Cyanide toxicity from the thermal degradation of rigid polyurethane foam.

Thermal degradation products (tdp) from a model, rigid polyurethane foam were collected in such a manner as to eliminate carbon monoxide and other gases with low boiling points. The effects in rats resulting from intratracheal intubation (I.T.) of the tdp are discussed. Cyanide was found to be a major factor associated with severe toxic responses of the experimental rats.