Impure samples have a yellow color and a disagreeable odor. It occurs naturally mostly due to the action of microorganisms living in sediments found on the sea floor and in marshes. US demand for carbon disulfide has declined in recent years and is likely to continue to fall. The largest users of carbon disulfide are chemical companies that make rayon. Companies use smaller amounts of the chemical to make agricultural fumigants, rubber chemicals, and cellulose.
Companies also use carbon disulfide to clean metal surfaces.
Olive oil processors use the chemical to extract olive oil. Exposure to carbon disulfide can occur in the workplace or in the environment following releases to air, water, land, or groundwater. Carbon disulfide enters the body when breathed in with contaminated air or when consumed with contaminated food or water. It is also absorbed through skin contact. It does not remain in the body due to its breakdown and removal.