Biologic Effects of Nitrogen Dioxide in Relation to Air Quality Standards

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Data on the biologic effects of nitrogen dioxide on man and lower animals [mammals] over a wide range of concentrations were studied. Present evidence suggests that long-continued exposures should not exceed the range 0.5-1 ppm. This is based on the evidence of increased mortality in lower animals exposed to aerosolized microorganisms after NO2 exposures and the pathologic effects demonstrable in animals continuously exposed to levels in the range of 4-5 ppm. Brief exposures of a general population should not exceed 3 ppm over a period of 1 hr. This is based on the possible potentiation of infections and on the odor threshold. The recommendations relate to the possible effects of NO2 on health alone and do not consider potentiation or additive effects nor any contributions to plant damage and visibillity.