Ethylene oxide (EtO) is a flammable, colorless, and reactive gas. It is a synthetic chemical created as a byproduct of human (i.e., anthropogenic) activities or generated as a natural metabolic product of ethylene by microbes, plants, and animals, including humans (i.e., biogenic). Ethylene oxide is produced and used for various purposes, such as to manufacture other chemicals that are used to make products like antifreeze, textiles, plastics, detergents, and adhesives.
The Ethylene Oxide Emissions (ETO-1, 2023) guidance provides information on ethylene oxide emissions, including regulatory developments, effective risk communication strategies, and technical considerations for sampling, measurement, and analysis. Developed with input from state and federal agencies, industry, and other stakeholders, the guidance supports informed decision-making regarding ethylene oxide-related issues.
Topic(s): Air Quality, Contaminants of Emerging Concern, Ethylene Oxide, Risk Communication
