Are TBBS accelerating agents in rubber materials in Canada?

TBBS, CBS, MBTS, MBT, and DCBS were all reported to be present in rubber materials in Canada (Canada 2017) and are known to be used as accelerating agents during the vulcanization step in rubber production (Danish EPA 2003; EC 2008; ECHA 2013; OECD 2003, 2004a, 2008).

Where does MBT come from?

Releases of MBT were reported to the National Pollutant Release Inventory (NPRI), the primary source being rubber product manufacturing from the automotive industry (tires and other rubber products). Indirect releases to soil from wastewater treatment systems are a possibility.

How to analyze MBT in MTBE extracts of sulfur cured rubber?

A LC-MS-MS method was developed analyze MBT in the MTBE extracts of sulfur cured rubber. The method is specific for MBT and it linear over 50 – 1000 ng/mL. The method is reproducible for extractable MBT determination. The percent recovery of MBT is 87.7% at 400 ng/mL level. The DL of MBT is 6 ng/mL or 12 pg on column.

Can MBT be used as a lubricant?

In some subsectors of the mining industry, MBT and its precursors are used as flotation reagents. Potential alternatives are available. Information on the chemical constituents of these products is not readily available. Finally, MBT and its precursors are used as corrosion inhibitors in metalworking lubricants.

Is MBT harmful to the environment?

Considering all information presented in the draft screening assessment, it was determined that there may be risk of harm to the environment from MBT and its precursors, including the substances in the benzothiazoles subgroup.

Which substances are precursors to MBT?

Substances from the benzothiazoles subgroup, which are considered as precursors to MBT, may be released to the aquatic environment primarily from tire and other rubber products manufacturing, use in metalworking fluids, and use in some subsectors of the mining industry.