While cyanide is poisonous Isocyanides are only moderately toxic.
Isocyanates on the other hand are another beast.
But know this... there are different chemical compounds all commonly referred to as Isocyanates.
Overexposure to Methyl Isocyanate is what killed 3800 people in Bopal, India in 1984.
The chemicals used to harden polyurethane enamels are called Isocynates but are not near as deadly as Methyl Isocyanate. However there are chemical similarities. And they are all TOXIC.
The three main forms of Isocyanates used for polyurethane reaction are: TDI, MDI and HDI. These forms react with an alcohol to produce a urethane linkage. These compounds are reactive and therefore toxic and are known to cause asthma in humans, both through inhalation exposure and dermal contact.
The quickest way to become sensitized to Iso's is to breath them. What happens is the Iso reacts with water (moisture in your lungs) to become a polyurea. Polyurea is a hard plastic that is now in the lung tissue. Your body doesn't like this foreign object and starts to fight it like a bad bug.
The most common reaction is an asthmatic reaction where the bronchial tubes become inflamed and restrict, shutting off airflow.
If you are asthmatic and become sensitized you are in big trouble real quick. If you’re not asthmatic it will just take a little longer to become sensitized. Given enough exposure ALL persons will eventually become sensitized.
Dermal reactions take place in individuals who develop a dermal sensitive to the chemical. Blond haired, blue eyed, fair skinned people seem to suffer before person of darker complexion.
So there is only ONE way to deal with the new 2K Polyurethane Enamels. You MUST spray in an area with adequate ventilation to reduce exposure to the skin. You MUST use a forced air respirator and wear protective clothing and appropriate eye, and skin protection. A chemical cartridge respirator will not provide antiquate protection. A dust mask will KILL you. With Nitrocellulose lacquer you would just pickle your brain with enough exposure to the solvents but ISO’s will destroy your health real quick.
DON’T TAKE A CHANCE. DO IT RIGHT AND LIVE TO ENJOY THE GOOD LIFE.
