To: lancair.list@olsusa.com
Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 21:08:09 -0600
Subject: MC comments etc..  (my final one, we hope) & 'vernatherms'
Message-ID: <19990312.214552.12014.1.Earl_Schroeder@juno.com>
From: Earl E Schroeder <earl_schroeder@juno.com>
Mime-Version: 1.0

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As I've mentioned previously:  we use MC and acetone in the manuf of
Lexan plastic.  We also use phosgene (the infamous WWII mustard gas) 
which Gary referred to and is created by 'burning' MC.  Now this stuff is
REALLY bad !!  We had fatalities at the plant from prolonged breathing of
phosgene at very low levels.  So avoid it at all cost.  It creates a
liquid in your lungs and you actually drown... no known treatment can
stop it if you are over exposed to phosgene.  BTW, no known problems with
either MC or acetone have been reported from their use in the 30+ years
of my employment (I should say SERIOUS problems).  We do (now) use the
proper protective equip and use proper ventilation.  I believe they use
nitrile gloves but I'm not positive.

I attended a Lycoming engine school a while back and I believe Bill's
description of the function of a 'vernatherm' (I thought it was spelled
vernitherm but I don't know for sure) is correct.  I will attempt to find
my notes and 'refresh' my memory.  

Earl