Mini Link Hydraulic System Operations Manual
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Polymer Matrix Materials: Advanced Composites
Potential health hazards associated with the use of advanced composites can be controlled through
the implementation of an effective industrial hygiene and safety program.
https://www.osha.gov/dts/osta/otm/otm_iii/otm_iii_1.html#t iii:1_1
Resins
Composite Component
Organ System Target
(Possible Target)
Known (Possible) Health Effect
Epoxy resins
Skin, lungs, eyes
Contact and allergic dermatitis,
conjunctivitis
Polyurethane resins
Lungs, skin, eyes
Respiratory sensitization, contact
dermatitis, conjunctivitis
Phenol formaldehyde
Skin, lungs, eyes
As above (potential carcinogen)
Bismaleimides (BMI)
Skin, lungs, eyes
As above (potential carcinogen)
Polyamides
Skin, lungs, eyes
As above (potential carcinogen)
Reinforcing materials
Composite Component
Organ System Target
(Possible Target)
Known (Possible) Health Effect
Aramid fibers
Skin (lungs)
Skin and respiratory irritation, contact
dermatitis (chronic interstitial lung disease)
Carbon/graphite fibers
Skin (lungs)
As noted for aramid fibers
Glass fibers (continuous
filament)
Skin (lungs)
As noted for aramid fibers
Hardeners and curing agents
Composite Component
Organ System Target
(Possible Target)
Known (Possible) Health Effect
Diaminodiphenylsulfone
N/A
No known effects with workplace
exposure
Methylenedianiline
Liver, skin
Hepatotoxicity, suspect human carcinogen
Other aromatic amines
Composite Component
Organ System Target
(Possible Target)
Known (Possible) Health Effect
Meta-phenylenediamine (MPDA)
Liver, skin (kidney,
bladder)
Hepatitis, contact dermatitis (kidney and
bladder cancer)
Aliphatic andcyclo-aliphatic
amines
Eyes, skin
Severe irritation, contact dermatitis
Polyaminoamide
Eyes, skin
Irritation (sensitization)
Anhydride
Eyes, lungs, skin
Severe eye and skin irritation, respiratory
sensitization, contact dermatitis
