Toluene Chemical Properties, Applications and Toxicology

Toluene, also known as methylbenzene, phenylmethane and tolulol, is a colourless and clear liquid with a distinct smell, characteristic of the aromatic hydrocarbon family of chemical compounds including benzene. In this book, the authors discuss the chemical properties, applications and toxicology characteristics of toluene. Topics include a toxicokinetic and toxicologic study of toluene and inhalation exposure levels; the immediate and persisting effect of toluene chronic exposure on hippocampal cell loss, learning and memory in adolescent and adult rats; the inhibitory, toxic and structure effects of toluene on microbial consortia involved in wastewater treatment; and the influence of toluene on postnatal neurogenesis of limbic and motor systems, metabolism and behaviour of animals and correction of disturbance by antioxidants.