alachlor

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

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

H351: Suspected of causing cancer [Warning Carcinogenicity]

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, P261, P264, P270, P272, P273, P280, P301+P317, P302+P352, P318, P321, P330, P333+P317, P362+P364, P391, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

H302 (100%): Harmful if swallowed [Warning Acute toxicity, oral]

H317 (100%): May cause an allergic skin reaction [Warning Sensitization, Skin]

H351 (100%): Suspected of causing cancer [Warning Carcinogenicity]

H400 (100%): Very toxic to aquatic life [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, acute hazard]

H410 (100%): Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

Aggregated GHS information provided per 78 reports by companies from 5 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.

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

P264, P270, P301+P316, P321, P330, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

The GHS information provided by 1 company from 1 notification to the ECHA C&L Inventory.

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

H371: May cause damage to organs [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure]

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

P203, P260, P261, P264, P270, P271, P272, P273, P280, P301+P317, P302+P352, P304+P340, P308+P316, P318, P319, P321, P330, P333+P317, P362+P364, P391, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

H316: Causes mild skin irritation [Warning Skin corrosion/irritation]

P260, P261, P264, P270, P272, P280, P301+P317, P302+P352, P319, P321, P330, P332+P317, P333+P317, P362+P364, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Fresh air, rest. Refer for medical attention.

Remove contaminated clothes. Rinse skin with plenty of water or shower.

Rinse with plenty of water for several minutes (remove contact lenses if easily possible).

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

Excerpt from ERG Guide 151 [Substances - Toxic (Non-Combustible)]:

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

Excerpt from ERG Guide 151 [Substances - Toxic (Non-Combustible)]:

SMALL FIRE: Dry chemical, CO2 or water spray.

LARGE FIRE: Water spray, fog or regular foam. If it can be done safely, move undamaged containers away from the area around the fire. Dike runoff from fire control for later disposal. Avoid aiming straight or solid streams directly onto the product.

FIRE INVOLVING TANKS, RAIL TANK CARS OR HIGHWAY TANKS: Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles. Do not get water inside containers. Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out. Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of tank. ALWAYS stay away from tanks in direct contact with flames. For massive fire, use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles; if this is impossible, withdraw from area and let fire burn. (ERG, 2024)

Use water spray, foam, powder, carbon dioxide.

This chemical is not flammable, but may support combustion. Stay upwind of fire. Use dry chemical, carbon dioxide, water spray, or foam extinguishers. Poisonous gases are produced in fire including nitrogen oxides and chlorine. If material or contaminated runoff enters waterways, notify downstream users of potentially contaminated waters. Notify local health and fire officials and pollution control agencies. From a secure, explosion-proof location, use water spray to cool exposed containers. If cooling streams are ineffective (venting sound increases in volume and pitch, tank discolors, or shows any signs of deforming), withdraw immediately to a secure position. If employees are expected to fight fires, they must be trained and equipped in OSHA 1910.156. If employees are expected to fight fires, they must be trained and equipped in OSHA 1910.156.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 151 [Substances - Toxic (Non-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: particulate filter respirator adapted to the airborne concentration of the substance. Do NOT let this chemical enter the environment. Sweep spilled substance into covered containers. Carefully collect remainder. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations.

Accidental Release Measures. Personal precautions. Use personal protection recommended /for this product/. Environmental precautions. Minimize spread. Keep out of drains, sewers, ditches and water ways. Notify authorities. Methods for cleaning up. Absorb in earth, sand or absorbent material. Dig up heavily contaminated soil. Collect in containers for reclamation or disposal. ... Wash spill area with detergent and water. Minimize use of water to prevent environmental contamination. /INTRRO/

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.

Handling. Good industrial practice in housekeeping and personal hygiene should be followed. Avoid contact with eyes, skin and clothing. Avoid breathing vapor or mist. Do not taste or swallow. When using do not eat, drink or smoke. Wash hands thoroughly after handling or contact. Wash contaminated clothing before re-use. Thoroughly clean equipment after use. Do not contaminate drains, sewers and water ways when disposing of equipment rinse water. Emptied containers retain vapor and product residue. Follow labelled warnings even after container is emptied. Do not cut, drill, grind or weld on or near this container. /INTRRO/

AGRICULTURE USE REQUIREMENT: Use this product only in accordance with its labeling and with the Worker Protection Standard, 40 CFR part 170. ... Do not enter or allow worker entry into treated areas during the restricted-entry interval (REI) of 12 hours. Exception: if the product is soil-injected or soil incorporated, the Worker Protection Standard, under certain circumstances, allows workers to enter the treated area if there will be no contact with anything that has been treated. PPE required for early entry to treated areas that is permitted under the Worker Protection Standard and that involves contact with anything that has been treated such as plants, soil, or water is: coveralls, chemical-resistant gloves, made of any waterproof material, and shoes plus socks. /INTRRO/

FIRST AID MEASURES: Eye contact. If in eyes, hold eye open and rinse slowly and gently for 15-20 minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present, after first 5 minutes, then continue rinsing. Skin contact. Take off contaminated clothing. RInse skin immediately with plenty of water for 15-20 minutes. Calll a poison control center or doctor for treatment advice. Sensitized persons should avoid further contact and reuse of contaminated clothing. Inhalation. If inhaled, move person to fresh air. If person is not breathing, call emergency number or ambulance, then give artificial respiration ... . Ingestion. Call poison control center or doctor immediately for treatment advice. Have person sip a glass of water if able to swallow. Do not induce vomiting unless told to do so by the poison center or doctor. Do not give anything by mouth to an unconscious person. Advice to doctors. This product may pose an aspiration pneumonia hazard. Contains petroleum distillates. Probable mucosal damage may contra-indicate gastric lavage. /INTRRO/

This product may not be mixed or loaded within 50 feet of perennial or intermittent streams and rivers, natural or impounded lakes and resevoirs. This product may not be mixed/loaded or used within 50 feet of all wells, including abandoned wells (unless the well has been properly capped or plugged), drainage wells, and sink holes. Operations that involve mixing, loading, rinsing, or washing of this product into or from pesticide handling or application equipment or containers within 50 feet of any well are prohibited unless conducted on an impervious pad constructed to withstand the weight of the heaviest load that may be positioned on or moved across the pad. Such a pad shall be designed and maintained to contain any product spills or equipment leaks, container or equipment rinse or washwather, and rain water that may fall on the pad. Surface water shall not be allowed to either flow over or from the pad ... /INTRRO/

Flush eyes with water. Wash skin with plenty of soap and water.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 151 [Substances - Toxic (Non-Combustible)]:

Do not touch damaged containers or spilled material unless wearing appropriate protective clothing. Stop leak if you can do it without risk. Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas. Cover with plastic sheet to prevent spreading. Absorb or cover with dry earth, sand or other non-combustible material and transfer to containers. DO NOT GET WATER INSIDE CONTAINERS. For solids, prevent dust cloud and avoid inhalation of dust. (ERG, 2024)

Provision to contain effluent from fire extinguishing. Separated from strong oxidants and incompatible materials. Keep in a well-ventilated room. Store only in original container. Store in an area without drain or sewer access.

Minimum storage temperature: 32 °F. Incompatible materials for storage: mild steel, PVC. Keep locked up and out of the reach of children. Keep away from living quarters. Keep away from food, drink and animal feed. Keep only in the original container. Keep away from sources of ignition (sparks, flame, etc.). Keep container tightly closed in a cool, well-ventilated place. Protect from frost. ... If frozen, place in warm room and shake frequently to put back into solution. /INTRRO/

DO NOT STORE NEAR HEAT OR OPEN FLAME.

Store in original container only. Do not contaminate water, seed or feed by storage. ... Keep away from children.

1.0 [mg/m3], inhalable fraction and vapor

8 hr Time Weighted Avg (TWA): 1 mg/cu m (Inhalable Fraction and Vapor); sensitization

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.

A3: Confirmed animal carcinogen with unknown relevance to humans.

1 mg/m³ (inhalable fraction and vapor) [2006]

Evaporation at 20 °C is negligible; a harmful concentration of airborne particles can, however, be reached quickly on spraying or when dispersed, especially if powdered.

Repeated or prolonged contact may cause skin sensitization. The substance may have effects on the kidneys and liver. The substance may have effects on the spleen. This may result in siderosis. This substance is possibly carcinogenic to humans.

Tolerances are established for the combined residues of the herbicide alachlor (2-chloro-2',6'-diethyl-N-(methoxymethyl) acetanilide) and its metabolites (calculated as alachlor) in or on the following raw agricultural commodities: [Table#2683]

Excerpt from ERG Guide 151 [Substances - Toxic (Non-Combustible)]:

Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Wear chemical protective clothing that is specifically recommended by the manufacturer when there is NO RISK OF FIRE. Structural firefighters' protective clothing provides thermal protection but only limited chemical protection. (ERG, 2024)

EXPOSURE CONTROLS/PERSONAL PROTECTION. Engineering controls. Provide local exhaust ventilation. Have eye wash facilities immediately available at locations where eye contact can occur. Have safety shower available at locations where skin contact can occur. Eye protection. If there is potential for contact: wear chemical goggles. Skin protection. Wear chemical resistant gloves. If there is potential for contact: wear face shield. Wear chemical resistant clothing/footwear. Applicators and other handlers must wear: coveralls over short-sleeved shirt and short pants; chemical resistant apron; chemical resistant footwear plus socks. Follow manufacturer's instructions for cleaning/maintaining Personal Protective Equipment. If no such instructions for washables, use detergent and hot water. Respiratory protection. If airborne exposure is excessive: wear respirator. Full facepiece/hood/helmet respirator replaces need for chemical goggles. Respiratory protection programs must comply with all local/gegional/national regulations. /INTRRO/

Wear protective gloves and clothing to prevent any reasonable probability of skin contact.

NO open flames. NO contact with flammables.

PREVENT DISPERSION OF DUST!

Avoid inhalation of dust. Use breathing protection.

Protective gloves. Protective clothing.

Wear safety goggles or eye protection in combination with breathing protection if powder.

Do not eat, drink, or smoke during work.

Alachlor is a crystalline solid. Melting point 104-106 °F (40-41 °C). Used as a herbicide.

Granules or emulsifiable concentrate; [EXTOXNET]

ODOURLESS COLOURLESS-TO-WHITE GREYISH-WHITE SOLID IN VARIOUS FORMS.

Crystalline cream-colored solid.

Colorless to white crystalline solid

Cream to wine-red colored solid

Colorless to yellow crystals

Odorless

100 °C at 0.02 mm Hg; 135 °C at 0.3 mm Hg

at 101.3kPa: >400 °C

212 °F at 0.02 mmHg

40-41 °C

Colorless crystals; MW: 269.77; MP: 39.5-41.5 °C; specific gravity 1.133 at 25 °C/15.6 °C. /Technical alachlor/

39.5 - 41.5 °C

104-106 °F

137 °C c.c.

278.6 °F (closed cup)

Soluble in diethyl ether, acetone, benzene, chloroform, ethanol, ethyl acetate; sparingly soluble in heptane

In water, 240 mg/L at 25 °C

0.24 mg/mL at 25 °C

Solubility in water, g/100ml at 25 °C: 0.02 (very poor)

1.133 at 25 °C/15.6 °C

1.1 g/cm³

Relative vapor density (air = 1): 9.3

0.000022 [mmHg]

2.20X10-5 mm Hg at 25 °C

Vapor pressure, Pa at °C: (negligible)

2.2x10-5 mmHg

log Kow = 3.52

Henry's Law constant = 8.32X10-9 atm-cu m/mol at 25 °C

INDEFINITELY STABLE; NOT SENSITIVE TO LIGHT OR HEAT

Stable to UV radiation

When heated to decomposition it emits very toxic fumes of /hydrogen chloride and nitrogen oxides/.

NO CORROSION TO NUMBER 316 & 304 STAINLESS STEEL, ALUMINUM & HERESITE; CORROSIVE TO STEEL & BLACK IRON

Positive

Agilent XCT

Electrospray ionization

formic acid (5.3nM)

MeCN (80%)

DOI:10.1038/s41598-020-62573-z

Hydrolyzes under strongly acidic and strongly basic conditions.

Amides and Imides

Halogenated Organic Compounds

Amines, Aromatic

A halogenated acetamide. Organic amides/imides react with azo and diazo compounds to generate toxic gases. Flammable gases are formed by the reaction of organic amides/imides with strong reducing agents. Amides are very weak bases (weaker than water). Imides are less basic yet and in fact react with strong bases to form salts. That is, they can react as acids. Mixing amides with dehydrating agents such as P2O5 or SOCl2 generates the corresponding nitrile. The combustion of these compounds generates mixed oxides of nitrogen (NOx).

Strong oxidizers. Corrosive to iron and steel.

Its mode of action is elongase inhibition, and inhibition of geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate (GGPP) cyclisation enzymes. It is also know to inhibit biosynthesis of fatty acids, lipids, protein, isoprenoids, flavonoids, and gibberellins. (L921, L923).

Alachlor

Hematologic

1 x 10 ^-2 mg/kg-day

Pesticide

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

Cancer Classification: Likely to be Carcinogenic to Humans (High Doses); Not Likely to be Carcinogenic to Humans (Low Doses)

A3: Confirmed animal carcinogen with unknown relevance to humans.

Group 2A: Probably carcinogenic to humans

Volume 140

In prep.

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

ARDS/acute lung injury, burns of the esophagus or gastrointestinal tract can result from acetochlor poisoning (T36).

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

oral (L922) ; dermal (L922)

Redness. Pain.

Alachlor is mildly irritating to the skin and eyes. Exposure to metalaxyl often results in such nonspecific symptoms as headache, dizziness, weakness, and nausea. Alachlor poisoning can produce an allergic hypersensitivity dermatitis or asthma with bronchospasm and wheezing with chronic exposure (T36).

Chemical: ALACHLOR

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.

Skin Sensitizer - An agent that can induce an allergic reaction in the skin.

ACGIH Carcinogen - Confirmed Animal.

IRIS Current

HEAST Current

LD50: 930 - 1360 mg/kg (Oral, Rat) (L922)

LD50: 13 300 mg/kg (Dermal, Rabbit) (L922)

LD50 Rat oral 790 mg/kg

LC50 Rat inhalation 1.04 mg/L/4 hrs

LD50 Rat oral, male & female, 1,350 mg/kg bw

LC50 Rat inhalation >5.1 mg/L/4 hrs

For more Non-Human Toxicity Values (Complete) data for ALACHLOR (9 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

There is no antidote for alachlor. Treatment would be symptomatic.

Skin decontamination. Skin contamination should be treated promptly by washing with soap and water. Contamination of the eyes should be treated immediately by prolonged flushing of the eyes with large amounts of clean water. If dermal or ocular irritation persists, medical attention should be obtained without delay. /Other herbicides/

Gastrointestinal decontamination. Ingestions of these herbicides are likely to be followed by vomiting and diarrhea due to their irritant properties. Management depends on: (1) the best estimate of the quantity ingested, (2) time elapsed since ingestion, and (3) the clinical status of the subject. Activated charcoal is probably effective in limiting irritant effects and reducing absorption of most or all of these herbicides. Aluminum hydroxide antacids may be useful in neutralizing the irritant actions of more acidic agents. Sorbitol should be given to induce catharsis if bowel sounds are present and if spontaneous diarrhea has not already commenced. Dehydration and electrolyte disturbances may be severe enough to require oral or intravenous fluids. ... If large amounts of herbicide have been ingested and the patient is seen within an hour of the ingestion, gastrointestinal decontamination should be considered ... . If the amount of ingested herbicides was small, if effective emesis has already occurred, or if treatment is delayed, administer activated charcoal and sorbitol by mouth. /Other herbicides/

Intravenous fluids. If serious dehydration and electrolyte depletion have occurred as a result of vomiting and diarrhea, monitor blood electrolytes and fluid balance and administer intravenous infusions of glucose, normal saline, Ringer's solution, or Ringer's lactate to restore extracellular fluid volume and electrolytes. Follow this with oral nutrients as soon as fluids can be retained. /Other herbicides/

Supportive measures are ordinarily sufficient for successful management of excessive exposures to these herbicides ... . If the patient's condition deteriorates in spite of good supportive care, the operation of an alternative or additional toxicant should be suspected. /Other herbicides/

/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ Corrosive. Causes irreversible eye damage. Causes skin irritation. Prolonged or frequently repeated skin contact may cause allergic reaction in some individuals. THis product may cause skin sensitization reactions in some people. /INTRRO/

/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ Alachlor was ... a skin sensitizer in a repeated insult patch test in humans.[USEPA/Office of Pesticide Programs; Reregistration Eligibility Decision Document - Alachlor. p.11 (December 1998). Available from, as of January 30, 2007: http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/reregistration/status.htm]

/EPIDEMIOLOGY STUDIES/ Monsanto performed an epidemiologic study of workers at an alachlor manufacturing plant in Muscatine, Iowa. The product has been manufactured in this plant since 1969. The population studied included 1199 workers employed for 1 year or more between 1961 and December 1993. Both mortality and cancer incidence were assessed in this cohort. Mortality follow-up was by company records, social security number, national death index, credit agency, and state motor vehicle records. Follow-up for vital status was very successful, covering over 99% of the cohort. Death certificates were obtained for all but 17 decedents. Assessment of cancer incidence was conducted using the statewide cancer registry in Iowa which was initiated in 1969. Linking with the registry was by social security number, full name, and birth date. Inexact matches were verified by consulting with employee records and the State Health Registry. Workers who left Iowa (< 1/3 the cohort) did not have cancer incidence assessed but were assumed to be similar to those who remained in state. Quantitative data were insufficient to estimate actual exposure at the plant. Qualitative estimates (high, medium, and low) were made by industrial hygienists based primarily on work history and the potential for dermal exposure. Alachlor's low vapor pressure and airborne measurements taken at the plant (averaging less than 10 ppb) suggest this route of exposure is not significant. The potential for contaminated water occurred between 1968 and 1975. In 1975 low levels of alachlor were detected in the plant's drinking water. However, when the alachlor first appeared in the drinking water is not known. Exposure characterization took into account the contaminated drinking water. Analysis both included and excluded this possibility due to the uncertainty associated with it. Twenty-six non-whites were excluded from the analysis due to inadequate sample size for statistical analysis. However, it was noted that no cancers occurred in this group where 0.1 cases would have been expected. No deaths or incidence of cancer were reported for the stomach, thyroid, or nasal cavities, as reported in laboratory rats. The study did not find any evidence of statistically increased incidence or mortality from cancer either overall or by individual cancer site with one exception. The one statistically significant finding was based on two cases of chronic myeloid leukemia where only 0.1 cases would have been expected. The 95 percent confidence interval for the standardized incidence ratio was quite wide, 1.9 to 58.1. Given that this ratio is based on only two cases (one of whom had worked at the plant less than 5 years) and the number of statistical tests performed, this result should probably be considered a chance finding without other supporting evidence. By completion of this study only 24 cancers and 8 cancer deaths had been reported in the entire cohort. The overall cancer mortality ratio (number of observed/expected cases) was 0.9 with a 95% confidence interval of 0.4 to 1.7. The overall cancer incidence ratio was 1.4 based on 24 observed and 17.1 expected cases (95% confidence interval 0.9 to 2.1). For those workers categorized as having high exposure to alachlor (68% of the cohort), the cancer incidence ratio was 1.2 (95% confidence interval 0.7 to 2.0).

/EPIDEMIOLOGY STUDIES/ ...The incidence of cancer among pesticide applicators with exposure to alachlor / was evaluated/ in the Agricultural Health Study, a prospective cohort study of licensed pesticide applicators in Iowa and North Carolina. A total of 49,980 pesticide applicators are included in this analysis; 26,510 applicators (53%) reported use of alachlor on the enrollment questionnaire. Detailed pesticide exposure and other information were obtained from a self-administered questionnaire completed at the time of enrollment (1993-1997). Poisson regression analysis was used to evaluate the exposure-response relations between alachlor and cancer incidence controlled for the effects of potential confounding factors. A total of 1,466 incident malignant neoplasms were diagnosed during the study period, 1993-2000. Among alachlor-exposed applicators, the authors found a significant increasing trend for incidence of all lymphohematopoietic cancers associated with lifetime exposure-days (p for trend = 0.02) and intensity-weighted exposure-days (p for trend = 0.03) to alachlor. The risks of leukemia (rate ratio = 2.83, 95% confidence interval: 0.74, 10.9) and multiple myeloma (rate ratio = 5.66, 95% confidence interval: 0.70, 45.7) were increased among applicators in the highest alachlor exposure category.[Lee WJ et al; Am J Epidemiol 161 (1): 1-1-2 (2005)]

For more Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for ALACHLOR (11 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ In an acute dermal toxicity study in rabbits, the LD50 was determined to be ca. 13,300 mg/kg bw (confidence limits of 6,700 to 26,600 mg/kg). Mortality in groups exposed to alachlor (90.0% pure) at 5,600, 8,000, 11,300, 16,000 and 20,000 mg/kg was 25, 0, 75, 25 and 100%, respectively. Most animals exhibited slight to well defined erythema with slight or very slight edema at the dosing site. Signs of toxicity during 24 hrs following the exposure period included decreased motor activity and ataxia in all treatment groups. These effect gradually subsided throughout the study. While several post-mortem changes were noted in animals that died during the study, there were no necropsy findings in animals sacrificed at the end of the study.

LC50 Cyprinus carpio (Carp, 1 yr old, weight 10 g) 7.14 mg/L/48 hr at 18-20 °C, pH 6.9

LC50 Cyprinus carpio (Carp, 1 yr old, weight 10 g) 4.60 mg/L/96 hr at 18-20 °C, pH 6.9

LD50 Procambarus acutus (Crayfish) 19.5 ppm in 96 hr

LC50 Phasianus sp (Pheasant) oral greater than 10000 ppm (8 day feeding)

For more Ecotoxicity Values (Complete) data for ALACHLOR (35 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

/BIRDS and MAMMALS/ Avian reproduction studies were conducted with bobwhite quail and mallard ducks in which the birds were exposed to dietary concentrations up to 1,000 ppm for 22 and 24 weeks, respectively. Bobwhite: There was no statistically significant effect on egg production or eggshell thickness at any dietary concentration. There was a significant reduction in reproductive performance and offspring body weight at the highest dietary concentration of 1,000 ppm alachlor. Reduced reproductive performance resulted from significant reductions in embryo viability and offspring survival. Mallard: There was no statistically significant effect of dietary Alachlor exposure on egg production or eggshell thickness observed at any dietary concentration. There was a significant reduction in reproductive performance and offspring body weight at the highest dietary concentration of 1,000 ppm. Reduced reproductive performance at this level primarily resulted from a statistically significant reduction in embryo viability. Non-statistically significant reductions in hatchability of 3-week embryos and egg production contributed to the lowered reproductive performance. There was no effect on reproductive performance at the mid dietary level of 150 ppm. There was a reduction in offspring body weights on the day of hatching at 150 ppm; however, this was no longer evident by day 14 post-hatch.

/BIRDS and MAMMALS/ Signs of intoxication /in male mallards 3 mo of age admin orally more than 2000 mg/kg, acute/: ataxia, goose stepping ataxia, imbalance, slowness, and tenseness. Signs appeared as soon as 25 min and persisted up to 2 days after treatment. /Sample purity 88.5%/

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ The effects of a single pulse, 21-day exposure of the commonly used herbicide alachlor (2-chloro-2', 6'-diethyl-N-methoxymethyl acetanilide) on an algal community from a typical agricultural stream in Nebraska were studied using 18 stream microcosms located in a greenhouse, at six alachlor concentrations (0, 1, 10, 30, 100, and 1,000 ug/L). Effects of alachlor exposure at 1.0 ug/L were not significant (p<0.05); however, at all other concentrations, alachlor had a significant negative effect on algal biomass. Differential taxonomic responses were observed, with approximately half the dominant algal taxa affected at levels >10 ug/L. Some taxa recovered from exposure by day 7, while others took longer or did not recover. A shift in the dominant algae was observed at higher concentrations (30, 100, 1,000 ug/L), and after 21 days these streams exhibited total algal cell densities significantly lower than the control and 1.0-ug/L-level streams.

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ ... Embryos at midblastula to early gastrula stages of a locally abundant African clawed frog Xenopus laevis were used as test organisms. The embryos were exposed to the test chemicals for 96 hr in each experiment. Alachlor is more embryotoxic (the concentration causing 50% embryo lethality, 96-hr LC50 = 23 uM [6.1 mg/L]) and teratogenic (teratogenic index [TI] = 1.7) than metolachlor (96-hr LC50 = 48 uM [13.6 mg/L], TI = 0.2). The degradation products of alachlor and metolachlor, respectively, 2,6-diethylaniline (96-hr LC50 = 13 uM [19.4 mg/L], TI = 2.1) and 2-ethyl-6-methyaniline (96-hr LC50 = 509 uM [68.8 mg/L], TI = 2.7), are less embryotoxic but more teratogenic than their parent compounds. The most common teratogenic effects observed were edema for alachlor as opposed to axial flexures and eye abnormalities for 2,6-diethylaniline and 2-ethyl-6-methylaniline.

For more Ecotoxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for ALACHLOR (13 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

9.70e+00

4.10e+01

1.10e+00

2.00e+00

8.70e-04

1.60e-03

5.60e-02

1.00e-02

Volatile

9.70e+02

4.10e+03

1.10e+02

The substance is toxic to aquatic organisms. This substance does enter the environment under normal use. Great care, however, should be taken to avoid any additional release, for example through inappropriate disposal.

Alachlor's production may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams; its use as a herbicide will result in its direct release to the environment. If released to air, a vapor pressure of 2.290X10-5 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates alachlor will exist in both the vapor and particulate phases. Vapor-phase alachlor 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 8.5 hrs. Particulate-phase alachlor will be removed from the atmosphere by wet or dry deposition. Alachlor does not absorb light at wavelengths >290 nm and therefore is not expected to be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight. If released to soil, alachlor is expected to have high to low mobility based upon a Koc range of 120 to 2,138. Mobility decreases with an increase in organic carbon and clay content. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces is not expected to be an important fate process based upon a Henry's Law constant of 8.32X10-9 atm-cu m/mole. Half-lives of 2-3 weeks under aerobic conditions indicate that biodegradation is a moderately important environmental fate process in soil. When incorporated into soil samples, alachlor degraded 22 to 39% following 8-hour exposure to 8 hr sunlight, the rate of degradation being enhanced by low pH and low soil organic matter. If released into water, alachlor may adsorb to some suspended solids and sediment based upon the Koc range. Approximately 20% degradation after 30 day incubation in lake water indicates that biodegradation is not expected to be an important environmental fate process in water. Volatilization from water surfaces is not expected to be an important fate process based upon this compound's Henry's Law constant. A BCF of 6 suggests bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low. Hydrolysis is not expected to be an important environmental fate process since this compound lacks functional groups that hydrolyze under environmental condition. A 1% degradation in 135 minutes of alachlor in aqueous solution irradiated with light from 300 nm sunlamps suggests that photolysis in water is a slow environmental fate process. Occupational exposure to alachlor may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where alachlor is produced or used. Monitoring and use data indicate that the general population may be exposed to alachlor via inhalation of ambient air, ingestion of food and drinking water. (SRC)

Alachlor's production may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams; its use as a herbicide(1) will result in its direct release to the environment(SRC).

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), Koc values ranging from 120 to 2,138(2,3) indicate that alachlor is expected to have high to low mobility in soil(SRC). Volatilization of alachlor from moist soil surfaces is not expected to be an important fate process(SRC) given a Henry's Law constant of 8.2X10-9 atm-cu m/mole(4). Alachlor is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon a vapor pressure of 2.20X10-5 mm Hg(5). When incorporated into soil samples, alachlor degraded 22 to 39% following 8-hour exposure to 8 hr sunlight, the rate of degradation being enhanced by low pH and low soil organic matter(5). Alachlor applied at 2 ppm to silt, loamy sand, and silt loam soils incubated in the dark at 25 °C and 75% field moisture capacity for 175 days degraded with estimated half-lives ranging from 2-3 weeks(6). The four major degradates identified were alachlor DM-oxanilic acid, alachlor oxanilic acid, alachlor ESA, and 2'6'-diehtyl-2-hydrodroxy-N-methoxymethylacetanilide; nine other degradates were also identified, and all 15 were at less than or equal to 10% of the applied alachlor(6). A first-order degradation rate of 0.14/day measured using an anaerobic sludge from a municipal sewage treatment plant inoculum(7) suggests that the compound may degrade rapidly under anaerobic conditions(SRC).

TERRESTRIAL FATE: The persistence of alachlor was studied using lab and field experiments. Half-lives in sandy loam soil incubated at 25 °C were 23.0, 8.3, 7.4 and 5.7 days at 6, 9, 12 and 15% moisture (w/w), 16.5 days at 15 °C and 12% w/w moisture, 38.6 days at 5 °C and 12% moisture w/w(1). Persistence of the five acetanilide herbicides studied were in the order: propachlor less than alachlor which was equal to dimethachlor which was less than metazachlor and metazachlor was less than metolachlor. An increase in temperature by 10 degrees reduced the half-life by a factor of 1.9-2.5. The Arrhenius activation energy for alachlor was 57.0 kJ/mol(1). Under field conditions (1.0 kg active ingredient/hectacre on vegetation-free plots of sandy loam soil), days required for 50% and 80% loss in experiments prepared on June 8, 1981 were 24 and 48, respectively; on April 24, 1982, 27 and 37 days, respectively; on June 8, 1982, 11 and 21 days respectively(1).

Terrestrial fate: The half-life of alachlor in soils was found to be 7 to 14 days. Four major metabolites of alachlor were observed but only two were identified: 2-chloro-2',6'-diethylacetanilide and 1-chloro-acetyl-2,3-dihydro-7-ethylindole.

AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), Koc values ranging from 120 to 2,138(2,3), indicate that alachlor may adsorb to some suspended solids and sediment(SRC). Volatilization from water surfaces is not expected(3) based upon a Henry's Law constant of 8.32X10-9 atm-cu m/mole(4). Alachlor is stable to hydrolysis and photolysis in water(5). A 1% degradation in 135 minutes of alachlor in aqueous solution irradiated with light from 300 nm sunlamps suggests that photolysis in water is a slow environmental fate process(10). According to a classification scheme(6), a BCF of 6(7), suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC). Degradation of alachlor water is not an important environmental fate process(SRC) as suggested by a remaining 88.8% of applied to non-sterile lake water after 30 days(5); microorganisms in sewage and eutrophic lake water transformed 10-21% of alachlor to 4-6 unidentified products in 6 weeks(10). However, first-order degradation rate of 0.14/day measured using an anaerobic sludge from a municipal sewage treatment plant inoculum(8) suggests that the compound may degrade rapidly under anaerobic conditions(SRC). In a model ecosystem, 98.2% of alachlor transformed to 8 unidentified products in 33 days(9).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), alachlor, which has a vapor pressure of 2.20X10-5 mm Hg at 25 °C(SRC), determined from a fragment constant method(2), will exist in both the vapor and particulate phases in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase alachlor 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 8.5 hrs(SRC), calculated from its rate constant of 1.85X10-10 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(3). Particulate-phase alachlor may be removed from the air by wet or dry deposition(SRC). Alachlor does not absorb at wavelengths >290 nm(4) and therefore is not expected to be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight(SRC).

... SOIL INCUBATION STUDIES SUGGESTS THAT ALACHLOR IS BIODEGRADED RAPIDLY IN SOILS BUT THAT VERY LITTLE RING-LABELED (14)C ALACHLOR IS CONVERTED TO (14)CO2. MAJORITY OF RADIOACTIVITY COULD BE RECOVERED FROM SOIL ONLY AFTER ALKALINE HYDROLYSIS, SUGGESTING THAT HERBICIDAL METABOLITES WERE BOUND TO SOIL ORG MATTER. ... 2-CHLORO-2',6'-DIETHYLACETAMIDE WAS FORMED IN ALACHLOR-TREATED AIR-DRIED SOILS INCUBATED @ 46 °C. THIS PRODUCT ... BELIEVED TO RESULT ... FROM ACID-CATALYZED HYDROLYSIS ... ON MINERAL SURFACES.

/IN SOILS/ MICROBIAL BREAKDOWN APPROX 90%.

Soil fungi degrade alachlor and release chloride ion. Four additional organic metabolites were also identified in cultures of Chaetomium globosum: 2-chloro-2',6'-diethylacetanilide, 2,6-diethyl-N-(methoxymethyl)aniline, 2,6-diethylaniline, and 1-chloroacetyl-2,3-dihydro-7-ethylindole. Incubation of Chaetomium globosum with 2-chloro-2',6'-diethyl-acetanilide, 2,6-diethylaniline, and monochloroacetate demonstrated further degradation of these products.

The degradation of alachlor by soil fungi was studied. Of eight fungi studied, Chaetomium globosum was most active and produced, in addition to inorganic chloride, four metabolites identified as: 2-chloro-2',6'-diethylacetanilide; 2,6-diethyl-N-methoxymethylaniline; 2,6-diethylaniline; and 1-chloroacetyl-2,3-dihydro-7-ethylindole. The other fungi incubated with alachlor for 7 days degraded varying amounts of alachlor: Fungus: Penicillium sp., 0% degraded; Fungus: Trichoderma sp., 0% degraded; Fungus: Fusarium roseum, 0% degraded; Fungus: Alternaria sp., 4% degraded; Fungus: Phoma sp., 11% degraded; Fungus: Chaetomium bostrychodes 18% degraded; Fungus: Paecilomyces sp., 62% degraded; Fungus: Chaetomium globosum, 100% degraded.

For more Environmental Biodegradation (Complete) data for ALACHLOR (9 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of alachlor with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals has been estimated as 1.85X10-10 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(1). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 8.5 hours at an atmospheric concentration of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(2). Alachlor is not expected to undergo hydrolysis in the environment as indicated by evidence of relatively stability in sterile pH 3, 6, and 9 buffer solutions, natural lake water, and deionoized water when incubated in the dark for 30 days(3). When irradiated with light from a Rayonet photoreactor fitted with 300 nm sunlamps, 1% of the original alachlor in aqueous solution degraded in 135 minutes(4). Alachlor on glass surfaces or incorporated into soil samples was degraded after 8 hours in sunlight(5). Degradation was more rapid on glass surfaces and the photodegradation products were 2-chloro-2',6'-diethylacetanilide; 2,6-diethylaniline; 2',6'-diethylacetanilide; chloroacetic acid; 2',6'diethyl-N-methoxymethylaniline; and 1-chloroacetyl-2,3-dihydro-7-ethylindole(5). The degradation in soil was slower and 22, 27, 36 and 39% of the parent compound degraded in a sandy loam, loam, silt loam and clay soils on exposure to 8 hr sunlight(5). The rate of degradation was enhanced by low pH and low soil organic matter(5).

/IN SOILS/ CHEMICAL BREAKDOWN 10%. LOSS FROM PHOTODECOMP: LOW.

ALACHLOR WAS APPLIED TO SAWYER FINE SANDY LOAM SOIL. AT 22 °C, RELATIVE HUMIDITY IN A CLOSED SYSTEM HAD LITTLE EFFECT ON RETENTION UNTIL HUMIDITY APPROACHED 100%. WHEN SOIL TEMP...38 °C OR HIGHER, RELATIVE HUMIDITY HAD PRONOUNCED EFFECT. ALACHLOR DEGRADED TO 2-CHLORO-2',6'-DIETHYLACETANILIDE.

Biological concentration factors of 2.8 and 10.3 mg/L were measured in fish for alachlor, using bluegill sunfish which were exposed in an ecosystem treated with 2.5 and 10.3 kg/ha, respectively; substantial amounts of residue were present in fish up to 20 days(1). Whole body bioconcentration factor (BCF) for alachlor in fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas) was measured to be 6(2). According to a classification scheme(3), these BCF values suggest the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC). Alachlor was rapidly eliminated upon transfer of fish in uncontaminated water with 81% and 98% being eliminated after 24 hr and 14 days, respectively(2). This rapid elimination was also found in rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri)(2).

The BCF value for alachlor vapor in azalea plant (Azalea indica) leaves was experimentally determined in greenhouse experiments to be 2.8X10+5(1). When the plant was removed from contaminated air, elimination of alachlor from leaves started in 15 days(1). Using a correlation equation, the BCF value due to uptake of alachlor vapor by plant leaves was estimated to be 2.82X10+5(2).

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.

/GUIDE 131: FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS-TOXIC/ Health: TOXIC; may be fatal if inhaled, ingested or absorbed through skin. Inhalation or contact with some of these materials will irritate or burn skin and eyes. Fire will produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Vapors may cause dizziness or suffocation. Runoff from fire control or dilution water may cause pollution. /Pesticide, liquid, flammable, poisonous, NOS; Pesticide, liquid, flammable, toxic, NOS; Pesticide, liquid, poisonous, flammable, NOS; Pesticide, liquid, toxic, flammable, NOS/

/GUIDE 131: FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS-TOXIC/ Fire or Explosion: HIGHLY FLAMMABLE: Will be easily ignited by heat, sparks or flames. Vapors may form explosive mixtures with air. Vapors may travel to source of ignition and flash back. Most vapors are heavier than air. They will spread along ground and collect in low or confined areas (sewers, basements, tanks). Vapor explosion and poison hazard indoors, outdoors or in sewers. Those substances designated with a "P" may polymerize explosively when heated or involved in a fire. Runoff to sewer may create fire or explosion hazard. Containers may explode when heated. Many liquids are lighter than water. /Pesticide, liquid, flammable, poisonous, NOS; Pesticide, liquid, flammable, toxic, NOS; Pesticide, liquid, poisonous, flammable, NOS; Pesticide, liquid, toxic, flammable, NOS/

/GUIDE 131: FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS-TOXIC/ Public Safety: CALL Emergency Response Telephone Number ... . As an immediate precautionary measure, isolate spill or leak area for at least 50 meters (150 feet) in all directions. Keep unauthorized personnel away. Stay upwind. Keep out of low areas. Ventilate closed spaces before entering. /Pesticide, liquid, flammable, poisonous, NOS; Pesticide, liquid, flammable, toxic, NOS; Pesticide, liquid, poisonous, flammable, NOS; Pesticide, liquid, toxic, flammable, NOS/

/GUIDE 131: FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS-TOXIC/ 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. /Pesticide, liquid, flammable, poisonous, NOS; Pesticide, liquid, flammable, toxic, NOS; Pesticide, liquid, poisonous, flammable, NOS; Pesticide, liquid, toxic, flammable, NOS/

For more DOT Emergency Guidelines (Complete) data for ALACHLOR (16 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

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.

Do not transport with food and feedstuffs.

Symbol: Xn, N; R: 22-40-43-50/53; S: (2)-36/37-46-60-61

UN Hazard Class: 9; UN Pack Group: III