1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene

This chemical does not meet GHS hazard criteria for 2.2% (1 of 45) of reports.

H302 (97.8%): Harmful if swallowed [Warning Acute toxicity, oral]

H400 (88.9%): Very toxic to aquatic life [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, acute hazard]

H410 (88.9%): Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

P264, P270, P273, P301+P317, P330, P391, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Aggregated GHS information provided per 45 reports by companies from 5 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 45 reports by companies.

There are 4 notifications provided by 44 of 45 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.

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

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

H360: May damage fertility or the unborn child [Danger Reproductive toxicity]

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

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

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

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

P203, P260, P261, P264, P270, P271, P273, P280, P301+P317, P304+P340, P308+P316, P318, P319, P330, P391, P403+P233, 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. If symptoms such as redness or irritation develop, IMMEDIATELY call a physician and be prepared to transport the victim to a hospital for treatment.

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

INGESTION: DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING. If the victim is conscious and not convulsing, give 1 or 2 glasses of water to dilute the chemical and IMMEDIATELY call a hospital or poison control center. Be prepared to transport the victim to a hospital if advised by a physician. If the victim is convulsing or unconscious, do not give anything by mouth, ensure that the victim's airway is open and lay the victim on his/her side with the head lower than the body. DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING. IMMEDIATELY transport the victim to a hospital. (NTP, 1992)

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

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.

... Halogenated compounds may be disposed of by incineration provided they are blended with other compatible wastes or fuels so that the composite contains less than 30% halogens and the heating value is from 7000 to 9000 BTU/lb. Liquid injection, rotary kiln, and fluidized bed incinerators are typically used to destroy liquid halogenated wastes. ... Temperatures of at lease 2000-2200 °F and residence times /of more than 2 sec/ ... are required for the destruction of halogenated aromatic hydrocarbons. /Halogenated Aromatic Hydrocarbons/

SMALL SPILLS AND LEAKAGE: If a spill of this chemical occurs, FIRST REMOVE ALL SOURCES OF IGNITION, then you should dampen the solid spill material with acetone and transfer the dampened material to a suitable container. Use absorbent paper dampened with acetone to pick up any remaining material. Seal your contaminated clothing and the absorbent paper in a vapor-tight plastic bag for eventual disposal. Solvent wash all contaminated surfaces with acetone 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 refrigerated temperatures, and keep it away from oxidizing materials. STORE AWAY FROM SOURCES OF IGNITION. (NTP, 1992)

3.5 [mg/m3]

39 [mg/m3]

230 [mg/m3]

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)

1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene appears as white to off-white crystals. (NTP, 1992)

White solid; [Hawley] Colorless crystals; [MSDSonline]

Colorless needles

489 °F at 760 mmHg (NTP, 1992)

254 °C @ 760 MM HG

254 °C @760 [mm Hg]

113 to 115 °F (NTP, 1992)

greater than 235 °F (NTP, 1992)

Flash point > 113 °C

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

Slightly soluble in ethanol; very soluble in ether and carbon disulfide.

In water, 5.92 mg/l at 25 °C.

1.70 kg/l

1.7 @25 °C

1 mmHg at 155.3 °F ; 5 mmHg at 211.3 °F; 760 mmHg at 489 °F (NTP, 1992)

0.03 [mmHg]

3.9X10-2 mm Hg at 25 °C

0.039 [mm Hg] @25 °C

log Kow= 4.64

Henry's Law constant= 6.9X10-4 atm-cu m/mol at 25 °C

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

268.9 J/g

13C nuclear magnetic resonance spectrum

Boiling point

Chemical shift

Fusion temperature

Heat of sublimation

Melting temperature

Nuclear quadrupole resonance spectroscopy

Phase transition

Quadrupole coupling

Spin-spin coupling constant

Transition enthalpy

Vapor pressure

Other Classes -> Halogenated Monoaromatics

Potential endocrine disrupting compound

Insoluble in water.

Aryl Halides

Simple aromatic halogenated organic compounds, such as 1,2,3,4-TETRACHLOROBENZENE, are very unreactive. Halogenated organics generally become less reactive as more of their hydrogen atoms are replaced with halogen atoms. Materials in this group may be incompatible with strong oxidizing and reducing agents. Also, they may be incompatible with many amines, nitrides, azo/diazo compounds, alkali metals, and epoxides.

IN MFR OF SODIUM SALT OF TRICHLOROPHENOL, SODIUM HYDROXIDE, METHYL ALCOHOL & TETRACHLOROBENZENE WERE HEATED. DURING HEATING PROCESS, PRESSURE SUDDENLY INCR RAPIDLY & EXPLOSION OCCURRED. /TETRACHLOROBENZENE/

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.

Since TeCB's can increase cytochrome p450 levels, ... they appear to induce metabolic enzymes. /This/ induction of microsomal enzyme activity has been shown to enhance the metabolism of a wide variety of drugs, pesticides and other xenobiotics. Exposure to TeCB could therefore result in decreased pharmacologic and/or toxicologic activity of numerous compounds. /In the event/ that chemical agents are metabolized to more active or toxic reactive intermediates ... exposure to TeCB would result in enhanced activity and/or toxicity of these agents. /Tetrachlorobenzenes/

To assess possible maternal hepatic and reproductive effects of 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene(TeCB) 0, 100, 300 or 1000 mg/kg/day of 1,2,3,4-TeCB was orally administered to pregnant rats on days 9-13 of gestation and the animals were killed on day 14 of pregnancy. Phenobarbital and beta-naphthoflavone were administered to other pregnant rats as positive hepatic controls. Maternal mortality (7/19 rats) was increased and body weight gain was greatly decreased in the 1000 mg/kg/day TeCB group. Liver to body weight ratio and hepatic microsomal protein content were unaffected by any TeCB treatment. Embryonic growth was adversely affected by TeCB treatment. Yolk sac diameter, embryonic crown-rump length and head length were all decreased /in groups receiving/ 300 mg/kg/day. This 300 mg/kg/day dosage, however did not significantly elevate the number of dead or abnormal embryos.

Groups of 15 male and 15 female rats were fed diets containing 0, 0.5, 5.0, 50, or 500 ppm of each of 1,2,3,4- 1,2,3,5- and 1,2,4,5-TCB for 13 weeks. Rats fed 500 ppm 1,2,4,5-TCB exhibited significant increases in liver and kidney weights. Moderate to severe histological changes occurred in the liver and kidney of rats fed the three isomers, but the 1,2,4,5-isomer caused the more severe lesions. 1,2,4,5-TCB accumulated in fat and liver in a dose dependent manner. Results indicate that 1,2,4,5-TCB is the most toxic isomer of the three.

Groups of 10 male and 10 female rats were dosed orally with 1,2,3,4-, 1,2,4,5-, and 1,2,3,5-tetrachlorobenzene at levels that ranged from 200-4000 mg/kg, and were observed clinically for 14 days. ... Clinical signs of toxicity included depression, flaccid muscle tone, prostration, piloerection, loose stool, hypothermia, dacryorrhea, coma and death. ... Compounds were given orally in doses of 200-4000 mg/kg. LD50 values for 1,2,3,4-, 1,2,4,5- and 1,2,3,5-Tetrachlorobenzenes (TCB) were 1470, 3105 and 2297 mg/kg, respectively, in male rats and for 1,2,3,4- and 1,2,3,5-TCB: 1167 and 1727 mg/kg, respectively, in females. In subacute studies with doses up to 500 ppm no deaths or clinical signs of toxicity were observed. 500 ppm doses of 1,2,4,5-TCB caused a significant increase in liver weight and serum cholesterol, induced hepatic microsomal aniline hydroxylase and ethoxyresorufin deethylase activity, and increased hepatic microsomal aminopyrine demethylase activity. Moderate to severe histological changes occurred in the liver, thyroid, kidney, and lungs. The 1,2,3,4- and 1,2,3,5- isomers produced only mild histological changes. 1,2,4,5-TCB accumulated at much higher levels than the other two isomers.

Three tetrachlorobenzene (TCB) congeners (1,2,3,4-, 1,2,3,5-, and 1,2,4,5-) were administered daily by gavage to pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats at levels of 50, 100, or 200 mg/kg from day 6-15 of gestation. Mothers were sacrificed on day 21 of gestation and the pups removed by cesarean section for teratological evaluation. Administration of 1,2,3,4- and 1,2,3,5-TCB failed to alter maternal body weight, organ weights, hematological, or biochemical parameters. The highest dose level of 1,2,4,5-TCB caused maternal death in 9 of 10 animals. In addition, it induced mixed function oxidases and increased serum cholesterol values at 50 and 100 mg/kg. There was a decrease in the number of fetuses at the highest dose levels of 1,2,3,4- and 1,2,3,5-TCB and at the lowest dose level of the 1,2,4,5- congener. None of the congeners produced any anomalies. There were no treatment-related histopatholgical changes in either the mothers or fetuses. Residues of all three congeners were found in maternal and fetal tissues but generally the amounts of the 1,2,4,5- isomer were about 100 times higher than the other two.

For more Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for 1,2,3,4-TETRACHLOROBENZENE (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

The absorption of 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene was evaluated (preliminary results) in male New Zealand albino rabbits receiving 1g/kg of the test material applied to the shaven abdominal skin. 2.5 ml of blood was drawn by cardiac puncture at 3, 6, 12 and 24 hours post-treatment and the concentration of test material per ml of plasma were 0.72, 0.54, 0.56 and 1.03ug, respectively.

The fate of 1,2,3,4-trichlorobenzene was evaluated (preliminary results) in male Sherman rats (no. of rats employed; not reported) receiving a single intraperitoneal injection of test material at 100mg/kg. Urine and feces were collected over a 24 hour post treatment period. Virtually all the test sample was found in the feces of the 24 hour sample. Analysis of the fecal extract indicate that the rat metabolizes 1,2,3,4-trichlorobenzene to small quantities of trichlorophenol and tetrachlorophenol.

/Individuals who suffer from/ skin, liver, kidney, or chronic respiratory disease, will be at an increased risk if they are exposed to chlorobenzenes. /Chlorobenzenes/

LC50 Pimephales promelas (fathead minnow) 1.1 mg/l 96 hr flow-through bioassay, wt 0.12 g, water hardness 45.5 mg/l CaCO3, temp: 25 +/- 1 °C, pH 7.5, dissolved oxygen greater than 60% of saturation

1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene's production and use as an organic intermediate and a dielectric fluid may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. It is a degradation byproduct of pentachlorobenzene and hexachlorobenzene and therefore may enter the environment as a result of the microbial degradation of these compounds. Based on a vapor pressure of 0.04 mm Hg at 25 °C, 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene is expected to exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene is degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals with an estimated atmospheric half-life of 200 days. 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene is expected to have low mobility in soils based upon log Koc values in the range of 3.5-4.7 measured in soils and sediment. Volatilization of 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene from dry soil surfaces is not expected to be important based upon the vapor pressure of this compound. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces is expected based on the Henry's Law constant of 6.9X10-4 atm-cu m/mole at 25 °C, but adsorption may attenuate this process. Biodegradation of 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene is expected to occur slowly based on a half-life of 34.5 days in a sewage sludge amended soil and a half-life of 18 days in anaerobic river sediment. In water, 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene is expected to adsorb to sediment or particulate matter based on its measured Koc values. This compound is expected to volatilize from water surfaces given its Henry's Law constant, but adsorption may attenuate this process. Estimated volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 6 and 150 hours, respectively when neglecting adsorption. The volatilization half-life from a model pond is about 128 days when adsorption is considered. When irradiated with light greater than 285 nm, this compound was 46 percent degraded in a water solution within 40 hrs, suggesting that photolysis in surface waters may be important. The potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is considered high based on BCF values in the range of 490 to 1,700 measured in carp and log BCF values of 3.7-4.1 measured in trout. Occupational exposure may be through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene is produced or used. Limited monitoring data suggest that the general population may be exposed to 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene via inhalation of ambient air, ingestion of food and drinking water. (SRC)

1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene is a degradation byproduct of pentachlorobenzene and hexachlorobenzene and therefore may enter the environment as a result of the microbial degradation of these compounds(1,SRC).

1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene's production and use as an organic intermediate and a dielectric fluid may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams(1,SRC).

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a recommended classification scheme(1), and log Koc values in the range of 3.5-4.8(2) measured in soil, 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene is expected to have low mobility in soil(SRC). Volatilization of 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene is expected from moist soil surfaces given its Henry's Law constant of 6.9X10-4 atm-cu m/mole at 25 °C(3), but adsorption may attenuate this process(SRC). Volatilization of 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene from dry soil surfaces is not expected based on a vapor pressure of 0.04 mm Hg at 25 °C(3). Biodegradation is expected to occur slowly based on a half-life of 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene in sewage sludge amended soil of 34.5 days(4).

AQUATIC FATE: Based on a recommended classification scheme(1), and log Koc values in the range of 3.5-4.7(2,3) measured in sediment, 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene is expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment in water(SRC). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene is expected to volatilize from water surfaces(4,SRC) given its Henry's Law constant of 6.9X10-4 atm-cu m/mole at 25 °C(5), but adsorption may attenuate this process(SRC). Estimated volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 6 and 150 hours, respectively when neglecting adsorption(4,SRC). The volatilization half-life from a model pond is about 128 days when adsorption is considered(6). According to a classification scheme(7), BCF values in the range of 490 to 1,700, measured in carp(8) and log BCF values of 3.7-4.1 measured in trout(9), suggest that bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is high. Biodegradation is expected to occur slowly based on a half-life of 18 days measured in anaerobic river sediment(10). When irradiated with light greater than 285 nm, this compound was degraded 46 percent in 40 hrs in a water solution(11), suggesting that photolysis in surface waters may be important(SRC).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene, which has a vapor pressure of 0.04 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), is expected to exist in the vapor phase in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene 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 200 days(SRC) from its estimated rate constant of 8.2X10-14 cu cm/mole-sec(3).

A 0% theoretical BOD in sludge over a 4 week incubation period suggests that biodegradation of 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene will be slow(1). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was biodegraded by an acclimated anaerobic sediment slurry obtained from the Tsurumi River, Japan(2). The first-order biodegradation rate constant was 0.038 days-1, corresponding to a half-life of about 18 days(2). The half-life of 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene in sewage sludge amended soil was 34.5 days(3). An enriched microbial culture derived from sediment of the Rhine River reductively dechlorinated 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene to 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene in 280 days after a lag period of 47 days(4).

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals has been estimated as 8.2X10-14 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(1). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 200 days at an atmospheric concentration of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(1,SRC). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene is not expected to undergo hydrolysis in the environment due to the lack of hydrolyzable functional groups(SRC). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene in a water solution irradiated at wavelengths greater than 285 nm was 46 percent degraded in 40 hours(2).

BCF values of 520 to 1,560 were measured in carp exposed to 10 ug/l of 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene during a 6 week incubation period and BCF values of 490 to 1,700 were measured in carp exposed to 1 ug/l of 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene during a 6 week incubation period(1). Mean log BCF values of 3.7-4.1 were measured for rainbow trout exposed to 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene(2). A mean log BCF value of 3.5 was measured in fathead minnows exposed to 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene for 2-120 hours(3). A mean BCF value of 5,200 was reported for rainbow trout exposed to low levels of 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene for 119 days and a mean BCF value of 12,000 was reported for rainbow trout exposed to high concns of 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene for 119 days(4). According to a classification scheme(5), these BCF values suggest that bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is high.

A log Koc value of 3.8(1) was reported for 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene in soils and log Koc values of 3.5 to 3.8 were reported in sandy and clay loams(2). A log Koc value of 4.4 was reported for 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene in sediment obtained from Ise Bay, Japan(3) and a log Koc value of 4.7 was reported from sediment of Lake Oostvaardersplassen, Netherlands(4). According to a recommended classification scheme(5), these Koc values suggest that 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene has low mobility in soil.

The Henry's Law constant for 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene is 6.9X10-4 atm-cu m/mole at 25 °C(1). This value indicates that 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene will volatilize from water(2,SRC), but adsorption may attenuate this process(SRC). 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) is estimated as approximately 6 hours(2,SRC). The volatilization half-life from a model lake (1 m deep, flowing 0.05 m/sec, wind velocity of 0.5 m/sec) is estimated as approximately 150 hours(2,SRC). The volatilization half-life from a model pond is about 128 days when adsorption is considered(3). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene's Henry's Law constant(1) indicates that volatilization from moist soil surfaces is expected(SRC). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based on a vapor pressure of 0.04 mm Hg at 25 °C(1).

DRINKING WATER: 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene was detected at a mean concn of 0.3 parts per trillion in drinking water from 3 Canadian cities near Lake Ontario(1). Combined isomers of tetrachlorobenzene were detected at concns of 120-2,000 ng/l in the drinking water of homes near Love Canal, NY(2).

SURFACE WATER: 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected at mean concns of 0.1 and 0.5 parts per trillion in Lake Ontario and Lake Huron, respectively(1). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected at concns of 1.4-36 ng/l in the Niagara River(2). Water collected in the vicinity of an industrial outfall in the Calacasieu River, LA contained 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene at a concn of 9 ng/l(3). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected at mean concns of 0.02 ng/l (Edwards Point) and 0.06 ng/l (Port Lambton) in Ontario, Canada(4) and at 0.02 ug/l in the Forth Estuary, England(5). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected at concns of 0.14, 0.076 and 0.067 ng/l in Lake Ontario(6). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected at a max concn of 135 ng per cubic decameter in the Scheldt estuary, Netherlands(7). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected at an avg concn of 140 pg/l in Lake Ontario(8). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected in the Elbe River, Germany at concns of 0.24-2.5 ng/l(9).

1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected at mean concns of less than 0.01 mg/cu m in the air of municipal landfills in Finland(1). Combined tetrachlorobenzene isomers were detected at concns of 38-1,800,000 ng/cu m in the effluent of a waste gasification and combustion pilot plant(2) and detected at concns of 74.7 and 48 ng/cu m in the effluent of a hazardous waste incinerator in Biebesheim, Germany(3). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was identified, not quantified, in the effluent from a coal-fired power plant(4). Combined tetrachlorobenzene isomers were detected at concns of 0.01-0.11 ug/l in the effluent of 2 Dow Chemical plants near the St. Claire River, Canada(5). Trace levels of 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene were detected in the air after a fire at a municipal waste landfill(6). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was identified, not quantified, in pulp mill effluents in Canada(7). Combined tetrachlorobenzene isomers were detected at concns of 29 and 57 ug/cu m in the effluent of municipal refuse incinerators located in Virginia and Ohio, respectively(8).

1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected in the sediment of Lake Ketelmeer, Netherlands at concns of 20 and 5 ng/kg(1). Mean 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene concns of 0.1, 1, 0.7 and 32 ppb were detected in the surficial sediments from Lakes Superior, Huron, Erie, and Ontario, respectively(2). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected at concns of 0-0.2 ng/g in sediment from Ise Bay, Japan(3). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected at median concns of 11, 10 and 5 ng/g in sediment taken from the Scheldt estuary, Netherlands(4). Soil samples from Niagara Falls, NY contained 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene at mean concns of 940 and 1,340 pg/g(5). Sediment from the St. Lawrence River contained 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene at concns of 0.27-1.4 ng/g(6) and sediment from Port Lamberton, Canada contained 2.17 ng/g(7). Soil from Hengelo, Netherlands contained 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene at a mean concn of 2.08 mg/kg(8). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected in sediment (32 ng/g) and suspended particulate matter (15 ng/g) in Lake Ontario(9).

URBAN/SUBURBAN: 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected in the air of Hamburg, Germany at concns of 0.3-28.4 ng/cu m(1). Combined tetrachlorobenzene isomers were detected at mean concns of 690 parts per trillion in the urban air of the US and 95 parts per trillion in source dominated air(2). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected in suburban air in MI at concns of 40-53 pg/cu m(3) and in southern Ontario, Canada at a max concn of 46 pg/cu m(4).

1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected in carrots (0.0218 ug/kg (peel)), potatoes (0.0736 ug/kg (peel)), tomatoes (0.01 ug/kg (peel)), and lettuce (0.0041 ug/kg (outer)) sampled in the UK(1). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected in corn oil and sunflower oil samples from Yugoslavia at concns of 0.005 and 0.002 ug/kg, respectively(2).

Combined isomers of tri- and tetrachlorobenzene were detected in pine needles at concns of 3-30 ng/g and in grass at 15 ng/g(1).

1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected in aquatic organisms collected in the vicinity of an industrial outfall in the Calacasieu River estuary, LA (ug/g of lipids): 2.6 ug/g - Atlantic croaker; 4.5 ug/g - blue crabs; 0.43 ug/g - spotted sea trout; and 1.9 ug/g - blue catfish(1). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected in trout from the Great Lakes at concns of 0.3-12 ng/g(2) and detected in trout near the Niagara River mouth in Lake Ontario at a concn of 4.3 ng/g (dry weight)(3). Combined isomers of tri- and tetrachlorobenzene were detected in fish from Slovenia at concns of 40 and 180 ug/g(4). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected at a mean concn of 77 ng/g in bullhead(5). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected at avg concns of 1.8 ng/g in fish from Lake Ontario(6) and detected at concns of 0.4-1.4 ng/g in rainbow trout from Lake Ontario(7).

1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene residues were found in herring gull eggs from the Detroit River at mean concns of 0.01-1.75 ppm(1). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected in herring gull eggs near Lake Huron at median concns of 0.5-573 ng/g(2), near Lake Superior at concns of 0.004-0.02 ug/g(3) and in several areas of the Great Lakes at 0-0.30 mg/kg(4). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected in eggs of terns(0.001 and 0.003 mg/kg), Canadian geese(0.001 mg/kg), double-crested cormorant(0.003 mg/kg) and black-crowned night herons(0.003 and 0.001 mg/kg)(5).

1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected in human milk in Canada at 0.01 ng/g (whole milk) and 0.49 ng/g(milk fat)(1).

Occupational exposure to 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene may be through inhalation and dermal contact in workplaces where this compound is produced or used. The general population may be exposed to 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene via inhalation of ambient air, ingestion of food and drinking water. (SRC)

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates the AVDI of all tetrachlorobenzene isomers for humans is less than 0.1 ng/kg body weight(1).

1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene has been detected in 19 of 108 samples of human adipose tissue at a mean concn of 67 ng/g(1). Combined trichlorobenzene and tetrachlorobenzene isomers were detected in human adipose tissue in Slovenia at a concn of 60 ng/g and in human hair samples at 40 ng/g(2). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was identified, not quantified, in the adipose tissue of non-occupationally exposed individuals in Germany(3).

LC50 Pimephales promelas (fathead minnow) 1.1 mg/l 96 hr flow-through bioassay, wt 0.12 g, water hardness 45.5 mg/l CaCO3, temp: 25 +/- 1 °C, pH 7.5, dissolved oxygen greater than 60% of saturation

1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene's production and use as an organic intermediate and a dielectric fluid may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. It is a degradation byproduct of pentachlorobenzene and hexachlorobenzene and therefore may enter the environment as a result of the microbial degradation of these compounds. Based on a vapor pressure of 0.04 mm Hg at 25 °C, 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene is expected to exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene is degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals with an estimated atmospheric half-life of 200 days. 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene is expected to have low mobility in soils based upon log Koc values in the range of 3.5-4.7 measured in soils and sediment. Volatilization of 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene from dry soil surfaces is not expected to be important based upon the vapor pressure of this compound. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces is expected based on the Henry's Law constant of 6.9X10-4 atm-cu m/mole at 25 °C, but adsorption may attenuate this process. Biodegradation of 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene is expected to occur slowly based on a half-life of 34.5 days in a sewage sludge amended soil and a half-life of 18 days in anaerobic river sediment. In water, 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene is expected to adsorb to sediment or particulate matter based on its measured Koc values. This compound is expected to volatilize from water surfaces given its Henry's Law constant, but adsorption may attenuate this process. Estimated volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 6 and 150 hours, respectively when neglecting adsorption. The volatilization half-life from a model pond is about 128 days when adsorption is considered. When irradiated with light greater than 285 nm, this compound was 46 percent degraded in a water solution within 40 hrs, suggesting that photolysis in surface waters may be important. The potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is considered high based on BCF values in the range of 490 to 1,700 measured in carp and log BCF values of 3.7-4.1 measured in trout. Occupational exposure may be through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene is produced or used. Limited monitoring data suggest that the general population may be exposed to 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene via inhalation of ambient air, ingestion of food and drinking water. (SRC)

1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene is a degradation byproduct of pentachlorobenzene and hexachlorobenzene and therefore may enter the environment as a result of the microbial degradation of these compounds(1,SRC).

1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene's production and use as an organic intermediate and a dielectric fluid may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams(1,SRC).

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a recommended classification scheme(1), and log Koc values in the range of 3.5-4.8(2) measured in soil, 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene is expected to have low mobility in soil(SRC). Volatilization of 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene is expected from moist soil surfaces given its Henry's Law constant of 6.9X10-4 atm-cu m/mole at 25 °C(3), but adsorption may attenuate this process(SRC). Volatilization of 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene from dry soil surfaces is not expected based on a vapor pressure of 0.04 mm Hg at 25 °C(3). Biodegradation is expected to occur slowly based on a half-life of 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene in sewage sludge amended soil of 34.5 days(4).

AQUATIC FATE: Based on a recommended classification scheme(1), and log Koc values in the range of 3.5-4.7(2,3) measured in sediment, 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene is expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment in water(SRC). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene is expected to volatilize from water surfaces(4,SRC) given its Henry's Law constant of 6.9X10-4 atm-cu m/mole at 25 °C(5), but adsorption may attenuate this process(SRC). Estimated volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 6 and 150 hours, respectively when neglecting adsorption(4,SRC). The volatilization half-life from a model pond is about 128 days when adsorption is considered(6). According to a classification scheme(7), BCF values in the range of 490 to 1,700, measured in carp(8) and log BCF values of 3.7-4.1 measured in trout(9), suggest that bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is high. Biodegradation is expected to occur slowly based on a half-life of 18 days measured in anaerobic river sediment(10). When irradiated with light greater than 285 nm, this compound was degraded 46 percent in 40 hrs in a water solution(11), suggesting that photolysis in surface waters may be important(SRC).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene, which has a vapor pressure of 0.04 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), is expected to exist in the vapor phase in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene 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 200 days(SRC) from its estimated rate constant of 8.2X10-14 cu cm/mole-sec(3).

A 0% theoretical BOD in sludge over a 4 week incubation period suggests that biodegradation of 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene will be slow(1). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was biodegraded by an acclimated anaerobic sediment slurry obtained from the Tsurumi River, Japan(2). The first-order biodegradation rate constant was 0.038 days-1, corresponding to a half-life of about 18 days(2). The half-life of 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene in sewage sludge amended soil was 34.5 days(3). An enriched microbial culture derived from sediment of the Rhine River reductively dechlorinated 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene to 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene in 280 days after a lag period of 47 days(4).

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals has been estimated as 8.2X10-14 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(1). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 200 days at an atmospheric concentration of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(1,SRC). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene is not expected to undergo hydrolysis in the environment due to the lack of hydrolyzable functional groups(SRC). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene in a water solution irradiated at wavelengths greater than 285 nm was 46 percent degraded in 40 hours(2).

BCF values of 520 to 1,560 were measured in carp exposed to 10 ug/l of 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene during a 6 week incubation period and BCF values of 490 to 1,700 were measured in carp exposed to 1 ug/l of 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene during a 6 week incubation period(1). Mean log BCF values of 3.7-4.1 were measured for rainbow trout exposed to 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene(2). A mean log BCF value of 3.5 was measured in fathead minnows exposed to 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene for 2-120 hours(3). A mean BCF value of 5,200 was reported for rainbow trout exposed to low levels of 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene for 119 days and a mean BCF value of 12,000 was reported for rainbow trout exposed to high concns of 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene for 119 days(4). According to a classification scheme(5), these BCF values suggest that bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is high.

A log Koc value of 3.8(1) was reported for 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene in soils and log Koc values of 3.5 to 3.8 were reported in sandy and clay loams(2). A log Koc value of 4.4 was reported for 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene in sediment obtained from Ise Bay, Japan(3) and a log Koc value of 4.7 was reported from sediment of Lake Oostvaardersplassen, Netherlands(4). According to a recommended classification scheme(5), these Koc values suggest that 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene has low mobility in soil.

The Henry's Law constant for 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene is 6.9X10-4 atm-cu m/mole at 25 °C(1). This value indicates that 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene will volatilize from water(2,SRC), but adsorption may attenuate this process(SRC). 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) is estimated as approximately 6 hours(2,SRC). The volatilization half-life from a model lake (1 m deep, flowing 0.05 m/sec, wind velocity of 0.5 m/sec) is estimated as approximately 150 hours(2,SRC). The volatilization half-life from a model pond is about 128 days when adsorption is considered(3). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene's Henry's Law constant(1) indicates that volatilization from moist soil surfaces is expected(SRC). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based on a vapor pressure of 0.04 mm Hg at 25 °C(1).

DRINKING WATER: 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene was detected at a mean concn of 0.3 parts per trillion in drinking water from 3 Canadian cities near Lake Ontario(1). Combined isomers of tetrachlorobenzene were detected at concns of 120-2,000 ng/l in the drinking water of homes near Love Canal, NY(2).

SURFACE WATER: 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected at mean concns of 0.1 and 0.5 parts per trillion in Lake Ontario and Lake Huron, respectively(1). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected at concns of 1.4-36 ng/l in the Niagara River(2). Water collected in the vicinity of an industrial outfall in the Calacasieu River, LA contained 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene at a concn of 9 ng/l(3). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected at mean concns of 0.02 ng/l (Edwards Point) and 0.06 ng/l (Port Lambton) in Ontario, Canada(4) and at 0.02 ug/l in the Forth Estuary, England(5). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected at concns of 0.14, 0.076 and 0.067 ng/l in Lake Ontario(6). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected at a max concn of 135 ng per cubic decameter in the Scheldt estuary, Netherlands(7). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected at an avg concn of 140 pg/l in Lake Ontario(8). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected in the Elbe River, Germany at concns of 0.24-2.5 ng/l(9).

1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected at mean concns of less than 0.01 mg/cu m in the air of municipal landfills in Finland(1). Combined tetrachlorobenzene isomers were detected at concns of 38-1,800,000 ng/cu m in the effluent of a waste gasification and combustion pilot plant(2) and detected at concns of 74.7 and 48 ng/cu m in the effluent of a hazardous waste incinerator in Biebesheim, Germany(3). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was identified, not quantified, in the effluent from a coal-fired power plant(4). Combined tetrachlorobenzene isomers were detected at concns of 0.01-0.11 ug/l in the effluent of 2 Dow Chemical plants near the St. Claire River, Canada(5). Trace levels of 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene were detected in the air after a fire at a municipal waste landfill(6). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was identified, not quantified, in pulp mill effluents in Canada(7). Combined tetrachlorobenzene isomers were detected at concns of 29 and 57 ug/cu m in the effluent of municipal refuse incinerators located in Virginia and Ohio, respectively(8).

1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected in the sediment of Lake Ketelmeer, Netherlands at concns of 20 and 5 ng/kg(1). Mean 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene concns of 0.1, 1, 0.7 and 32 ppb were detected in the surficial sediments from Lakes Superior, Huron, Erie, and Ontario, respectively(2). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected at concns of 0-0.2 ng/g in sediment from Ise Bay, Japan(3). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected at median concns of 11, 10 and 5 ng/g in sediment taken from the Scheldt estuary, Netherlands(4). Soil samples from Niagara Falls, NY contained 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene at mean concns of 940 and 1,340 pg/g(5). Sediment from the St. Lawrence River contained 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene at concns of 0.27-1.4 ng/g(6) and sediment from Port Lamberton, Canada contained 2.17 ng/g(7). Soil from Hengelo, Netherlands contained 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene at a mean concn of 2.08 mg/kg(8). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected in sediment (32 ng/g) and suspended particulate matter (15 ng/g) in Lake Ontario(9).

URBAN/SUBURBAN: 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected in the air of Hamburg, Germany at concns of 0.3-28.4 ng/cu m(1). Combined tetrachlorobenzene isomers were detected at mean concns of 690 parts per trillion in the urban air of the US and 95 parts per trillion in source dominated air(2). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected in suburban air in MI at concns of 40-53 pg/cu m(3) and in southern Ontario, Canada at a max concn of 46 pg/cu m(4).

1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected in carrots (0.0218 ug/kg (peel)), potatoes (0.0736 ug/kg (peel)), tomatoes (0.01 ug/kg (peel)), and lettuce (0.0041 ug/kg (outer)) sampled in the UK(1). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected in corn oil and sunflower oil samples from Yugoslavia at concns of 0.005 and 0.002 ug/kg, respectively(2).

Combined isomers of tri- and tetrachlorobenzene were detected in pine needles at concns of 3-30 ng/g and in grass at 15 ng/g(1).

1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected in aquatic organisms collected in the vicinity of an industrial outfall in the Calacasieu River estuary, LA (ug/g of lipids): 2.6 ug/g - Atlantic croaker; 4.5 ug/g - blue crabs; 0.43 ug/g - spotted sea trout; and 1.9 ug/g - blue catfish(1). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected in trout from the Great Lakes at concns of 0.3-12 ng/g(2) and detected in trout near the Niagara River mouth in Lake Ontario at a concn of 4.3 ng/g (dry weight)(3). Combined isomers of tri- and tetrachlorobenzene were detected in fish from Slovenia at concns of 40 and 180 ug/g(4). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected at a mean concn of 77 ng/g in bullhead(5). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected at avg concns of 1.8 ng/g in fish from Lake Ontario(6) and detected at concns of 0.4-1.4 ng/g in rainbow trout from Lake Ontario(7).

1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene residues were found in herring gull eggs from the Detroit River at mean concns of 0.01-1.75 ppm(1). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected in herring gull eggs near Lake Huron at median concns of 0.5-573 ng/g(2), near Lake Superior at concns of 0.004-0.02 ug/g(3) and in several areas of the Great Lakes at 0-0.30 mg/kg(4). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected in eggs of terns(0.001 and 0.003 mg/kg), Canadian geese(0.001 mg/kg), double-crested cormorant(0.003 mg/kg) and black-crowned night herons(0.003 and 0.001 mg/kg)(5).

1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected in human milk in Canada at 0.01 ng/g (whole milk) and 0.49 ng/g(milk fat)(1).

Occupational exposure to 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene may be through inhalation and dermal contact in workplaces where this compound is produced or used. The general population may be exposed to 1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene via inhalation of ambient air, ingestion of food and drinking water. (SRC)

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates the AVDI of all tetrachlorobenzene isomers for humans is less than 0.1 ng/kg body weight(1).

1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene has been detected in 19 of 108 samples of human adipose tissue at a mean concn of 67 ng/g(1). Combined trichlorobenzene and tetrachlorobenzene isomers were detected in human adipose tissue in Slovenia at a concn of 60 ng/g and in human hair samples at 40 ng/g(2). 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene was identified, not quantified, in the adipose tissue of non-occupationally exposed individuals in Germany(3).

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.

... Halogenated compounds may be disposed of by incineration provided they are blended with other compatible wastes or fuels so that the composite contains less than 30% halogens and the heating value is from 7000 to 9000 BTU/lb. Liquid injection, rotary kiln, and fluidized bed incinerators are typically used to destroy liquid halogenated wastes. ... Temperatures of at lease 2000-2200 °F and residence times /of more than 2 sec/ ... are required for the destruction of halogenated aromatic hydrocarbons. /Halogenated Aromatic Hydrocarbons/