Isocyanates are a group of chemicals which have been used for industrial purposes for more than 50 years, mainly for manufacturing of polyurethane plastics (PUR). PUR is nowadays found in for example foam, thermoplastics, fibers, adhesives, coatings and lacquers, foils and insulation materials. Isocyanates are extremely toxic. The most critical effect of isocyanate exposure is the risk of developing isocyanate asthma. In many cases, there is also a development of hypersensitivity to air pollution and odors. Other serious effects are decreased lung function and skin allergies. Common symptoms include headache and respiratory problems such as nasal congestion, sniffing, nose bleeding or coughing. In many countries, isocyanates are subject to very low occupational exposure limits due to their hazardous properties.

This analysis can be used to determine the exposure to 4.4’-MDI, 1.5-NDI, 2.4-TDI, 2.6-TDI, 1.6-HDI, IPDI and their related diamines. Exposure to 4.4’-MDI, 1.5-NDI, 2.4-TDI, 2.6-TDI, 1.6-HDI, IPDI is determined by measuring the amounts of the related amine, i.e. 4.4’-MDA, 1.5-NDA, 2.4-TDA, 2.6-TDA, 1.6-HDA, IPDA.