Determination of alkyl-2-cyanoacrylate concentrations in air

Abstract

Alkyl-2-cyanoacrylate adhesives are being increasingly used in industrial processes because they cure rapidly and produce very high bond strength polymers. Concern has been expressed by occupational hygienists for the health of persons exposed to alkyl-2-cyanoacrylate vapour and consequently a field method has been devised for measuring levels down to 0.12 mg/m3(for a 10 litre air sample). The method is based on the ability of alkali to react with alkyl-2-cyanoacrylate monomer to produce a polymer and formaldehyde. The formaldehyde produced is reacted with 4-amino-3-hydrazino-5-mercapto-1,2,4-triazole and potassium perchlorate to produce a red-coloured derivative whose concentration can be estimated colorimetrically at 552 nm.