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Carbonless Copy Paper Injury and Information
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UFL Project Page
University of Florida research project
The University of Florida researched carbonless copy paper. There were a number of stories printed during the research. One that is still online is at http://www.napa.ufl.edu/oldnews/carbonls.htm.
The final report was printed in the American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal in the March/April 2000 issue. The abstract is below. Photos of CCP microcapsules are the next item under Research: UFL Photos.
AIHAJ: Vol. 61, No. 2, pp. 214–222.
Carbonless Copy Paper: A Review of Its Chemical Components and Health Hazards
Charles J. Schmidt and Ian R. Tebbett
Analytical Toxicology Core Laboratory, Center for Human and
Environmental Toxicology, College of Veterinary Medicine, P.O. Box 110885,
University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611-0885
Margaret W. Couch
Analytical Toxicology Core Laboratory, Center for Human and
Environmental Toxicology, College of Veterinary Medicine, P.O. Box 110885,
University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611-0885; E-mail:
mcouch @nersp.nerdc.ufl.edu
The components of carbonless copy paper (CCP) and the chemistry involved in its manufacture are reviewed. Claims that the routine use of CCP can cause health problems ranging from skin, eye, and lung irritation to severe headaches and neurological damage are described; yet no definitive studies have been conducted that show correlation between CCP use and these symptoms. The toxicological properties of CCP components, many of them precursors to the dye-containing microcapsules or dye solvents that may be causing these problems, are discussed. Recommendations for the minimization of possible physiological reactions to CCP include reduction of usage time; use of the CCP in a well-ventilated area; storing large quantities of CCP, both new or archived, away from work area; and the practice good hand hygiene.
NOTE:
This study was funded partially by the Division of Sponsored Research,
University of Florida, through the Opportunity Fund.
Keywords: carbonless copy paper, color former, dermatitis, developer, hydrocarbons, microcapsule
