nitrotoluene

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).

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.

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.

Safety Profile

A poison. May decomposeexplosively if heated above 190°C. When heated todecomposition it emits toxic fumes of NOx.

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.

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.