Mystery odor in Ohio city traced back to chemical plant

Aug. 30 (UPI) -- A mysterious smell reported by residents of an Ohio city has been tracked to a local chemical company, and officials said it does not pose any health risks to the public.

City of Avon Lake Fire Department said in a Facebook post that a gas odor reported across the community resulted from a gasket leak at Lubrizol Advanced Materials.

The leak released a vapor identified as ethyl acetate into the air, the department said.

The post said the chemical, a commonly used solvent, "has an extremely low odor threshold," meaning "a small amount will create an odor."

A Lubrizol representative told WJW-TV the issue "was quickly resolved and does not present a health or safety concern."