Molloy
Environmental
WTC Debris?
Tests & Bulletins
Masks & Suits
| Molloy
Environmental |
What's
in WTC Debris? |
Clean Your Home and Office | Your Air Conditioner Can Protect You | Environmental Tests & Bulletins |
| Health Effects of WTC Toxins | Protective Masks & Suits |
|
World
Trade Center Debris and Fallout Here's What It May Contain |
| Testing by the EPA and Molloy Environmental reveals that the level of toxins in the air varies, depending on activity at ground zero and wind direction. The level of toxins in the dust also varies, depending on the components in individual samples. |
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Asbestos
|
Asbestos was used to insulate the Twin Towers. Their collapse released millions of asbestos fibers into the air. The debris continues to release asbestos. Immediate symptoms: None Long-term symptoms: Lung cancer; asbestosis. |
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Combustion
Byproducts
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The burning jet fuel and fuel in many emergency vehicles produces a high concentration of diesel particles and toxic combustion gases, such as nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide and sulfuric oxide. Immediate symptoms: Sleepiness, fatigue Long-term symptoms: Upper respiratory disorders, emphysema |
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Heavy
Metals
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The collapse released volatile and particulate heavy metals into the air, including iron, lead and cadmium. Immediate symptoms: Lead and mercury poisoning; hypertension. Long-term symptoms: Brain damage, dyslexia. |
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Particulates
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The WTC collapse produced massive quantities of small particles. Many contain toxins and carcinogens, such as benzene, nitrous oxide, acids (hydrochloric, sulfuric) and plastics (sulfonamides). Immediate symptoms: Burning eyes, short-term memory loss, chronic fatigue. Long-term symptoms: Cancer |
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PCBs
(Polychlorinated biphenyls)
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The electrical generators in the WTC released PCBs, which are carcinogenic. Immediate symptoms: None Long-term symptoms: Cancer |
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Volatile
Organic Compounds
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The high temperatures of burning jet fuel released VOCs (volatile organic compounds) into the air. Some of these carcinogenic and mutinogenic compounds are bound up in the dust and debris. Immediate symptoms: Breathing problems, dizziness, confusion Long-term symptoms: Cancer and gene mutations |
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Mold
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Although not released in the disaster, rain, leaks and humidity created perfect conditions for the growth and spread of toxic mold in affected buildings. Immediate symptoms: Allergic reactions, hives, short-term memory loss, digestive disorders, breathing difficulties Long-term symptoms: Hypersensitivity disease |