The carboxyhaemoglobin (COHb) levels of Wistar SPF rats were measured after exposure to a thermal decomposition mixture of hydraulic fluids type C. The evaluation of the obtained results was realised by using a mathematical carbon monoxide loading model. Significant lower COHb levels than expected were seen. This can be explained by a reduction of the respira tory minute volume due to the presence of sensory irritating products in the decomposition mixture. The COHb levels after liberation of carbon monoxide (CO) from the blood and the CO levels in the inhalation chamber of the thermal decomposition apparatus were measured by a capillary gas chromatographic method.
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