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CDC on the Hazards of a Toner Cartridge

Toner cartridges are used in photocopiers and laser printers. The two main components of toner cartridges include carbon (carbon black) and plastic. While the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) does not offer data on toner cartridges themselves, in 1994 the CDC did investigate the site of a toner cartridge recycling plant and issued a report on their findings in 1996. They examined the concentration of chemicals and substances used in toner cartridges and the chemicals and substances used to recycle them, including solvents and cleaning agents.

  1. Plastic

    • The CDC has not identified the plastic used in toner cartridges as a toxic substance in normal use. When going through the recycling process, the plastic shells of toner cartridges are often burned or melted. Such thermal degradation of plastics, according to the CDC, can give off ammonia, carbon monoxide and hydrochloric acid, all of which are hazardous chemicals.

    Carbon Black

    • Carbon Black is the black, odorless dust found inside toner cartridges. When applied to paper in a printer or photocopier, it creates the black marks on the printed pages. The CDC has identified carbon black as a hazardous substance. It is also flammable and may contain flammable hydrocarbons.

    Carbon Black Safety

    • The CDC has no recommendation for skin contact with carbon black, except to wash daily. If it comes in contact with the eyes, the eyes should be irrigated promptly. It is recommended that a respirator be used when exposed to a particle concentration greater than 17.5 mg/m3 (milligrams per cubic meter) (0.0154 grains per 3.28 feet). These levels would generally only be found in the manufacturing or recycling of toner cartridges.

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