Environmental and Health Risks of Sulfuryl Fluoride, a Fumigant Replacement for Methyl Bromide

Abstract

Sulfuryl fluoride (SO₂F₂) is used primarily as a fumigant in replacement of methyl bromide, but it has the potential to contribute significantly to the global warming. This article introduces SO₂F₂ in the physicochemical properties, the current uses in agriculture and industry, the toxicological data, and the environmental implications on the basis of its environmental properties. The health hazards of SO₂F₂ and its probable decomposition products were also evaluated based on their occupational exposure limits and possible exposure sources. The resident and occupational exposure assessment was further discussed to understand seriousness of risk caused by SO₂F₂ and its decomposition products.

Keywords:

• sulfuryl fluoride
• fumigation
• fluoride
• health hazard
• exposure assessment
• environmental implication