Toluene Diisocyanates
Toluene Diisocyanates
Toluene Diisocyanates Fact Sheet
This fact sheet is part of a series of chemical fact sheets developed by TURI to help Massachusetts companies, community organizations and residents understand the chemical's use and health and environmental effects, as well as the availability of safer alternatives. Since Massachusetts companies report usage under the Toxics Use Reduction Act, readers will learn how the chemicals are being used and by which companies.
Toluene-2,6-diisocyanate (2,6-TDI), toluene-2,4-diisocyanate (2,4-TDI), and toluene diisocyanate mixed isomers are the three forms of TDI commonly used in commerce. Exposure to TDIs can result in severe skin, eye, lung, and throat irritation, and respiratory sensitization. TDIs are strong sensitizers and are classified as possible carcinogens. Workplaces are the primary source of exposure to TDIs. TDI’s are used as intermediary chemicals in the manufacture of polyurethanes, among other applications. In Massachusetts, businesses used 6.6 million pounds of TDIs in 2014.