Ethylene oxide is a colorless, highly reactive gas at room temperature and pressure. Almost all of ethylene oxide produced is used in the manufacture of ethylene glycol, but some amount is used as a sterilant for health care materials and other heat-sensitive products. Ethylene oxide is an alkylating agent and forms protein and DNA adducts. Based on studies in animals, cancer is considered the critical end-point for effects of ethylene oxide on human health for long-term exposure of the general population.--Publisher's description.