2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene

H201: (Deleted) Explosive; mass explosion hazard [Danger Explosives]

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

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

H331: Toxic if inhaled [Danger Acute toxicity, inhalation]

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

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

P210, P230, P240, P250, P260, P261, P262, P264, P270, P271, P273, P280, P301+P316, P302+P352, P304+P340, P316, P319, P321, P330, P361+P364, P370+P380, P372, P373, P391, P401, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

H201 (100%): (Deleted) Explosive; mass explosion hazard [Danger Explosives]

H301+H311+H331 (72%): Toxic if swallowed, in contact with skin or if inhaled [Danger Acute toxicity, oral; acute toxicity, dermal; acute toxicity, inhalation]

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

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

H331 (99.6%): Toxic if inhaled [Danger Acute toxicity, inhalation]

H350 (16.7%): May cause cancer [Danger Carcinogenicity]

H361 (25.1%): Suspected of damaging fertility or the unborn child [Warning Reproductive toxicity]

H361d (25.1%): Suspected of damaging the unborn child [Warning Reproductive toxicity]

H373 (99.6%): May causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, repeated exposure]

H400 (37.8%): Very toxic to aquatic life [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, acute hazard]

H411 (99.3%): Toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

P203, P210, P230, P240, P250, P260, P261, P262, P264, P270, P271, P273, P280, P301+P316, P302+P352, P304+P340, P316, P318, P319, P321, P330, P361+P364, P370+P380, P372, P373, P391, P401, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Aggregated GHS information provided per 275 reports by companies from 12 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.

H302: Harmful if swallowed [Warning Acute toxicity, oral]

H315: Causes skin irritation [Warning Skin corrosion/irritation]

H317: May cause an allergic skin reaction [Warning Sensitization, Skin]

H319: Causes serious eye irritation [Warning Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

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

H350: May cause cancer [Danger 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]

H400: Very toxic to aquatic life [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, acute hazard]

H410: Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

P203, P210, P230, P240, P250, P260, P261, P264, P264+P265, P270, P271, P272, P273, P280, P301+P317, P302+P352, P304+P340, P305+P351+P338, P308+P316, P318, P319, P321, P330, P332+P317, P333+P317, P337+P317, P362+P364, P370+P380, P372, P373, P391, P401, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

H361: Suspected of damaging fertility or the unborn child [Warning Reproductive toxicity]

P203, P210, P230, P240, P250, P260, P261, P264, P264+P265, P270, P271, P272, P280, P301+P317, P302+P352, P304+P340, P305+P351+P338, P308+P316, P318, P319, P321, P330, P332+P317, P333+P317, P337+P317, P362+P364, P370+P380, P372, P373, P401, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

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

Fresh air, rest. Artificial respiration may be needed. Refer for medical attention.

Remove contaminated clothes. Rinse and then wash skin with water and soap. Refer for medical attention . Wear protective gloves when administering first aid.

First rinse with plenty of water for several minutes (remove contact lenses if easily possible), then refer for medical attention.

Rinse mouth. Induce vomiting (ONLY IN CONSCIOUS PERSONS!). Wear protective gloves when inducing vomiting.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 113 [Flammable Materials (Wet / Desensitized Explosive)]:

Refer to the "General First Aid" section. (ERG, 2024)

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. If symptoms such as redness or irritation develop, IMMEDIATELY call a physician and be prepared to transport the victim to a hospital for treatment.

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. If the victim is conscious and not convulsing, give 1 or 2 glasses of water to dilute the chemical and IMMEDIATELY call a hospital or poison control center. Be prepared to transport the victim to a hospital if advised by a physician. If the victim is convulsing or unconscious, do not give anything by mouth, ensure 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:

· Call 911 or emergency medical service.

· Ensure that medical personnel are aware of the material(s) involved, take precautions to protect themselves and avoid contamination.

· Move victim to fresh air if it can be done safely.

· Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult.

· If victim is not breathing:

-- DO NOT perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation; the victim may have ingested or inhaled the substance.

-- If equipped and pulse detected, wash face and mouth, then give artificial respiration using a proper respiratory medical device (bag-valve mask, pocket mask equipped with a one-way valve or other device).

-- If no pulse detected or no respiratory medical device available, provide continuous compressions. Conduct a pulse check every two minutes or monitor for any signs of spontaneous respirations.

· Remove and isolate contaminated clothing and shoes.

· For minor skin contact, avoid spreading material on unaffected skin.

· In case of contact with substance, remove immediately by flushing skin or eyes with running water for at least 20 minutes.

· For severe burns, immediate medical attention is required.

· Effects of exposure (inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact) to substance may be delayed.

· Keep victim calm and warm.

· Keep victim under observation.

· For further assistance, contact your local Poison Control Center.

· Note: Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Life Support (ALS) should be done by trained professionals.

In Canada, an Emergency Response Assistance Plan (ERAP) may be required for this product. Please consult the shipping paper and/or the "ERAP" section.

(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 promptly - If this chemical contacts the skin, promptly wash the contaminated skin with soap and water. If this chemical penetrates the clothing, promptly remove the clothing and wash the skin with soap and water. Get medical attention promptly.

Breathing: Respiratory support

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

Excerpt from ERG Guide 113 [Flammable Materials (Wet / Desensitized Explosive)]:

CARGO FIRE: DO NOT fight fire when fire reaches cargo! Cargo may EXPLODE! Stop all traffic and clear the area for at least 1600 meters (1 mile) in all directions and let burn. Do not move cargo or vehicle if cargo has been exposed to heat.

TIRE OR VEHICLE FIRE: Use plenty of water - FLOOD it! If water is not available, use CO2, dry chemical or dirt. If possible, and WITHOUT RISK, use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles from maximum distance to prevent fire from spreading to cargo area. Pay special attention to tire fires as re-ignition may occur. Stand by, at a safe distance, with extinguisher ready for possible re-ignition. (ERG, 2024)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 112 [Explosives - Division 1.1, 1.2, 1.3 or 1.5]:

Use water in large amounts. Do not attempt to extinguish large fire, evacuate area. In case of fire: keep drums, etc., cool by spraying with water. Combat fire from a sheltered position.

If material on fire or involved in fire: Dangerously explosive. Flood with water. Cool all affected containers with flooding quantities of water. Apply water from as far a distance as possible. /Trinitrotoluene, wetted or TNT, wetted with not less than 30% water, by mass/

Evacuation: If the material is on fire or involved in fire consider evacuation of one (1) mile radius. /Trinitrotoluene (TNT)/

If material on fire or involved in fire: Dangerously explosive. Do not fight fires in a cargo of explosives. Evacuate area and let burn. /Trinitrotoluene (TNT)/

If material on fire or involved in fire: Solid streams of water may spread fire. Use water in flooding quantities as fog. Use dry chemical, graphite, or dry earth. /Trinitrotoluene (TNT), wetted (with not less than 10% water, by mass)/

Evaporation at 20 °C is negligible; a harmful concentration of airborne particles can, however, be reached quickly.

May explosively decompose on shock, friction, or concussion. Explodes on heating to 240 °C.

· CALL 911. Then call emergency response telephone number on shipping paper. If shipping paper not available or no answer, refer to appropriate telephone number listed on the inside back cover.

· Keep unauthorized personnel away.

· Stay upwind, uphill and/or upstream.

· Ventilate closed spaces before entering, but only if properly trained and equipped.

· ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames) from immediate area.

· All equipment used when handling the product must be grounded.

· Do not touch or walk through spilled material.

Small Spill

· Flush area with large amounts of water.

Large Spill

· Wet down with water and dike for later disposal.

· KEEP "WETTED" PRODUCT WET BY SLOWLY ADDING FLOODING QUANTITIES OF WATER.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 113 [Flammable Materials (Wet / Desensitized Explosive)]:

IMMEDIATE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURE: Isolate spill or leak area immediately for at least 100 meters (330 feet) in all directions.

LARGE SPILL: Consider initial evacuation for 500 meters (1/3 mile) in all directions.

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)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 112 [Explosives - Division 1.1, 1.2, 1.3 or 1.5]:

IMMEDIATE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURE: Isolate spill or leak area immediately for at least 500 meters (1/3 mile) in all directions.

LARGE SPILL: Consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions.

FIRE: If rail car or trailer is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 1600 meters (1 mile) in all directions; also, initiate evacuation including emergency responders for 1600 meters (1 mile) in all directions. (ERG, 2024)

Immediate precautionary measure

· Isolate spill or leak area immediately for at least 100 meters (330 feet) in all directions.

· Consider initial evacuation for 500 meters (1/3 mile) in all directions.

· 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.

Evacuate danger area! Consult an expert! Personal protection: chemical protection suit including self-contained breathing apparatus. Do NOT let this chemical enter the environment. Do NOT wash away into sewer. Wet spilled material before picking it up, do not attempt to sweep up dry material. Carefully collect remainder. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations.

Physical treatments, such as sorption by activated carbon or ion exchange resins or coagulation and filtration, are effective in removing TNT and other related cmpd present in munitions mfg wastewater.

TNT was removed from wastewater using treatment by amines.

The feasibility was demonstrated of treating explosive-contaminated wastewater using an oxidant (hydrogen peroxide) in conjunction with short wavelength UV light. The process achieves a high degree of decontamination without any troublesome by-products. Water contaminated with TNT ... was successfully treated using this photooxidative method.

Evacuate danger area! Consult an expert! Wet spilled material before picking it up, do not attempt to sweep up dry material. Do NOT wash away into sewer. Carefully collect remainder, then remove to safe place. Do NOT let this chemical enter the environment. Chemical protection suit including self-contained breathing apparatus.

SRP: The most favorable course of action is to use an alternative chemical product with less inherent propensity for occupational exposure or environmental contamination. Recycle any unused portion of the material for its approved use or return it to the manufacturer or supplier. Ultimate disposal of the chemical must consider: the material's impact on air quality; potential migration in soil or water; effects on animal, aquatic, and plant life; and conformance with environmental and public health regulations.

... Bench-scale composting of up to 10% TNT showed that almost complete removal of TNT occurred in 55 days. Many of the toxic transformation products formed in activated sludge and soil were not found in the composted TNT. ... Composted wastes of TNT and other munitions must be examined for the leachability of undecomposed chem and transformation products prior to land treatment.

Pink water (mainly consists of alpha-2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (alpha-TNT) and various concentrations of nitrobodies such as RDX) was successfully oxidized electrochemically from a range of 60-105 ppm TNT to below acceptable disposal concn (0.5 ppm). The oxidation process does not produce any toxic by-products, and at an electrical cost of approximately $2.00 per 1000 gal, is most competitive in comparison to present alternatives.

The following wastewater treatment technologies have been investigated for 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene Biological treatment, Activated Carbon, and Resin adsorption.

Disposal of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene has been accomplished effectively by burning in an incinerator equipped with an afterburner and a scrubber ... 2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene has been pretreated before incineration by pouring or sifting onto sodium bicarbonate or a sand-soda ash mixture. The resulting combination is mixed and packaged in heavy paper cartons with plenty of paper packaging to serve as fuel ... 2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene has also been prepared for incineration by mixing with a flammable solvent, such as alcohol or benzene, and spraying the resulting mixture into the fire chamber of an incinerator.

SRP: The scientific literature for the use of contact lenses in industry is conflicting. The benefit or detrimental effects of wearing contact lenses depend not only upon the substance, but also on factors including the form of the substance, characteristics and duration of the exposure, the uses of other eye protection equipment, and the hygiene of the lenses. However, there may be individual substances whose irritating or corrosive properties are such that the wearing of contact lenses would be harmful to the eye. In those specific cases, contact lenses should not be worn. In any event, the usual eye protection equipment should be worn even when contact lenses are in place.

... ADEQUATE VENTILATION SHOULD BE PROVIDED. ... ADEQUATE WASHING FACILITIES SHOULD BE AVAILABLE ...

When volunteers either handled or had standard soln of 2,4,6-tritrotoluene (100 mg/ml) applied to their palms, 90% of the residues were removed by the 1st washing, but subsequent washings were less efficient. TNT was still detected after 24 hr and approximately 12 washings.

If material not on fire and not involved in fire: Keep sparks, flames, and other sources of ignition away. Keep material out of wate sources and sewers. Keep spilled material wet. Do not attempt to sweek up dry material. /Trinitrotoluene, wetted or TNT, wetted with not less than 30% water, by mass/

For more Preventive Measures (Complete) data for 2,4,6-TRINITROTOLUENE (16 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 113 [Flammable Materials (Wet / Desensitized Explosive)]:

ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames) from immediate area. All equipment used when handling the product must be grounded. Do not touch or walk through spilled material.

SMALL SPILL: Flush area with large amounts of water.

LARGE SPILL: Wet down with water and dike for later disposal. KEEP "WETTED" PRODUCT WET BY SLOWLY ADDING FLOODING QUANTITIES OF WATER. (ERG, 2024)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 112 [Explosives - Division 1.1, 1.2, 1.3 or 1.5]:

ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames) from immediate area. All equipment used when handling the product must be grounded. Do not touch or walk through spilled material. DO NOT OPERATE RADIO TRANSMITTERS WITHIN 100 METERS (330 FEET) OF ELECTRIC DETONATORS. DO NOT CLEAN-UP OR DISPOSE OF, EXCEPT UNDER SUPERVISION OF A SPECIALIST. (ERG, 2024)

Fireproof. Separated from initiator explosives, food and feedstuffs and incompatible materials. See Chemical Dangers. Well closed. Store in an area without drain or sewer access. Provision to contain effluent from fire extinguishing.

Fireproof. Separated from initiator explosives, food and feedstuffs, incompatible materials. See Chemical Dangers. Well closed.

· Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).

· Structural firefighters' protective clothing provides thermal protection but only limited chemical protection.

Biological Exposure Indices (BEI) [ACGIH] - Methemoglobin in blood = 1.5% of hemoglobin during or end of shift. [ACGIH]

0.20 [mg/m3]

83 [mg/m3]

500 [mg/m3]

0.5 mg/m³

TWA 0.5 mg/m3 [skin]

1.5 [mg/m3]

1.5 mg/m³

TWA 1.5 mg/m3 [skin] See Appendix G

500 mg/m3 [From NPG: 2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene] (NIOSH, 2024)

500 mg/m3 (NIOSH, 2024)

500.0 [mg/m3]

Excerpts from Documentation for IDLHs: Basis for original (SCP) IDLH: Most of the data reported in the literature about trinitrotoluene (TNT) poisoning concern the effects caused by chronic exposures. The available toxicological data contain no evidence that an acute exposure to a high concentration of TNT would impede escape or cause irreversible health effects within 30 minutes. . . . Basis for revised IDLH: No inhalation toxicity data are available on which to base an IDLH for 2,4,6­trinitrotoluene. Therefore, the revised IDLH for 2,4,6­trinitrotoluene is 500 mg/m3 based on acute oral toxicity data in humans [Deichmann and Gerarde 1969] and animals [Dilley et al. 1982; MRC 1921]

500 mg/cu m

500 mg/m3

See: 118967

0.1 [mg/m3], inhalable fraction and vapor

8 hr Time Weighted Avg (TWA): 0.1 mg/cu m, skin.

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.

Biological Exposure Index (BEI): Determinant: methemoglobin in blood; Sampling Time: during or end of shift; BEI: 1.5% of hemoglobin. The determinant may be present in biological specimens collected from subjects who have not been occupationally exposed, at a concentration which could affect interpretation of the result. Such background concentrations are incorporated in the BEI value. The determinant is nonspecific, since it is also observed after exposure to other chemicals. The biological determinant is an indicator of exposure to the chemical, but the quantitative interpretation of the measurement is ambiguous. These determinants should be used as a screening test if a quantitative test is not practical or as a confirmatory test if the quantitative test is not specific and the origin of the determinant is in question. /Methemoglobin inducers/

(inhalable fraction and vapour): 0.1 mg/m

0.1 mg/m³ (inhalable fraction and vapor) [1984]

skin absorption (H); sensitization of skin (SH); carcinogen category: 2; germ cell mutagen group: 3B

Intermediate Oral: 0.0005 mg/kg/day (L134)

CARGO Fire

· DO NOT fight fire when fire reaches cargo! Cargo may EXPLODE!

· Stop all traffic and clear the area for at least 1600 meters (1 mile) in all directions and let burn.

· Do not move cargo or vehicle if cargo has been exposed to heat.

TIRE or VEHICLE Fire

· Use plenty of water - FLOOD it! If water is not available, use CO2, dry chemical or dirt.

· If possible, and WITHOUT RISK, use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles from maximum distance to prevent fire from spreading to cargo area.

· Pay special attention to tire fires as re-ignition may occur. Stand by, at a safe distance, with extinguisher ready for possible re-ignition.

Evaporation at 20 °C is negligible; a harmful concentration of airborne particles can, however, be reached quickly.

The substance is irritating to the eyes, skin and respiratory tract. The substance may cause effects on the blood. This may result in haemolysis and the formation of methaemoglobin. Exposure could cause death. The effects may be delayed. Medical observation is indicated.

Repeated or prolonged contact with skin may cause dermatitis. The substance may have effects on the liver, blood and eyes. This may result in jaundice, anaemia and cataract.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 113 [Flammable Materials (Wet / Desensitized Explosive)]:

Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Structural firefighters' protective clothing provides thermal protection but only limited chemical protection. (ERG, 2024)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 112 [Explosives - Division 1.1, 1.2, 1.3 or 1.5]:

Tnt, wetted with not less than 30% water appears as a slurry of a yellow water-insoluble crystalline solid. Can burn, although difficult to ignite. When water has been driven off or evaporated the residue is easily ignited, burns vigorously, and is highly explosive. Produces toxic oxides of nitrogen during combustion. May explode under exposure to intense heat. Primary hazard is blast of an explosion, not flying projectiles or fragments.

Trinitrotoluene, dry or wetted with less than 30 percent water, by mass appears as an explosive solid. Primary hazard is from effects of a blast. Not designed to produce significant fragmentation or throw projectiles. May explode under exposure to intense heat or fire.

Large Crystals; Other Solid

Colorless to pale-yellow, odorless solid or crushed flakes; [NIOSH]

COLOURLESS-TO-YELLOW CRYSTALS.

Colorless to pale-yellow, odorless solid or crushed flakes.

Monoclinic rhombohedra from alc; commercial crystals (needles) are yellow

Colorless to pale-yellow solid or crushed flakes

Odorless

464 °F at 760 mmHg EXPLODES (NTP, 1992)

240 °C (explodes)

464 °F (explodes)

464 °F (Explodes)

177.6 °F (NTP, 1992)

177.6 °F

(Explodes) (NIOSH, 2024)

explodes

? (Explodes)

Insoluble (NTP, 1992)

In water, 115 mg/L at 23 °C

Sol less than 2,4,6-trinitrophenol in alc, ether, carbon disulfide

About 0.01% in water at 25 °C. 1 g/700 ml boiling water

Solubilities in various solvents at 18 °C. [Table#2876]

For more Solubility (Complete) data for 2,4,6-TRINITROTOLUENE (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Solubility in water, g/100ml at 20 °C: 0.013

(77 °F): 0.01%

1.654 at 68 °F (NTP, 1992) - Denser than water; will sink

1.654 at 20 °C/4 °C

1.65 g/cm³

1.654 @25 °C

7.85 (Air = 1)

Relative vapor density (air = 1): 7.85

0.046 mmHg (NTP, 1992)

0.00000802 [mmHg]

8.02X10-6 mm Hg at 25 °C

Vapor pressure at 20 °C: negligible

0.0002 mmHg

log Kow = 1.60

Heat of decomposition was determined as 5.1 kJ/g.

When heated to decomposition it emits toxic fumes of /nitrogen oxides/.

No rapid reaction with air. No rapid reaction with water.

Insoluble in water.

Nitro, Nitroso, Nitrate, and Nitrite Compounds, Organic

Water and Aqueous Solutions

Strong Oxidizing Agent

Explosive

TNT (trinitrotoluene) may begin a vigorous reaction that culminates in a detonation if mixed with reducing agents, including hydrides, sulfides and nitrides. May explode in the presence of a base such as sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide even in the presence of water or organic solvents.

TRINITROTOLUENE, DRY OR WETTED WITH LESS THAN 30 PERCENT WATER, BY MASS is sensitive to heat and shock. This compound reacts with reducing agents. It will detonate if vigorously shocked or heated to 450 °F. (NTP, 1992)

TNT and potassium hydroxide in methanol will interact even at -65 °C to give explosive acid-nitro salts (presumably o-quinonoid, or possibly Meisenheimer complexes). The explosion temperature is lowered to 160 °C by the presence of a little potassium hydroxide.

Trinitrotoluene in contact with nitric acid and lead or iron produces explosive substances which may readily be ignited by shock, friction or contact with nitric or sulfuric acids. Such materials have been involved in industrial explosions.

Reacts vigorously with reducing agents

Strong oxidizers, ammonia, strong alkalis, combustible materials, heat [Note: Rapid heating will result in detonation].

For more Hazardous Reactivities and Incompatibilities (Complete) data for 2,4,6-TRINITROTOLUENE (7 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Strong oxidizers, ammonia, strong alkalis, combustible materials, heat [Note: Rapid heating will result in detonation.]

CDC-ATSDR Toxicological Profile

2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene is a competitive inhibitor with respect to NADPH and a noncompetitive inhibitor with respect to L-arginine. It binds to the P450 reductase domain of the eNOS and suppresses l-citrulline formation by shunting electrons away from the normal catalytic pathway. The reduction of TNT then produces reactive oxygen species (ROS), such as superoxide (O2.−), and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). The overproduction of superoxide is associated with oxidative stress-mediated induction of cataracts. The inhibition of the eNOS activity occurs in a concentration-dependent manner. (A110, A111)

2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene (TNT)

5 x 10 ^-4 mg/kg-day

CLASSIFICATION: C; possible human carcinogen. BASIS FOR CLASSIFICATION: Evidence of human carcinogenicity is inadequate. Urinary bladder papilloma and carcinoma were observed in female Fischer 344 rats. Mutagenic activity was observed in Salmonella with and without metabolic activation. HUMAN CARCINOGENICITY DATA: None. ANIMAL CARCINOGENICITY DATA: Limited.

Evaluation: There is inadequate evidence in humans for the carcinogenicity of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene. There is inadequate evidence in experimental animals for the carcinogenicity of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene. Overall evaluation: 2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene is not classifiable as to its carcinogenicity to humans (Group 3).

2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene

Group 3: Not classifiable as to its carcinogenicity to humans

Volume 65: (1996) Printing Processes and Printing Inks, Carbon Black and Some Nitro Compounds

3, not classifiable as to its carcinogenicity to humans. (L135)

Exposition to high concentrations of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene in air can lead to several harmful health effects, including anemia and abnormal liver function. Similar blood and liver effects, as well as spleen enlargement and other harmful effects on the immune system, have been observed in animals that ate or breathed 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene. Other effects in humans include skin irritation after prolonged skin contact, and cataract development after long-term (365 days or longer) exposure. It is not known whether 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene can cause birth defects in humans. However, male animals treated with high doses of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene have developed serious reproductive system effects. Moreover, the EPA has determined that 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene is a possible human carcinogen. (L132)

The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation of its aerosol, through the skin and by ingestion.

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

Oral (L131) ; inhalation (L131) ; dermal (L131)

Headache. Blue lips, fingernails and skin. Cough. Sore throat. Laboured breathing. Vomiting. Abdominal cramps. Unconsciousness. Symptoms may be delayed.

MAY BE ABSORBED! Redness. Pain. Yellow staining of the skin. Further see Inhalation.

Redness. Pain.

Further see Inhalation.

irritation skin, mucous membrane; liver damage, jaundice; cyanosis; sneezing; cough, sore throat; peripheral neuropathy, muscle pain; kidney damage; cataract; sensitization dermatitis; leukocytosis (increased blood leukocytes); anemia; cardiac irreg

Exposure to 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene causes headache, blue lips or finger nails, blue skin, cough, sore throat, laboured breathing, vomiting, abdominal cramps, unconsciousness. Dermal exposure may cause pain and redness at the exposed surface and yellowish staining of the skin. (L131)

Dermal (Skin), Hematological (Blood Forming), Hepatic (Liver), Ocular (Eyes)

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

Occupational hepatotoxin - Primary hepatotoxins: the toxic effect to the liver is the principal adverse effect of the chemical.

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

Aplastic anemia - The presence of increased methemoglobin in the blood; the compound is classified as primary toxic effect.

Based on USEPA (1980) guidlines ... a human acceptable daily intake of 0.28 mg/day /was calculated/. Insertion of this /value/ into the human health criteria equation ... gives a human health criterion of 134.96 ug/l.

IRIS Current

ATSDR Final

LD50 Mouse oral 660 mg/kg.

LD50 Mouse (male) oral 1012 mg/kg

LD50 Mouse (female) oral 660 mg/kg

LD50 Rat oral 795 mg/kg.

For more Non-Human Toxicity Values (Complete) data for 2,4,6-TRINITROTOLUENE (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

In some cases, gastric lavage, activated charcoal, and emetics have been suggested as useful in reducing absorption of the general class of nitro compounds to which 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene belongs. (L132)

The mixture of the two compounds is designated as LAP (load, assemble, and pack) mixture. The ratio of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene and 1,3,5-trinitrohexahydro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX) in the LAP mixture in this study was 1.6:1. Acute oral toxicity of the LAP mixture was investigated in rats, mice, and rabbits. The results indicate that there was a distinct species difference regarding acute oral toxicity after exposure to the LAP mixture. The acute oral LD50 values indicate that rats were more susceptible to toxic effects of the LAP mixture than to 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene alone. The opposite was true for mice ... LAP applied to the eyes of rabbits produced conjunctivitis, iritis, and/or corneal opacity. Intermediate oral toxicity was determined in a 90-day exposure study in rats, mice, and dogs. The results indicate that the main target organs for LAP toxicity are the same as those for 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene, namely blood and liver. Mild-to-moderate hemolytic anemia, enlarged spleens and livers, hemosiderosis of the spleen, and colored urine were common effects of intermediate exposure to LAP seen in all three species. LAP-induced testicular atrophy (dogs and rats), uterine hypoplasia (rats), and numerous neurological signs (dogs) were also observed. These observations indicate that 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene was the principal, but not the only factor, contributing to the intermediate oral toxicity of LAP; some of the observed toxicity is due to RDX .

Basic treatment: Establish a patent airway (oropharyngeal or nasopharyngeal airway, if needed). Suction if necessary. Watch for signs of respiratory insufficiency and assist ventilations if necessary. Administer oxygen by nonrebreather mask at 10 to 15 L/min. Monitor for pulmonary edema and treat if necessary ... . Monitor for shock and treat if necessary ... . Anticipate seizures and treat if necessary ... . For eye contamination, flush eyes immediately with water. Irrigate each eye continuously with 0.9% saline (NS) during transport ... . Do not use emetics. For ingestion, rinse mouth and administer 5 ml/kg up to 200 ml of water for dilution if the patient can swallow, has a strong gag reflex, and does not drool. Administer activated charcoal ... . /Aromatic hydrocarbons and related compounds/

Advanced treatment: Consider orotracheal or nasotracheal intubation for airway control in the patient who is unconscious, has severe pulmonary edema, or is in severe respiratory distress. Consider drug therapy for pulmonary edema ... . Positive-pressure ventilation techniques with a bag valve mask device may be beneficial. Consider drug therapy for pulmonary edema ... . Consider administering a beta agonist such as albuterol for severe bronchospasm ... . Monitor cardiac rhythm and treat arrhythmias if necessary ... Start IV administration of D5W /SRP: "To keep open", minimal flow rate/. Use 0.9% saline (NS) or lactated Ringer's (LR) if signs of hypovolemia are present. For hypotension with signs of hypovolemia, administer fluid cautiously. Watch for signs of fluid overload ... .Treat seizures with diazepam or lorazepam ... . Use proparacaine hydrochloride to assist eye irrigation ... . /Aromatic hydrocarbons and related compounds/

Basic treatment: Establish a patent airway (oropharyngeal or nasopharyngeal airway, if needed). Suction if necessary. Watch for signs of respiratory insufficiency and assist ventilations if necessary. Administer oxygen by nonrebreather mask at 10 to 15 L/min. Monitor for shock and treat if necessary ... . Anticipate seizures and treat as necessary ... . For eye contamination, flush eyes immediately with water. Irrigate each eye continuously with 0.9% saline (NS) during transport ... . Do not use emetics. For ingestion, rinse mouth and administer 5 ml/kg up to 200 d of water for dilution if the patient can swallow, has a strong gag reflex, and does not drool. Administer activated charcoal ... . /Nitrates, nitrites, and related compounds/

Advanced treatment: Consider orotracheal or nasotracheal intubation for airway control in the patient who is unconscious or is in severe respiratory distress. Monitor cardiac rhythm and treat arrhythmias if necessary. Start IV administration of D5W /SRP: "To keep open", minimal flow rate/. Use 0.9% saline (NS) or lactated Ringer's (LR) if signs of hypovolemia are present. For hypotension with signs of hypovolemia, administer fluid cautiously. If unresponsive to these measures, vasopressors may be helpful. Watch for signs of fluid overload ... . Treat seizures with diazepam or lorazepam ... . Administer 1% solution methylene blue if patient is symptomatic with severe hypoxia, cyanosis, and cardiac compromise not responding to oxygen. ... . Use proparacaine hydrochloride to assist eye irrigation ... . /Nitrates, nitrites, and related compounds/

FIRST AID ... Skin--Remove contaminated clothes. Rinse and then wash skin with water and soap. Refer for medical attention. Wear protective gloves when administering first aid ... Ingestion--Rinse mouth.

LC50 Daphnia magna >4.4 mg/l/48 hr at 20 °C /Flow through Bioassay/

LC50 Lepomis macrochirus (bluegill sunfish) is 2.7 mg/l with a mean weight of 0.39 g in a 96 hr at 10 °C /Static Bioassay/

LC50 Pimephales promelas (fathead minnow) 0.46 mg/l/ 96 hr at 24 °C /Flow through, immobilization test/

EC50; Species: Pseudokirchneriella subcapitata (Green algae); Conditions: freshwater; static; Concentration: 2.5 uM (95% confidence limit: 2.1 to 2.9 uM) for 96 hr; Effect: population, abundance /formulated product/

For more Ecotoxicity Values (Complete) data for 2,4,6-TRINITROTOLUENE (43 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

/BIRDS and MAMMALS/ Considerable concentrations of the explosive, 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) have been found in the soil at many installations where explosives have been used, manufactured, assembled, or destroyed. To evaluate risk to avian receptors, measures of exposure are compared with a threshold level of sublethal toxicity. To date, a single feeding study has evaluated the responses of oral TNT exposure to birds with equivocal results regarding sublethal effects. The present study followed a controlled dosing regime comprising four dose groups and a control (200, 120, 70, 20, and 0 mg TNT/kg body weight-day) in the common pigeon (Columba livia) for 60 days. Overt signs of toxicity occurred with both sexes between 2 and 3 weeks of exposure. Signs included weight loss, neuromuscular effects (e.g., ataxia, tremors, etc.), and scant red feces (chromaturia). Emetic events following dosing were common and proportional to dose; however, attempts to quantify vomitus compound concentration suggests that birds were marginally successful at removing TNT following administration. Eight of 12 and 2 of 12 males and females died or were moribund in the 200 and 120 mg/kg-day groups, respectively. Changes in hematological parameters, liver, kidney, and ovary weights were related to treatment. Dose-related changes in plasma albumin and sodium concentrations were also observed. These results suggest that subchronic exposure to TNT can adversely affect the central nervous system and hematological parameters in birds. Chemical analysis of blood detected concentrations of the two primary reduction metabolites, but not parent compound, suggesting that toxicity may be due to the bioaccumulation of a toxic intermediate.

/BIRDS and MAMMALS/ Subchronic dietary exposure to TNT was ... evaluated in a species of management concern at military installations, the northern bobwhite (Colinus virginianus). Adult male and female quail (n = 5/sex/dose) were given commercial feed containing 3,000, 1,500, 750, and 100 mg/kg TNT for 90 days following the determination of an acute lethal dose and a 14-day range finding study. Dietary TNT intake caused a dose-dependent decrease in total red blood cell counts, packed cell volume, total plasma protein, blood prolymphocytes, and blood lymphocytes. An increased trend in late apoptotic/necrotic blood leukocytic cells was also observed in TNT-exposed birds, as was hemosiderosis in the liver. With the exception of hemosiderosis, these trends were statistically significant yet of questionable biological significance. Since treatment-related responses in this preliminary study were variable, a conservative interpretation is suggested. However, since these treatments had concentrations that were a log-fold or more than doses in similar studies using mammals, these data suggest that northern bobwhite are less sensitive to oral exposures of TNT than mammals.

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ In /Kyoto, Japan/, relatively high concentrations of ... trinitrotoluene (TNT), /and its metabolites/ ... 2-amino-4,6-dinitrotoluene (2ADNT), and 4-amino-2,6-dinitrotoluene (4ADNT) ... have been identified from field samples. /The author/ used a standardized assay with Xenopus laevis embryos (frog embryo teratogenesis assay--Xenopus, FETAX) to examine the developmental toxicity of these compounds. ... The TNT (96-hr LC50 = 16.7 uM) was more lethal than 2ADNT (96-hr LC50 = 166 uM) or 4ADNT (96-hr LC50 = 115 uM). Although 4ADNT (96-hr EC50 = 85.8 uM) induced various tadpole malformations, it was a weak teratogen compared with TNT (96-hr EC50 = 9.78 microM) and 2ADNT (96-hr EC50 = 16.9 microM). The most typical malformations observed were axial malformations, eye abnormalities (TNT), edema, and irregular gut coiling (2ADNT and 4ADNT). The 96-hr LC50 and 96-hr EC50 values of TNT, 2ADNT, and 4ADNT were lower than their saturated concentrations in water. Therefore, these nitroaromatic compounds may show lethal or teratogenic effects on aquatic animals if their habitats are severely contaminated with TNT.

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ Synthetic condensate wastewater prepared to simulate the composition of condensate wastewater from TNT manufacture and containing 32 compounds showed acute toxic concentrations for bluegills (Lepomis macrochirus), scud (Hyalella azteca), and green algae (Selenastrom capricornutum) of 7.1 mg/L, 22.8 mg/L, and 10 mg/L respectively.

For more Ecotoxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for 2,4,6-TRINITROTOLUENE (25 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

2.10e+01

9.60e+01

2.50e+00

5.00e+01

1.50e-02

3.00e-02

5.00e-04

Volatile

1.10e+02

1.50e+03

2.90e+01

The substance is toxic to aquatic organisms. The substance may cause long-term effects in the aquatic environment. It is strongly advised not to let the chemical enter into the environment because it is persistent.

2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene's production and use as explosive and as an Intermediate in dyestuffs and photographic chemicals may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. If released to air, a vapor pressure of 8.02X10-6 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene will exist in both the vapor and particulate phases in the atmosphere. Vapor-phase 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene 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 120 days. Particulate-phase 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene will be removed from the atmosphere by wet or dry deposition. The rate constants for river water, freshwater bay, pond water and distilled water were 1.2X10-3, 1.5X10-4, 5.8X10-4 and 1.7X10-5/sec, respectively, which correspond to half-lives of about 10 min, 1.3 hrs, 20 min and 11.3 hrs. If released to soil, 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene is expected to have low mobility based upon an average Koc of 1,600. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces is not expected to be an important fate process based upon a Henry's Law constant of 2.1X10-8 atm-cu m/mole. Ultimate biodegradation of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene in soil will be of minor importance; however 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene is readily reduced under anaerobic conditions. If released into water, 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene is expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment based upon the Koc. The capability of microorganisms to biotransform 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene under aerobic conditions is very slow. Volatilization from water surfaces is not expected to be an important fate process based upon this compound's Henry's Law constant. An estimated BCF of 3.4 suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low. Gas chromatography-electron capture measurements demonstrated that a sea water solution at a pH of 8.1 with 95 ppm 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene underwent no change in concn after 108 days, thus evidencing the stability of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene against hydrolysis in water under neutral conditions. Occupational exposure may be possible through inhalation and dermal contact at sites of its manufacture and use as a military explosive and propellant. Monitoring data indicate that the general population will not likely be exposed to 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene because it is mainly found at military facilities. (SRC)

2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene's production and use as an explosive and chemcial intermediate in dyestuffs and photographic chemicals(1) may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams(SRC).

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an average Koc value of 1,600(2) indicates that 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene is expected to have low mobility in soil(SRC). Volatilization of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene from moist soil surfaces is not expected to be an important fate process(SRC) given an estimated Henry's Law constant of 2.1X10-8 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), derived from its vapor pressure of 8.02X10-6 mm Hg(3) and water solubility of 115 mg/L(4). 2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon its vapor pressure(3). Biodegradation of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene in soil will be of minor importance; however 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene is readily reduced under anaerobic conditions(5). Microbial transformation of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene leads to a variety of reduction products, including 2-amino and 4-amino dinitrotoluene and azoxydimers(3,5,7). Limited information regarding photolytic processes in soil suggest that 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene in surface layers is photolyzed to trinitrobenzene and trinitrobenzaldehyde(8). Gas chromatography-electron capture measurements demonstrated that a sea water solution at a pH of 8.1 with 95 ppm 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene underwent no change in concn after 108 days(7), thus evidencing the stability of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene against hydrolysis in water under neutral conditions(9).

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Phytoremediation of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene has shown that metabolism takes place in three stages; transformation (formation of 2-amino-4,6-dinitrotoluene and 4-amino-2,6-dinitrotoluene), conjugation, and sequestration (formation of bound residues within the plant)(1). Hybrid poplar trees planted in 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene contaminated soil from Iowa Army Ammunition Plant showed an uptake of 25% 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene in 20 days(2). 75% of the 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene was found in the roots, 17% in the stems and 6% in the leaves(2).

AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an average Koc value of 1,600(2) indicates that 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene is expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment(SRC). Volatilization from water surfaces is not expected(3) based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 2.1X10-8 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), derived from its vapor pressure of 8.02X10-6 mm Hg(4) and water solubility of 115 mg/L(5). According to a classification scheme(6), an estimated BCF of 3.4(SRC), from its log Kow of 1.60(7) and a regression-derived equation(8), suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC). The capability of microorganisms to biotransform 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene seems well established(2,9-11); however, reduction rates under aerobic conditions are very slow. Photolysis studies comparing river waters and distilled water have shown that the rate of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene photolysis is directly related to increases in pH(10-11) and organic matter content(2). In the presence of oxygen, 10 ppm of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene added to a freshwater bay sample remained unchanged for 20 days then following first order kinetics with an estimated half-life of 25 days and dropped to 3 ppm within 64 days(2). 2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene at an initial concn of 20 ppm within the dark control bottle of a river die away study underwent a 90% reduction within 30 days(11). However biotransformation was identified to be 100-1000 times slower than photolytic processes(2,11). Gas chromatography-electron capture measurements demonstrated that a sea water solution at a pH of 8.1 with 95 ppm 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene underwent no change in concn after 108 days(12), thus evidencing the stability of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene against hydrolysis in water under neutral conditions(13).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene, which has a vapor pressure of 8.02X10-6 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), will exist in both the vapor and particulate phases in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene 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 120 days(SRC), calculated from its rate constant of 1.4X10-13 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(SRC) that was derived using a structure estimation method(3). Particulate-phase 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene may be removed from the air by wet or dry deposition(SRC). The rate constants for river water, seawater, pond water and distilled water were 1.2X10-3, 1.5X10-4, 5.8X10-4 and 1.7X10-5/sec, respectively, which correspond to half-lives of about 10 min, 1.3 hrs, 20 min and 11.3 hrs(4).

Lab scale compost systems can be used for the estimation of the degradation rates of hazardous materials in a compost and to identify the degradation products. Composting /consisted of/ chopped alfalfa hay 45, horse feed 45, and soil 10% contaminated with explosives ... TNT was rapidly transformed into nonextractable cmpd which resembled humus matrials. ... TNT showed no ring degradation. The amount of leachable TNT declined with its increasing biotransformation.

AEROBIC: Mixed cultures of phenol-adapted microorganisms exhibited a slow but significantly higher rate of oxygen uptake in the presence of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene at concn of 100 mg/L as compared to endogenous respiration, suggesting that 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene is oxidized(1). A treatability study employing static tube runs indicated that 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene can be oxidized at slow rates from 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene waste diluted with the domestic waste of an Army Ammunition plant; however, the rate of bioadsorption or bioprecipitation was greater than the oxidation rate(2). Activated sludge acclimated to 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene waste for 10 days was used as inoculum for five differing continuous flow runs with 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene concn at 5 mg intervals between 5 and 25 mg/L(2). Fifteen treatability runs of three differing detention times for each concn maintained a 65% average removal efficiency and generally the removal efficiencies tended to decrease with a decrease in detention time and increase in 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene concn(2). A portion of the 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene loss was due to bioadsorption on the activated sludge microorganisms and not due to molecular transformation(3). Composting studies have shown that thermophilic microorganisms produce the same reduction products as mesophilic microbes, no ring cleavage occurs and a large percentage of C14 labeled 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene is bound to the humus fraction(4-6). BOD tests on pure 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene and 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene waste water from the counter current-continuous flow TNT manufacturing process revealed that 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene was oxidized at slow rates(7-8). Attempts to relate BOD to the 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene removed were unsuccessful. It is likely that higher 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene concentrations are toxic to certain oxidizing microorganisms, which may prevent microbial metabolism of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene(3). Raw sewage was found to be ineffective in degrading 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene, however a sewage sludge digester supernatant liquor caused a 64% reduction in 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene within 6 days(9).

AEROBIC: 2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene was reduced by hydrogen in the presence of enzyme preparations from the aerobic systems of Escherichia coli and Psuedomonas sp.(1).

AEROBIC: 2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene was shown to disappear in 60 days(1) in red tank soil from Weldon Springs, MO up to a concentration of 100 umol/kg(2). No degradation of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene occurred in dry soil from the same site(2). 2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene was shown to biodegrade 90%, 63% and 95% in 19 days at starting concentrations of 2139 mg/kg, 340 mg/kg and 150 mg/kg dry weight, respectively, in soil from Tanne, Germany(3). Field application of litter decaying fungus reduced 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene concentrations from 80 mg/kg to 21 mg/kg in 7 days and to 4 mg/kg in 300 days(4). 2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene was reported to degrade 49% in 7 days from surface water at room temperature(5). At room temperature in 7 days 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene was degraded in three different soils; 20% for Windsor (pH 6.2, clay 30 %, total organic carbon 1.1%), 38% for Charlton (pH 6.0, clay 20%, total organic carbon 1.8%), 100% for Ft Edwards (pH 8.4, clay 70%, total organic carbon 0.5%)(6).

AEROBIC/ANAEROBIC: 2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene was removed 97-99% in a semicontinuous activated sludge system using anaerobic and aerobic conditions, 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene concentrations ranged from 7.19-15.2 mg/L(1). 2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene was reduced in soil from a production site in Kassel, Germany from 201 mg/kg to 1.6 mg/kg after 26 weeks of anaerobic treatment with added glucose and reduced to 0.56 mg/kg after an added 4 weeks of aerobic treatment(2).

For more Environmental Biodegradation (Complete) data for 2,4,6-TRINITROTOLUENE (7 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals has been estimated as 1.4X10-13 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(SRC) using a structure estimation method(1). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 120 days at an atmospheric concentration of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(1). Gas chromatography-electron capture measurements demonstrated that a sea water solution at a pH of 8.1 with 95 ppm 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene underwent no change in concn after 108 days(2), thus evidencing the stability of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene against hydrolysis in water under neutral conditions(3). Generally nitro-aromatics are resistant to hydrolysis(4,5) and thus a 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene is not expected to hydrolyse under environmental conditions(3,6).

Photolysis studies comparing river waters and distilled water have shown that the rate of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene photolysis is directly related to increases in pH(2,3) and organic matter content(4). The photolytic rate of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene also increased over time due to increased products of photolysis(4). The rate constants for sunlit Holston River (Kinsport, TN; near munitions facility), Waconda Bay (Chattanooga, TN; near munitions facility), Searsville Pond (Stanford, CA; eutrophic, high in humc and fulvic material, free of munitions contamination) and distilled waters were 1.2X10-3, 1.5X10-4, 5.8X10-4 and 1.7X10-5/sec, respectively, which correspond to half-lives of about 10 min, 1.3 hrs, 20 min and 11.3 hrs(1). 2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene was reduced using Fe2+, the rate of reduction increased as the pH was increased over the tested pHs of 6, 7, and 8(5). 2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene was reduced 77-85% in 30-40 hours using iron-reducing conditions(6). First order photodegradation rates were given for August as 0.3/hr and for December as 1.0/hr at UV irradiance rates receiving 1.3X10-3 watts/sq cm and 2.4X10-6 watts/sq cm, respectively(7).

In decreasing order of quantity: 2,4,6-trinitrobenzaldehyde, 2,4,6-trinitrobenzonitrile, 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene, including trace amounts of 2,2',6,6'-tetranitro-4,4'-azoxytoluene, 4,4',6,6'-tetranitro-2-2'-azoxytoluene, 2',4-dimethyl-3-3',5,5'-tetranitro-ONN-azoxybenzene and 2,4'-dimethyl-3,3',5,5'- tetranitro-ONN-azoxybenzene were identified as photolytic products of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene(1). The principal evidence suggests transformation via a triplet-sensitized mechanism(2,3,4) which either permits a weak nucleophile to attack and remove a NO2- or X- group(3), or allows the formation of a complex with humic acid that alters the UV absorbancies responsible for the photodegradation of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene(2). Limited information regarding photolytic processes in soil suggest that 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene in surface layers is photolyzed to trinitrobenzene and trinitrobenzaldehyde(5).

Limited information regarding photolytic processes in soil suggest that alpha-TNT in surface layers is photolyzed to trinitrobenzene and trinitrobenzaldehyde(1). The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of alpha-TNT with photochemically produced hydroxyl radicals has been estimated to be 1.46X10-13 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C which corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 120 days at an atmospheric concn of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(2).

A study of natural Potomac River water spiked with 20 mg/L TNT and microbial sediments ... /showed/ complete disappearance of TNT in 6-8 days in sunlight, while 730 days required for 90% disappearance in shade.

An estimated BCF of 3.4 was calculated in fish for 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene(SRC), using a log Kow of 1.60(1) and a regression-derived equation(2). According to a classification scheme(3), this BCF suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC).

SRP: The most favorable course of action is to use an alternative chemical product with less inherent propensity for occupational exposure or environmental contamination. Recycle any unused portion of the material for its approved use or return it to the manufacturer or supplier. Ultimate disposal of the chemical must consider: the material's impact on air quality; potential migration in soil or water; effects on animal, aquatic, and plant life; and conformance with environmental and public health regulations.

... Bench-scale composting of up to 10% TNT showed that almost complete removal of TNT occurred in 55 days. Many of the toxic transformation products formed in activated sludge and soil were not found in the composted TNT. ... Composted wastes of TNT and other munitions must be examined for the leachability of undecomposed chem and transformation products prior to land treatment.

Pink water (mainly consists of alpha-2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (alpha-TNT) and various concentrations of nitrobodies such as RDX) was successfully oxidized electrochemically from a range of 60-105 ppm TNT to below acceptable disposal concn (0.5 ppm). The oxidation process does not produce any toxic by-products, and at an electrical cost of approximately $2.00 per 1000 gal, is most competitive in comparison to present alternatives.

The following wastewater treatment technologies have been investigated for 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene Biological treatment, Activated Carbon, and Resin adsorption.

Disposal of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene has been accomplished effectively by burning in an incinerator equipped with an afterburner and a scrubber ... 2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene has been pretreated before incineration by pouring or sifting onto sodium bicarbonate or a sand-soda ash mixture. The resulting combination is mixed and packaged in heavy paper cartons with plenty of paper packaging to serve as fuel ... 2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene has also been prepared for incineration by mixing with a flammable solvent, such as alcohol or benzene, and spraying the resulting mixture into the fire chamber of an incinerator.

/GUIDE 113: FLAMMABLE SOLIDS - TOXIC (WET/DESENSITIZED EXPLOSIVE)/ Fire or Explosion: Flammable/combustible material. May be ignited by heat, sparks or flames. DRIED OUT material may explode if exposed to heat, flame, friction or shock; treat as an explosive (GUIDE 112). Keep material wet with water or treat as an explosive (Guide 112). Runoff to sewer may create fire or explosion hazard. /Trinitrotoluene, wetted with not less than 10% water; Trinitrotoluene, wetted with not less than 30% water/

/GUIDE 113: FLAMMABLE SOLIDS - TOXIC (WET/DESENSITIZED EXPLOSIVE)/ Health: Some are toxic and may be fatal if inhaled, swallowed or absorbed through skin. Contact may cause burns to skin and eyes. Fire may produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Runoff from fire control or dilution water may cause pollution. /Trinitrotoluene, wetted with not less than 10% water; Trinitrotoluene, wetted with not less than 30% water/

/GUIDE 113: FLAMMABLE SOLIDS - TOXIC (WET/DESENSITIZED EXPLOSIVE)/ Public Safety: CALL Emergency Response Telephone Number. ... Isolate spill or leak area immediately for at least 100 meters (330 feet) in all directions. Keep unauthorized personnel away. Stay upwind. Ventilate closed spaces before entering. /Trinitrotoluene, wetted with not less than 10% water; Trinitrotoluene, wetted with not less than 30% water/

/GUIDE 113: FLAMMABLE SOLIDS - TOXIC (WET/DESENSITIZED EXPLOSIVE)/ Protective Clothing: Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Structural firefighters' protective clothing will only provide limited protection. /Trinitrotoluene, wetted with not less than 10% water; Trinitrotoluene, wetted with not less than 30% water/

For more DOT Emergency Guidelines (Complete) data for 2,4,6-TRINITROTOLUENE (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

1356 113(wet)

UN 0209; Trinitrotoluene or TNT, dry or wetted with less than 30% water, by mass

UN 1356; Trinitrotoluene, wetted with not less than 30% water, by mass

UN 3366; Trinitrotoluene (TNT), wetted, with not less than 10% water by mass

IMO 1.1D; Trinitrotoluene or TNT, dry or wetted with less than 30% water, by mass

IMO 4.1; Trinitrotoluene (TNT), wetted, with not less than 10% water by mass; Trinitrotoluene, wetted with not less than 30% water, by mass

49 015 43; Trinitrotoluene, dry or containing by weight less than 30% water

49 015 77; Trinitrotoluene, dry (containing at least 10% water)

49 171 60; Trinitrotoluene, wet (containing at least 10% water)

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.

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.

Flammable Solid

Explosive 1.1D

Unbreakable packaging. Put breakable packaging into closed unbreakable container. Do not transport with food and feedstuffs.

Symbol: E, T, N; R: 2-23/24/25-33-51/53; S: (1/2)-35-45-61

UN Hazard Class: 1.1D