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[Chemical Properties]
Nitrotoluene is formed in 3 isomeric forms.
The o-and m-forms are yellow liquids or solids. The p-form
is a pale yellow crystalline solid. All have weak aromatic
odors. The Odor Thresholds are: 0.05 mg/L (o-isomer);
1.74 ppm (m-isomer). |
[General Description]
Exists as either a yellow solid crystal or liquid. Melting point 32 to 59°F. Insoluble in water and soluble in alcohol. Denser than water. Toxic by ingestion, inhalation or skin contact. Flash point 223°F. Boiling point 428°F. Produces toxic oxides of nitrogen during combustion. |
[Air & Water Reactions]
Insoluble in water. |
[Reactivity Profile]
p-NITROTOLUENE and sulfuric acid explode at 80°C [Chem. Eng. News 27:2504]. Many explosions have occurred in the distillation of nitrotoluene owing to its heat sensitivity. May become unstable in the presence of strong bases. |
[Health Hazard]
Highly toxic, may be fatal if inhaled, swallowed or absorbed through skin. Contact with molten substance may cause severe burns to skin and eyes. Avoid any skin contact. Effects of contact or inhalation may be delayed. Fire may produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Runoff from fire control or dilution water may be corrosive and/or toxic and cause pollution. |
[Fire Hazard]
Combustible material: may burn but does not ignite readily. Containers may explode when heated. Runoff may pollute waterways. Substance may be transported in a molten form. |
[Potential Exposure]
The nitrotoluenes are used in the
production of toluidines and other dye intermediates.
All isomers are used in manufacture of agriculture and
rubber chemicals and in various dyes. |
[First aid]
If this chemical gets into the eyes, remove any
contact lenses at once and irrigate immediately for at least
15 minutes, occasionally lifting upper and lower lids. Seek
medical attention immediately. If this chemical contacts the
skin, remove contaminated clothing and wash immediately
with soap and water. Seek medical attention immediately.
If this chemical has been inhaled, remove from exposure,
begin rescue breathing (using universal precautions, including
resuscitation mask) if breathing has stopped and CPR if
heart action has stopped. Transfer promptly to a medical
facility. When this chemical has been swallowed, get medical
attention. Give large quantities of water and induce
vomiting. Do not make an unconscious person vomit.
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[Shipping]
UN1664 Nitrotoluenes, (o-; m-; p-), Hazard
Class: 6.1; Labels: 6.1-Poisonous materials. |
[Incompatibilities]
Decomposes on contact with strong oxidizers;
strong acids; reducing agents; strong bases; ammonia,
amines producing toxic fumes, causing fire and explosion
hazard. Heat above 190C may cause explosive decomposition.
Attacks some plastics, rubbers, and coatings. |
[Waste Disposal]
Controlled incineration-care
must be taken to maintain complete combustion at all
times. Incineration of large quantities may require scrubbers
to control the emission of nitrogen oxides. |
[Definition]
ChEBI: 2-nitrotoluene is a mononitrotoluene that is toluene carrying a nitro substituent at position 2. It has a role as an environmental contaminant and a carcinogenic agent. |
[Safety Profile]
A poison. May decomposeexplosively if heated above 190°C. When heated todecomposition it emits toxic fumes of NOx. |