Jet Propulsion Fuel 8 toxicity: Difference between revisions
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==Background== | ==Background== | ||
* Jet Propulsion Fuel 8 used by US military (aircraft, tanks, other military vehicles) | * Jet Propulsion Fuel 8 (JP-8) used by US military (aircraft, tanks, other military vehicles) | ||
** Replaced JP-4 in 1992 as single fuel which was safer and reduced risk of fire/explosion | ** Replaced JP-4 in 1992 as single fuel which was safer and reduced risk of fire/explosion | ||
** Kerosene 99.8% by weight (benzene <0.05%) | ** Kerosene 99.8% by weight (benzene <0.05%) |
Revision as of 07:30, 16 February 2018
Background
- Jet Propulsion Fuel 8 (JP-8) used by US military (aircraft, tanks, other military vehicles)
- Replaced JP-4 in 1992 as single fuel which was safer and reduced risk of fire/explosion
- Kerosene 99.8% by weight (benzene <0.05%)
- High flash point
- Low volatility
- Additives include anti-icing, anti-static, anti-oxidation, anti-corrosive
- JP-8 mainly consists of hydrocarbon chains from C9-C12
Toxicology
Routes of Exposure
- Inhalation - principal route of exposure for workers included in aircraft refueling activities
- Oral - minor route of exposure usually because of eating or drinking contaminated water
- Dermal - minor route of exposure if soil/water contaminated. Potentially significant route of exposure for workers not using adequate protective clothing
Minimal Risk Levels
- No acute-duration inhalation MRL established
- MRL of 3 mg/kg/day has been derived for acute oral exposure
Health Effects
- Studies have shown exposure can affect nervous system
- Target organs include lungs, liver, skin, immune and nervous systems
- Carcinogenicity not classified by EPA or US Department of Health and Human Services
Clinical Features
- Short term exposure - skin irritation (red, itchy, peeling), headache, fatigue, dizziness, difficulty concentrating, poor coordination, liver dysfunction, respiratory effects include painful breathing, feeling of suffocation
- Long term exposure lung and kidney damage
- Taste and odor complaints related to tenacity of JP-8
Differential Diagnosis
Evaluation
- Based on history and physical examination findings
Management
Inhalation
- Move to fresh air
- Monitor for respiratory distress
- Secure airway if needed
Dermal
- Remove contaminated clothing
- Wash exposed areas with soap and water for 10 to 15 minutes
- Treat dermal irritation with topical corticosteroids
Disposition
- Discharge home if asymptomatic after observation period 6-8 hours with normal vital signs and normal respiratory examination
- Admit if clinical evidence of severe toxicity or respiratory distress