Characterization by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry of Commercially Available Thinner in the City of Cartagena

Thinner is a widely used product in the industry of paints, lubricants and adhesives. Its composition varies according to its use and quality. However, its chronic exposure is a concern, because it can affect major organs such as lungs, liver, kidney and the adrenal glands. This study characterizes the composition of several thinner samples commercially available in the city of Cartagena. Twelve samples were collected in different stores, these were then analyzed through gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC/MS). The results showed that not only the composition but also the relative distribution of the components present in the samples are variable. Thirty two compounds were detected: toluene, o-xylene, p-xylene and ethylbenzene —among others— with occurrence frequencies of 91.7, 66.7, 75, and 66.7 %, respectively. The lack of knowledge regarding the risk of poisoning, produced when handling this type of mixtures, may be the cause of many health problems in people exposed to thinner, both in workplace and domestic activities. A data mining showed the potential association between thinner components and clinical manifestations, which include kidney and liver damage, hair loss, haematological disorders, dermatitis, anxiety and balance problems, among others. In conclusion, thinner has large variability, both in terms of components and of their relative composition. The adverse health effects of direct or indirect exposure to these components have been widely described in the literature.