BHME and HMME are primarily used as chemical intermediates and alkylating agents. BHME is used as a laboratory reagent in the production of plastics, ion exchange resins, and polymers. Uses of BHME include the cross-linking of cellulose, the preparation of styrene and other polymers, the surface treatment of vulcanized rubber to increase adhesion, and the production of flame-resistant fabrics. HMME is used as an alkylating agent and industrial solvent for the production of dodecylbenzyl chloride, water repellents, ion exchange resins and polymers, and a chloromethylation reagent. The most likely source of exposure to BHME is during the production or use of chemicals, where it may be present as a contaminant or formed unintentionally. Bis(chloromethyl)ether and chloromethyl methyl ether (technical grade) cause lung cancer. BHME and HMME are subject to rapid hydrolysis to formaldehyde and hydrochloric acid. A specific, persistent, and reliable urinary metabolite is not known.