The Median Detectable Concentration of Diborane, Pentaborane and Decaborane by Odor for Man
Abstract
The median detectable concentrations (MDC's) of 3 boron hydrides were determined with a Fair-Wells osmoscope. Each compound was tested 2 to 4 times on to 15 subjects. THe MDC's of diborane (B2H6), pentaborane (B5H9), and decaborane (B10H14) were 3.7, 2.5, and 0.35 mg/cu m, respectively. The prescribed chamber concentration of B2H6 was determined by an analytical procedure, whereas the concentrations of B5H9 and B10H14 were determined by nominal methods. The B2H6 was described as having an odor of rotton eggs; B5H9, as either garlic, acetylene-like, or slightly sweet; and B10H14, either unpleasant, foul, or chocolate-like. No aftereffects ocurred from any of the vapors in concentrations of 0.2 to 6 mg/cu m.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 06, 1953
- Accession Number
- AD0016993
Entities
People
- Charles C. Comstock
- Fred W. Oberst