Learn about these dangerous paint chemicals that can harm your family and the environment.
Dangerous Paint Chemicals You Need to Know About
Chemicals to Avoid
Ammonia: Used as a mildewcide and as a pigment solvent. Ammonia is an eye and respiratory irritant.
Glycolesters: Used as a solvent to help pigment mix more easily into paint bases. Can be absorbed through the skin and, with prolonged exposure, can cause organ damage.
Heavy metals (cobalt, cadmium): Used as pigments, drying agents or biocides. These chemicals are neurotoxins and also can damage the liver and kidneys.
Phthalates (dibutyl phthalate): Give the paint better spreadability. Can cause eye and skin irritation. They are toxic when inhaled or ingested.
Tolulene (methyl benzene): Used as a paint solvent. Tolulene can negatively affect the nervous system, kidneys and heart.
