p. 209-10
/SRP:/ Advanced treatment: Consider orotracheal or nasotracheal intubation for airway control in the patient who is unconscious, has severe pulmonary edema, or is in severe respiratory distress. Consider drug therapy for pulmonary edema ... . Positive-pressure ventilation techniques with a bag valve mask device may be beneficial. Consider drug therapy for pulmonary edema ... . Consider administering a beta agonist such as albuterol for severe bronchospasm ... . Monitor cardiac rhythm and treat arrhythmias if necessary ... Start IV administration of D5W /SRP: "To keep open", minimal flow rate/. Use 0.9% saline (NS) or lactated Ringer's (LR) if signs of hypovolemia are present. For hypotension with signs of hypovolemia, administer fluid cautiously. Watch for signs of fluid overload ... .Treat seizures with diazepam or lorazepam ... . Use proparacaine hydrochloride to assist eye irrigation ... . /Aromatic hydrocarbons and related compounds/
Currance, P.L. Clements, B., Bronstein, A.C. (Eds).; Emergency Care For Hazardous Materials Exposure. 3rd revised edition, Elsevier Mosby, St. Louis, MO 2007, p. 210
/SRP:/ Immediate first aid: Ensure that adequate decontamination has been carried out. If patient is not breathing, start artificial respiration, preferably with a demand-valve resuscitator, bog-valve-mask device, or pocket mask, as trained. Perform CPR if necessary. Immediately flush contaminated eyes with gently flowing water. Do not induce vomiting. If vomiting occurs, lean patient forward or place on left side (head-down position, if possible) to maintain an open airway and prevent aspiration. Keep patient quiet and maintain normal body temperature. Obtain medical attention. /Cyanide and related compounds/
Currance, P.L. Clements, B., Bronstein, A.C. (Eds).; Emergency Care For Hazardous Materials Exposure. 3rd revised edition, Elsevier Mosby, St. Louis, MO 2007, p. 431-2
/SRP:/ Basic treatment: Establish a patent airway (oropharyngeal or nasopharyngeal airway, if needed). Suction if necessary. Watch for signs of respiratory insufficiency and assist ventilations if necessary. Administer oxygen by nonrebreather mask at 10 to 15 L/min. Administer amyl nitrite ampules as per protocol and physician order ... . Monitor for shock and treat if necessary ... . Monitor for pulmonary edema and treat if necessary ... . Anticipate seizures and treat if necessary ... . For eye contamination, flush eyes immediately with water. Irrigate each eye continuously with 0.9% saline (NS) during transport ... . Do not use emetics. For ingestion, rinse mouth and administer 5 mL/kg up to 200 mL of water for dilution if the patient can swallow, has a strong gag reflex, and does not drool ... . /Cyanide and related compounds/
Currance, P.L. Clements, B., Bronstein, A.C. (Eds).; Emergency Care For Hazardous Materials Exposure. 3rd revised edition, Elsevier Mosby, St. Louis, MO 2007, p. 432
/SRP:/ Advanced treatment: Consider Consider orotracheal or nasotracheal intubation for airway control in the patient who is unconscious, has severe pulmonary edema, or is in severe respiratory distress. Positive-pressure ventilation techniques with a bag valve mask device may be beneficial. Consider drug therapy for pulmonary edema ... . Start IV administration of D5W /SRP: "To keep open", minimal flow rate/. Use 0.9% saline (NS) or lactated Ringer's (LR) if signs of hypovolemia are present. For hypotension with signs of hypovolemia, administer fluid cautiously. Consider vasopressors if patient is hypotensive with a normal fluid volume. Watch for signs of fluid overload ... . Administer cyanide antidote kit as per protocol and physician order ... . Treat seizures with diazepam or lorazepam ... . Use proparacaine hydrochloride to assist eye irrigation ... . /Cyanide and related compounds/
Currance, P.L. Clements, B., Bronstein, A.C. (Eds).; Emergency Care For Hazardous Materials Exposure. 3rd revised edition, Elsevier Mosby, St. Louis, MO 2007, p. 432

3 Animal Toxicity Studies

3.1 Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete)

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ A review of literature was undertaken to ascertain the current knowledge of the nature of the thermal decomposition products generated from ABS and the toxicity of these evolved products in toto. The literature review encompasses English language publications available through June 1984. This literature surveyed showed that the principal ABS thermooxidative degradation products of toxicologic importance are carbon monoxide and hydrogen cyanide. The experimental generation of these and other volatile products is principally dependent upon the combustion conditions and the formulation of the plastic. The toxicity of ABS thermal degradation products has been evaluated by fire methods. The LC50 (30 min exposure + 14 day post-exposure period) values for flaming combustion ranged from 15.0 mg/Lto 28.5 mg/L. In the non-flaming mode of combustion, the LC50 values ranged from 19.3 mg/L to 64.0 mg/L. Therefore, no apparent toxicological difference exists between the flaming mode and the non-flaming mode. The toxicity of ABS degradation products was found to be comparable with the toxicity of the thermal decomposition products of other common polymeric materials. /Thermal decomposition product/
Rutkowski JW, Levin BC; Fire and Materials 10: 93-105 (1986)
/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ Groups of guinea pigs were exposed to the thermal decomposition products (TDP) released from acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polypropylene-polyethylene copolymer (CP), polypropylene homopolymer (HP), or plasticized polyvinyl chloride (PVC). In single 50-min exposures to the TDP, guinea pigs exhibited sensory irritation, coughing, and airways constriction. Significant decreases in respiratory frequency (f) occurred during TDP exposure which were magnified during CO2 challenge conducted immediately post-exposure. For each resin, it was possible to demonstrate a linear relationship between the logarithm of heated mass and the percent decrease in f during CO2 challenge. From these relationships, the mass of each resin producing a 50% decrease in f during CO2 challenge (RD50 mass) was obtained. RD50 masses of 2744, 25.2, 16.0, and 6.7 g were obtained for ABS, CP, HP, and PVC, respectively. Thus, the relative potency of their TDP was PVC > CP approximately HP >> ABS. Using the RD50 mass of each resin, guinea pigs were exposed to TDP for 50 min/day on 5 consecutive days. These repeated exposures also resulted in sensory irritation, coughing, and airways constriction. However, deaths occurred during exposures, and there was evidence of cumulative respiratory effects, and slower recoveries among survivors. Data obtained in guinea pigs were compared to a previous study with mice exposed to the TDP of the same four resins. On the basis of heated mass, mice were 20-500 times more sensitive to the acute respiratory effects of TDP than guinea pigs. Thus, the exposure limits of 0.63, 0.11, 0.08, and 0.35 mg/cu m proposed on the basis of particulates released from ABS, CP, HP and PVC should prevent not only irritation, but also possible coughing, and airways constriction in workers.
Detwiler-Okabayashi K, Schaper M; Arch Toxicol 69 (4): 215-27 (1995)
/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Subchronic or Prechronic Exposure/ Male Wistar rats were exposed to thermo-oxidative degradation products of heated poly(acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene) (ABS). The exposures were conducted once, three times or ten times (5 nights/week, 6 hr/night) in the nighttime. The degradation products included styrene, various nitriles, aldehydes, acids, and a significant aerosol fraction. The oxygen concentration in the exposure chamber was constantly above 20%. The shortest exposures caused a significant reduction of the 0-deethylation activity in lung and kidney but not in liver, as well as a decrease in tissue reduced glutathione concentration in liver and kidney but not in lung. These effects well-nigh disappeared during the two-week exposure. In these rats the cerebral glutathione was below the control range. Superoxide dismutase activity increased in liver and brain during the three-day exposure. In liver the activity reached the control value after the two-week exposure but the cerebral activity was significantly lower than in controls. The complex mixture of noxious compounds in the ABS fumes does not readily allow identification of causative agents. Nitrile-dependent histotoxic, peroxidative and reactive metabolite mediated mechanisms may be involved.
Zitting A, Savolainen H; Arch Toxicol 46 (3-4): 295-304 (1980)
/OTHER TOXICITY INFORMATION/ Mice were exposed to the fumes and smoke produced when various polycarbonates, a polyester, a polysulfone and ABS resin, PVC and a polyphenylene oxide were heated to temperatures above their normal processing temperatures, in the range 220-400 °C. The polycarbonates and polysulfone produced little smoke with low irritating properties at <400 °C. At higher temperatures large amounts of carbon monoxide were produced resulting in lethal effects. The polyester, PVC and ABS resin all produced irritating smoke and recovery from the effects of exposure to this smoke was slower than recovery from exposure to smoke from Douglas fir chips, which was used as a comparison.
Sangha GK et al; Am Ind Hyg Assoc J 42 (7): 481-5 (1981)
/OTHER TOXICITY INFORMATION/ Modern cigarette manufacturing is highly automated and produces millions of cigarettes per day. The potential for small inclusions of non-cigarette materials such as wood, cardboard packaging, plastic, and other materials exists as a result of bulk handling and high-speed processing of tobacco. Many non-tobacco inclusions such as wood, paper, and cardboard would be expected to yield similar pyrolysis products as a burning cigarette. The aircraft industry has developed an extensive literature on the pyrolysis products of plastics, however, that have been reported to yield toxic by-products upon burning, by-products that have been lethal in animals and humans upon acute exposure under some exposure conditions. Some of these smoke constituents have also been reported in cigarette smoke. Five synthetic polymers, nylon 6, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS), nylon 12, nylon 6,6, and acrylonitrile-butadiene (AB), and the natural polymer wool were evaluated by adding them to tobacco at a 3, 10, and 30% inclusion level and then pyrolyzing the mixture. The validated smoke generation and exposure system have been described previously. We used the DIN 53-436 tube furnace and nose-only exposure chamber in combination to conduct exposures in Swiss-Webster mice. Potentially useful biological endpoints for predicting hazards in humans included sensory irritation and pulmonary irritation, respiratory function, clinical signs, body weights, bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid analysis, carboxyhemoglogin, blood cyanide concentrations, and histopathology of the respiratory tract. Chemical analysis of selected smoke constituents in the test atmosphere was also performed in order to compare the toxicological responses with exposure to the test atmospheres. Under the conditions of these studies, biological responses considered relevant and useful for prediction of effects in humans were found for sensory irritation, body weights, BAL fluid analysis, and histopathology of the nose. There was a marked sensory irritation response that recovered slowly for some polymers. Sustained body weight depression, lesions of the respiratory epithelium of the nose, and morphological changes in pulmonary alveolar macrophages (PAM) were observed after exposure to some polymer/tobacco pyrolysates. These responses were increased compared to exposure to tobacco pyrolysate alone. No moribundity or mortality occurred during the study. The data suggest that polymeric inclusions pose a minimal additional toxicologic hazard in humans. /Pyrolysis products/
Werley MS et al; Inhal Toxicol 21 (14): 1186-99 (2009)

3.2 Non-Human Toxicity Values (Complete)

LC50 Mice inhalation 10 g/cu m 30 min /ABS pyrolysis products/
Lewis, R.J. Sr. (ed) Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 11th Edition. Wiley-Interscience, Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ. 2004., p. 73

3.3 Ecotoxicity Values (Complete)

LD50; Species: Lepomis macrochirus (Bluegill) weight 1.2-2.8 g, length 40-61 mm; Conditions: freshwater, static, 19.9 (19.8-20.0) °C; Concentration: 3600000 ug/L for 96 hr (95% confidence interval: 3028000-4280000 ug/L) /formulation/
Watkins II,CE et al; Bull Environ Contam Toxicol 34 (1): 138-42 (1985) as cited in the ECOTOX database. Available from, as of May 24, 2015

4 Pharmacology

4.1 Interactions (Complete)

The Occupational Health Branch of the Ontario Ministry of Labour began a study in 1978 for the evaluation of health risks associated with acrylonitrile (AN) exposure. Detailed hygiene and medical investigations were conducted in fourteen plants for evaluating AN exposure in various industrial processes. Four companies were also studied in relation to mixed chemical exposure representing acrylic fibres, nitrile rubber, ABS-resin, and acrylic emulsions production. The possible interaction between AN and other coexisting chemical exposures was reviewed since dimethyl formamide, styrene, and butadiene have similar pharmacokinetics and possible synergistic effects. Exposure in acrylic fibre production may be synergistic and carcinogenic. Results of air monitoring indicated exposure levels to AN below 2 ppm (TWA) in most cases. Exposure to other co-existing chemicals was evaluated. Results of medical tests indicated no significant abnormalities in chest x-rays or liver function tests in currently exposed workers.
Guirguis SS et al; G Ital Med Lav 6 (3-4): 87-93 (1984)

5 Environmental Fate & Exposure

5.1 Probable Routes of Human Exposure (Complete)

NIOSH (NOES Survey 1981-1983) has statistically estimated that 119,649 workers (42,653 of these were female) were potentially exposed to ABS Resin in the US(1).
(1) NIOSH; NOES. National Occupational Exposure Survey conducted from 1981-1983. Estimated numbers of employees potentially exposed to specific agents by 2-digit standard industrial classification (SIC). Available from, as of June 25, 2015: https://www.cdc.gov/noes/

6 Environmental Standards & Regulations

6.1 FDA Requirements (Complete)

Acrylonitrile copolymers and resins listed in this section, containing less than 30 percent acrylonitrile and complying with the requirements of paragraph (b) of this section, may be safely used as follows: (1) Films. (i) Acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene copolymers-no restrictions. ... (2) Coatings ... (iii) Acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene copolymer-no restrictions. ... (3) Rigid and semirigid containers. (i) Acrylonitrile/butadiene/styrene copolymer-for use only as piping for handling food products and for repeated-use articles intended to contact food.
21 CFR 181.32 (USFDA); U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of June 3, 2015: https://www.ecfr.gov

7 Chemical / Physical Properties

7.1 Molecular Formula

(C8-H8.C4-H6.C3-H3-N)x-

7.2 Molecular Weight

60,000-200,000
Walker B et al; Polyvinyl Acetate, Alcohol and Derivatives, Polystyrene, and Acrylics. Patty's Toxicology. 6th ed. (1999-2015). New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. On-line Posting Date: Aug 17, 2012.

7.3 Density

1.02-1.07
Walker B et al; Polyvinyl Acetate, Alcohol and Derivatives, Polystyrene, and Acrylics. Patty's Toxicology. 6th ed. (1999-2015). New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. On-line Posting Date: Aug 17, 2012.

7.4 Other Experimental Properties (Complete)

ABS Resin is resistant to attack by mineral oils, waxes, and related commercial material because of the polar character of the nitrile group from acrylonitrile component.
Walker B et al; Polyvinyl Acetate, Alcohol and Derivatives, Polystyrene, and Acrylics. Patty's Toxicology. 6th ed. (1999-2015). New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. On-line Posting Date: Aug 17, 2012.

8 Chemical Safety & Handling

8.1 Fire Potential

Combustible but slow burning.
IARC. Monographs on the Evaluation of the Carcinogenic Risk of Chemicals to Humans. Geneva: World Health Organization, International Agency for Research on Cancer, 1972-PRESENT. (Multivolume work). Available at: https://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Classification/index.php, p. V19 93 (1979)

8.2 Hazardous Reactivities and Incompatibilities (Complete)

Attacked by nitric and sulfuric acids, and by aldehydes, ketones, esters and chlorinated hydrocarbons; unaffected by water, inorganic salts and alkalis.
IARC. Monographs on the Evaluation of the Carcinogenic Risk of Chemicals to Humans. Geneva: World Health Organization, International Agency for Research on Cancer, 1972-PRESENT. (Multivolume work). Available at: https://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Classification/index.php, p. V19 93 (1979)

8.3 Disposal Methods (Complete)

SRP: Recycle any unused portion of the material for its approved use or return it to the manufacturer or supplier. Ultimate disposal of the chemical must consider: the material's impact on air quality; potential migration in air, soil or water; effects on animal, aquatic and plant life; and conformance with environmental and public health regulations. If it is possible or reasonable use an alternative chemical product with less inherent propensity for occupational harm/injury/toxicity or environmental contamination.

9 Manufacturing / Use Information

9.1 Uses (Complete)

In the United States, the ABS market includes pipe automotive trim application (structural parts, grills, dashboards), and appliance parts. Among appliances, the largest applications are in refrigerator liners, vegetable crisper pans, and door shelves. Smaller markets include business machines, telephones, electrical and electronic equipment, luggage, and furniture. ABS is used infrequently in food packaging.
Walker B et al; Polyvinyl Acetate, Alcohol and Derivatives, Polystyrene, and Acrylics. Patty's Toxicology. 6th ed. (1999-2015). New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. On-line Posting Date: Aug 17, 2012.
Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymers are used for automotive interior components such as instrument panels, consoles, ducts, door-post covers and other smaller parts. Exterior parts include front radiator grilles and headlight housings. In the 1978 model year, an average of 8 kg acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymers were used on a US-produced passenger car.
IARC. Monographs on the Evaluation of the Carcinogenic Risk of Chemicals to Humans. Geneva: World Health Organization, International Agency for Research on Cancer, 1972-PRESENT. (Multivolume work). Available at: https://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Classification/index.php, p. V19 95 (1979)
Pipes and pipe fittings made of acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymers are primarily used (75%) for drain, waste and vent piping. Most of the balance is believed to be used in sewer main piping and house-sewer connection piping, with smaller amounts used for e1ectrical conduit and industrial piping.
IARC. Monographs on the Evaluation of the Carcinogenic Risk of Chemicals to Humans. Geneva: World Health Organization, International Agency for Research on Cancer, 1972-PRESENT. (Multivolume work). Available at: https://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Classification/index.php, p. V19 95 (1979)
Components of large appliances accounted for most (75%) of the acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymers used in appliances, especial1y door liners and food compartments of household refrigerators. The remainder was used for components of small appliances, such as fans and bases of blenders.
IARC. Monographs on the Evaluation of the Carcinogenic Risk of Chemicals to Humans. Geneva: World Health Organization, International Agency for Research on Cancer, 1972-PRESENT. (Multivolume work). Available at: https://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Classification/index.php, p. V19 95 (1979)
Telephone components accounted for a large share (35%) of the acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymers used in electrical or electronic applications. The remainder was used for housings of calculators and for housings, covers, consoles and other components of business machines and other electrical and electronic equipment.
IARC. Monographs on the Evaluation of the Carcinogenic Risk of Chemicals to Humans. Geneva: World Health Organization, International Agency for Research on Cancer, 1972-PRESENT. (Multivolume work). Available at: https://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Classification/index.php, p. V19 95 (1979)
Snowmobile components represent the largest single use of acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymers in recreational equipment. Other uses include interior components and parts for campers and marine recreation applications (e.g., canoes and interiors of small and large boats).
IARC. Monographs on the Evaluation of the Carcinogenic Risk of Chemicals to Humans. Geneva: World Health Organization, International Agency for Research on Cancer, 1972-PRESENT. (Multivolume work). Available at: https://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Classification/index.php, p. V19 96 (1979)
Since September 1977, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymers are no longer permitted in the fabrication of beverage containers.
IARC. Monographs on the Evaluation of the Carcinogenic Risk of Chemicals to Humans. Geneva: World Health Organization, International Agency for Research on Cancer, 1972-PRESENT. (Multivolume work). Available at: https://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Classification/index.php, p. V19 96 (1979)
Other uses of acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymers include packaging (margarine tubs); luggage and cases; toys and sporting goods; and furniture.
IARC. Monographs on the Evaluation of the Carcinogenic Risk of Chemicals to Humans. Geneva: World Health Organization, International Agency for Research on Cancer, 1972-PRESENT. (Multivolume work). Available at: https://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Classification/index.php, p. V19 96 (1979)

9.2 Manufacturers

INEOS ABS (USA) Corporation, 356 Three Rivers Parkway, Addyston, OH 45001, (877)-233-9227; Production site: Lustran Polymers, Addyston, OH 45001, (513)-467-2400
SRI Consulting. 2011 Directory of Chemical Producers United States. SRI Consulting, Menlo Park, CA 2011, p. 784
SABIC Innovative Plastics, 1 Plastics Avenue, Pittsfield, MA 01201, (413)-448-7110; Production sites: Bay St. Louis, MS 39521; Ottawa, IL 61350; Washington, WV 26181
SRI Consulting. 2011 Directory of Chemical Producers United States. SRI Consulting, Menlo Park, CA 2011, p. 784
Styron LLC, 4520 Ashmann Street, Midland, MI 48642, (989)-633-1718; Production site: Midland, MI 48667
SRI Consulting. 2011 Directory of Chemical Producers United States. SRI Consulting, Menlo Park, CA 2011, p. 784

9.3 Methods of Manufacturing (Complete)

Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymers are produced commercially in the USA by graft polymerization of acrylonitrile and styrene on a polybutadiene substrate in emulsion, suspension and bulk processes.
IARC. Monographs on the Evaluation of the Carcinogenic Risk of Chemicals to Humans. Geneva: World Health Organization, International Agency for Research on Cancer, 1972-PRESENT. (Multivolume work). Available at: https://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Classification/index.php, p. V19 94 (1979)
All manufacturing processes for ABS involve the polymerization of styrene and acrylonitrile monomers in the presence of an elastomer (typically polybutadiene or a butadiene copolymer) to produce SAN /styrene and acrylonitrile copolymer/ that has been chemically bonded or "grafted" to the rubber component termed the "substrate."
Kulich DM et al; Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene (ABS) Polymers. Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology (1999-2015). John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Online Posting Date: June 20, 2003

9.4 General Manufacturing Information (Complete)

A typical medium impact grade of acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer is derived from 57.4% styrene, 13.3% butadiene and 29.3% acrylonitrile...
IARC. Monographs on the Evaluation of the Carcinogenic Risk of Chemicals to Humans. Geneva: World Health Organization, International Agency for Research on Cancer, 1972-PRESENT. (Multivolume work). Available at: https://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Classification/index.php, p. V19 94 (1979)
A plastic material made from acrylonitrile, butadiene and styrene was first introduced in the US in the late 1940's. The polymer was a physical blend of a butadiene-acrylonitrile rubbery copolymer and a styrene-acrylonitrile copolymer. In the 1950' s, the technique of grafting styrene and acrylonitrile onto polybutadiene rubber was perfected, thus introducing the acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymers in use today. These copolymers were first produced commercially in Japan in 1964.
IARC. Monographs on the Evaluation of the Carcinogenic Risk of Chemicals to Humans. Geneva: World Health Organization, International Agency for Research on Cancer, 1972-PRESENT. (Multivolume work). Available at: https://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Classification/index.php, p. V19 94 (1979)
ABS contains over 50% styrene and varying amounts of butadiene and acrylonitrile. Some production is from swing capacity. ABS is the largest volume engineering thermoplastic. High impact polystyrene has become almost as expensive as ABS so some manufacturers have changed back to ABS resins
Kulich DM et al; Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene (ABS) Polymers. Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology (1999-2015). John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Online Posting Date: June 20, 2003

9.5 Formulations / Preparations (Complete)

Numerous grades of ABS are available including new alloys and specialty grades for high heat, plating, flaming-retardant, or static dissipative product requirements.
Kulich DM et al; Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene (ABS) Polymers. Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology (1999-2015). John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Online Posting Date: June 20, 2003

9.6 Impurities (Complete)

Two USA commercial copolymer samples examined were found to contain 30 and 50 mg/kg (ppm) residual, unreacted acrylonitrile monomer.
IARC. Monographs on the Evaluation of the Carcinogenic Risk of Chemicals to Humans. Geneva: World Health Organization, International Agency for Research on Cancer, 1972-PRESENT. (Multivolume work). Available at: https://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Classification/index.php, p. V19 94 (1979)

9.7 Consumption Patterns (Complete)

The 476.7 million kg acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymers used in the US in 1977 were in: piping (22%), automotive components (20%), appliance components (15%), components of business machines, telephones and electrical and electronic equipment (10%), pipe fittings (7%), recreational vehicle components (7%) and other uses (19%).
IARC. Monographs on the Evaluation of the Carcinogenic Risk of Chemicals to Humans. Geneva: World Health Organization, International Agency for Research on Cancer, 1972-PRESENT. (Multivolume work). Available at: https://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Classification/index.php, p. V19 95 (1979)
In 2002 the largest market for ABS resins worldwide was for appliances (23%). The majority of this consumption was for major appliances; extruded/thermoformed door and tank liners lead the way. ... Transportation was the second largest market (21%). Uses are numerous and include both interior and exterior applications. Interior injection-molded applications account for the greatest volume. ... Pipe and fittings remain a significant market for ABS at 13%, particularly in North America. ... A large "value-added" market for ABS is business machines and other electrical and electronic equipment at 11%. ... Medical application accounted for 4% of use. Miscellaneous applications included toys, luggage, lawn and garden products, shower stalls, furniture and ABS resin blends with other polymers. Miscellaneous uses accounted for 28% of consumption.
Kulich DM et al; Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene (ABS) Polymers. Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology (1999-2015). John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Online Posting Date: June 20, 2003

10 Laboratory Methods

10.1 Analytic Laboratory Methods (Complete)

Fourier transform infrared (ftir) spectroscopy is the method of choice to identify the presence of an ABS polymer and determine the acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene ratio of the composite polymer. Confirmation of the presence of rubber domains is achieved by electron microscopy. Comparison with available physical property data serves to increase confidence in the identification or indicate the presence of unexpected structural features. Identification of ABS via pyrolysis gas chromatography and dsc /Differential Scanning Calorimetry/ has also been reported.
Kulich DM et al; Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene (ABS) Polymers. Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology (1999-2015). John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Online Posting Date: June 20, 2003
Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) resin manufacturing wastewater is a complicated, toxic and refractory industrial wastewater. Comprehensive and accurate analysis of the typical pollutants in ABS resin manufacturing wastewater is critical to develop cost-effective wastewater treatment technologies. In this paper, a comprehensively qualitative analysis combined with three complementary methods has been developed for the detection of typical pollutants in ABS resin manufacturing wastewater from three production sections, and thirty-seven compounds had been detected and further confirmed by this analysis method with standards. Simultaneous chromatographic separation and quantification of seven representative pollutants, including three mononuclear aromatics, three acrylonitrile dimers and one acrylonitrile derivative, were achieved by GC-FID system. The detection limits of this method for seven representative pollutants were in the range of 0.007-0.89 mg/L. The within-day and between-day precisions of this method were less than 6.5% (RSD, n=6). The recoveries of the representative pollutants reached 90-120%. The ABS resin manufacturing wastewater from E zone was successfully determined by this method, with two mononuclear aromatics and three acrylonitrile dimers accounting for 57.73% and 40.63% of the selected seven compounds, respectively. These results reveal that the removal of mononuclear aromatics and acrylonitrile dimers is a key to treat this wastewater.
Lai B et al; J Chromatogr A. 1244: 161-7 (2012)

11 Synonyms and Identifiers

Synonyms

9003-56-9

ABS Resin

Styrene-acrylonitrile-butadiene copolymer

Styrene, acrylonitrile, butadiene polymer

Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer

Acrylonitrile 1,3-butadiene styrene polymer

ABS

2-Propenenitrile, polymer with 1,3-butadiene and ethenylbenzene

11.2 Substance Title

ABS Resin

12 Administrative Information

12.1 Hazardous Substances DataBank Number

8243

12.2 Last Revision Date

20151223

12.3 Last Review Date

Reviewed by SRP on 9/17/2015

12.4 Update History

Complete Update on 2015-12-23, 28 fields added/edited/deleted

Created 20150414

CONTENTS