Diaminodiphenylmethane (RECOMMENDED: ONLY Removes epoxy, but NOT PPD products from shopping list)

Diaminodiphenylmethane is a chemical used to prevent oxidation and ozone damage in rubber products and as a hardener for epoxy resins. It is a cold-curing hardener that does not require heat or ultraviolet radiation to harden or set the resin.

Individuals who are allergic to diaminodiphenylmethane are most likely exposed to the allergen at work. The most common sources of exposure are rubber and plastic products and adhesives. A barrier such as rubber or vinyl gloves should be worn at work when handling products containing diaminodiphenylmethane. Individuals who are allergic to diaminodiphenylmethane may also be sensitive to a related chemical called p-phenylenediamine (PPD), which is commonly used in most permanent and semipermanent hair dyes. These also may need to be avoided.

Workers primarily at risk for exposure are those in the aircraft, automobile, and boat industries and those in polyvinylchloride film manufacturing, electronic and electrical industries, tool and die casting, and the construction trades. Safety Data Sheets (SDS) may help in identifying potential sources of exposure. Nonoccupation exposures include plastic jewelry, eyeglass frames, chamber pots, handbags, and vinyl gloves.