This report deals with a group of hazardous chemical compounds known as dioxins. The extreme toxicity of one of these chemicals, 2,3,7,8-tetrachlor-dioxin (2,3,7,8-TCDD), has been a concern of both scientific researchers and the public for many years. The sheer mass of published information that has resulted from this concern has created difficulties in assessing the overall scope of the dioxin problem. In this report, the voluminous data on 2,3,7,8-TCDD and other dioxins are summarized and assembled in a manner that allows comparison of related observations from many sources; thus, the report serves as a comprehensive guide in evaluation of the environmental hazards of dioxins. Sections 2 and 3 present detailed information on the chemistry and sources of dioxins. Various routes of formation of dioxins are discussed, and the possible presence of doxins in basic organic chemicals and pesticides is addressed. Section 4 details the development of an analytical method for detecting part-per-trillion levels of dioxins in industrial wastes. Sections 5 through 8 discuss routes of human exposure to dioxins, including accounts of public and occupational exposure, and the health effects, environmental degradation, transport, and disposal of dioxins.

"Industrial Pollution Control Division, Industrial Environmental Research Laboratory." November 1980. "Contract nos. 68-03-2577, 68-03-2659, 68-03-2579." Includes bibliographical references (pages 271-306) and index.