Toluene, also known as methylbenzene, or Toluol, is a clear water-insoluble liquid with the typical smell of paint thinners.
The primary sources of toluene are the industries that manufacture it or use it in production. These include oil refineries, the chemical industry, rubber manufacturers, the pharmaceutical industry and manufacturers of paints, varnishes and lacquers. It is also emitted in metal degreasing and printing These emissions are mainly to the air, but also to the soil and water. Residues may be present in empty drums.
Other possible emitters of link are vapours and spilling of petrol, commercial and household painting and paint, varnish and lacquer removal, tobacco smoke, and consumer products containing toluene. These emissions are to the air unless there is a spill. And also can be found in vehicle exhaust.
In addtion these,Natural sources of toluene include volcanoes, forest and bush fires and crude oil. So inhaling high levels of toluene in a short time may cause light-headedness, nausea, or sleepiness. It can also cause unconsciousness, and even death.