Permeation of Ethylene Oxide Through Protective Clothing Materials for Chemical Emergency Response

Abstract

The manufacture and use of ethylene oxide requires the capability for emergency response teams to mitigate accidental releases of the chemical. The characteristics and hazards of ethylene oxide dictate the use of protective clothing which prevents permeation, either as a liquid or as vapor. A study was done to evaluate protective clothing materials against ethylene oxide. The study first examined published data on the chemical resistance of garment materials. Where no data were available, specific material permeation tests were done with ethylene oxide. The results of this study provided the basis for recommending two protective suit and glove materials as well as three visor materials for use. This study also illustrates an approach for identifying materials with satisfactory performance characteristics for use in emergency response situations.