P-Cresol

H301: Toxic if swallowed [Danger Acute toxicity, oral]

H311: Toxic in contact with skin [Danger Acute toxicity, dermal]

H314: Causes severe skin burns and eye damage [Danger Skin corrosion/irritation]

P260, P262, P264, P270, P280, P301+P316, P301+P330+P331, P302+P352, P302+P361+P354, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P316, P321, P330, P361+P364, P363, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

H301+H311 (16.1%): Toxic if swallowed or in contact with skin [Danger Acute toxicity, oral; acute toxicity, dermal]

H301 (100%): Toxic if swallowed [Danger Acute toxicity, oral]

H311 (100%): Toxic in contact with skin [Danger Acute toxicity, dermal]

H314 (100%): Causes severe skin burns and eye damage [Danger Skin corrosion/irritation]

H412 (11.5%): Harmful to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

P260, P262, P264, P270, P273, P280, P301+P316, P301+P330+P331, P302+P352, P302+P361+P354, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P316, P321, P330, P361+P364, P363, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Aggregated GHS information provided per 2745 reports by companies from 23 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.

Information may vary between notifications depending on impurities, additives, and other factors. The percentage value in parenthesis indicates the notified classification ratio from companies that provide hazard codes. Only hazard codes with percentage values above 10% are shown. For more detailed information, please visit ECHA C&L website.

H318: Causes serious eye damage [Danger Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

H351: Suspected of causing cancer [Warning Carcinogenicity]

H370: Causes damage to organs [Danger Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure]

H372: Causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure [Danger Specific target organ toxicity, repeated exposure]

H373: May causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, repeated exposure]

H401: Toxic to aquatic life [Hazardous to the aquatic environment, acute hazard]

H412: Harmful to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

P203, P260, P262, P264, P264+P265, P270, P273, P280, P301+P316, P301+P330+P331, P302+P352, P302+P361+P354, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P308+P316, P316, P317, P318, P319, P321, P330, P361+P364, P363, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

H335: May cause respiratory irritation [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure; Respiratory tract irritation]

P260, P261, P262, P264, P264+P265, P270, P271, P280, P301+P316, P301+P330+P331, P302+P352, P302+P361+P354, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P308+P316, P316, P317, P319, P321, P330, P361+P364, P363, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

H411: Toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

P260, P262, P264, P264+P265, P270, P273, P280, P301+P316, P301+P330+P331, P302+P352, P302+P361+P354, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P316, P317, P321, P330, P361+P364, P363, P391, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Fresh air, rest. Half-upright position. Artificial respiration may be needed. Refer immediately for medical attention.

Remove contaminated clothes. Rinse skin with plenty of water or shower. Refer immediately for medical attention.

Rinse with plenty of water (remove contact lenses if easily possible). Refer immediately for medical attention.

Rinse mouth. Do NOT induce vomiting. Refer immediately for medical attention.

EYES: First check the victim for contact lenses and remove if present. Flush victim's eyes with water or normal saline solution for 20 to 30 minutes while simultaneously calling a hospital or poison control center. Do not put any ointments, oils, or medication in the victim's eyes without specific instructions from a physician. IMMEDIATELY transport the victim after flushing eyes to a hospital even if no symptoms (such as redness or irritation) develop.

SKIN: IMMEDIATELY flood affected skin with water while removing and isolating all contaminated clothing. Gently wash all affected skin areas thoroughly with soap and water. IMMEDIATELY call a hospital or poison control center even if no symptoms (such as redness or irritation) develop. IMMEDIATELY transport the victim to a hospital for treatment after washing the affected areas.

INHALATION: IMMEDIATELY leave the contaminated area; take deep breaths of fresh air. If symptoms (such as wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, or burning in the mouth, throat, or chest) develop, call a physician and be prepared to transport the victim to a hospital. Provide proper respiratory protection to rescuers entering an unknown atmosphere. Whenever possible, Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) should be used; if not available, use a level of protection greater than or equal to that advised under Protective Clothing.

INGESTION: DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING. Phenols are very toxic poisons AND corrosive and irritating, so that inducing vomiting may make medical problems worse. IMMEDIATELY call a hospital or poison control center and locate activated charcoal, egg whites, or milk in case the medical advisor recommends administering one of them. If advice from a physician is not readily available and the victim is conscious and not convulsing, give the victim a glass of activated charcoal slurry in water or, if this is not available, a glass of milk, or beaten egg whites and IMMEDIATELY transport victim to a hospital. If the victim is convulsing or unconscious, do not give anything by mouth, assure that the victim's airway is open and lay the victim on his/her side with the head lower than the body. DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING. IMMEDIATELY transport the victim to a hospital. (NTP, 1992)

(General first aid procedures)

Eye: Irrigate immediately - If this chemical contacts the eyes, immediately wash (irrigate) the eyes with large amounts of water, occasionally lifting the lower and upper lids. Get medical attention immediately.

Skin: Soap wash immediately - If this chemical contacts the skin, immediately wash the contaminated skin with soap and water. If this chemical penetrates the clothing, immediately remove the clothing, wash the skin with soap and water, and get medical attention promptly.

Breathing: Respiratory support

Swallow: Medical attention immediately - If this chemical has been swallowed, get medical attention immediately.

Fire Extinguishing Agents Not to Be Used: Water may cause frothing.

Fire Extinguishing Agents: CO2, dry chemical, foam, water spray or fog. (USCG, 1999)

Use water spray, foam, powder, carbon dioxide.

Wear goggles & self-contained breathing apparatus.

Use water spray, dry chemical, foam, or carbon dioxide. Use water spray to keep fire-exposed containers cool.

Water may be used to blanket fire.

If material on fire or involved in fire: Use water in flooding quantities as fog. Solid streams of water may be ineffective. Cool all affected containers with flooding quantities of water. Apply water from as far a distance as possible. Use foam, dry chemical, or carbon dioxide. Use water spray to knock-down vapors.

For more Fire Fighting Procedures (Complete) data for p-CRESOL (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

...Vapors will seek out low-lying areas where they can accumulate.

Sealed closed containers can build up pressure if exposed to heat (fire).

Excerpt from ERG Guide 153 [Substances - Toxic and/or Corrosive (Combustible)]:

IMMEDIATE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURE: Isolate spill or leak area in all directions for at least 50 meters (150 feet) for liquids and at least 25 meters (75 feet) for solids.

SPILL: Increase the immediate precautionary measure distance, in the downwind direction, as necessary.

FIRE: If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions. (ERG, 2024)

Personal protection: filter respirator for organic gases and particulates adapted to the airborne concentration of the substance and chemical protection suit. Do NOT let this chemical enter the environment. Sweep spilled substance into containers. If appropriate, moisten first to prevent dusting. Carefully collect remainder. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations.

Optimum conditions for removing cresol from wastewater with Lewatit MP 500 (a strong-base, large-pore, polystyrene-based anion exchange resin) were pH 6, 30 °C, and a flow rate of 1 L/hr, and when removing cresol from 10 mg/L solutions, the capacity of the exchanger was 0.46 equiv/L.

Approach release from upwind. Control runoff and isolate discharged material for proper disposal.

Environmental considerations - Water spill: Use natural deep water pockets, excavated lagoons, or sand bag barriers to trap material at bottom. If dissolved, in region of 10 ppm or greater concentration, apply activated carbon at ten times the spilled amount. Use mechanical dredges or lifts to remove immobilized masses of pollutants and precipitates.

Environmental considerations - Land spill: Dig a pit, pond, lagoon, or holding area to contain liquid or solid material. /SRP: If time permits, pits, ponds, lagoons, soak holes, or holding areas should be sealed with an impermeable flexible membrane liner./ Dike surface flow using soil, sand bags, foamed polyurethane, or foamed concrete. Absorb bulk liquid with fly ash, cement powder, or commercial sorbents.

For more Cleanup Methods (Complete) data for p-CRESOL (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Generators of waste (equal to or greater than 100 kg/mo) containing this contaminant, EPA hazardous waste numbers F004, U052 and D025, must conform with USEPA regulations in storage, transportation, treatment and disposal of waste.

Chemical Treatability of p-Cresol; Concentration Process: Biological Treatment; Chemical Classification: Phenols; Scale of Study: Unknown; Type of Wastewater Used: Pure (one solute in a solvent); Results of Study: 95.5% reduction based on chemical oxygen demand; rate of biodegradation 55 mg chemical oxygen demand/g hr. (Activated sludge process).

Chemical Treatability of p-Cresol; Concentration Process: Solvent Extraction; Chemical Classification: Phenols; Scale of Study: Laboratory Scale, Continuous flow; Type of Wastewater Used: Industrial Wastewater; Results of Study: 91% reduction (Extraction of evaporation condensate from spent caustic processing using isobutylene (S/W= 1.8); spray extractor used).

Cresol: A good candidate for rotary kiln incineration at temperature range of 820 to 1,600 °C and residence times of seconds for liquids and gases, and hours for solids. A good candidate for fluidized bed incineration at a temperature range of 450 to 980 °C and residence times of seconds for liquids and gases, and longer for solids. /Cresols/

For more Disposal Methods (Complete) data for p-CRESOL (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Avoid contact with skin, eyes and clothing. Wash hands before breaks and immediately after handling the product.

Gloves must be inspected prior to use. Use proper glove removal technique (without touching glove's outer surface) to avoid skin contact with this product. Dispose of contaminated gloves after use in accordance with applicable laws and good laboratory practices. Wash and dry hands.

Avoid contact with skin and eyes. Avoid formation of dust and aerosols. Provide appropriate exhaust ventilation at places where dust is formed.

Workers whose clothing may have become contaminated should change into uncontaminated clothing before leaving the work premises.

For more Preventive Measures (Complete) data for p-CRESOL (12 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

SMALL SPILLS AND LEAKAGE: Should a spill occur while you are handling this chemical, FIRST REMOVE ALL SOURCES OF IGNITION, then you should dampen the solid spill material with 60-70% ethanol and transfer the dampened material to a suitable container. Use absorbent paper dampened with 60-70% ethanol to pick up any remaining material. Seal the absorbent paper, and any of your clothes, which may be contaminated, in a vapor-tight plastic bag for eventual disposal. Solvent wash all contaminated surfaces with 60-70% ethanol followed by washing with a soap and water solution. Do not reenter the contaminated area until the Safety Officer (or other responsible person) has verified that the area has been properly cleaned.

STORAGE PRECAUTIONS: You should protect this chemical from exposure to light. Keep the container tightly closed under an inert atmosphere, and store under refrigerated temperatures. (NTP, 1992)

Separated from strong oxidants and food and feedstuffs. Store in an area without drain or sewer access. Provision to contain effluent from fire extinguishing.

Keep container tightly closed in a dry and well-ventilated place. Hygroscopic. Air and light sensitive. Handle and store under inert gas.

Avoid loading together with explosives, oxidizing materials and organic peroxides.

Store in a cool, dry, well ventilated location. Separate from oxidizing materials.

All bulk containers that hold cresol shall carry, in a readily visible location, a label that bears the trade name of the product, if appropriate, and information on the effects of exposure to the compound on human health.

Cresol should be stored in iron or steel containers, properly labelled.

TWA 2.3 ppm (10 mg/m3)

22.0 [mg/m3]

TWA 5 ppm (22 mg/m3) [skin]

250 ppm (NIOSH, 2024)

See: cresol

20.0 [mg/m3], inhalable fraction and vapor

8 hr Time Weighted Avg (TWA): 20 mg/cu m (inhalable fraction and vapor), skin. /Cresol, all isomers/

Excursion Limit Recommendation: Excursions in worker exposure levels may exceed 3 times the TLV-TWA for no more than a total of 30 minutes during a work day, and under no circumstances should they exceed 5 times the TLV-TWA, provided that the TLV-TWA is not exceeded. /Cresol, all isomers/

A4; Not classifiable as a human carcinogen. /Cresol, all isomers/

4,5 mg/m

Intermediate Oral: 0.1 mg/kg/day (L134)

Chronic Oral: 0.1 mg/kg/day (L134)

Australia: 5 ppm, skin (1990); Federal Republic of Germany: 5 ppm, short-term level 10 ppm, 5 min, 8 times per shift, skin (1990); United Kingdom: 5 ppm, skin (1991). /Cresol, all isomers/

A harmful contamination of the air will be reached rather slowly on evaporation of this substance at 20 °C.

The substance is corrosive to the eyes, skin and respiratory tract. Corrosive on ingestion. Inhalation may cause lung oedema, but only after initial corrosive effects on eyes and/or airways have become manifest. The substance may cause effects on the central nervous system. This may result in lowering of consciousness. The substance may cause effects on the blood. This may result in destruction of blood cells. Exposure far above the OEL could cause death. Medical observation is indicated.

Repeated or prolonged contact with skin may cause dermatitis. The substance may have effects on the nervous system. This may result in impaired functions. The substance may have effects on the blood. This may result in anaemia.

Excerpt from NIOSH Pocket Guide for p-Cresol:

Skin: PREVENT SKIN CONTACT - Wear appropriate personal protective clothing to prevent skin contact.

Eyes: PREVENT EYE CONTACT - Wear appropriate eye protection to prevent eye contact.

Wash skin: WHEN CONTAMINATED - The worker should immediately wash the skin when it becomes contaminated.

Remove: WHEN WET OR CONTAMINATED - Work clothing that becomes wet or significantly contaminated should be removed and replaced.

Change: DAILY - Workers whose clothing may have become contaminated should change into uncontaminated clothing before leaving the work premises.

Provide:

• EYEWASH - Eyewash fountains should be provided in areas where there is any possibility that workers could be exposed to the substances; this is irrespective of the recommendation involving the wearing of eye protection.

• QUICK DRENCH - Facilities for quickly drenching the body should be provided within the immediate work area for emergency use where there is a possibility of exposure. [Note: It is intended that these facilities provide a sufficient quantity or flow of water to quickly remove the substance from any body areas likely to be exposed. The actual determination of what constitutes an adequate quick drench facility depends on the specific circumstances. In certain instances, a deluge shower should be readily available, whereas in others, the availability of water from a sink or hose could be considered adequate.] (NIOSH, 2024)

The nose and mouth should be protected with a respirator or folded gauze, and the eyes with tight-fitting goggles. Protective clothing, including rubber (not cotton) gloves, should be worn. Clothing should be removed immediately if contaminated by spillage. All clothing worn during one spraying operation should be laundered before re-use.

The use of respirators to achieve compliance with the recommended exposure limits is permitted only: (a) during the time necessary to install or test the required engineering controls, and (b) during emergencies or during nonroutine operations, such as maintenance or repair activities, when the concentration of airborne cresol may exceed the permissible environmental limit.

In the factory it is necessary to take ... precautions in handling cresol. Rubber clothes & articles ... can ... give effective protection.

Wear appropriate personal protective clothing to prevent skin contact.

For more Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) (Complete) data for p-CRESOL (17 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Up to 23 ppm:

(APF = 10) Any air-purifying half-mask respirator with organic vapor cartridge(s) in combination with an N95, R95, or P95 filter. The following filters may also be used: N99, R99, P99, N100, R100, P100.

Click here for information on selection of N, R, or P filters.

(APF = 10) Any supplied-air respirator

Up to 57.5 ppm:

(APF = 25) Any supplied-air respirator operated in a continuous-flow mode

(APF = 25) Any powered, air-purifying respirator with an organic vapor cartridge in combination with a high-efficiency particulate filter.

Up to 115 ppm:

(APF = 50) Any air-purifying full-facepiece respirator equipped with organic vapor cartridge(s) in combination with an N100, R100, or P100 filter.

(APF = 50) Any air-purifying, full-facepiece respirator (gas mask) with a chin-style, front- or back-mounted organic vapor canister having an N100, R100, or P100 filter.

(APF = 50) Any powered, air-purifying respirator with a tight-fitting facepiece and organic vapor cartridge(s) in combination with a high-efficiency particulate filter*

P-cresol is a colorless solid with a tar like odor. Sinks and mixes slowly with water. (USCG, 1999)

Solid with a phenolic odor; mp = 35.5 deg C; [Merck Index] Colorless solid that darkens on exposure to light and air; [ICSC] Colorless, white, or pink solid; [NTP] Colorless crystals; [Sigma-Aldrich MSDS]

COLOURLESS CRYSTALS WITH CHARACTERISTIC ODOUR. TURNS DARK ON EXPOSURE TO AIR AND LIGHT.

Colourless to pink crystals, tarry-smoky medicinal odour

Crystalline solid with a sweet, tarry odor. [Note: A liquid above 95 °F.]

Crystalline solid [Note: A liquid above 95 degees F]

Phenolic odor

Sweet, tarry odor

395.2 °F at 760 mmHg (NTP, 1992)

201.9 °C

201.80 to 202.00 °C. @ 760.00 mm Hg

201-202 °C

94.6 °F (NTP, 1992)

34.77 °C

187 °F (NTP, 1992)

85 °C (185 °F) - closed cup

187 °F (86 °C) (Closed cup)

86 °C c.c.

less than 1 mg/mL at 70 °F (NTP, 1992)

In water, 2.15X10+4 mg/L at 25 °C

2.5 g in 100 mL water at 50 °C; 5.0 g in 100 mL water at 100 °C. Soluble in aqueous alkali hydroxides. Souble in organic solvents.

Miscible with ethanol, ether, acetone, benzene and carbon tetrachloride

Soluble in vegetable oils, glycerin and dilute alkai

21.5 mg/mL at 25 °C

Solubility in water, g/100ml at 25 °C: 1.9 (moderate)

slightly soluble in water

very soluble (in ethanol)

1.034 at 68 °F (USCG, 1999) - Denser than water; will sink

1.0185 at 40 °C/4 °C

Percent in saturated air at 25 °C: 0.0142; density of saturated air at 25 °C: 1.00039 (Air= 1)

1.02 g/cm³

3.72 (NTP, 1992) - Heavier than air; will sink (Relative to Air)

3.7 (Air = 1)

Relative vapor density (air = 1): 1.00

0.04 mmHg at 68 °F ; 0.11 mmHg at 77 °F (NTP, 1992)

0.11 [mmHg]

0.11 mm Hg at 25 °C

Vapor pressure, Pa at 25 °C: 15

(77 °F): 0.11 mmHg

log Kow = 1.94

Insoluble in water.

Phenols and Cresols

P-CRESOL is sensitive to heat. It is also sensitive to light. This chemical is incompatible with strong oxidizers and strong alkalis. It will attack some forms of plastics, coatings and rubber. (NTP, 1992)

Strong oxidizers, acids.

Incompatible materials: Oxidizing agents. Bases.

Strong oxidizers, acids

The CIR Expert panel concludes Sodium p-Chloro-m-Cresol, p-Chloro-m-Cresol, Chlorothymol, m-Cresol, o-Cresol, Isopropyl Cresols, Thymol, o-Cymen-5-ol, Cavacrol are safe at concentrations up to 0.5% in cosmetics; however, the available data are insufficient to support the safety of p-Cresol and Mixed Cresols for use in cosmetic products.

Ingredients for which the data are insufficient and their use in cosmetics is not supported

IDENTIFICATION AND USE: p-Cresol is a crystalline solid below 95 °F. It has been used in explosive, petroleum, photographic, paint and agricultural industries, for making synthetic resins; in disinfectants and fumigants; as industrial solvent. p-Cresol is used in the formulation of antioxidants. p-Cresol has many applications in the fragrance and dye industries. Synthetic food flavors also contain p-cresol. It is used as local antiseptic, parasiticide, disinfectant in veterinary. HUMAN EXPOSURE AND TOXICITY: p-Cresol, an end product of aromatic amino acids, is produced from food proteins by intestinal bacteria, and is detectable in blood, urine and feces. p-Cresol may contribute to atherosclerosis and thrombosis in patients with uremia. Higher serum levels of p-cresol in chronic kidney disease populations have been associated with increased cardiovascular mortality. p-Cresol reduced the spontaneous contraction rates of cardiomyocytes, and caused irregular cardiomyocyte beating. In acute p-cresol-poisoning and long-term exposure to cresol as in severe uremic patients, p-cresol may potentially inhibit blood clot formation and lead to hemorrhagic disorders via inhibition of platelet aggregation. p-Cresol may play a role in the immune defect of uremic patients. Studies on the induction of unscheduled DNA synthesis showed p-cresol to be positive in human lung fibroblast cells in the presence of hepatic homogenates. ANIMAL STUDIES: p-Cresol can cause severe local irritation and corrosion following dermal and ocular exposure. Glaucoma has been induced experimentally in rabbits & monkeys by injection of 0.5-1.0% p-cresol emulsion in physiologic saline into the anterior chamber. Application of 0.5% p-cresol to the skin for 6 weeks resulted in permanent depigmentation of the skin and hair in black and agouti mice. All three cresols isomers are more toxic to mice than to rats when administered by gavage. o-Cresol is the most toxic, followed by p-cresol and then m-cresol. The effects are similar to, but less severe than, those following phenol exposure. Phenol, o- and p-cresol have about equal toxicity in cats while m-cresol is slightly less toxic. 180-280 mg/kg of p-cresol given iv to rabbits in a single dose, resulted in convulsions, coma, and death. In a 28-day study, rats and mice of both sexes were given p-cresol at concentrations of 300 to 30,000 ppm in the diet. All rats survived until study termination; some mice died at the 10,000 and 30,000 ppm dietary levels. Increased liver weights and kidney weights were noted in both species at doses as low as 3000 ppm. Bone marrow hyperplasia, and atrophy of the uterus, ovary, and mammary gland were seen in the 10,000- and 30,000-ppm dietary groups. In a 90-day study, rats were gavaged with 50, 175, or 600 mg p-Cresol/kg bw. The treatment with the highest dose caused combined mortality and significant reduction in bw and food consumption; CNS effects included lethargy, ataxia, coma, dyspnea, tremor, and convulsions within 15-30 min after dosing. A detailed oral neurotoxicity study of intermediate duration was performed on rats using all three cresol isomers. A host of clinical observations indicative of neurotoxicity (including hypoactivity, rapid labored respiration, excessive salivation, and tremors) was reported at doses of 50 mg/kg/day or higher for all three isomers. Convulsions were reported at 450 mg/kg/day or higher. Fetotoxicity was observed at parenterally-toxic doses in two-generation reproduction studies in rats. In a study conducted on cultured rat embryos in vitro, p-cresol caused dose-related effects on growth and structural abnormalities. p-Cresol caused an increased estrus cycle length in rats at 7500 and 30,000 mg/kg; there were no effects on the estrus cycle in mice. Female mice were dosed with a single application of dimethylbenzanthracene followed 1 wk later by 25uL of a 20% solution of p-cresol in benzene twice weekly for 12 wk. p-Cresol produced 7/20 tumors (papillomas) on surviving mice. p-Cresol given in the feed produced an increased incidence of mild and moderate hyperplasia of the forestomach of hamsters exposed for 20 weeks. P-Cresol was not genotoxic in vivo and in vitro. ECOTOXICITY STUDIES: A waterborne concn of 0.028 mM p-cresol resulted in statistically significant increases in serum sorbitol dehydrogenase activities shown by rainbow trout after 96 hr of exposure. During a 48-hr pulsed exposure to 8 mg p-cresol/L, the mortality of walleyed pike was very high. Smallmouth bass showed visible stress; largemouth bass showed no visible stress but had stopped feeding. The effects of p-cresol were examined on benthic macroinvertebrate flora and fauna in an EPA outdoor experimental stream facility located at Monticello, Minnesota. The primary effect of p-cresol was on the photosynthetic and respiration processes of aquatic plants.

p-Cresol is a cholinesterase or acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitor. A cholinesterase inhibitor (or 'anticholinesterase') suppresses the action of acetylcholinesterase. Because of its essential function, chemicals that interfere with the action of acetylcholinesterase are potent neurotoxins, causing excessive salivation and eye-watering in low doses, followed by muscle spasms and ultimately death. Nerve gases and many substances used in insecticides have been shown to act by binding a serine in the active site of acetylcholine esterase, inhibiting the enzyme completely. Acetylcholine esterase breaks down the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which is released at nerve and muscle junctions, in order to allow the muscle or organ to relax. The result of acetylcholine esterase inhibition is that acetylcholine builds up and continues to act so that any nerve impulses are continually transmitted and muscle contractions do not stop. Among the most common acetylcholinesterase inhibitors are phosphorus-based compounds, which are designed to bind to the active site of the enzyme. The structural requirements are a phosphorus atom bearing two lipophilic groups, a leaving group (such as a halide or thiocyanate), and a terminal oxygen.

4-Methylphenol

p-Cresol

Semi-Volatile Organic Compound (SVOC) and(or) Waste-water effluent contaminant

Listed as 4-methylphenol

Smith, C.D. and Nowell, L.H., 2024. Health-Based Screening Levels for evaluating water-quality data (3rd ed.). DOI:10.5066/F71C1TWP

CLASSIFICATION: C; possible human carcinogen. BASIS FOR CLASSIFICATION: Based on an increased incidence of skin papillomas in mice in an initiation-promotion study. The three cresol isomers produced positive results in genetic toxicity studies both alone and in combination. HUMAN CARCINOGENICITY DATA: Inadequate. ANIMAL CARCINOGENICITY DATA: Limited.

A4: Not classifiable as a human carcinogen. /Cresol, all isomers/

No indication of carcinogenicity to humans (not listed by IARC).

Acute exposure to cholinesterase inhibitors can cause a cholinergic crisis characterized by severe nausea/vomiting, salivation, sweating, bradycardia, hypotension, collapse, and convulsions. Increasing muscle weakness is a possibility and may result in death if respiratory muscles are involved. Accumulation of ACh at motor nerves causes overstimulation of nicotinic expression at the neuromuscular junction. When this occurs symptoms such as muscle weakness, fatigue, muscle cramps, fasciculation, and paralysis can be seen. When there is an accumulation of ACh at autonomic ganglia this causes overstimulation of nicotinic expression in the sympathetic system. Symptoms associated with this are hypertension, and hypoglycemia. Overstimulation of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the central nervous system, due to accumulation of ACh, results in anxiety, headache, convulsions, ataxia, depression of respiration and circulation, tremor, general weakness, and potentially coma. When there is expression of muscarinic overstimulation due to excess acetylcholine at muscarinic acetylcholine receptors symptoms of visual disturbances, tightness in chest, wheezing due to bronchoconstriction, increased bronchial secretions, increased salivation, lacrimation, sweating, peristalsis, and urination can occur. Certain reproductive effects in fertility, growth, and development for males and females have been linked specifically to organophosphate pesticide exposure. Most of the research on reproductive effects has been conducted on farmers working with pesticides and insecticdes in rural areas. In females menstrual cycle disturbances, longer pregnancies, spontaneous abortions, stillbirths, and some developmental effects in offspring have been linked to organophosphate pesticide exposure. Prenatal exposure has been linked to impaired fetal growth and development. Neurotoxic effects have also been linked to poisoning with OP pesticides causing four neurotoxic effects in humans: cholinergic syndrome, intermediate syndrome, organophosphate-induced delayed polyneuropathy (OPIDP), and chronic organophosphate-induced neuropsychiatric disorder (COPIND). These syndromes result after acute and chronic exposure to OP pesticides.

The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation, through the skin and by ingestion. Serious local effects by all routes of exposure.

inhalation, skin absorption, ingestion, skin and/or eye contact

Inhalation (L528) ; dermal (L528) ; oral (L528)

Cough. Sore throat. Burning sensation. Headache. Nausea. Vomiting. Shortness of breath. Laboured breathing.

MAY BE ABSORBED! Redness. Pain. Blisters. Skin burns.

Redness. Pain. Severe burns.

Burns in mouth and throat. Burning sensation in the throat and chest. Nausea. Vomiting. Abdominal pain. Shock or collapse.

irritation eyes, skin, mucous membrane; central nervous system effects: confusion, depression, resp failure; dyspnea (breathing difficulty), irreg rapid resp, weak pulse; eye, skin burns; dermatitis; lung, liver, kidney, pancreas damage

Ingestion of p-cresol results in burning of the mouth and throat, abdominal pain, and vomiting. Inhalation or dermal exposure of animals to p-cresol can produce irritation and corrosion at the site of contact. (L482)

Eyes, skin, respiratory system, central nervous system, liver, kidneys, pancreas, cardiovascular system

Occupational hepatotoxin - Secondary hepatotoxins: the potential for toxic effect in the occupational setting is based on cases of poisoning by human ingestion or animal experimentation.

Methemoglobinemia - The presence of increased methemoglobin in the blood; the compound is classified as secondary toxic effect

Hemolytic anemia - Decreased hemoglobin or number of red blood cells.

Dermatotoxin - Skin burns.

Toxic Pneumonitis - Inflammation of the lungs induced by inhalation of metal fumes or toxic gases and vapors.

ACGIH Carcinogen - Not Classifiable.

2 x 10^-2 mg/kg-day

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See the IRIS entry for 4-Methylphenol

PPRTV Memo

PPRTV Current

LC50 (rat) > 710 mg/m3/1hr

LD50: 207 mg/kg (Oral, Rat) (T13)

LD50: 301 mg/kg (Dermal, Rabbit) (T13)

LD50: 25 mg/kg (Intraperitoneal, Mouse) (T13)

LD50 Rat dermal 750 mg/kg

LD50 Rat oral 207 mg/kg

LD50 Rat oral 1.8 g/kg

LD50 Mouse intraveneously 1460 mg/kg

LC50; Species: Pimephales promelas (Fathead minnow) juvenile; Conditions: static, 18-22 °C; Concentration: >30 mg/L for 1 hr

LC50; Species: Pimephales promelas (Fathead minnow) juvenile; Conditions: static, 18-22 °C; Concentration: 26 mg/L for 24 hr

LC50; Species: Pimephales promelas (Fathead minnow) juvenile; Conditions: static, 18-22 °C; Concentration: 21 mg/L for 48 hr

LC50; Species: Pimephales promelas (Fathead minnow) juvenile; Conditions: static, 18-22 °C; Concentration: 21 mg/L for 72 hr

For more Ecotoxicity Values (Complete) data for p-CRESOL (22 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ The assay of serum sorbitol dehydrogenase activity to indicate liver damage by toxicants in rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri) was assessed using p-cresol as a model toxicant. A waterborne concentration of 0.028 mM p-cresol resulted in statistically significant increases in serum sorbitol dehydrogenase activities shown by rainbow trout after 96 hr of exposure. Serum sorbitol dehydrogenase activity increased with increasing p-cresol dose in the range 0.25-4.0 mmol/kg.

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ Larval fathead minnows (Pimephales pomelas) were exposed for 96 hr to several concentrations of ... p-cresol. The range of safe concentrations determined from 96 hr macromolecular content (RNA, DNA and protein) and growth was within or near the range of safe concentrations determined by concomitant longer term exposure (28-32 day early life stage toxicity test). RNA, DNA and protein content/larva and RNA/DNA ratio were sensitive to toxicant stress and followed a log-linear dose response. Larval RNA content appeared to be the 96 hr measurement most responsive to toxicant exposure. A disruption of nucleic acid and protein metabolism apparently occurred within 96 hr of sublethal toxicant exposure and resulted in decreased rates of mitosis, reduced protein synthesis and reduced growth. Measurement of growth and macromolecular content after a 96 hr larval exposure provided a physiologically relevant measurement of toxicity that was predictive of longer term sublethal toxicity.

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ Activities of plasma leucine aminonaphthylamidase were assayed to quantify toxicant stress in rainbow trout (/Oncorhynchus mykiss/) in a series of experiments. Blood samples were taken from groups of fish weighing 80 to 100 g following ip and/or waterborne exposure to p-methylphenol. The duration of postinjection holding significantly affected activity in control p-methylphenol dose rainbow trout; the largest increases occurred after 96 hr. There were significant correlations between dose and plasma leucine aminonaphthylamidase activity after p-methylphenol injection. Plasma leucine aminonaphthylamidase activity levels of fish injected with p-methylphenol at 0.075 to 0.75 of the 96 hr ip LD50 values were elevated by 27 to 63% relative to controls 96 hr after injection. Exposure of fish to a waterborne concn of 0.028 mM p-methylphenol significantly increased plasma leucine aminonaphthylamidase activity after 48, 96, and 192 hr; activities increased by 38 to 87% relative to controls. Elevated plasma leucine aminonaphthylamidase activity was strongly correlated with decreased plasma protein levels. The temp and duration of plasma storage affected the measured plasma leucine aminonaphthylamidase activity of control and p-methylphenol dosed rainbow trout. While diet modified plasma leucine aminonaphthylamidase activity, the gender of immature fish had no effect. Hepatic lesions visible by light microscope were observed with waterborne p-methylphenol exposure; parenchymatous edema was closely associated with increased liver somatic index.

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ During a 48-hr pulsed exposure to 8 mg p-cresol/L, the mortality of walleyed pike was very high. Smallmouth bass showed visible stress; largemouth bass showed no visible stress but had stopped feeding. There were large decreases in dissolved oxygen during the experiment. Bioaccumulation was determined in specific body parts for bluegill sunfish. p-Cresol levels in eyes, mussels and gills were low (2.8, 4.7 and 7.3 mg/kg, respectively) but were high in liver and intestines (76 and 97 mg/kg, respectively). Again, p-cresol was rapidly eliminated from the fish.

For more Ecotoxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for p-CRESOL (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

1.30e+03

1.60e+04

6.30e+02

2.60e+03

3.70e+02

3.00e-01

2.00e-02

6.00e-01

Volatile

3.80e+03

4.90e+04

1.90e+03

7.90e+03

1.10e+03

The substance is toxic to aquatic organisms. It is strongly advised not to let the chemical enter into the environment.

p-Cresol's production and use as a chemical intermediate in the production of antioxidants and other compounds, as a process solvent for the production of wire enamels and as a food flavoring additive may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. Its use as disinfectant and as a fragrance ingredient in pesticides may result in its direct release to the environment. p-Cresol is also released to the environment through automobile exhaust, wood and trash burning and tobacco smoke. Cresols are widely distributed in nature and formed as metabolites of microbial activity and excreted in the urine of mammals. P-Cresol is found in many species of plants and occurs in coal, petroleum and as a constituent in wood. If released to air, a vapor pressure of 0.11 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates p-cresol will exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase p-cresol will be degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals; the half-life for this reaction in air is estimated to be 7 hours. Vapor-phase p-cresol will also be degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with nitrate radicals; the half-life for this reaction in air is estimated to be 3 minutes. The nitrate radical is the dominant atmospheric oxidant during the night-time in most atmospheric environments, therefore, night-time degradation appears to be a major atmospheric loss process for p-cresol. p-Cresol absorbs at wavelengths >290 nm and, therefore, may be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight. p-Cresol has been detected in rain water indicating it may be removed from the air by wet deposition. If released to soil, p-cresol is expected to have very high to moderate mobility based upon a measured Koc range of 27-500. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces is expected to occur based upon a Henry's Law constant of 1.0X10-6 atm-cu m/mole. p-Cresol may volatilize from dry soil surfaces based upon its vapor pressure. Based upon available test results, including OECD screening methods, p-cresol can be considered as being readily biodegradable under aerobic conditions in soil and water. Biodegradation half-lives of 1 and 0.5 days were reported for 2 agricultural soils. If released into water, p-cresol is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment in the water column based upon the Koc values. Aerobic biodegradation is considered to be the major removal mechanism for p-cresol in the hydrosphere. Complete degradation of p-cresol occurred within 4 and 6 days in Lake Tahoe, CA water. Volatilization from water surfaces is expected to occur based upon this compound's Henry's Law constant. Estimated volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 36 and 281 days, respectively. An estimated BCF of 9 suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low. p-Cresol is not expected to undergo hydrolysis since it lacks functional groups that hydrolyze under environmental conditions. Photodegradation may occur in waters exposed to sunlight. Occupational exposure to p-cresol may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where p-cresol is produced or used. Monitoring data indicate the general population may be exposed to p-cresol via inhalation of ambient air and tobacco smoke, ingestion of food, and dermal contact with consumer products containing p-cresol. (SRC)

Reported in Acacia farnesiana, ylang-ylang oil (probably as p-cresyl acetate), jasmine absolute, orange oil from leaves, the essence from flowers of Lilium candidum, anise-seed oil, the essence of Artemisia santolinoflia, & some sea algae.

Cresols are widely distributed in nature and formed as metabolites of microbial activity and excreted in the urine of mammals(1). Cresols are formed from the commonly found amino acid tyrosine, and occur naturally in human and animal tissues, fluids, and urine(2). Cresol in its various forms is found in the extracts and water vapor distillates of many plants, e.g. in jasmine flower oil, cassia flower oil, easter lily oil, and ylang ylang oil, in the floral oil of Yucca gloriosa, in the scent of Viola odorata, in peppermint, eucalyptus, and camphor oil, and in the essential oils of several plants of the genus Artemisia, of conifers, of oak wood, and of sandalwood(1). p-Cresol occurs in a variety of plants such as cedar wood, coffee, tea, sandalwood and asparagus(3). Cresols occurs in petroleum and coal(2).

p-Cresol's production and use as a chemical intermediate in the production of antioxidants and other compounds, as a process solvent for the production of wire enamels and as a food flavoring additive(1,2) may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams(SRC). Its use as disinfectant(1) and as a fragrance ingredient in pesticides(3) may result in its direct release to the environment(SRC). p-Cresol is also released to the environment through automobile exhaust, wood and trash burning and tobacco smoke(1,3,4).

In sewage effluents

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), a measured Koc range of 27-500(2-4) indicates that p-cresol is expected to have very high to moderate mobility in soil(SRC). Volatilization of p-cresol from moist soil surfaces is expected to occur(SRC) given a Henry's Law constant of 1.0X10-6 atm-cu m/mole(5). p-Cresol may volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon a vapor pressure of 0.11 mm Hg at 25 °C(6). Based upon available test results, including OECD screening methods, p-cresol can be considered as being readily biodegradable under aerobic conditions(7). Biodegradation half-lives of 1 and 0.5 days were reported for 2 agricultural soils(8).

AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), a measured soil Koc range of 27-500(2-4) and a reported sediment Koc of 645(4) indicate that p-cresol is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment in water(SRC). Volatilization from water surfaces is expected(5) based upon a Henry's Law constant of 1.0X10-6 atm-cu m/mole(6). Using this Henry's Law constant and an estimation method(5), volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 38 and 281 days, respectively(SRC). According to a classification scheme(7), an estimated BCF of 9(SRC), from a log Kow of 1.94(8), and a regression derived equation(9), suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low. Based upon available test results, including OECD screening methods, p-cresol can be considered as being readily biodegradable under aerobic conditions(10). Aerobic biodegradation is considered to be the major removal mechanism for p-cresol in the hydrosphere(10). Complete degradation of p-cresol occurred within 4 and 6 days using Lake Tahoe, CA water(11). p-Cresol is a phenol and phenols in surface waters exposed to sunlight react with photo-oxidants (such as hydroxyl radicals, peroxy radicals and singlet oxygen) with a half-life on the order of 13 days(12). p-Cresol is not expected to undergo hydrolysis in the environment due to the lack of functional groups that hydrolyze under environmental conditions(5).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), p-cresol, which has a vapor pressure of 0.11 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), is expected to exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase p-cresol is degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals(SRC); the half-life for this reaction in air is estimated to be 7 hours(SRC) from its rate constant of 4.96X10-11 cu cm/molecule-sec at 21 °C(3). Vapor-phase p-cresol is also degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with nitrate radicals(SRC); the half-life for this reaction in air is estimated to be 3 minutes(SRC) from its rate constant of 1.66X10-11 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(3). The nitrate radical is the dominant atmospheric oxidant during the night-time in most atmospheric environments(4), therefore, night-time degradation appears to be a major atmospheric loss process for p-cresol(SRC). p-Cresol absorbs at wavelengths >290 nm(5) and, therefore, may be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight(SRC). p-Cresol has been detected in rain water(6,7) indicating it may be removed from the air by wet deposition(SRC).

AEROBIC: Complete degradation of p-cresol was obtained in a simulated biological treatment plant in 16-74 hours(1). p-Cresol biodegrades rapidly in environmental waters including oligotrophic lakes, eutrophic ponds, rivers, creeks and bays(2-5). Total degradation occurred in Lake Tahoe, CA water within 6 days and 4 days depending on whether the water contained sediment or not, respectively(2). In a eutrophic pond, degradation was complete in 7-8.5 hr after a 5.5-6 hr lag period(2). The half-life of p-cresol in two fish ponds ranged from 2-7 hr after a 30-56 hr lag(3). In 3 river waters of the Pacific North West, the half-life of p-cresol ranged from 1-10 hr after a 2 day lag period(3). At 3 sites in Pensacola Bay, FL the half-life of p-cresol ranged from 9-43 hr in salt water(4). In marine water/sediment cores from 3 Pensacola Bay sites, biodegradation half-lives ranged from 3-16 hr(4). 95% of the p-cresol added to fresh water/sediment cores from the Escamba River, FL degraded in 75 hr and 22% was mineralized in that period(5). The disproportionate decrease in the concentration of p-cresol in groundwater down-gradient from a wood preserving facility has been ascribed to biodegradation(6). Biodegradation half-lives of 1 and 0.5 days were reported for p-cresol in 2 agricultural soils(7). The first-order aerobic biodegradation rate constant of p-cresol was reported as 0.0029/day(8), corresponding to a half-life of about 239 days(SRC). Pure cultures isolated from reed-sedge peat bogs resulted in 97.7% degradation of p-cresol during a 40 hour incubation period(9). Based upon available test results, including OECD screening methods, p-cresol can be considered as being readily biodegradable under aerobic conditions(10).

ANAEROBIC: Under anaerobic conditions, p-cresol was mineralized in 3 and 8 weeks in two screening studies using digester sludge inocula(1,2). However, no mineralization was observed when incubated for 29 weeks in anaerobic sediment from the pelagic region of hypereutrophic Wintergreen Lake in Kalamazoo County, MI(3). The half-life of p-cresol in an anaerobic digester sludge was 18.5 days(4). At 3 sites in Pensacola Bay, FL the half-life of p-cresol ranged from 6-11 hrs when anaerobic sediment was added to the water(5).

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of p-cresol with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals has been measured as 4.96X10-11 cu cm/molecule-sec at 21 °C(1). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 7 hours at an atmospheric concentration of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(2). The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of p-cresol with atmospheric ozone has been measured as 4.72X10-19 cu cm/molecule-sec at 23 °C(1); this corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 24 days at an atmospheric concentration of 7X10+11 ozone molecules per cu cm(2). The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of p-cresol with atmospheric nitrate radicals has been measured as 1.66X10-11 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(1); this corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 3 minutes(SRC) at an atmospheric concentration of 2.5X10+8 nitrate radicals per cu cm(3). The nitrate radical (NO3) is the dominant atmospheric oxidant during the night-time in most atmospheric environments(4), therefore, night-time degradation appears to be a major atmospheric loss process for p-cresol(SRC). p-Cresol absorbs at wavelengths >290 nm(5) and, therefore, may be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight(SRC). p-Cresol in pure water photolyzed in the presence of sunlight (half-life 35 days) under laboratory conditions(6); the addition of humic acid to the water increased this rate by a factor of 12(6). p-Cresol is a phenol and phenols in surface waters exposed to sunlight react with photo-oxidants (such as hydroxyl radicals, peroxy radicals and singlet oxygen) with a half-life on the order of 13 days(7). p-Cresol is not expected to undergo hydrolysis in the environment due to the lack of functional groups that hydrolyze under environmental conditions(8).

An estimated BCF of 9 was calculated for p-cresol(SRC), using a log Kow of 1.94(1) and a regression-derived equation(2). According to a classification scheme(3), this BCF value suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low.

A Koc of 49 was measured for o-cresol in a Brookston clay loam soil using OECD Guideline 106(1). Based on measured Freundlich isotherms for p-cresol in five different horizon soils (organic content of 0.3 to 0.9%)(2), the Koc ranged from 27 to 251 with an average of 173(SRC). Other reported Koc values include a Koc of 500 in soil and 645 in a sediment(3). According to a classification scheme(4), these Koc values indicate that p-cresol is expected to have very high to moderate mobility in soil.

The Henry's Law constant for p-cresol is 1.0X10-6 atm-cu m/mole(1). This Henry's Law constant indicates that p-cresol is expected to volatilize from water surfaces(2). Based on this Henry's Law constant, the volatilization half-life from a model river (1 m deep, flowing 1 m/sec, wind velocity of 3 m/sec)(2) is estimated as approximately 38 days(SRC). The volatilization half-life from a model lake (1 m deep, flowing 0.05 m/sec, wind velocity of 0.5 m/sec)(2) is estimated as approximately 281 days(SRC). p-Cresol's Henry's Law constant(1) indicates that volatilization from moist soil surfaces may occur(SRC). p-Cresol may volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon a vapor pressure of 0.11 mm Hg at 25 °C(3).

GROUNDWATER: p-Cresol was detected in groundwater in a sand aquifer at a wood-preserving facility in Pensacola, FL (5 sites, 5 depths) 0-6.17 mg/L(1) and in the Southington, CT landfill site at 1.5 mg/L(2). p-Cresol was detected at an underground coal gasification site in Wyoming at concengtrations of 9.6-16,000 ppb(3). Groundwater near an abandoned pine tar manufacturing plant in Gainesville, FL had concentrations of combined m,p-cresol isomers at less than 0.3 to 11,100 ug/L(4). p-Cresol was detected in the groundwater at the Gas Works Park, Seattle, WA at a concentartion of 0.06 and 1.5 mg/L(5). p-Cresol was detected in groundwater at the American Creosote Works facility in Pensacola, FL at 2 mg/L(6). Combined isomers of m,p-cresol were detected in groundwater near coal gasification plants in Denmark at concentrations of 5-77 ug/L(7). p-Cresol was detected in groundwater at a landfill in Norman, OK at 14.6 ppb(8). Groundwater samples collected in Sept 2000 near the Norman Landfill (central Oklahoma) contained p-cresol levels of 01.9 and 0.49 ug/L in two wells and <0.06 ug/L in three other wells(9).

Generators of waste (equal to or greater than 100 kg/mo) containing this contaminant, EPA hazardous waste numbers F004, U052 and D025, must conform with USEPA regulations in storage, transportation, treatment and disposal of waste.

Chemical Treatability of p-Cresol; Concentration Process: Biological Treatment; Chemical Classification: Phenols; Scale of Study: Unknown; Type of Wastewater Used: Pure (one solute in a solvent); Results of Study: 95.5% reduction based on chemical oxygen demand; rate of biodegradation 55 mg chemical oxygen demand/g hr. (Activated sludge process).

Chemical Treatability of p-Cresol; Concentration Process: Solvent Extraction; Chemical Classification: Phenols; Scale of Study: Laboratory Scale, Continuous flow; Type of Wastewater Used: Industrial Wastewater; Results of Study: 91% reduction (Extraction of evaporation condensate from spent caustic processing using isobutylene (S/W= 1.8); spray extractor used).

Cresol: A good candidate for rotary kiln incineration at temperature range of 820 to 1,600 °C and residence times of seconds for liquids and gases, and hours for solids. A good candidate for fluidized bed incineration at a temperature range of 450 to 980 °C and residence times of seconds for liquids and gases, and longer for solids. /Cresols/

For more Disposal Methods (Complete) data for p-CRESOL (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

/GUIDE 153: SUBSTANCES - TOXIC AND/OR CORROSIVE (COMBUSTIBLE)/ Health: TOXIC; inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact with material may cause severe injury or death. 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. /Cresols; Cresols, liquid; Cresols, solid; Cresylic acid/

/GUIDE 153: SUBSTANCES - TOXIC AND/OR CORROSIVE (COMBUSTIBLE)/ Fire or Explosion: Combustible material: may burn but does not ignite readily. When heated, vapors may form explosive mixtures with air: indoors, outdoors, and sewers explosion hazards. Those substances designated with a "P" may polymerize explosively when heated or involved in a fire. Contact with metals may evolve flammable hydrogen gas. Containers may explode when heated. Runoff may pollute waterways. Substance may be transported in a molten form. /Cresols; Cresols, liquid; Cresols, solid; Cresylic acid/

/GUIDE 153: SUBSTANCES - TOXIC AND/OR CORROSIVE (COMBUSTIBLE)/ Public Safety: CALL Emergency Response Telephone Number ... As an immediate precautionary measure, isolate spill or leak area in all directions for at least 50 meters (150 feet) for liquids and at least 25 meters (75 feet) for solids. Keep unauthorized personnel away. Stay upwind. Keep out of low areas. Ventilate enclosed areas. /Cresols; Cresols, liquid; Cresols, solid; Cresylic acid/

/GUIDE 153: SUBSTANCES - TOXIC AND/OR CORROSIVE (COMBUSTIBLE)/ Protective Clothing: Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Wear chemical protective clothing that is specifically recommended by the manufacturer. It may provide little or no thermal protection. Structural firefighters' protective clothing provides limited protection in fire situations ONLY; it is not effective in spill situations where direct contact with the substance is possible. /Cresols; Cresols, liquid; Cresols, solid; Cresylic acid/

For more DOT Emergency Guidelines (Complete) data for p-CRESOL (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

UN2022; Cresylic acid

UN 3455; Cresols, solid

UN 2076; Cresols, liquid

IMO 6.1; Cresols, liquid; Cresols, solid; Cresylic acid

49 314 17; Cresol (o-, m-, p-)

No person may /transport,/ offer or accept a hazardous material for transportation in commerce unless that person is registered in conformance ... and the hazardous material is properly classed, described, packaged, marked, labeled, and in condition for shipment as required or authorized by ... /the hazardous materials regulations (49 CFR 171-177)./

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations are published by the IATA Dangerous Goods Board pursuant to IATA Resolutions 618 and 619 and constitute a manual of industry carrier regulations to be followed by all IATA Member airlines when transporting hazardous materials. /Cresylic acid; Cresols, liquid; Cresols, solid/

The International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code lays down basic principles for transporting hazardous chemicals. Detailed recommendations for individual substances and a number of recommendations for good practice are included in the classes dealing with such substances. A general index of technical names has also been compiled. This index should always be consulted when attempting to locate the appropriate procedures to be used when shipping any substance or article. /Cresylic acid; Cresols, liquid; Cresols, solid/

Poison Corrosive

Do not transport with food and feedstuffs. Marine pollutant.

Symbol: T, C; R: 24/25-34; S: (1/2)-36/37/39-45; Note: C

UN Hazard Class: 6.1; UN Subsidiary Risks: 8; UN Pack Group: II