2,6-Dimethylphenol

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

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

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

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

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

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

H311 (98.8%): Toxic in contact with skin [Danger Acute toxicity, dermal]

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

H318 (15.3%): Causes serious eye damage [Danger Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

H411 (98.8%): Toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

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

Aggregated GHS information provided per 1993 reports by companies from 20 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.

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

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

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

H336: May cause drowsiness or dizziness [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure; Narcotic effects]

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

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

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

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

P260, P261, P262, P264, P264+P265, P270, P271, P273, P280, P301+P316, P301+P330+P331, P302+P352, P302+P361+P354, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P308+P316, P316, P317, P319, P321, P330, P361+P364, P363, P391, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

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

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)

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)

FOUNDRY PLANT WASTE GASES WERE DEODORIZED WITH POTASSIUM PERMANGANATE, & DEODORIZATION EFFICIENCY WAS MEASURED BY PRESENCE OF 2,6-XYLENOL IN SCRUBBED WASTE GASES.

SRP: At the time of review, criteria for land treatment or burial (sanitary landfill) disposal practices are subject to significant revision. Prior to implementing land disposal of waste residue (including waste sludge), consult with environmental regulatory agencies for guidance on acceptable disposal practices.

Chemical Treatability of 2,6-Dimethylphenol; Concentration Process: Biological treatment; Chemical Classification: Phenols; Scale of Study: Unknown; Type of Wastewater Used: Pure compound (one solute in a solvent); Results of Study: 94.3% reduction based on chemical oxygen demand; rate of biodegradation 9 mg chemical oxygen demand/g hr (Activated sludge process).

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 protect it from moisture and oxidizing materials. (NTP, 1992)

6.0 [mg/m3]

26 [mg/m3]

59 [mg/m3]

1.0 [ppm], inhalable fraction and vapor

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)

Some data suggesting breakthrough times /for butyl rubber/ of approximately an hour or more. /Aromatic hydroxyl cmpd/

Breakthrough times /for neoprene/ greater than one hour reported by (normally) two or more testers. /Aromatic hydroxyl cmpd/

Breakthrough times /for polyvinyl alcohol/ less (usually significantly less) than one hour reported by (normally) two or more testers. /Aromatic hydroxyl cmpd/

2,6-dimethylphenol is a colorless to off-white crystalline solid with a sweet tarry odor. Odor threshold concentration: 0.4 mg/L. (NTP, 1992)

Liquid; Liquid; Other Solid

Colorless to off-white solid; [CAMEO] White crystalline powder; [MSDSonline]

Colourless crystalline solid, sweet rooty odour

LEAVES OR NEEDLES FROM ALCOHOL

397 °F at 760 mmHg (NTP, 1992)

203 °C (also reported as 201.030 °C)

201.00 to 203.00 °C. @ 760.00 mm Hg

203 °C @760 [mm Hg]

120 °F (NTP, 1992)

49 °C (also reported as 45.62 °C)

165 °F (NTP, 1992)

73 °C (closed cup)

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

Sol in ethyl alcohol, ethyl ether, carbon tetrachloride

Very sol in benzene, chloroform

Sol in hot water

In water, 6.05X10+3 mg/l @ 25 °C.

5.1 x 10 (-2) mol/l, at pH 5.1 and 25 °C.

6.05 mg/mL at 25 °C

very soluble (in ethanol)

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

0.27 [mmHg]

0.274 mm Hg @ 25 °C

0.274 [mm Hg] @25 °C

log Kow= 2.36

Henry's Law constant = 6.7X10-6 atm-cu m/mol @ 25 °C

When heated to decomp, it emits acrid smoke and irritating fumes.

0.0002 mg/cu m (detection in air)

0.4 mg/l (detection in water)

Index of refraction: 1.5171 @ 60 °C

pKa= 10.59 at 25 °C

118.34 Ų [M+H-H2O]+ [CCS Type: TW; Method: calibrated with polyalanine and drug standards]

Heat of fusion: 75.31 kJ/mole @ 201.07 °C

Hydroxyl radical rate constant = 6.60X10-11 cu cm/molc sec @ 25 °C

13C nuclear magnetic resonance spectrum

Boiling point

Chemical shift

Crystal structure

Diamagnetic susceptibility

Insoluble in water

Phenols and Cresols

2,6-DIMETHYLPHENOL is incompatible with bases, acid chlorides, acid anhydrides, and oxidizing agents. Corrodes steel, brass, copper, and copper alloys. (NTP, 1992)

2,6-Dimethylphenol

6 x 10 ^-4 mg/kg-day

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

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.

Dermatotoxin - Skin burns.

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

ACGIH Carcinogen - Confirmed Animal.

IRIS Current

HEAST Current

LD50 Rat oral 296 mg/kg

LD50 Mouse oral 450 mg/kg

LD50 Mouse skin 920 mg/kg

LD50 Mouse ip 150 mg/kg

For more Non-Human Toxicity Values (Complete) data for 2,6-DIMETHYLPHENOL (7 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Basic treatment: Establish a patent airway. 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 normal saline during transport ... . Administer activated charcoal ... . Dilution may be contraindicated because it may increase absorption. Do not use emetics ... . Cover skin burns with dry sterile dressings after decontamination ... . /Phenols and Related compounds/

Advanced treatment: Consider orotracheal or nasotracheal intubation for airway control in the patient who is unconscious, has severe pulmonary edema, or is in respiratory arrest. Positive-pressure ventilation techniques with a bag-valve-mask device may be beneficial. Monitor cardiac rhythm and treat arrhythmias if necessary ... . Start an IV with D5W TKO /SRP: "To keep open", minimal flow rate/. Use lactated Ringer's if signs of hypovolemia are present. Watch for signs of fluid overload. Consider drug therapy for pulmonary edema ... . For hypotension with signs of hypovolemia, administer fluid cautiously. Consider vasopressors for hypotension 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. ... . Treat seizures with diazepam (Valium) ... . Use proparacaine hydrochloride to assist eye irrigation ... . /Phenols and Related Compounds/

TOXIC BY INGESTION AND SKIN ABSORPTION. /COMMERCIAL MIXTURES/

A case of fatal xylenol ingestion by a long stay mental hospital patient is described. The clinical course was similar to that observed in other phenolic poisonings with active bowel sounds, nausea ad vomiting, severe metabolic acidosis, hypotension and cardiac and renal failure. The formulation of xylenol ingested contains alcohol which would facilitate absorption; due to the dangers of such poisonings care must be exercised as to access and exposure to xylenol sterilising agents.

ACUTE LD50 VALUES OF 2,6-DIMETHYLPHENOL FOR RATS AND MICE WERE 406 AND 450 MG/KG, RESPECTIVELY. CYANOSIS, HYPERVOLEMIA OF STOMACH AND PERITONEUM, AND LUNG HEMORRHAGES WERE FOUND IN LETHALLY POISONED ANIMALS. INHALATION OF 270 MG/KG/CU M FOR 2 HOURS BY MICE AND FOR 4 HOURS BY RATS DISTURBED BREATHING, AND CAUSED SPASTIC SHAKING AND AGITATION. A SUBACUTE INHALATION STUDY LASTING 1 MONTH SHOWED DECREASED SWIMMING TIME AND ELEVATED BLOOD LEUKOCYTES.

TOPICAL APPLICATION OF 0.1 ML 2,6-DIMETHYLPHENOL/20 SQ CM CAUSED HYPEREMIA, FOLLOWED BY ERYTHEMA AND ULCERATION IN RATS, GUINEA PIGS, AND RABBITS.

THE SUBSTANCE CAUSES IRRITATION AND DEATH AFTER SKIN CONTACT IN RATS AND MICE. CHRONIC ACTION THROUGH INHALATION (4.5 MONTHS, 5 DAYS/WEEK, 4 HOURS/DAY) OF 2,6-DIMETHYLPHENOL CONCENTRATION OF 22 MG/CU M LED TO A SIGNIFICANT REDUCTION OF SULFHYDRYL GROUPS AND BLOOD CHOLINESTERASE ACTIVITY, TO THE DERANGEMENT OF THE ANTITOXIC AND EXCRETORY FUNCTION OF THE LIVER, DECREASED LIVER PERFORMANCE CAPACITY AND A RISE OF SUMMARY THRESHOLD INDEX AND URINE PHENOLS. A CONCENTRATION OF 6.1 MG/CU M CAUSED A SIGNIFICANT REDUCTION MERELY ON THE LEVEL OF THE SULFHYDRYL GROUPS OF THE BLOOD AND SOME INCREASE IN THE AMOUNT OF URINARY PHENOLS.

SEVERAL SUBSTITUTED PHENOLS WITH ANTIOXIDANT PROPERTIES WERE POTENT REVERSIBLE INHIBITORS OF PROSTAGLANDIN SYNTHESIS IN 3T3 CELL CULTURES. THE ID50 FOR PROSTAGLANDIN E2 SYNTHESIS IN THESE CELLS WAS 0.1 UMOL FOR 2,6-XYLENOL.

For more Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for 2,6-DIMETHYLPHENOL (9 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

LC50 PIMEPHALES PROMELAS (FATHEAD MINNOW) > 27 MG/L/96 HR /FRESHWATER, FLOW THROUGH BIOASSAY/

LC100 Terahymena pyriformis (ciliate) 2.66 mmole/l/24 hr /Conditions of bioassay not specified/

LC50 Daphnia magna (cladoceran) 11.2 mg/1/48 hr /Static bioassay/

3.80e+01

4.90e+02

1.10e+01

5.00e+00

1.30e-02

6.00e-04

Volatile

1.10e+02

1.50e+03

3.20e+01

2,6-Dimethylphenol's production and use for the preparation of coal tar disinfectants, in the manufacture of artificial resins, as a constituent of coal tar creosote, as a raw material for pesticides, and as a component of automobile and diesel exhaust may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. 2,6-Dimethylphenol has been found to occur naturally in tobacco and marijuana smoke and in black tea. If released to air, a vapor pressure of 0.274 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates that 2,6-dimethylphenol will exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase 2,6-dimethylphenol 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 5.8 hours. There is potential for the direct photolysis of 2,6-dimethylphenol since a small band extends over 290 nm and thus 2,6-dimethylphenol may absorb light in the environmental UV spectrum. If released to soil, 2,6-dimethylphenol is expected to have moderate mobility based upon an estimated Koc of 460. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon a Henry's Law constant of 6.7X10-6 atm-cu m/mole. Complete biodegradation of dimethylphenols has occurred between 4 to 14 days within a hard, carbonaceous woody loam. If released into water, 2,6-dimethylphenol is expected to adsorb very little to suspended solids and sediment in the water column based upon the estimated Koc. The rate of biodegradation obtained for 2,6-dimethylphenol in a screening test with an adapted activated sludge seed was 94.3% chemical oxygen demand after 5 days. In addition, it has been reported that 2,6-dimethylphenol was readily degraded in St. Lawrence River water. Biodegradation under anaerobic conditions failed to occur in one study and only 7% degradation occurred after 8 weeks in another study. Volatilization from water surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon this compound's Henry's Law constant. Estimated volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 6 days and 49, respectively. An estimated BCF of 37 suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is moderate. Hydrolysis is not expected to occur due to the lack of hydrolyzable functional groups. Occupational exposure to 2,6-dimethylphenol may occur through inhalation of this compound at workplaces where 2,6-dimethylphenol is produced or used. The general population may be exposed to 2,6-dimethylphenol via inhalation of ambient air (i.e., tobacco smoke and automobile exhaust), ingestion of food, and contact with other products containing 2,6-dimethylphenol. (SRC)

Dimethylphenols, of which 2,6-dimethylphenol is an isomer, are present in the essential oils of various conifers, in tea, and in tobacco and tobacco smoke(1).

/SRP/: DIMETHYLPHENOLS OCCUR IN SHALE OIL PROCESS WATER, INDUSTRIAL WASTE WATER, AIRBORNE PARTICULATES, ... AND EVOLUTES FROM WASTE CHEMICAL DUMPS. /DIMETHYLPHENOLS/

LC50 PIMEPHALES PROMELAS (FATHEAD MINNOW) > 27 MG/L/96 HR /FRESHWATER, FLOW THROUGH BIOASSAY/

LC100 Terahymena pyriformis (ciliate) 2.66 mmole/l/24 hr /Conditions of bioassay not specified/

LC50 Daphnia magna (cladoceran) 11.2 mg/1/48 hr /Static bioassay/

3.80e+01

4.90e+02

1.10e+01

5.00e+00

1.30e-02

6.00e-04

Volatile

1.10e+02

1.50e+03

3.20e+01

2,6-Dimethylphenol's production and use for the preparation of coal tar disinfectants, in the manufacture of artificial resins, as a constituent of coal tar creosote, as a raw material for pesticides, and as a component of automobile and diesel exhaust may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. 2,6-Dimethylphenol has been found to occur naturally in tobacco and marijuana smoke and in black tea. If released to air, a vapor pressure of 0.274 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates that 2,6-dimethylphenol will exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase 2,6-dimethylphenol 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 5.8 hours. There is potential for the direct photolysis of 2,6-dimethylphenol since a small band extends over 290 nm and thus 2,6-dimethylphenol may absorb light in the environmental UV spectrum. If released to soil, 2,6-dimethylphenol is expected to have moderate mobility based upon an estimated Koc of 460. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon a Henry's Law constant of 6.7X10-6 atm-cu m/mole. Complete biodegradation of dimethylphenols has occurred between 4 to 14 days within a hard, carbonaceous woody loam. If released into water, 2,6-dimethylphenol is expected to adsorb very little to suspended solids and sediment in the water column based upon the estimated Koc. The rate of biodegradation obtained for 2,6-dimethylphenol in a screening test with an adapted activated sludge seed was 94.3% chemical oxygen demand after 5 days. In addition, it has been reported that 2,6-dimethylphenol was readily degraded in St. Lawrence River water. Biodegradation under anaerobic conditions failed to occur in one study and only 7% degradation occurred after 8 weeks in another study. Volatilization from water surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon this compound's Henry's Law constant. Estimated volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 6 days and 49, respectively. An estimated BCF of 37 suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is moderate. Hydrolysis is not expected to occur due to the lack of hydrolyzable functional groups. Occupational exposure to 2,6-dimethylphenol may occur through inhalation of this compound at workplaces where 2,6-dimethylphenol is produced or used. The general population may be exposed to 2,6-dimethylphenol via inhalation of ambient air (i.e., tobacco smoke and automobile exhaust), ingestion of food, and contact with other products containing 2,6-dimethylphenol. (SRC)

Dimethylphenols, of which 2,6-dimethylphenol is an isomer, are present in the essential oils of various conifers, in tea, and in tobacco and tobacco smoke(1).

/SRP/: DIMETHYLPHENOLS OCCUR IN SHALE OIL PROCESS WATER, INDUSTRIAL WASTE WATER, AIRBORNE PARTICULATES, ... AND EVOLUTES FROM WASTE CHEMICAL DUMPS. /DIMETHYLPHENOLS/

2,6-Dimethylphenol's use for the preparation of coal tar disinfectants (1), in the manufacture of artificial resins(1,3), as a constituent of coal tar creosote (0.5 wt%)(2), as a raw material for pesticide manufacture(3), and as a component of automobile and diesel exhaust(4-7) may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams(SRC). In addition, 2,6-dimethylphenol has been released to the atmosphere by the paint industry(7) and via the combustion of phenolic resins and foam insulation used in the construction industry(8). Dimethylphenols, of which 2,6-dimethylphenol is an isomer, are components of disinfectants, solvents, pharmaceuticals, insecticides, fungicides, plasticizers, rubber chemicals, additives to lubricants and gasolines, wetting agents and dyestuffs(9).

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 460(SRC), determined from a log Kow of 2.36(2) and a regression-derived equation(3), indicates that 2,6-dimethylphenol is expected to have moderate mobility in soil(SRC). Volatilization of 2,6-dimethylphenol from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process(SRC) given a Henry's Law constant of 6.7X10-6 atm-cu m/mole (4). 2,6-Dimethylphenol is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(3) based upon a vapor pressure of 0.274 mm Hg at 25 °C(4). The rate of biodegradation obtained for 2,6-dimethylphenol in a screening test with an adapted activated sludge seed was 94.3% chemical oxygen demand after 5 days(6). Other dimethylphenols have been reported to degrade within 4 to 14 days from soil(7).

AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), a Koc value of 460(SRC), determined from a log Kow of 2.36(2) and a regression-derived equation(3), indicates that 2,6-dimethylphenol is expected to adsorb very little to suspended solids and sediment in water(SRC). 2,6-Dimethylphenol is expected to volatilize from water surfaces(3,SRC) based upon a Henry's Law constant of 6.7X10-6 atm-cu m/mole(4). Estimated volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 6 days and 49 days, respectively(3,SRC). According to a classification scheme(5), an estimated BCF of 37(3,SRC), from 2,6-dimethylphenol's log Kow(2), suggests bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is moderate(SRC). In humic waters, degradation by the reaction with peroxy radicals should ensue with a half-life on the order of hours(6). 2,6-Dimethylphenol is not expected to undergo hydrolysis in the environment due to the lack of hydrolyzable functional groups(3). Screening studies indicate that a loss of 94.3% chemical oxygen demand was obtained after 5 days(7). In addition, it has been reported that 2,6-dimethylphenol was readily degraded in St. Lawrence River water(8). Biodegradation under anaerobic conditions failed to occur in one study, time unspecified(9) and only 7% degradation occurred after 8 weeks in another study(10).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), 2,6-dimethylphenol, which has a vapor pressure of 0.274 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), is expected to exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase 2,6-dimethylphenol 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 5.8 hours(SRC) from its rate constant of 6.60X10-11 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(3). Atmospheric 2,6-dimethylphenol is known to be removed by rainwater(4). 2,6-Dimethylphenol has an absorption band at 268 nm (water), and a shoulder may extend over 290 nm, thus making it a candidate for direct photochemical degradation(5,6). Night-time degradation in urban areas should occur rapidly through reaction with atmospheric nitrate radicals, as rate constants for this reaction with phenolic compounds are approximately 250 times faster than with hydroxyl radicals(7,SRC).

ANAEROBIC DEGRADATION OF PHENOLIC COMPOUNDS TO METHANE AND CARBON DIOXIDE IN SEWAGE SLUDGE DIGESTION OCCURRED IN BOTH GROUND WATER AND LABORATORY DIGESTORS. WATER SAMPLES WERE COLLECTED FROM THE NEAR SURFACE GROUND WATER IN AN AREA CONTAMINATED WITH PLANT PROCESS WASTES RESULTING FROM OPERATION OF A COAL TAR DISTILLING AND WOOD TREATING PLANT. PHENOLIC COMPOUNDS (INCLUDING 2,6-DIMETHYLPHENOL) WERE ISOLATED FROM THE AQUEOUS SAMPLES BY DICHLOROMETHANE EXTRACTION.

THIRTEEN PHENOLIC COMPOUNDS, SERVING AS THE SOLE ORGANIC CARBON SOURCE FOR ACTIVATED SLUDGE MICROORGANISMS WERE EXAMINED FOR THEIR BIODEGRADATION. IN DIMETHYLPHENOLS THE BIODEGRADABILITY WAS 97.5, 95.5, 94.5, 94.3, AND 89.3 FOR 3,4-, 2,3-, 2,5-, AND 2,4-, 2,6-, AND 3,5-DERIVATIVES, RESPECTIVELY.

... Adapted activated sludge at 20 °C, product is sole carbon source: 94% chemical oxygen demand removal at 9.0 mg chemical oxygen demand/g dry inoculum/hr ... .

In shake flask studies, an initial 2,6-dimethylphenol concn of 1.1 ug/ml was reduced to below detection following 2 weeks incubation in contaminated groundwater from the American Creosote Works Superfund site, Pensacola, FL(1). 2,6-Dimethylphenol was readily degraded in St. Lawrence River water collected near Montreal, Canada(2). Using a biological treatment simulator, 1.0% theoretical oxygen demand after 10 days was obtained for 2,6-dimethylphenol from a coal gasification waste water feed and an acclimated sludge seed(3). The rate of biodegradation obtained for 2,6-dimethylphenol in a screening test with an adapted activated sludge seed was 94.3% chemical oxygen demand after 5 days(4). In a screening test, theoretical biological oxygen demand for 2,6-dimethylphenol using an activated sludge seed was 6% after 12 hr(5). Organisms originally obtained from soil and sewage sites which were adapted to decompose phenol were also found to decompose 2,6-dimethylphenol(6).

ANAEROBIC: It was determined that methanogenic consortia, using Saale river sediment as the inoculum, failed to biodegrade 2,6-dimethylphenol after 24 days(1). In a screening test using a mixed culture sewage seed and substrate concns of 100, 300, and 500 mg/l, anaerobic degradation did not occur(2). In another study, 2,6-dimethylphenol, at an initial concn of 5.44 mg/l, underwent 7% degradation when incubated in coal tar-contaminated groundwater in an anaerobic digester for 8 weeks(3). However, in another study, it was determined that 2,6-dimethylphenol degraded to methane and carbon dioxide in the presence of dilute sewage sludge, time not specified(4).

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of 2,6-dimethylphenol with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals has been determined to be 6.60X10-11 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(1). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 5.8 hours at an atmospheric concn of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(1). 2,6-Dimethylphenol has an absorption band at 268 nm (water), and a shoulder may extend over 290 nm, thus making it a candidate for direct photochemical degradation(2,3). Night-time degradation in urban areas should occur rapidly through reaction with atmospheric nitrate radicals, as rate constants for this reaction with phenolic compounds are approximately 250 times faster than with hydroxyl radicals(4,SRC). Peroxy radicals found in humic waters react with phenols; the half-lives can be measured in hours(5). 2,6-Dimethylphenol is not expected to undergo hydrolysis in the environment due to the lack of hydrolyzable functional groups(3). In laboratory experiments, the photooxidation half-life for 2,6-dimethylphenol in water from Lake Greifensee, Switzerland, was 7.4 hours at the surface and 19 hours a depth of 1 m(6).

An estimated BCF of 37 was calculated for 2,6-dimethylphenol(SRC), using a log Kow of 2.36(1) and a regression-derived equation(2). According to a classification scheme(3), this BCF suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is moderate.

The Koc of 2,6-dimethylphenol is estimated as 460(SRC), using a log Kow of 2.36(1) and a regression-derived equation(2). According to a classification scheme(3), this estimated Koc value suggests that 2,6-dimethylphenol is expected to have moderate mobility in soil(SRC). 72.8% and 8% of 2,6-dimethylphenol was adsorbed onto the high clay content, adsorption activated materials Bentone 24 (pH 7.9) and Bentone 18C (pH 7.6), respectively; these values fluctuate as a function of pH(4).

Fine textured soils with appreciable iron oxides (e.g., Molokai clay) are more likely to slow the migration of 2.6-dimethylphenol than clay soils low in iron oxides (e.g, Fanno clay)(1). One study determined that adsorption of dimethylphenols by soils is very time dependent; the percentage of iron oxides and pH were determined to be two of the most important soil properties controlling the adsorption of 2,6-dimethylphenol by mineral soils(2). Laboratory gas-phase sorption/desorption studies for 2,6-dimethylphenol showed that sorption to high clay content soils in the gas phase can be important; the ratio of sorption to organic matter was the same for the two clays studied(2). It was shown that the adsorption and transformation of 2,6-dimethylphenol onto smectite clay surfaces were greatly influenced by the nature of the exchangeable cations Fe, Al, Ca, and Na(3).

The Henry's Law constant for 2,6-dimethylphenol is 6.7X10-6 atm-cu m/mole(1). This Henry's Law constant indicates that 2,6-dimethylphenol is expected to volatilize from water surfaces(2). Based on this Henry's Law constant, the volatilization half-life from a model river (1 m deep, flowing 1 m/sec, wind velocity of 3 m/sec)(3) is estimated as 6 days(SRC). The volatilization half-life from a model lake (1 m deep, flowing 0.05 m/sec, wind velocity of 0.5 m/sec)(2) is estimated as approximately 49 days(SRC). 2,6-Dimethylphenol's Henry's Law constant(1,2) indicates that volatilization from moist soil surfaces is expected to occur(SRC). 2,6-Dimethylphenol is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon a vapor pressure of 0.274 mm Hg(3).

GROUNDWATER: 2,6-Dimethylphenol was identified in a groundwater sample collected in 1984 from a well approximately 300 m from a landfill in Florida, concn not specified(1). The concn of 2,6-dimethylphenol in groundwater collected from a coal tar distillation/wood-treatment plant at St. Louis Park, MN in 1978 and from a wood-preserving plant at Pensacola, FL in 1985 was determined to be 1.02 mg/l and 0.17-1.34 mg/l, respectively(2). Groundwater samples collected from three creosote-contaminated sites in Denmark, date unspecified, were found to contain 2,6-dimethylphenol ranging in concn from below detection to 205 ug/l(3). 2,6-Dimethylphenol was detected at a concn of 1.1 mg/l in groundwater near an abandoned wood preservative manufacturing plant in Florida(4). Water samples collected during December 1986 from Gas Works Park, Seattle, WA were found to contain 2,6-dimethylphenol ranging in concn from below detection to 0.41 mg/l(5). Studies near a closed wood preserving facility in Pensacola, FL detected 2,6-dimethylphenol in groundwater ranging from 0.90 mg/l at 6 m depth and 0.46 mg/l at 18 m depth approximately 170 m from the plant site; at approximately 330 m from the site, 0.29 mg/l 2,6-dimethylphenol was detected at a depth of 6 m and 0.17 mg/l was detected at a depth of 12 m(6). 2,6-Dimethylphenol was also identified in the leachate from a sanitary landfill in Barcelona, Spain(7).

RAIN/SNOW: In 1984, 2,6-dimethylphenol was detected in seven rain events in Portland, OR, with concns ranging from 84-280 ng/l and averaging 140 ng/l(1).

Waste water from the gasification of Indian Head lignite coal in North Dakota was determined to have an estimated 2,6-dimethylphenol concn of 12 mg/l(1). 2,6-Dimethylphenol was detected in three samples of shale oil wastewater in the range 0.75-1.7 ug/ml at three different sites at the Rio Blanco Oil Shale Company in Logan, WA and at the Laramie Energy Technology Center, WY(2). 2,6-Dimethylphenol was identified but not quantified in leachate collected from a Swedish municipal landfill in May 1990(3). 2,6-Dimethylphenol was identified as a volatile component from textile floor coverings, concn unknown(4).

URBAN/SUBURBAN: In 1984, a gas phase concn of 2,6-dimethylphenol was detected in 7 of seven rain events in Portland, OR, at concns ranging from 0.009-0.15 ng/cu m; the amount associated with adsorption to particulate matter was <5% of the gas phase concn in every case(1). 2,6-Dimethylphenol was detected at 0.4 ug/cu m in the air outside an oil shale wastewater facility in Logan WA, but not in a nearby undeveloped site(2).

2,6-Dimethylphenol has been identified as a volatile flavor component of the Japanese dried food, Bonito(1).

2,6-Dimethylphenol was detected but not quantified in low temperature carbonization wastewater collected in Naspur, India(1). 2,6-Dimethylphenol was identified as a component of cigarette smoke(2,3).

NIOSH (NOES Survey 1981-1983) has statistically estimated that 7,786 workers are potentially exposed to dimethylphenol in the US, isomer not specifed(1). Occupational exposure to 2,6-dimethylphenol may occur through inhalation of this compound at workplaces where 2,6-dimethylphenol is produced or used(SRC). The general population may be exposed to 2,6-dimethylphenol via inhalation of ambient air (i.e., tobacco smoke(2,3) and automobile exhaust(4)), ingestion of food(5), and contact with other products that may contain 2,6-dimethylphenol(6).

SRP: At the time of review, criteria for land treatment or burial (sanitary landfill) disposal practices are subject to significant revision. Prior to implementing land disposal of waste residue (including waste sludge), consult with environmental regulatory agencies for guidance on acceptable disposal practices.

Chemical Treatability of 2,6-Dimethylphenol; Concentration Process: Biological treatment; Chemical Classification: Phenols; Scale of Study: Unknown; Type of Wastewater Used: Pure compound (one solute in a solvent); Results of Study: 94.3% reduction based on chemical oxygen demand; rate of biodegradation 9 mg chemical oxygen demand/g hr (Activated sludge process).

/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. /Xylenols; Xylenols, liquid; Xylenols, 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. /Xylenols; Xylenols, liquid; Xylenols, 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. /Xylenols; Xylenols, liquid; Xylenols, 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. /Xylenols; Xylenols, liquid; Xylenols, solid/

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

UN 2261; Dimethylphenols

IMO 6.1; Dimethylphenols

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.