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Ethylbenzene

  • Aromatic solvents
  • CAS 100-41-4
  • IUPAC: Ethylbenzene

California Prop 65 listed as a carcinogen. IARC Group 2B (possibly carcinogenic to humans). H304 aspiration hazard, H332 harmful if inhaled, H312 harmful in contact with skin. As a trace processing byproduct (not an active ingredient) in consumer products, exposure levels are typically far below occupational thresholds.

Ethylbenzene is an aromatic hydrocarbon that appears in some consumer products as a trace processing byproduct rather than an intentional ingredient. It is listed under California Proposition 65 as known to cause cancer and classified by IARC as Group 2B (possibly carcinogenic to humans). When present as a trace contaminant in consumer products, the exposure levels are typically orders of magnitude below occupational limits, but the Prop 65 listing triggers mandatory labeling requirements.

Health & environment profile

VOC
yes
Prop 65 listed
yes
Asthmagen
no
EPA Safer Choice
no
Aquatic toxicity
yes
Biodegradable
yes
Bioaccumulative
no
Persistent
no
Ozone depleting
no
Microplastic
no
PFAS
no
Env. score
3/5
Purpose: Aromatic solvent (trace processing byproduct in some formulations)

1 product contain this

Health summaries are editorial — we synthesize from SDSs, peer-reviewed sources, and regulatory listings. Not medical advice.