👉 Mitchell fumes are a distinctive, often pungent odor associated with certain types of rubber products, particularly those made from nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR) and other synthetic rubbers. This smell is caused by the breakdown of sulfur-containing compounds within the rubber, which can occur when the material is exposed to heat, light, or chemicals. The odor is typically described as a sharp, metallic, or sulfur-like scent that can be quite noticeable and unpleasant. Mitchell fumes are a common concern in manufacturing environments where these rubbers are used, as they can indicate potential issues with product quality or safety, necessitating careful handling and storage to prevent degradation.
