2,3-dichlorophenol

This chemical does not meet GHS hazard criteria for 2% (1 of 51) of reports.

H302 (15.7%): Harmful if swallowed [Warning Acute toxicity, oral]

H312 (13.7%): Harmful in contact with skin [Warning Acute toxicity, dermal]

H315 (96.1%): Causes skin irritation [Warning Skin corrosion/irritation]

H319 (96.1%): Causes serious eye irritation [Warning Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

H411 (15.7%): Toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

P264, P264+P265, P270, P273, P280, P301+P317, P302+P352, P305+P351+P338, P317, P321, P330, P332+P317, P337+P317, P362+P364, P391, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Aggregated GHS information provided per 51 reports by companies from 6 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.

Reported as not meeting GHS hazard criteria per 1 of 51 reports by companies.

There are 5 notifications provided by 50 of 51 reports by companies with hazard statement code(s).

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.

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

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

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

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

Fires involving this material can be controlled with a dry chemical, carbon dioxide or Halon extinguisher. (NTP, 1992)

Extinguish fire using agent suitable for type of surrounding fire. Material itself does not burn or burns with difficulty. /Trichlorophenol/

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

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

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

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

Land Spill: Dig a pit, pond, lagoon, or holding area /SRP: If time permits, pits, ponds, lagoons, soak holes, or holding areas should be sealed with an impermeable flexible membrane liner/ to contain liquid or solid material. Cover solids with plastic sheet to prevent dissolving in rain or fire fighting water. /Trichlorophenol/

Water Spill: Use natural deep water pockets, excavated lagoons, or sand bag barriers to trap material at bottom. If dissolved, apply activated carbon at ten times the spilled amount in region of 10 ppm or greater concentration. Remove trapped material with suction hoses. Use mechanical dredges or lifts to remove immobilized masses of pollutants and precipitates. /Trichlorophenol/

Activated carbon is a good method for removing chlorophenols from water. Competitive adsorption occurs between chlorophenols and humic substances present in nearly all municipal water supplies. This competition decreases the capacity of carbon for chlorophenols. /Chlorophenols/

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.

Chemical Treatability of 2,3-Dichlorophenol; Concentration Process: Activated Carbons; Chemical Classification: Phenols; Scale of Study: Batch Flow, Laboratory Scale; Type of Wastewater Used: Pure Compound (one solute in a solvent; Results of Study: 100% reduction; 14% desorbed from carbon by elutriation with solvent; (Calgon FS-300 used. Solvents included pentene-acetone, diethyl ether, methylene chloride-acetone, chloroform-acetone and acetone.)

SRP: Contaminated protective clothing should be segregated in such a manner so that there is no direct personal contact by personnel who handle, dispose, or clean the clothing. Quality assurance to ascertain the completeness of the cleaning procedures should be implemented before the decontaminated protective clothing is returned for reuse by the workers. Contaminated clothing should not be taken home at end of shift, but should remain at employee's place of work for cleaning.

Keep material out of water sources and sewers; Build dikes to contain flow as necessary; Keep upwind; Avoid breathing vapors or dusts; Wash away any material which may have contacted the body with copious amounts of water or soap and water. /Trichlorophenol/

Immediately wash contaminated areas of skin with concentrated soap solution. Contaminated gloves, clothing, shoes should be removed without delay and disposed by incineration.

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.

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

STORAGE PRECAUTIONS: You should store this chemical under ambient temperatures, and keep it away from oxidizing materials. (NTP, 1992)

MINIMUM PROTECTIVE CLOTHING: If Tyvek-type disposable protective clothing is not worn during handling of this chemical, wear disposable Tyvek-type sleeves taped to your gloves.

RECOMMENDED RESPIRATOR: Where the neat test chemical is weighed and diluted, wear a NIOSH-approved half face respirator equipped with an organic vapor/acid gas cartridge (specific for organic vapors, HCl, acid gas and SO2) with a dust/mist filter. (NTP, 1992)

Wear boots, protective gloves, and goggles. /Trichlorophenol/

/Wear/ approved dust respirator for toxic dusts; Protective clothing to prevent contact with skin. /Trichlorophenol/

2,3-dichlorophenol appears as brown crystals (from ligroin, benzene). Taste threshold concentration 0.00004 mg/L. Odor threshold concentration 0.03 mg/L. (NTP, 1992)

Brown solid; [CAMEO]

Crystals from ligroin and benzene

Taste Threshold in water: 0.04 ug/l.

403 °F at 760 mmHg (NTP, 1992)

136 to 140 °F (NTP, 1992)

less than 1 mg/mL at 68 °F (NTP, 1992)

Soluble in ethanol, ethyl ether, benzene, ligroin

In water, 3,600 mg/L at 25 °C

0.05 [mmHg]

0.058 mm Hg at 25 °C

log Kow = 2.84

When heated to decomposition it emits toxic vapors of /hydrogen chloride/.

In water 30 ug/l.

pKa = 7.70

Hydroxyl radical reaction rate constant = 1.66X10-12 cu cm/molec-sec at 25 °C

13C nuclear magnetic resonance spectrum

Chemical shift

Fusion temperature

Melting temperature

Nuclear quadrupole resonance spectroscopy

Phase transition

Quadrupole coupling

Spin-spin coupling constant

Transition enthalpy

Other Classes -> Chlorophenols

Insoluble in water.

Phenols and Cresols

Aryl Halides

2,3-DICHLOROPHENOL is incompatible with acid chlorides, acid anhydrides and oxidizing agents. (NTP, 1992)

Neurotoxin - Other CNS neurotoxin

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.

Nephrotoxin - The chemical is potentially toxic to the kidneys in the occupational setting.

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

Other Poison - Uncoupler

Dermatotoxin - Skin burns.

LD50 Mouse (male CD-1 ICR) oral 2585 mg/kg.

LD50 Mouse (female CD-1 ICR) oral 2376 mg/kg.

/SRP:/ Immediate first aid: Ensure that adequate decontamination has been carried out. If patient is not breathing, start artificial respiration, preferably with a demand-valve resuscitator, bag-valve-mask device, or pocket mask, as trained. Perform CPR as necessary. Immediately flush contaminated eyes with gently flowing water. Do not induce vomiting. If vomiting occurs, lean patient forward or place on left side (head-down position, if possible) to maintain an open airway and prevent aspiration. Keep patient quiet and maintain normal body temperature. Obtain medical attention. /Phenols and related compounds/

/SRP:/ 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 ... . Administer activated charcoal ... . Do not use emetics. Cover skin burns with dry, sterile dressings after decontamination ... . Maintain body temperature. /Phenols and related compounds/

/SRP:/ 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. Positive pressure ventilation techniques with a bag valve mask device may be beneficial. Consider drug therapy for pulmonary edema ... . 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. Consider vasopressors if patient is hypotensive with a normal fluid volume. Watch for signs of fluid overload ... . Administer 1% solution methylene blue if patient is symptomatic with severe hypoxia, cyanosis, and cardiac compromise not responding to oxygen. DIRECT PHYSICIAN ORDER ONLY ... Treat seizures with diazepam or lorazepam. ... Use proparacaine hydrochloride to assist eye irrigation ... . /Phenols and related compounds/

/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ SYMPTOMATOLOGY: Burning pain in mouth and throat. White necrotic lesions in mouth, esophagus and stomach. Abdominal pain, vomiting ... and bloody diarrhea. Pallor, sweating, weakness, headache, dizziness, tinnitus. Shock: Weak irregular pulse, hypotension, shallow respirations, cyanosis, pallor, and a profound fall in body temperature. Possibly fleeting excitement and confusion, followed by unconsciousness. ... Stentorous breathing, mucous rales, rhonchi, frothing at nose and mouth and other signs of pulmonary edema are sometimes seen. Characteristic odor of phenol on the breath. Scanty, dark-colored ... urine ... moderately severe renal insufficiency may appear. Methemoglobinemia, Heinz body hemolytic anemia and hyperbilirubinemia have been reported. ... Death from respiratory, circulatory or cardiac failure. If spilled on skin, pain is followed promptly by numbness. The skin becomes blanched, and a dry opaque eschar forms over the burn. When the eschar sloughs off, a brown stain remains. /Phenol/

/EPIDEMIOLOGY STUDIES/ Several epidemiological studies have been published concerning human cancer outcomes following occupational exposure to chlorophenols, phenoxy herbicides (made from or contaminated with chlorophenols) and chlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans (microcontaminants found in some chlorophenols and phenoxy herbicides). Most of these studies (case-control and cohort studies) have been described and reviewed in several publications by IARC (1979, 1986, 1987). Equivocal relationships between chlorophenols and cases of soft tissue sarcoma, malignant lymphoma (Hodgkins disease and non-Hodgkins lymphoma), nasal and nasopharyngeal cancer and lung cancer have been reported. IARC concluded that there is a limited evidence of carcinogenicity from occupational exposure to chlorophenols ... /Chlorophenols/

/ALTERNATIVE and IN VITRO TESTS/ Nineteen isomeric chlorophenols were tested for their toxicity to HeLa cells. Cytotoxicity (median inhibitory concentration IC50) varied between 0.37 and 900 mg/L and generally increased in proportion to the number of chlorine substituents and the partition coefficient. Ortho chlorination decreased toxicity, whereas meta chlorination had the opposite effect. A good correlation was found between HeLa cell toxicity and data on the bacterial toxicity of the substances.

/OTHER TOXICITY INFORMATION/ The toxicity of chlorophenols tends to increase as chlorination is increased. /Chlorophenols/

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ In rats oral, subcutaneous, and intraperitoneal lethal doses of the chlorophenols produce similar signs of poisoning. Oral administration, however, results in fatal poisoning in smaller dosage and in a shorter period of time than sc administration. /Chlorophenols/

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ 2,3-Dichlorophenol ... has a slight-to-moderate acute oral toxicity and is probably strongly irritating...

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ CD-1-mice were fasted for 18 hours prior to dosing. Five doses were employed with 10 mice of each sex in each dose group. Mice were observed for 14 days. All mice that died were autopsied. The primary signs of toxicity were increased respiration, tremors, and slight convulsions followed by central nervous system (CNS) depression for all compounds except pentachlorophenol which elicited signs of CNS depression only. Mean times of death for most groups were less than 24 hours. Acute oral LD50s for males and females, respectively, were: ... 2,3-dichlorophenol, 2,585 and 2,376 mg/kg ...

/GENOTOXICITY/ Tested chlorophenols for mutagenicity using Salmonella mammalian microsome Ames assay in both activated and nonactivated systems. The following dichlorophenol isomers were tested and reported as non-mutagenic in both test systems: 2,3-, 2,4-, 2,5-, 2,6-, 3,4-, and 3,5-dichlorophenols.

For more Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for 2,3-DICHLOROPHENOL (7 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

The following link will take the user to the National Toxicology Program (NTP) Test Agent Search Results page, which tabulates all of the "Standard Toxicology & Carcinogenesis Studies", "Developmental Studies", and "Genetic Toxicity Studies" performed with this chemical. Clicking on the "Testing Status" link will take the user to the status (i.e., in review, in progress, in preparation, on test, completed, etc.) and results of all the studies that the NTP has done on this chemical.[http://ntp-apps.niehs.nih.gov/ntp_tox/index.cfm?fuseaction=ntpsearch.searchresults&searchterm=576-24-9]

EC50; Species: Daphnia magna (Water flea, age <72 hr); Conditions: freshwater, static; Concentration: 5190 ug/L for 24 hr (95% confidence interval: 4090-6300 ug/L); Effect: intoxication, immobilization />95% purity/

EC50; Species: Daphnia magna (Water flea, age 6-24 hr); Conditions: freshwater, static, 20 °C, pH > or =7.0; Concentration: 4100 ug/L for 24 hr (95% confidence interval: 3300-4900 ug/L); Effect: intoxication, immobilization

EC50; Species: Daphnia magna (Water flea, age 6-24 hr); Conditions: freshwater, static, 20 °C, pH > or =7.0; Concentration: 3100 ug/L for 48 hr (95% confidence interval: 2800-3400 ug/L); Effect: intoxication, immobilization

EC50; Species: Pseudokirchneriella subcapitata (Green algae); Conditions: freshwater, static; Concentration: 5000 ug/L for 96 hr; Effect: growth, general

For more Ecotoxicity Values (Complete) data for 2,3-DICHLOROPHENOL (11 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ Acute (24 hr) toxicity (median inhibitory concn IC50) to Daphnia magna of 17 chlorophenols. Phenols with chlorine in para-position were more toxic than those with chlorine in ortho-position.

Dichlorophenol formation as a result of the chlorination process involving water treatment and wood pulp bleaching various incineration processes may result in their release to the environment through various waste streams. 2,3-Dichlorophenol is a metabolism product of o-dichlorobenzene and also the pesticide lindane, which is no longer registered in the US. 2,3-Dichlorphenol may naturally occur in soil via direct synthesis by soil fungi or fungi-derived enzymes utilizing humic phenols. Chlorophenols may be released into the environment through burning of biomass during forest fires. If released to air, a vapor pressure of 0.058 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates 2,3-dichlorophenol will exist solely as a vapor in the atmosphere. Vapor-phase 2,3-dichlorophenol 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 about 10 days. 2,3-Dichlorophenol contains chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm and therefore may be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight. If released to soil, 2,3-dichlorophenol is expected to have moderate mobility based upon a Koc of 426. The pKa of 2,3-dichlorophenol is 7.7, indicating that this compound will partially exist in anion form and anions generally do not adsorb more strongly to soils containing organic carbon and clay than their neutral counterparts. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 3.46X10-6 atm-cu m/mole. 2,3-Dichlorophenol is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces based upon its vapor pressure of 0.058 mm Hg. Half-lives of 28 days in and acidic sandy loam and 8 days in a basic sandy silt loam suggests that biodegradation may be an important environmental fate process in soil, and is pH dependent. If released into water, 2,3-dichlorophenol is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment based upon the Koc. A 0% of theoretical BOD using activated sludge in the Japanese MITI test suggests that biodegradation is not an important environmental fate process in water. Volatilization from water surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon this compound's estimated Henry's Law constant. Estimated volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 14 and 103 days, respectively. A BCF of 7.5-35 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 conditions. Occupational exposure to 2,3-dichlorophenol may occur through dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where 2,3-dichlorophenol is produced as a byproduct. Monitoring data indicate that the general population may be exposed to dichlorophenol via ingestion of drinking water and dermal contact with this compound. 2,3-Dichlorophenol has been detected in groundwater, surface waters and industrial effluents. (SRC)

Dichlorophenols can be synthesized directly by soil fungi utilizing chloride ions and humic phenol found in soil(1); chloroperoxidase enzymes released into soil by fungi can also bring about the chlorination of humic phenols with chloride ions(1). Chlorphenols may be released into the environment through burning of fresh lignocellulosic biomass during forest fires(2).

Dichlorophenol formation as a result of the chlorination process involving water treatment and wood pulp bleaching(1) various incineration processes(2,3) may result in their release to the environment through various waste streams(SRC). 2,3-Dichlorophenol is a metabolism product of o-dichlorobenzene and also the pesticide lindane (no longer registered in the US)(4); the latter may have resulted in its direct release to the environment(SRC).

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), a measured Koc value of 426 determined in lake and river sediments(2), indicates that 2,3-dichlorophenol is expected to have moderate mobility in soil(SRC). The pKa of 2,3-dichlorphenol is 7.7(3), indicating that this compound will partially exist in the anion form and anions generally do not adsorb more strongly to soils containing organic carbon and clay than their neutral counterparts(4). Volatilization of 2,3-dichlorophenol from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process(SRC) given an estimated Henry's Law constant of 3.46X10-6 atm-cu m/mole, derived from its vapor pressure, 0.058 mm Hg(5), and water solubility, 3,600 mg/L(6). 2,3-Dichlorophenol is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon a measured vapor pressure of 0.058 mm Hg(5). Half-lives of 28 days in and acidic sandy loam and 8 days in a basic sandy silt loam(7) suggests that biodegradation may be an important environmental fate process in soil, and is pH dependent(SRC).

AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), a measured Koc value of 426 determined in lake and river sediments(2), indicates that 2,3-dichlorophenol is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment(SRC). Volatilization from water surfaces is expected(3) based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 3.46X10-6 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), derived from its vapor pressure, 0.058 mm Hg(4), and water solubility, 3,600 mg/L(5). Using this Henry's Law constant and an estimation method(3), volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 14 and 103 days, respectively(SRC). According to a classification scheme(6), a measured BCF of 7.5 to 35(7), and a regression-derived equation(8), suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC). A 0% of theoretical BOD using activated sludge in the Japanese MITI test(7) suggests that biodegradation is not an important environmental fate process in water(SRC).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), 2,3-dichlorophenol, which has a vapor pressure of 0.058 mm Hg at 25 °C(2) is expected to exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase 2,3-dichlorophenol is degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals(SRC); the half-life for this reaction in air is about 10 days(SRC), calculated from its measured rate constant of 1.66X10-12 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(3). 2,3-dichlorophenol contains chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm(4) and therefore may be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight(SRC).

AEROBIC: 2,3-Dichlorophenol, present at 100 mg/L, reached 0% of its theoretical BOD in 4 weeks using an activated sludge inoculum at 30 mg/L in the Japanese MITI I test(1). 2,3-Dichlorophenol, present at 60 ppm in Wiggins, Mississippi acidic sandy loam with a pH of 4.8, reached 90% transformation to unspecified intermediates in 55 days, with a half-life of 28 days(2); 2,3-dichlorophenol, present at 130 ppm in Austin, Texas basic sandy silt loam with a pH of 7.8, reached 90% transformation to unspecified intermediates in 25 days, with a half-life of 8 days(2). Approximately 100% of initially added 2,3-dichlorophenol had been degraded after 2-4 weeks of incubation in four freshwater pond sediments(3); the chlorine at the 2-position was the most susceptible to the reductive dechlorination which occurred(3). After a lag period of approximately 2 weeks, 100% of the 2,3-dichlorophenol initially added to a freshwater pond sediment (which had been contaminated with asphalt) was observed to degrade within two weeks(3).

ANAEROBIC: 2,3-Dichlorophenol, present at 9 ppm (55 uM) in water, reached 82% transformation to 2-chlorophenol and phenol in 95 days, employing a mixed inoculum obtained from sludge(1). 2,3-Dichlorophenol, present at 10 ppm (60 uM), reached 100% transformation to unspecified intermediates in 30 days, employing a mixed inoculum obtained from sludge(2). 2,3-Dichlorophenol, present at 0.65 ppm (4 uM) in Tsurumi River, Tokyo Bay, Japan estuarine sediment, reached 100% transformation to 3-chlorophenol over one year, with a half-life of 13 days(3); the mechanism of transformation was via microorganism-mediated reductive dechlorination in which chlorine on the phenolic ring is replaced with hydrogen. In a similar study, 2,3-dichlorophenol, present at 0.5-1.1 ppm in Lake Kasumigaura, Japan sediment, reached 100% transformation to intermediates over one year, with a half-life of 24 days(4). In anaerobic serum bottle tests using unacclimated digestor sludge, 100% of added 2,3-dichlorophenol degraded within 6 wk yielding 3-chlorophenol(5). In anaerobic serum bottle tests using sludge acclimated to 2-chlorophenol, only 4% of added 2,3-dichlorophenol degraded during a 30-day incubation(5); no degradation occurred over a 28-day period using sludge acclimated to 3-chlorophenol(5).

ANAEROBIC: The first-order rate constant for 2,3-dichlorophenol in anaerobic estuarine sediment was 0.053 days-1(1), corresponding to a biodegradation half-life of about 13 days(1). The half-life of 2,3-dichlorophenol in a freshwater sediment slurry was measured as 1 day(2). Using a test chemical concentration of 10 ppm, 2,3-dichlorphenol half-lives of 0.4 to 1.5 days following a 2 week lag period were reported using anoxic pond sediments from the Cherokee Trailer Park Pond, Athens, GA collected in Jan 1989; half-lives of 5 to greater than 60 days with lag periods of 35 to 196 days were reported when using Bolton's Pond sediments (Athen's GA), collected in December, 1986(3).

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of 2,3-dichlorophenol with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals has been measured as 1.66X10-12 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(1). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 10 days at an atmospheric concentration of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(2). 2,3-Dichlorophenol undergoes direct photolysis in water upon UV irradiation at wavelengths greater than 280 nm, producing polyphenolic compounds and dechlorinated cyclopentenoic acids(3). 2,3-Dichlorophenol is not expected to undergo hydrolysis in the environment due to the lack of functional groups that hydrolyze under environmental conditions(4). 2,3-Dichlorophenol contains chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm(4) and therefore may be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight(SRC).

A BCF of 7.5 to 35 was measured in fish for 2,3-dichlorophenol using carp (Cyprinus carpio) which were exposed over a six week period to a water concentration of 30 ppb, according to the standard test of the Japanese Ministry of Industry and Trade (MITI)(1). According to a classification scheme(2), this BCF suggest the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC).

An average Koc of 426 has been measured in three types of lake and river sediments(1). According to a classification scheme(2), this Koc value suggests that 2,3-dichlorophenol is expected to have moderate mobility in soil. The pKa of 2,3-dichlorophenol is 7.7(3), indicating that this compound will partially exist in anion form in the environment and anions generally do not adsorb more strongly to soils containing organic carbon and clay than their neutral counterparts(4).

The Henry's Law constant for 2,3-dichlorophenol is estimated as 3.46X10-6 atm-cu m/mole(SRC) derived from its vapor pressure, 0.058 mm Hg(1), and water solubility, 3,600 mg/L(2). This Henry's Law constant indicates that 2,3-dichlorophenol is expected to volatilize from water surfaces(3). Based on this Henry's Law constant, the volatilization half-life from a model river (1 m deep, flowing 1 m/sec, wind velocity of 3 m/sec)(3) is estimated as about 14 days (SRC). The volatilization half-life from a model lake (1 m deep, flowing 0.05 m/sec, wind velocity of 0.5 m/sec)(3) is estimated as 103 days(SRC). 2,3-Dichlorophenol's estimated Henry's Law constant indicates that volatilization from moist soil surfaces may occur(SRC). 2,3-Dichlorophenol is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon its vapor pressure of 0.058 mm Hg(1).

EC50; Species: Daphnia magna (Water flea, age <72 hr); Conditions: freshwater, static; Concentration: 5190 ug/L for 24 hr (95% confidence interval: 4090-6300 ug/L); Effect: intoxication, immobilization />95% purity/

EC50; Species: Daphnia magna (Water flea, age 6-24 hr); Conditions: freshwater, static, 20 °C, pH > or =7.0; Concentration: 4100 ug/L for 24 hr (95% confidence interval: 3300-4900 ug/L); Effect: intoxication, immobilization

EC50; Species: Daphnia magna (Water flea, age 6-24 hr); Conditions: freshwater, static, 20 °C, pH > or =7.0; Concentration: 3100 ug/L for 48 hr (95% confidence interval: 2800-3400 ug/L); Effect: intoxication, immobilization

EC50; Species: Pseudokirchneriella subcapitata (Green algae); Conditions: freshwater, static; Concentration: 5000 ug/L for 96 hr; Effect: growth, general

For more Ecotoxicity Values (Complete) data for 2,3-DICHLOROPHENOL (11 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ Acute (24 hr) toxicity (median inhibitory concn IC50) to Daphnia magna of 17 chlorophenols. Phenols with chlorine in para-position were more toxic than those with chlorine in ortho-position.

Dichlorophenol formation as a result of the chlorination process involving water treatment and wood pulp bleaching various incineration processes may result in their release to the environment through various waste streams. 2,3-Dichlorophenol is a metabolism product of o-dichlorobenzene and also the pesticide lindane, which is no longer registered in the US. 2,3-Dichlorphenol may naturally occur in soil via direct synthesis by soil fungi or fungi-derived enzymes utilizing humic phenols. Chlorophenols may be released into the environment through burning of biomass during forest fires. If released to air, a vapor pressure of 0.058 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates 2,3-dichlorophenol will exist solely as a vapor in the atmosphere. Vapor-phase 2,3-dichlorophenol 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 about 10 days. 2,3-Dichlorophenol contains chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm and therefore may be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight. If released to soil, 2,3-dichlorophenol is expected to have moderate mobility based upon a Koc of 426. The pKa of 2,3-dichlorophenol is 7.7, indicating that this compound will partially exist in anion form and anions generally do not adsorb more strongly to soils containing organic carbon and clay than their neutral counterparts. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 3.46X10-6 atm-cu m/mole. 2,3-Dichlorophenol is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces based upon its vapor pressure of 0.058 mm Hg. Half-lives of 28 days in and acidic sandy loam and 8 days in a basic sandy silt loam suggests that biodegradation may be an important environmental fate process in soil, and is pH dependent. If released into water, 2,3-dichlorophenol is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment based upon the Koc. A 0% of theoretical BOD using activated sludge in the Japanese MITI test suggests that biodegradation is not an important environmental fate process in water. Volatilization from water surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon this compound's estimated Henry's Law constant. Estimated volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 14 and 103 days, respectively. A BCF of 7.5-35 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 conditions. Occupational exposure to 2,3-dichlorophenol may occur through dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where 2,3-dichlorophenol is produced as a byproduct. Monitoring data indicate that the general population may be exposed to dichlorophenol via ingestion of drinking water and dermal contact with this compound. 2,3-Dichlorophenol has been detected in groundwater, surface waters and industrial effluents. (SRC)

Dichlorophenols can be synthesized directly by soil fungi utilizing chloride ions and humic phenol found in soil(1); chloroperoxidase enzymes released into soil by fungi can also bring about the chlorination of humic phenols with chloride ions(1). Chlorphenols may be released into the environment through burning of fresh lignocellulosic biomass during forest fires(2).

Dichlorophenol formation as a result of the chlorination process involving water treatment and wood pulp bleaching(1) various incineration processes(2,3) may result in their release to the environment through various waste streams(SRC). 2,3-Dichlorophenol is a metabolism product of o-dichlorobenzene and also the pesticide lindane (no longer registered in the US)(4); the latter may have resulted in its direct release to the environment(SRC).

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), a measured Koc value of 426 determined in lake and river sediments(2), indicates that 2,3-dichlorophenol is expected to have moderate mobility in soil(SRC). The pKa of 2,3-dichlorphenol is 7.7(3), indicating that this compound will partially exist in the anion form and anions generally do not adsorb more strongly to soils containing organic carbon and clay than their neutral counterparts(4). Volatilization of 2,3-dichlorophenol from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process(SRC) given an estimated Henry's Law constant of 3.46X10-6 atm-cu m/mole, derived from its vapor pressure, 0.058 mm Hg(5), and water solubility, 3,600 mg/L(6). 2,3-Dichlorophenol is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon a measured vapor pressure of 0.058 mm Hg(5). Half-lives of 28 days in and acidic sandy loam and 8 days in a basic sandy silt loam(7) suggests that biodegradation may be an important environmental fate process in soil, and is pH dependent(SRC).

AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), a measured Koc value of 426 determined in lake and river sediments(2), indicates that 2,3-dichlorophenol is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment(SRC). Volatilization from water surfaces is expected(3) based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 3.46X10-6 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), derived from its vapor pressure, 0.058 mm Hg(4), and water solubility, 3,600 mg/L(5). Using this Henry's Law constant and an estimation method(3), volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 14 and 103 days, respectively(SRC). According to a classification scheme(6), a measured BCF of 7.5 to 35(7), and a regression-derived equation(8), suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC). A 0% of theoretical BOD using activated sludge in the Japanese MITI test(7) suggests that biodegradation is not an important environmental fate process in water(SRC).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), 2,3-dichlorophenol, which has a vapor pressure of 0.058 mm Hg at 25 °C(2) is expected to exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase 2,3-dichlorophenol is degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals(SRC); the half-life for this reaction in air is about 10 days(SRC), calculated from its measured rate constant of 1.66X10-12 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(3). 2,3-dichlorophenol contains chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm(4) and therefore may be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight(SRC).

AEROBIC: 2,3-Dichlorophenol, present at 100 mg/L, reached 0% of its theoretical BOD in 4 weeks using an activated sludge inoculum at 30 mg/L in the Japanese MITI I test(1). 2,3-Dichlorophenol, present at 60 ppm in Wiggins, Mississippi acidic sandy loam with a pH of 4.8, reached 90% transformation to unspecified intermediates in 55 days, with a half-life of 28 days(2); 2,3-dichlorophenol, present at 130 ppm in Austin, Texas basic sandy silt loam with a pH of 7.8, reached 90% transformation to unspecified intermediates in 25 days, with a half-life of 8 days(2). Approximately 100% of initially added 2,3-dichlorophenol had been degraded after 2-4 weeks of incubation in four freshwater pond sediments(3); the chlorine at the 2-position was the most susceptible to the reductive dechlorination which occurred(3). After a lag period of approximately 2 weeks, 100% of the 2,3-dichlorophenol initially added to a freshwater pond sediment (which had been contaminated with asphalt) was observed to degrade within two weeks(3).

ANAEROBIC: 2,3-Dichlorophenol, present at 9 ppm (55 uM) in water, reached 82% transformation to 2-chlorophenol and phenol in 95 days, employing a mixed inoculum obtained from sludge(1). 2,3-Dichlorophenol, present at 10 ppm (60 uM), reached 100% transformation to unspecified intermediates in 30 days, employing a mixed inoculum obtained from sludge(2). 2,3-Dichlorophenol, present at 0.65 ppm (4 uM) in Tsurumi River, Tokyo Bay, Japan estuarine sediment, reached 100% transformation to 3-chlorophenol over one year, with a half-life of 13 days(3); the mechanism of transformation was via microorganism-mediated reductive dechlorination in which chlorine on the phenolic ring is replaced with hydrogen. In a similar study, 2,3-dichlorophenol, present at 0.5-1.1 ppm in Lake Kasumigaura, Japan sediment, reached 100% transformation to intermediates over one year, with a half-life of 24 days(4). In anaerobic serum bottle tests using unacclimated digestor sludge, 100% of added 2,3-dichlorophenol degraded within 6 wk yielding 3-chlorophenol(5). In anaerobic serum bottle tests using sludge acclimated to 2-chlorophenol, only 4% of added 2,3-dichlorophenol degraded during a 30-day incubation(5); no degradation occurred over a 28-day period using sludge acclimated to 3-chlorophenol(5).

ANAEROBIC: The first-order rate constant for 2,3-dichlorophenol in anaerobic estuarine sediment was 0.053 days-1(1), corresponding to a biodegradation half-life of about 13 days(1). The half-life of 2,3-dichlorophenol in a freshwater sediment slurry was measured as 1 day(2). Using a test chemical concentration of 10 ppm, 2,3-dichlorphenol half-lives of 0.4 to 1.5 days following a 2 week lag period were reported using anoxic pond sediments from the Cherokee Trailer Park Pond, Athens, GA collected in Jan 1989; half-lives of 5 to greater than 60 days with lag periods of 35 to 196 days were reported when using Bolton's Pond sediments (Athen's GA), collected in December, 1986(3).

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of 2,3-dichlorophenol with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals has been measured as 1.66X10-12 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(1). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 10 days at an atmospheric concentration of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(2). 2,3-Dichlorophenol undergoes direct photolysis in water upon UV irradiation at wavelengths greater than 280 nm, producing polyphenolic compounds and dechlorinated cyclopentenoic acids(3). 2,3-Dichlorophenol is not expected to undergo hydrolysis in the environment due to the lack of functional groups that hydrolyze under environmental conditions(4). 2,3-Dichlorophenol contains chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm(4) and therefore may be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight(SRC).

A BCF of 7.5 to 35 was measured in fish for 2,3-dichlorophenol using carp (Cyprinus carpio) which were exposed over a six week period to a water concentration of 30 ppb, according to the standard test of the Japanese Ministry of Industry and Trade (MITI)(1). According to a classification scheme(2), this BCF suggest the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC).

An average Koc of 426 has been measured in three types of lake and river sediments(1). According to a classification scheme(2), this Koc value suggests that 2,3-dichlorophenol is expected to have moderate mobility in soil. The pKa of 2,3-dichlorophenol is 7.7(3), indicating that this compound will partially exist in anion form in the environment and anions generally do not adsorb more strongly to soils containing organic carbon and clay than their neutral counterparts(4).

The Henry's Law constant for 2,3-dichlorophenol is estimated as 3.46X10-6 atm-cu m/mole(SRC) derived from its vapor pressure, 0.058 mm Hg(1), and water solubility, 3,600 mg/L(2). This Henry's Law constant indicates that 2,3-dichlorophenol is expected to volatilize from water surfaces(3). Based on this Henry's Law constant, the volatilization half-life from a model river (1 m deep, flowing 1 m/sec, wind velocity of 3 m/sec)(3) is estimated as about 14 days (SRC). The volatilization half-life from a model lake (1 m deep, flowing 0.05 m/sec, wind velocity of 0.5 m/sec)(3) is estimated as 103 days(SRC). 2,3-Dichlorophenol's estimated Henry's Law constant indicates that volatilization from moist soil surfaces may occur(SRC). 2,3-Dichlorophenol is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon its vapor pressure of 0.058 mm Hg(1).

GROUNDWATER: 2,3-Dichlorophenol was detected in 2 of 2 well water samples collected in the vicinity of the Fort Devens, Massachusetts rapid infiltration pond system in November 1998 at an average concentration of 0.20 ug/L(1).

SURFACE WATER: 2,3-Dichlorophenol was detected in 6 of 13 water samples collected from the Ijssel River, the Netherlands in 1979 with a maximum concentration of 0.67 ppb(1). 2,3-Dichlorophenol was detected in 10% of water samples collected from the Rhine River, Lobith, the Netherlands in 1976 and 1977 at maximum concentrations ranging from 0.72 to 0.86 ppb, with an average concentration of 0.79 ppb(2).

Biologically treated effluent samples from nine Canadian bleached softwood Kraft mills were analyzed for chlorinated phenolic content. Chlorinated phenolics, including 2,3-dichlorophenol, present in effluent discharged from bleached Kraft mills are not expected to contribute an off odor to recipient waters.

2,3-Dichlorophenol was detected in the effluent downstream from 10% of industrial plants surveyed in England and Wales in 1995 at an average concentration of 1.52 ppb(1) 2,3-Dichlorophenol was detected in the effluent from 13.5% of sewage treatment plants surveyed in England and Wales in 1995 at an average concentration of 0.3 ppb(1). 2,3-Dichlorophenol was detected in the effluent of a metal reclamation facility at concentrations of 0.2 and 0.3 ug/cu m (2).

Combustion ash from the incineration of a PCB-contaminated oil was found to contain 2,3-dichlorophenol at a concentration of 14 ppb(1).

SOIL: In a Douglas Fir forest in Speulderbos, the Netherlands, soil was spiked with radiolabeled Na37CL to examine the natural formation of 2,3-dichlorophenol in soil. After one year, less than 0.1 ppb of 2,3-dichlorophenol was detected in the humic layer down to 5 cm depth (1). Dichlorophenols can be synthesized directly by soil fungi or through chloroperoxidase-catalyzed chlorination of humic phenols with chloride ions; the chloroperoxidase enzyme is thought to be produced by soil fungi(1).

SEDIMENT: 2,3-Dichlorophenol was detected in 7 of 17 sediment samples collected from Lake Ketelmeer, the Netherlands in 1979 and 1980 with maximum and median concentrations of 2.2 and 1.9 ug/kg dry sediment weight(1). 2,3-dichlorophenol was detected in 4 of 4 sediment samples collected from the Moselle and Fensch rivers, France in September 1995 at concentrations less than 5 ug/kg dry weight of sediment(2).

Workers employed in wood treatment plants, tanneries, textile plants, and pulp and paper mills, as well as pesticide spray operators are potentially at risk from exposure to chlorophenols and to impurities in chlorophenol products. /Chlorophenols/

Occupational exposure to 2,3-dichlorophenol may occur through dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where 2,3-dichlorophenol is produced as a byproduct. Monitoring data indicate that the general population may be exposed to dichlorophenol via ingestion of drinking water and dermal contact with this compound. 2,3-Dichlorophenol has been detected in groundwater, surface waters and industrial effluents. (SRC)

A nominal 2,3-dichlorophenol level of 220 ppb was found in the urine of humans exposed to alpha-hexachlorocyclohexane(1).

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.

Chemical Treatability of 2,3-Dichlorophenol; Concentration Process: Activated Carbons; Chemical Classification: Phenols; Scale of Study: Batch Flow, Laboratory Scale; Type of Wastewater Used: Pure Compound (one solute in a solvent; Results of Study: 100% reduction; 14% desorbed from carbon by elutriation with solvent; (Calgon FS-300 used. Solvents included pentene-acetone, diethyl ether, methylene chloride-acetone, chloroform-acetone and acetone.)

/GUIDE 153: SUBSTANCES - TOXIC AND/OR CORROSIVE (COMBUSTIBLE)/ Health: TOXIC; inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact with material may cause severe injury or death. Contact with molten substance may cause severe burns to skin and eyes. Avoid any skin contact. Effects of contact or inhalation may be delayed. Fire may produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Runoff from fire control or dilution water may be corrosive and/or toxic and cause pollution. /Chlorophenols, liquid; Chlorophenols, solid/

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

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

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

For more DOT Emergency Guidelines (Complete) data for 2,3-DICHLOROPHENOL (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

UN 2020; Chlorophenols, solid

IMO 6.1; Chlorophenol, liquid or solid

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.