Benzoic Acid

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

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

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

P260, P264, P264+P265, P270, P280, P302+P352, P305+P354+P338, P317, P319, P321, P332+P317, P362+P364, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

This chemical does not meet GHS hazard criteria for 0.9% (28 of 3274) of reports.

H302 (29.7%): Harmful if swallowed [Warning Acute toxicity, oral]

H315 (82.8%): Causes skin irritation [Warning Skin corrosion/irritation]

H318 (81.3%): Causes serious eye damage [Danger Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

H319 (16.4%): Causes serious eye irritation [Warning Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

H372 (20.5%): Causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure [Danger Specific target organ toxicity, repeated exposure]

P260, P264, P264+P265, P270, P280, P301+P317, P302+P352, P305+P351+P338, P305+P354+P338, P317, P319, P321, P330, P332+P317, P337+P317, P362+P364, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Aggregated GHS information provided per 3274 reports by companies from 63 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.

Reported as not meeting GHS hazard criteria per 28 of 3274 reports by companies.

There are 62 notifications provided by 3246 of 3274 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.

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

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

H402: Harmful to aquatic life [Hazardous to the aquatic environment, acute hazard]

P203, P260, P264+P265, P273, P280, P305+P354+P338, P317, P318, P319, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

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

P261, P264, P264+P265, P271, P280, P302+P352, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P317, P319, P321, P332+P317, P362+P364, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Fresh air, rest.

Remove contaminated clothes. Rinse and then wash skin with water and soap.

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

Rinse mouth. Refer for medical attention .

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)

Use water spray, powder, foam, carbon dioxide. In case of fire: keep drums, etc., cool by spraying with water.

If material on fire or involved in fire: Use water in flooding quantities as fog. Solid streams of water may spread fire. Cool all affected containers with flooding quantities of water. Apply water from as far a distance as possible. Use foam, dry chemical, or carbon dioxide.

Personal protection: protective clothing and face shield. Do NOT let this chemical enter the environment. Sweep spilled substance into covered plastic containers. Carefully collect remainder in covered containers. If appropriate, moisten first to prevent dusting. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations.

Cover with soda ash or sodium bicarbonate. Mix and add water.

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

Environmental considerations: Water spill: If dissolved, in region of 10 ppm or greater concentration, apply activated carbon at ten times the spilled amount. Remove trapped material with suction hoses. Use mechanical dredges or lifts to remove immobilized masses of pollutants and precipitates.

Personal protection: protective clothing and face shield. Sweep spilled substance into covered plastic containers. If appropriate, moisten first to prevent dusting. Wash away remainder with plenty of water.

SRP: Wastewater from contaminant suppression, cleaning of protective clothing/equipment, or contaminated sites should be contained and evaluated for subject chemical or decomposition product concentrations. Concentrations shall be lower than applicable environmental discharge or disposal criteria. Alternatively, pretreatment and/or discharge to a permitted wastewater treatment facility is acceptable only after review by the governing authority and assurance that "pass through" violations will not occur. Due consideration shall be given to remediation worker exposure (inhalation, dermal and ingestion) as well as fate during treatment, transfer and disposal. If it is not practicable to manage the chemical in this fashion, it must be evaluated in accordance with EPA 40 CFR Part 261, specifically Subpart B, in order to determine the appropriate local, state and federal requirements for disposal.

The following wastewater treatment technologies have been investigated for benzoic acid: concentration process: biological treatment.

Incineration: Waste material can be burned in an approved incinerator with an afterburner, as a soln in a flammable solvent or as a solid packaged in paper, plastic or cardboard.

The following wastewater treatment technologies have been investigated for benzoic acid: concentration process: activated carbon.

The following wastewater treatment technologies have been investigated for benzoic acid: concentration process: resin adsorption.

SRP: The scientific literature for the use of contact lenses by industrial workers is inconsistent. The benefits 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.

SRP: Local exhaust ventilation should be applied wherever there is an incidence of point source emissions or dispersion of regulated contaminants in the work area. Ventilation control of the contaminant as close to its point of generation is both the most economical and safest method to minimize personnel exposure to airborne contaminants. Ensure that the local ventilation moves the contaminant away from the worker.

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. The completeness of the cleaning procedures should be considered before the decontaminated protective clothing is returned for reuse by the workers. Contaminated clothing should not be taken home at the end of shift, but should remain at employee's place of work for cleaning.

If material not on fire and not involved in fire: Keep sparks, flames, and other sources of ignition away. Keep material out of water sources and sewers. Build dikes to contain flow as necessary.

For more Preventive Measures (Complete) data for BENZOIC ACID (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Store only in original container. Separated from incompatible materials. See Chemical Dangers. Fireproof. Store in an area without drain or sewer access.

The bulk material should be stored in well-closed container in a cool dry place.

0.5 [mg/m3], respirable fraction (2 mg/m3, inhalable fraction)[German Research Foundation (DFG)]

13 [mg/m3]

140 [mg/m3]

830 [mg/m3]

0.5 [mg/m3], inhalable fraction and vapor

0.5 mg/m

(respirable fraction): 0.5 mg/m

Acute Oral: 0.01 mg/kg/day (L134)

Intermediate Oral: 0.01 mg/kg/day (L134)

A harmful contamination of the air will not or will only very slowly be reached on evaporation of this substance at 20 °C.

The substance is severely irritating to the eyes. The substance is mildly irritating to the skin. Exposure could cause a non-allergic rash on contact.

Lungs may be affected by repeated or prolongated exposure to an aerosol of this substance.

Residues of benzoic acid are exempted from the requirement of a tolerance when used in accordance with good agricultural practice as inert (or occasionally active) ingredients in pesticide formulations applied to growing crops or to raw agricultural commodities after harvest. Use: preservative for formulations.

Residues of benzoic acid are exempted from the requirement of a tolerance when used in accordance with good agricultural practice as inert (or occasionally active) ingredients in pesticide formulations applied to animals. Use: preservative for formulations.

Bureau of Mines dust respirator; when melted material present, use eye protection and organic respirator for fumes. (USCG, 1999)

Bureau of mines dust respirator; when melted material present, use eye protection and organic respirator for fumes.

Wear rubber gloves, a mask, coveralls, a body shield and self-contained respirator.

Personnel protection: ... Wear appropriate chemical protective gloves, boots and goggles.

Use local exhaust or breathing protection.

For more Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) (Complete) data for BENZOIC ACID (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

NO open flames. Closed system, dust explosion-proof electrical equipment and lighting. Prevent deposition of dust. NO contact with incompatible materials:

PREVENT DISPERSION OF DUST! STRICT HYGIENE!

Protective gloves.

Wear safety goggles.

Do not eat, drink, or smoke during work.

Benzoic acid appears as a white crystalline solid. Slightly soluble in water. The primary hazard is the potential for environmental damage if released. Immediate steps should be taken to limit spread to the environment. Used to make other chemicals, as a food preservative, and for other uses.

Large Crystals; Liquid; Liquid; Large Crystals; CBI; Dry Powder; Other Solid

White crystalline powder

White crystals or powder; [ICSC]

WHITE CRYSTALS OR POWDER.

white crystal scales or needles with a faint urine, almond odour

Monoclinic tablets, plates, leaflets

White scales or needle crystals

Monoclinic leaflets or needles

Odorless or with a slight benzaldehyde odor

FAINT, PLEASANT ODOR

ALMOST TASTELESS /BENZOIC ACID USP/

BITTER TASTE

Taste detection 8.5X10+1 ppm /Media and purity not specified/

480 °F at 760 mmHg (NTP, 1992)

249.2 °C at 760 mm Hg

249 °C @760 [mm Hg]

252.3 °F (NTP, 1992)

121,5 - 123,5 °C

122.35 °C

122.4 °C

250 °F (NTP, 1992)

250 °F (121 °C) (closed cup)

121 °C c.c.

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

Mixtures of excess benzoic acid & water form 2 liquid phases beginning at 89.7 °C; the two phases unite at critical solution temperature of 117.2 °C; solubility in water increased by alkaline substances.

Monomer & dimer models for solubility of benzoic acid in simple binary and ternary solvents are reported.

In water, 3.5X10+3 mg/L at 25 °C

1 g dissolves in: 2.3 mL alcohol (cold), 1.5 mL alcohol (boiling), 4.5 mL chloroform, 3 mL ether, 3 mL acetone, 30 mL carbon tetrachloride,10 mL benzene, 30 mL carbon disulfide, 23 mL oil of turpentine. Also soluble in volatile and fixed oils; slightly soluble in petroleum ether

0.29 g/L of benzoic acid in water at 20 °C

Acetone 55.6 g/L, benzene 12.2 g/L, carbone tetrachloride 4.1g/L, chloroform 15g/L, ethanol 58.4 g/L, ethyl ether 40.8 g/L, hexane 0.9 g/L methanol 71.5 g/L, toluene 10.6 g/L

3.4 mg/mL at 25 °C

Solubility in water, g/l at 20 °C: 3 (slightly soluble)

insoluble in cold water; moderately soluble in hot water; soluble in oils and glycerol

very soluble (in ethanol)

1.316 at 82.4 °F (USCG, 1999) - Denser than water; will sink

1.2659 g/cu cm at 15 °C

Sp gr: 1.316 at 24 °C/4 °C (solid); 1.029 at 180 °C/4 °C (liquid)

1.3 g/cm³

Relative density of the vapour/air-mixture at 20 °C (air = 1): 1

Vapor from molten benzoic acid may form explosive mixture with air. The finely powdered dry acid is a significant dust explosion hazard [Bretherick, 5th ed., 1995, p. 884]. In air very rapid combustion occurs [Wilson, L.Y. et al., J. Chem. Ed., 1985, 62(10), p. 902]. Slightly soluble in water.

Acids, Carboxylic

At high temperature BENZOIC ACID can react with oxidizing reagents.

Undergoes typical reactions of an organic acid, e.g. with alkalis or heavy metals. Preservative activity may be reduced by interaction with kaolin.

The powder burns rapidly in oxygen.

Can react with oxidizing materials.

Safe in the present practices of use and concentration. Ingredient, concentration, and use information are available in documents discoverable at https://cir-reports.cir-safety.org

Excess copper is sequestered within hepatocyte lysosomes, where it is complexed with metallothionein. Copper hepatotoxicity is believed to occur when the lysosomes become saturated and copper accumulates in the nucleus, causing nuclear damage. This damage is possibly a result of oxidative damage, including lipid peroxidation. Copper inhibits the sulfhydryl group enzymes such as glucose-6-phosphate 1-dehydrogenase, glutathione reductase, and paraoxonases, which protect the cell from free oxygen radicals. It also influences gene expression and is a co-factor for oxidative enzymes such as cytochrome C oxidase and lysyl oxidase. In addition, the oxidative stress induced by copper is thought to activate acid sphingomyelinase, which lead to the production of ceramide, an apoptotic signal, as well as cause hemolytic anemia. Copper-induced emesis results from stimulation of the vagus nerve. (L277, T49, A174, L280)

Benzoic acid

4 mg/kg-day

Cancer Classification: Group D Not Classifiable as to Human Carcinogenicity

CLASSIFICATION: D; not classifiable as to human carcinogenicity. BASIS FOR CLASSIFICATION: No human data and inadequate data from animal bioassays. HUMAN CARCINOGENICITY DATA: None. ANIMAL CARCINOGENICITY DATA: Inadequate.

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

People must absorb small amounts of copper every day because copper is essential for good health, however, high levels of copper can be harmful. Very-high doses of copper can cause damage to your liver and kidneys, and can even cause death. Copper may induce allergic responses in sensitive individuals. (L278, L279)

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

Oral (L277) ; inhalation (L277) ; dermal (L277)

Sore throat. Cough.

Redness. Swelling. Itching.

Redness. Pain. Corneal damage.

Abdominal pain. Nausea. Vomiting.

Breathing high levels of copper can cause irritation of the nose and throat. Ingesting high levels of copper can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, and respiratory difficulty. (L278, L279)

ACGIH Carcinogen - Not Suspected.

EPA RfD= 4.0 mg/kg

Benzoic Acid

2 x 10^-3 mg/m^3

PDF Document

PPRTV Current

IRIS Current

LC50 (rat) = >26 mg/m3/1H

LD50 Cat oral 2000 mg/kg

LD50 Dog oral 2000 mg/kg

LD50 Mouse intraperitoneal 1460 mg/kg

LD50 Mouse oral 1940 mg/kg

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

The metabolism of the benzoates depletes glycine concentrations and can therefore alter the glycine-dependent metabolism of other compounds. /Investigators/ demonstrated that benzoic acid or sodium benzoate successfully competed with aspirin for glycine, resulting in increased concentration and persistence of salicylic acid in the body. Almost total inhibition of salicyluric acid formation in humans was achieved using either 2.7 g benzoic acid or 3.2 g sodium benzoate.

In rat liver microsomes deferoxamine was a potent inhibitor of the oxidation of the scavenging agent, benzoate. Nearly complete inhibition was observed at 33-100 uM.

Groups of 25 male and 25 female mice were given benzoic acid at a dose of 40 mg/kg bw/day, sodium bisulfite at 80 mg/kg bw/day, or a mixture of the two for 17 months. Mortality was greater in the groups receiving the mixture (62%) than in those receiving the individual substances (32%) at eight months.

Wistar rats /were administered/ 40 mg benzoic acid/kg/day and 80 mg sodium bisulphite/kg/day once daily /for/ 72 weeks. 50 rats /with/ initial body weight /of/ 100-120g /experienced/ reduced weight gain, kidney function and reaction on stress factors were altered (no further information), /and/ the erythrocyte sedimentation rate was increased.

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. /Organic acids and related compounds/

Basic treatment: Establish a patent airway (oropharyngeal or nasopharyngeal airway, if needed). Suction if necessary. Watch for signs of respiratory insufficiency and assist respirations 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 ... . For eye contamination, flush eyes immediately with water. Irrigate each eye continuously with 0.9% saline (NS) during transport ... . Do not use emetics. For ingestion, rinse mouth and administer 5 mL/kg up to 200 mL of water for dilution if the patient can swallow, has a strong gag reflex, and does not drool. Activated charcoal is not effective ... . Do not attempt to neutralize because of exothermic reaction. Cover skin burns with dry, sterile dressings after decontamination ... . /Organic acids and related compounds/

Advanced treatment: Consider orotracheal or nasotracheal intubation for airway control in the patient who is unconscious, has severe pulmonary edema, or is in severe respiratory distress. Early intubation, at the first sign of upper airway obstruction, may be necessary. Positive-pressure ventilation techniques with a bag valve mask device may be beneficial. Consider drug therapy for pulmonary edema ... . Consider administering a beta agonist such as albuterol for severe bronchospasm ... . Monitor cardiac rhythm and treat arrhythmias as 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 ... . Use proparacaine hydrochloride to assist eye irrigation ... . /Organic acids and related compounds/

/HUMAN EXPOSURE STUDIES/ In nine patients on penicillin treatment given 12,000 mg benzoic acid divided into eight doses over 5 days in eight subjects and over 14 days in one subject, no adverse effects on blood urea nitrogen or creatinine clearance were reported.

/HUMAN EXPOSURE STUDIES/ /Investigators/found no abnormalities in blood chemistry, urine composition, nitrogen balance, or well-being in six men given 300-400 mg /benzoic acid/ per day via diet for up to 62 days.

/HUMAN EXPOSURE STUDIES/ In a study with volunteers given 1000, 1500, 2000, or 2500 mg/day for 5 days each, marked symptoms, signs of discomfort, and malaise (nausea, headache, weakness, burning and irritation of esophagus) were reported.

/HUMAN EXPOSURE STUDIES/ Of 100 patients with asthma undergoing provocation tests with benzoic acid, 47 showed positive reactions.

For more Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for BENZOIC ACID (22 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

LC50; Species: Colinus virginianus (Northern bobwhite quail) diet >5620 ppm for 8 days

LC50; Species: Anas platyrhynchos (Mallard duck) diet >5620 ppm for 8 days

LD50; Species: Anas platyrhynchos (Mallard duck) oral via capsule >2510 mg/kg

EC50; Species: Anabaena inaequalis (Cyanobacteria); Conditions: static; Concentration: 9 mg/L for 14 days; Effect: cell multiplication inhibition

For more Ecotoxicity Values (Complete) data for BENZOIC ACID (16 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ 0.5 mg/L of benzoic acid did not affect growth of blue-green alga, Anabaena flosaquae.

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ Lethal to goldfish in 7-96 hr at 200 mg/L; lethal to orange spotted sunfish in 1 hr at 550-570 mg/L. /Conditions of bioassay not specified in source examined/

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ EC50/LC50 values (24-96 hr) for most of the other aquatic species tested (protozoa, molluscs, crustaceans, fish, amphibians) were in the range of 100-1291 mg/L. As seen with daphnids, the pH value of the test medium influences the toxicity of benzoic acid, which proved to be more toxic at lower pH levels.

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ Developmental toxicity effects seen in frog (Xenopus) embryos were craniofacial defects, especially microcephaly, and abnormal gut coiling.

For more Ecotoxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for BENZOIC ACID (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

2.50e+05

3.30e+06

7.50e+04

5.00e+00

1.50e+01

4.00e+00

Volatile

7.60e+05

9.80e+06

2.30e+05

The substance is harmful to aquatic organisms.

Benzoic acid's production and use as a plasticizer, chemical intermediate in the production of benzoyl chloride alkyd resins, food preservative, in seasoning tobacco, flavors, perfumes, dentifrices and as a standard in analytical chemistry may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. Its use as a plant growth regulator will result in its direct release to the environment. Benzoic acid is widely distributed in nature. Gum benzoin (Styrax benzoin) may contain as much as 20% free acid. Smaller amounts of the free acid are found in the scent glands of beavers, cherry tree bark, cranberries, prunes, ripe cloves, and oil of anise seed. Peru and Tolu balsams contain benzyl benzoate. The urine of herbivores contains a small proportion of the glycine derivative of benzoic acid, hippuric acid. If released to air, a vapor pressure of 7.0X10-4 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates benzoic acid will exist solely as a vapor in the atmosphere. Vapor-phase benzoic acid 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 9 days. Benzoic acid absorbs light at wavelengths >290 nm and, therefore, may be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight. If released to soil, benzoic acid is expected to have very high mobility based upon an estimated Koc of 15. The pKa of benzoic acid is 4.20, indicating that this compound will exist almost entirely in the anion form in the environment and anions generally do not adsorb more strongly to soils containing organic carbon and clay than their neutral counterparts. Volatilization from moist soil is not expected because the compound exists as an anion and anions do not volatilize. Benzoic acid is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces based upon its vapor pressure. Mineralization half-life in Captina silt loam for benzoic acid in solution was 4.5 hr after a 30 minute lag and complete degradation occurred in 1 day using a Niagra silt loam inoculum, suggesting that biodegradation may be an important fate process in soil. If released into water, benzoic acid is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment based upon the estimated Koc. Biodegradation half-lives of 0.85 and 3.6 days using inoculum from a polluted river and a reservoir, respectively, suggest that biodegradation may be an important fate process in water. The pKa indicates benzoic acid will exist almost entirely in the anion form at pH values of 5 to 9 and, therefore, volatilization from water or moist soil surfaces is not expected to be an important fate process. A BCF range of <10 to 21 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 (pH 5 to 9). Occupational exposure to benzoic acid may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where benzoic acid is produced or used. Monitoring data indicate that the general population may be exposed to benzoic acid via inhalation of ambient air, ingestion of food and drinking water, dermal contact with consumer products containing benzoic acid as well as exposure to certain wood and cooking smokes. (SRC)

Benzoic acid is widely distributed in nature(1) and occurs in nature in free and combined forms(2). Gum benzoin (Styrax benzoin) may contain as much as 20% free acid; Acroid resin (Xanthorrhoca haslilis) contains 4.5 to 7%. Smaller amounts of the free acid are found in the scent glands of beavers, cherry tree bark, cranberries, prunes, ripe cloves, and oil of anise seed. Peru and Tolu balsams contain benzyl benzoate. The urine of herbivores contains a small proportion of the glycine derivative of benzoic acid, hippuric acid(1).

Cranberries, prunes, ripe cloves, bark of wild black cherry tree, scent glands of beavers, and oil of anise seeds.

Benzoic acid's production and use as a plasticizer, chemical intermediate in the production of benzoyl chloride alkyd resins, food preservative, in seasoning tobacco, flavors, perfumes, dentifrices and as a standard in analytical chemistry(1) may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams(SRC). It's use as a plant growth regulator(2) will result in its direct release to the environment(SRC). Benzoic acid is a biodegradation break down product of the herbicide Isoxaflutole, used for weed control in corn (Zea mays)(3).

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 15(SRC), determined from a structure estimation method(2), indicates that benzoic acid is expected to have very high mobility in soil(SRC). The pKa of benzoic acid is 4.20(3), indicating that this compound will exist almost entirely in the 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). Volatilization from moist soil is not expected because the compound exists as an anion and anions do not volatilize. Benzoic acid is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon a vapor pressure of 7.0X10-4 mm Hg at 25 °C(5). Mineralization half-life in Captina silt loam for benzoic acid in solution was 4.5 hr after a 30 minute lag(6) and complete degradation occurred in 1 day using a Niagra silt loam inoculum(7), suggesting that biodegradation may be an important fate process in soil(SRC).

AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 15(SRC), determined from a structure estimation method(2), indicates that benzoic acid is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment(SRC). A pKa of 4.20(3) indicates benzoic acid will exist almost entirely in the anion form at pH values of 5 to 9 and, therefore, volatilization from water or moist soil surfaces is not expected to be an important fate process(SRC). According to a classification scheme(4), a BCF range of <10 to 21(5) suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC). Biodegradation half-lives of 0.85 and 3.6 days using inoculum from a polluted river and a reservoir, respectively(6), suggest that biodegradation may be an important fate process in water(SRC).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), benzoic acid, which has a vapor pressure of 7X10-4 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), is expected to exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase benzoic acid 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 9 days(SRC), calculated from its rate constant of 1.2X10-12 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(SRC) that was derived using a structure estimation method(3). Benzoic acid absorbs light at wavelengths >290 nm(4) and, therefore, may be expected to be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight(SRC).

AEROBIC: Benzoic acid is biodegradable under aerobic conditions by bacteria present in crude municipal wastewater at less than or equal to 200 g/cu m.

AEROBIC: BOD after 5 days at 20 °C: 69-75% BODT; 70% BODT (standard dilution technique, acclimated sewage seed); after 10 days at 20 °C: 73% BODT (standard dilution technique, normal sewage seed); after 20 days at 20 °C: 79% BODT. Chemical oxygen demand: 1.88-1.95; theoretical oxygen demand: 1.96; KMnO4 value: 0.032

AEROBIC: Benzoic acid, present at 100 mg/L, reached 85% of its theoretical BOD in 2 weeks using an activated sludge inoculum at 30 mg/L and the Japanese MITI test(1). Both 13C-labeled and unlabeled benzoic acid were reported to reach 60% of their theoretical CO2 evolution within 5 days using a soil inoculum(2).

AEROBIC: Benzoic acid has been studied extensively and shown to be biodegradable in screening tests. Eleven laboratories testing a respiratory biodegradability test utilizing an unacclimated sludge inoculum found benzoic acid to be readily degradable, obtaining a mean oxygen uptake of 84% of theoretical after 10 days and no lag period before biodegradation commenced(10). Some results from other investigators are: 99% COD removal in 5 days with acclimated activated sludge(1); 67% of theoretical BOD removal in 5 days(2); 97% degradation in 20 days by activated sludge where 10% of the benzoic acid was replaced every 2 days to acclimate activated the sludge(3); 68.2 and 86.9% mineralization in 5 days by acclimated sludge in salt solution and simulated industrial effluent, respectively(4); 65.4% mineralization in 5 days by activated sludge(5); complete disappearance in 1 day using an activated sludge inoculum(6); 73% of theoretical BOD utilized in 6 days using activated sludge from 3 municipal sewage plants(7); 74% of theoretical BOD utilized in a 5 day test with a sewage seed(8); >90% degraded in 2 days using activated sludge(9); 84.1 and 74.9% of theoretical BOD in 5 days by the standard and sea water dilution methods, respectively(11).

For more Environmental Biodegradation (Complete) data for BENZOIC ACID (7 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of benzoic acid with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals has been estimated as 1.2X10-12 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(SRC) using a structure estimation method(1). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 9 days at an atmospheric concentration of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(1). Benzoic acid is not expected to undergo hydrolysis in the environment due to the lack of functional groups that hydrolyze under environmental conditions(2). Benzoic acid absorbs UV radiation up to approximately 310 nm(3,4), and, therefore, may be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight. In a photomineralization test in which the chemical is adsorbed on silica gel and irradiated with light >290 nm, 10.2% mineralization occurred in 17 hrs(5). When illuminated with a sunlamp for 24 hrs in solution containing zinc oxide, 67% degradation occurred in 24 hrs(6). However, it was stable when exposed to sunlight or a sunlamp for 137 hrs in aqueous solution(7). Zinc oxide, therefore, appears to possess catalytic activity as does beach sand(6).

Measured BCF values of <10, 14, and 21 were reported for Golden ide (Leuciscus idus melanotus)(1), trout(2), and mosquito fish (Gambusia affinis)(3), respectively. According to a classification scheme(4), this BCF range suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC). Bioconcentration factors of <10(1), 100, 138, 1800, 2800(3) and 10(4) have been reported in algae (Chorella fusca)(1), algae (Oedogonium cardiacum), mosquito larvae (Culex quinquifasciatus), daphnia (Daphnia magna) and snail (Physa), respectively(3).

Koc of benzoic acid is estimated as 15(SRC), using a log Kow of 1.87(1) and a regression-derived equation(2). An experimental log Koc of 1.50 (Koc = 31) has been reported, test details not available(3). According to a classification scheme(4), these Koc values suggest that benzoic acid is expected to have very high mobility in soil. The pKa of benzoic acid is 4.20(5), indicating that this compound will exist in anion form in the environment and anions generally do not adsorb more strongly to organic carbon and clay than their neutral counterparts(6). Freundlich adsorption constants of 0.23, 0 and 0 were reported using Ersum sandy till (pH 4.7; 0.25% OC), Tirstrup melt water sand (pH 6.1; 0.09% OC) and Djursland clayey till (pH 7.6; 0.22% OC), respectively, at 6 °C. Soils were collected in North Sealand and Djursland, Jutland(7). Benzoic acid displayed negligible adsorption when using a montmorillonite (Volclay bentonite, Upton WY) clay(8).

A pKa of 4.20(1) indicates benzoic acid will exist almost entirely in the ionized form at pH values of 5 to 9 and, therefore, volatilization from water or moist soil surfaces is not expected to be an important fate process. Benzoic acid is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon a vapor pressure of 7.0X10-4 mm Hg at 25 °C(2).

GROUND WATER: Benzoic acid was found in 2 aquifers at the Hoe Creek underground coal gasification site 15 mo after gasification was completed at concentration of 16-860 ppb(1). Concentrations of benzoic acid in the plumes in shallow, sandy aquifers emanating from landfills in Ontario were 17->1000 ppb in one aquifer and not detected to 8.8 ppb in another(2). The concentration in background monitoring wells was at trace levels (<0.1 ppb) in the first aquifer and was not determined in the second(2). Two wells monitoring near-surface groundwater adjacent to an unlined surface impoundment at a wood-preserving facility at Pensacola, FL contained 3.1 and 27.5 ppm of benzoic acid while wells 150 m away contained 0-0.01 ppm of the chemical(3). It is believed that the benzoic acid was rendered from the wood during treatment or was a degradation product of creosote solutes(3). Benzoic acid was found in groundwater in Australia underlying an area where acid wastes from a manufacturing process of a chemical company was stored in unlined ponds(4). Since the chemical was only found in the aquifer down-gradient from the believed source of pollution and not closer to this source, it was either formed by bacterial action or came from another source(4). Benzoic acid was detected in one of three samples taken from superfund sites at a concentration of 2.5 mg/L(5). Benzoic acid was detected not quantified in drinking water from Jefferson Parish, LA in 1994(6). The compound was detected at 0.6 to 6.2 ug/L in contaminated groundwater samples from a former ammunition destruction site, Susten-Steingletscher, Switzerland, where operations ceased in 1997. Benzoic acid is a degradation product of the explosives disposed of(7).

DRINKING WATER: In a five city survey of drinking water, 15 ppm benzoic acid was found in the tap water of Otumwa, IA but not in that of Miami, FL, Seattle, WA, Philadelphia, PA or Cincinnati, OH(1). Another study found the compound in water from the Torresdale water treatment plant in Philadelphia, PA(2). Benzoic acid was detected, but not quantified, in treated drinking water in England whose source was a lowland river containing relatively high levels of wastewater(3).

SURFACE WATER: Benzoic acid was detected, but not quantified, in a Norwegian river downstream from an industrial treatment facility(1).

SRP: Wastewater from contaminant suppression, cleaning of protective clothing/equipment, or contaminated sites should be contained and evaluated for subject chemical or decomposition product concentrations. Concentrations shall be lower than applicable environmental discharge or disposal criteria. Alternatively, pretreatment and/or discharge to a permitted wastewater treatment facility is acceptable only after review by the governing authority and assurance that "pass through" violations will not occur. Due consideration shall be given to remediation worker exposure (inhalation, dermal and ingestion) as well as fate during treatment, transfer and disposal. If it is not practicable to manage the chemical in this fashion, it must be evaluated in accordance with EPA 40 CFR Part 261, specifically Subpart B, in order to determine the appropriate local, state and federal requirements for disposal.

The following wastewater treatment technologies have been investigated for benzoic acid: concentration process: biological treatment.

Incineration: Waste material can be burned in an approved incinerator with an afterburner, as a soln in a flammable solvent or as a solid packaged in paper, plastic or cardboard.

The following wastewater treatment technologies have been investigated for benzoic acid: concentration process: activated carbon.

The following wastewater treatment technologies have been investigated for benzoic acid: concentration process: resin adsorption.

49 663 40; Benzoic Acid