Perchloroethylene

• Perchloroethylene is a colorless, nonflammable toxin that poses a threat to human health. This pollutant is mainly used to dry clean fabrics and degrease metals. People become exposed to perchloroethylene whenever they come into contact with clothes that have been dry cleaned or use dry-cleaning machines. Products such as spot removers and shoe polish also contain this chemical. Those exposed to perchloroethylene for a long period of time can expect damage to their central nervous system and memory loss.
  
  

Naphthalene

• Naphthalene, a human carcinogen, will dissolve easily into water. When tobacco or wood is burned, it is produced. Petroleum and coal contain naphthalene. A major commercial use of this toxin involves manufacturing plastics. During times of accidental spills and leakages, naphthalene attaches to soil and passes through to drinking water. People also become exposed to this outdoor pollutant by breathing in low levels of it or consuming water from contaminated wells. Moth repellents and coal tar products also increase chances of becoming exposed.
  
  

Benzene

• People exposed to low levels of benzene become at risk for developing leukemia. This pollutant makes it way into the environment from industrial sources. Plants use the chemicals to manufacture plastics and synthetic fibers. Products such as crude oil and cigarettes contain this toxin. When forest fires occur benzene is released into the air. Volcano eruptions also contribute to benzene in the atmosphere. People come into contact with this outdoor pollutant every time they pump gasoline into their vehicles. Inhaling high levels of benzene will cause death.
  
  

Acrolein

• Acrolein is an outdoor pollutant commonly used to make pesticides and other chemicals. Industries use acrolein to manufacture plastics and perfumes. Several products found in homes such as roasted coffee and cooking oils contain acrolein. Exhaust smoke from automobiles contains acrolein, as well. Long-term exposure to this toxin may affect the lungs. The respiratory system should be monitored for damage. Acrolein is broken down within days after being released into the air.