Yeah, fumes are dangerous. The main ingredient in most Retrobrite recipes is Hydrogen Peroxide. Here is what the internet has to say about hydrogen peroxide:
High-concentration hydrogen peroxide streams, typically above 40%, should be considered a D001 hazardous waste, due to concentrated hydrogen peroxide's meeting the definition of a DOT oxidizer, if released into the environment. The EPA Reportable Quantity (RQ) for D001 hazardous wastes is 100 pounds, or approximately ten gallons, of concentrated hydrogen peroxide.
Hydrogen peroxide should be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area and away from any flammable or combustible substances.[35] It should be stored in a container composed of non-reactive materials such as stainless steel or glass (other materials including some plastics and aluminium alloys may also be suitable).[36] Because it breaks down quickly when exposed to light, it should be stored in an opaque container, and pharmaceutical formulations typically come in brown bottles that filter out light.
Hydrogen peroxide, either in pure or diluted form, can pose several risks:
Explosive vapors. Above roughly 70% concentrations, hydrogen peroxide can give off vapor that can detonate above 70 °C (158 °F) at normal atmospheric pressure. This can then cause a boiling liquid expanding vapor explosion (BLEVE) of the remaining liquid. Distillation of hydrogen peroxide at normal pressures is thus highly dangerous.
Hazardous reactions. Hydrogen peroxide vapors can form sensitive contact explosives with hydrocarbons such as greases. Hazardous reactions ranging from ignition to explosion have been reported with alcohols, ketones, carboxylic acids (particularly acetic acid), amines and phosphorus. listed below are the hazardous affects of H202: Potential Health Effects
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Inhalation:
Vapors are corrosive and irritating to the respiratory tract. Inhalation of mist may burn the mucous membrane of the nose and throat. In severe cases, exposures may result in pulmonary edema and death.
Ingestion:
Corrosive and irritating to the mouth, throat, and abdomen. Large doses may cause symptoms of abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea as well as blistering or tissue destruction. Stomach distention (due to rapid liberation of oxygen), and risk of stomach perforation, convulsions, pulmonary edema, coma, possible cerebral edema (fluid on the brain), and death are possible.
Skin Contact:
Corrosive. Symptoms of redness, pain, and severe burn can occur.
Eye Contact:
Vapors are very corrosive and irritating to the eyes. Symptoms include pain, redness and blurred vision. Splashes can cause permanent tissue destruction.
Chronic Exposure:
No information found.
Aggravation of Pre-existing Conditions:
Persons with pre-existing skin disorders or eye problems or impaired respiratory function may be more susceptible to the effects of the substance.
Source: the world wide web.
