3,4-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 (99.7%): Toxic if swallowed [Danger Acute toxicity, oral]

H311 (100%): Toxic in contact with skin [Danger Acute toxicity, dermal]

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

H317 (79.9%): May cause an allergic skin reaction [Warning Sensitization, Skin]

H318 (81.6%): Causes serious eye damage [Danger Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

H411 (100%): Toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

P260, P261, P262, P264, P264+P265, P270, P272, P273, P280, P301+P316, P301+P330+P331, P302+P352, P302+P361+P354, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P316, P317, P321, P330, P333+P317, P361+P364, P362+P364, P363, P391, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Aggregated GHS information provided per 1623 reports by companies from 10 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.

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

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

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

H351: Suspected of causing cancer [Warning Carcinogenicity]

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

H412: Harmful to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

P203, P260, P261, P264, P264+P265, P270, P272, P273, P280, P301+P317, P301+P330+P331, P302+P352, P302+P361+P354, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P316, P317, P318, P321, P330, P333+P317, P362+P364, P363, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

P264, P270, P301+P317, P330, 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)

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.

The effectiveness of anaerobic filters containing granular activated carbon in treating synthetically prepared wastewaters which contained phenols, polycyclic hydroxy compounds, monocyclic n-aromatics, polycyclic n-aromatics, and aliphatic acids was evaluated. The ability of the activated carbon to retain these compounds along with its external surface, which provides vast sheltered microbial attachment areas, renders activated carbon a very unique medium for anaerobic filter treatment of coal gasification wastewater.

Chemical Treatability of 3,4-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: 95.5% reduction based on chemical oxygen demand; rate of biodegradation 13.4 mg chemical oxygen demand/g hr (activated sludge process).

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)

FIBER DRUMS. /COMMERCIAL MIXTURE/

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/

Wear appropriate chemical protective gloves, boots and goggles.

3,4-dimethylphenol appears as colorless to light tan crystalline powder or solid. Odor threshold 1.2 mg/L. Taste threshold 0.05 mg/L. (NTP, 1992)

Colorless to tan solid; Hygroscopic; [CAMEO] White or yellow crystalline solid; [MSDSonline]

Colourless crystalline solid

Needles from water

Prisms from ligroin

0.05 mg/l (taste threshold concn)

437 °F at 760 mmHg (NTP, 1992)

227.00 °C. @ 760.00 mm Hg

144.5 °F (NTP, 1992)

62 - 64 °C

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

Sol in ethyl alcohol, carbon tetrachloride, miscible in ethyl ether

Very sol in benzene, chloroform

Soluble in aromatic solvents

In water, 4.76X10+3 mg/l @ 25 °C.

4.76 mg/mL at 25 °C

slightly soluble in water; soluble in fat

moderately soluble (in ethanol)

0.983 at 68 °F (NTP, 1992) - Less dense than water; will float

0.983 @ 20 °C/4 °C

1 mmHg at 151.2 °F ; 5 mmHg at 200.8 °F; 10 mmHg at 225.9 °F (NTP, 1992)

0.03 [mmHg]

0.0356 mm Hg @ 25 °C

log Kow= 2.23

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

3.00 mN.s.m-2 at 80 °C

13,991.0 g cal/g mole

Odor threshold = 0.003 mg/m3 (detection in air)

0.003 mg/cu m (detection in air)

1.2 mg/l (detection in water)

Index of Refraction: 1.5268 @ 60 °C

pKa= 10.36 at 25 °C

128.7 Ų [M-H]- [CCS Type: DT; Buffer gas: N2; Ionization: ESI-; Dataset: TOXCAST; Source Identifier: DTXSID4024062]

Heat of fusion: 18.13 kJ/mole @ 60.8 °C

Dipole moment: 1.77 debye (benzene, 20 °C)

Dielectric constant: 4.8 at 17 °C

Hydroxyl radical rate constant = 8.14X10-11 cu-cm/molc sec @ 25 °C

13C nuclear magnetic resonance spectrum

Boiling point

Chemical shift

Hygroscopic. Insoluble in water.

Phenols and Cresols

3,4-DIMETHYLPHENOL is incompatible with bases, acid chlorides, acid anhydrides, and oxidizing agents. It corrodes steel, brass, copper, and copper alloys. (NTP, 1992)

3,4-Dimethylphenol

Cardiovascular

1 x 10 ^-3 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.

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

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 Mouse oral 400 mg/kg

LD50 Rabbit oral 800 mg/kg

A SPONTANEOUSLY DEVELOPING VASOCONSTRICTION IN ISOLATED PERFUSED LUNG AND THE VASOCONSTRICTION CAUSED BY ARTERIALLY INJECTED ATP 50 UG WERE BOTH INHIBITED BY THE ADDITION TO THE PERFUSATE OF VARIOUS PHENOLS INCLUDING 3,4-XYLENOL.

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/

3,4-DIMETHYLPHENOL WAS NONMUTAGENIC IN TA98 AND TA100 STRAINS OF THE SALMONELLA TYPHIMURIUM HISTIDINE-REVERSION TEST SYSTEM.

THE CILIOTOXICITY OF COMPOUNDS (INCLUDING 3,4-DIMETHYLPHENOL) REPRESENTATIVE OF THE GASEOUS AND SEMIVOLATILE PHASES OF TOBACCO SMOKE WAS INVESTIGATED USING CHICKEN TRACHEAL ORGAN CULTURES. THE ALKYLATED PHENOLS EXHIBITED GREATER CILIOSTATIC EFFECTS THAN PHENOL ITSELF.

... DIMETHYLPHENOLS WERE AS POTENT IN PROMOTING PAPILLOMAS AS PHENOL ITSELF (WITH THE EXCEPTION OF 2,6-DIMETHYLPHENOL, WHICH WAS INACTIVE) ... IT APPEARS THAT THERE MUST BE AT LEAST ONE UNSUBSTITUTED POSITION ORTHO TO THE PHENOLIC GROUP FOR PAPILLOMA-PROMOTING ACTIVITY /IN MICE/. /DIMETHYLPHENOLS/

TO ENSURE LONG TERM SURVIVAL OF SALMONIDS IN PRESENCE OF PHENOLIC WASTES, THE CONCN OF XYLENOLS SHOULD NOT EXCEED 1.9 MG/L, EITHER SINGLY OR COLLECTIVELY. /XYLENOLS/

Phenol, three cresols, and 2,5-, 2,4-, 3,5-, and 3,4-dimethylphenols were detected in ether extract of black fermented tea. ... Six of the 15 mice of Group 1 developed epithelial-cell carcinoma in the neck region after one painting of 3,4-benzopyrene followed by 55 paintings of brewed tea /over 110 days/. All other mice in this group developed pre-carcinogenic or carcinogenic stages of squamous-cell tumors. The mice of Group 2 after one painting of 3,4-benzopyrene only, developed no pathologic legions.

TLm Carassius carassius (Crucian carp) 21 mg/l/24 hr /Conditions of bioassay not specified/

TLm Rutilus rutilus (roach) 16 mg/l/24 hr /Conditions of bioassay not specified/

TLm Tinca tinca (tench) 18 mg/l/24 hr /Conditions of bioassay not specified/

TLm Salvelinus (trout embryos) 7 mg/l/24 hr /Conditions of bioassay not specified/

For more Ecotoxicity Values (Complete) data for 3,4-DIMETHYLPHENOL (9 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

6.30e+01

8.20e+02

1.80e+01

5.00e+00

2.10e-02

1.00e-03

Volatile

1.90e+02

2.50e+03

5.40e+01

3,4-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 the starting material for the insecticide meobal, as a component of automobile and diesel exhaust and as a product of the combustion of vegetable materials may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. In addition, dimethylphenols, of which 3,4-dimethylphenol is an isomer, are present in essential oils of various conifers, in tea, in tobacco and tobacco smoke, in roasted coffee and in various smoked foods. If released to air, a vapor pressure of 0.036 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates that 3,4-dimethylphenol will exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase 3,4-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 4.7 hours. There is potential for the direct photolysis of 3,4-dimethylphenol since a small band extends over 290 nm and thus 3,4-dimethylphenol may absorb light in the environmental UV spectrum. If released to soil, 3,4-dimethylphenol is expected to have moderate mobility based upon an estimated Koc of 390. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 1.2X10-6 atm-cu m/mole. Complete biodegradation of 3,4-dimethylphenol occurred in 9 days within a hard, carbonaceous woody loam. If released into water, 3,4-dimethylphenol is expected to adsorb very little to suspended solids and sediment in the water column based upon the estimated Koc. Screening studies indicate theoretical oxygen demand reached 45.8% after 5 days. In addition, it has been reported that 3,4-dimethylphenol was readily degraded in St. Lawrence River water. Biodegradation under anaerobic conditions failed to occur after 24 days. Volatilization from water surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon this compound's estimated Henry's Law constant. Estimated volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 34 days and 250 days, respectively. An estimated BCF of 29 suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low. Hydrolysis is not expected to occur due to the lack of hydrolyzable functional groups. Occupational exposure to 3,4-dimethylphenol may occur through inhalation of this compound at workplaces where 3,4-dimethylphenol is produced or used. The general population may be exposed to 3,4-dimethylphenol via inhalation of ambient air (i.e., tobacco smoke and automobile exhaust), ingestion of food and drinking water, and contact with other products containing 3,4-dimethylphenol. (SRC)

Dimethylphenols, of which 3,4-dimethylphenol is an isomer, are present in the essential oils of various conifers(1), in tea(4,5), in tobacco and tobacco smoke(1-3,5), in roasted coffee and in various smoked foods(5).

TLm Carassius carassius (Crucian carp) 21 mg/l/24 hr /Conditions of bioassay not specified/

TLm Rutilus rutilus (roach) 16 mg/l/24 hr /Conditions of bioassay not specified/

TLm Tinca tinca (tench) 18 mg/l/24 hr /Conditions of bioassay not specified/

TLm Salvelinus (trout embryos) 7 mg/l/24 hr /Conditions of bioassay not specified/

For more Ecotoxicity Values (Complete) data for 3,4-DIMETHYLPHENOL (9 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

6.30e+01

8.20e+02

1.80e+01

5.00e+00

2.10e-02

1.00e-03

Volatile

1.90e+02

2.50e+03

5.40e+01

3,4-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 the starting material for the insecticide meobal, as a component of automobile and diesel exhaust and as a product of the combustion of vegetable materials may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. In addition, dimethylphenols, of which 3,4-dimethylphenol is an isomer, are present in essential oils of various conifers, in tea, in tobacco and tobacco smoke, in roasted coffee and in various smoked foods. If released to air, a vapor pressure of 0.036 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates that 3,4-dimethylphenol will exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase 3,4-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 4.7 hours. There is potential for the direct photolysis of 3,4-dimethylphenol since a small band extends over 290 nm and thus 3,4-dimethylphenol may absorb light in the environmental UV spectrum. If released to soil, 3,4-dimethylphenol is expected to have moderate mobility based upon an estimated Koc of 390. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 1.2X10-6 atm-cu m/mole. Complete biodegradation of 3,4-dimethylphenol occurred in 9 days within a hard, carbonaceous woody loam. If released into water, 3,4-dimethylphenol is expected to adsorb very little to suspended solids and sediment in the water column based upon the estimated Koc. Screening studies indicate theoretical oxygen demand reached 45.8% after 5 days. In addition, it has been reported that 3,4-dimethylphenol was readily degraded in St. Lawrence River water. Biodegradation under anaerobic conditions failed to occur after 24 days. Volatilization from water surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon this compound's estimated Henry's Law constant. Estimated volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 34 days and 250 days, respectively. An estimated BCF of 29 suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low. Hydrolysis is not expected to occur due to the lack of hydrolyzable functional groups. Occupational exposure to 3,4-dimethylphenol may occur through inhalation of this compound at workplaces where 3,4-dimethylphenol is produced or used. The general population may be exposed to 3,4-dimethylphenol via inhalation of ambient air (i.e., tobacco smoke and automobile exhaust), ingestion of food and drinking water, and contact with other products containing 3,4-dimethylphenol. (SRC)

Dimethylphenols, of which 3,4-dimethylphenol is an isomer, are present in the essential oils of various conifers(1), in tea(4,5), in tobacco and tobacco smoke(1-3,5), in roasted coffee and in various smoked foods(5).

/SRP/: 3,4-DIMETHYLPHENOL IS A CONSTITUENT OF ... AUTOMOBILE EXHAUST, AND SHALE OIL WASTE WATERS.

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

The nature and extent of pollution was determined at the site of a former pine-tar manufacturer in Gainsville, Florida. In 1979 EPA conducted an investigation of this area. Compound distribution at various areas about the site revealed that, in addition to groundwater leaching of soluble phenolics, insoluble contaminants were spread by a dike-breach incident and subsequent construction activities. Differences in the patterns of chemicals in various wells suggested that more than 1 source of pollution occurred. The distribution of compounds about the site indicated that a general clean-up would not be cost-effective. Placement of an intereceptor to collect groundwater seepage that contaminated surface water was considered as an alternative. One of the 43 compounds identified in soil extracts was 3,4-dimethylphenol.

3,4-Dimethylphenol's use for the preparation of coal tar disinfectants(1), in the manufacture of artificial resins(1), as a constituent of coal tar creosote (0.5 wt%)(2), as the starting material for the insecticide meobal(3), as a component of automobile and diesel exhaust(4-7) and as a product of the combustion of vegetable materials (chestnut extract, tannic acid, fruits and vegetables)(8) may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams(SRC). Dimethylphenols, of which 3,4-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 390(SRC), determined from a log Kow of 2.23(2) and a regression-derived equation(3), indicates that 3,4-dimethylphenol is expected to have moderate mobility in soil(SRC). Volatilization of 3,4-dimethylphenol from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process(SRC) given an estimated Henry's Law constant of 1.2X10-6 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), determined from its vapor pressure of 0.036 mm Hg(4) and water solubility of 4760 mg/l(5). 3,4-Dimethylphenol is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces based upon a its vapor pressure(3). 3,4-Dimethylphenol has been reported to completely biodegrade in soil in 9 days at a temperature of 19 °C(6).

AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), a Koc value of 390(SRC), determined from a log Kow of 2.23(2) and a regression-derived equation(3), indicates that 3,4-dimethylphenol is expected to adsorb very little to suspended solids and sediment in water(SRC). 3,4-Dimethylphenol is expected to volatilize from water surfaces(3,SRC) based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 1.2X10-6 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), determined from its vapor pressure of 0.036 mm Hg(4) and water solubility of 4760 mg/l(5). Estimated volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 34 days and 250 days, respectively(3,SRC). According to a classification scheme(6), an estimated BCF of 29(3,SRC), from 3,4-dimethylphenol's log Kow(2), suggests bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC). In humic waters, degradation by the reaction with peroxy radicals should ensue with a half-life on the order of hours(7). 3,4-Dimethylphenol is not expected to undergo hydrolysis in the environment due to the lack of hydrolyzable functional groups(3). Screening studies indicate that theoretical oxygen demand reached 43% after 5 days(8,9). In addition, it has been reported that 3,4-dimethylphenol was readily degraded in St. Lawrence River water(10). Biodegradation under anaerobic conditions failed to occur after 24 days from a river sediment inoculum(11).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), 3,4-dimethylphenol, which has a vapor pressure of 0.036 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), is expected to exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase 3,4-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 4.7 hours(SRC) from its rate constant of 8.14X10-11 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(3). Atmospheric 3,4-dimethylphenol is known to be removed by rainwater(4). 3,4-Dimethylphenol has an absorption band at 274 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).

... Adapted activated sludge at 20 °C, product is sole carbon source: 97% chemical oxygen demand removal at 13 mg chemical oxygen demand/g dry inoculum/hr ... .

In shake flask studies, an initial 3,4-dimethylphenol concentration of 0.4 ug/ml was reduced to below detection following 2 weeks incubation in contaminated groundwater from the American Creosote Works Superfund site, Pensacola, FL(1). 3,4-Dimethylphenol was readily degraded in St. Lawrence River water(2). Organisms originally obtained from soil and sewage sites which were adapted to decompose phenol were also found to decompose 3,4-dimethylphenol(3). 3,4-Dimethylphenol completely biodegraded in nine days within a hard, carbonaceous woody loam at 19 °C(4). Using a biological treatment simulator, 45.8% theoretical oxygen demand after 10 days was obtained for 3,4-dimethylphenol from a coal gasification waste water feed and an acclimated sludge seed(5). After 5 days, 97.5% chemical oxygen demand loss was obtained for 3,4-dimethylphenol in a screening test with an adapted activated sludge seed(6). In a screening test, a theoretical biological oxygen demand for 3,4-dimethylphenol using an activated sludge seed was 27% after 12 hr(7). In five days, a 43% theoretical biological oxygen demand was obtained from a screening test using a sewage seed(8).

ANAEROBIC: It was determined that methanogenic consortia, using Saale river sediment collected near Jena, Germany as the inoculum, failed to biodegrade 3,4-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). However, in another study, it was determined that 3,4-dimethylphenol degraded to methane and carbon dioxide in the presence of dilute sewage sludge, time not specified(3).

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of 3,4-dimethylphenol with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals has been determined to be 8.14X10-11 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(1). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 4.7 hours at an atmospheric concn of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(1). 3,4-Dimethylphenol has an absorption band at 274 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). 3,4-Dimethylphenol is not expected to undergo hydrolysis in the environment due to the lack of hydrolyzable functional groups(3).

An estimated BCF of 29 was calculated for 3,4-dimethylphenol(SRC), using a log Kow of 2.23(1) and a regression-derived equation(2). According to a classification scheme(3), this BCF suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low.

The Koc of 3,4-dimethylphenol is estimated as 390(SRC), using a log Kow of 2.23(1) and a regression-derived equation(2). According to a classification scheme(3), this estimated Koc value suggests that 3,4-dimethylphenol is expected to have moderate mobility in soil(SRC). 65.2% of 3,4-dimethylphenol was sorbed onto the high clay content, adsorption activated material Bentone 24 at pH= 7.8; 13% with Bentone 18C at pH 7.7; these values fluctuate as a function of pH(4).

The Henry's Law constant for 3,4-dimethylphenol is estimated as 1.2X10-6 atm-cu m/mole(SRC) from its experimental values for vapor pressure, 0.036 mm Hg(1), and water solubility, 4760 mg/l(2). This Henry's Law constant indicates that 3,4-dimethylphenol is expected to volatilize from water surfaces(3). Based on this Henry's Law constant, the volatilization half-life from a model river (1 m deep, flowing 1 m/sec, wind velocity of 3 m/sec)(3) is estimated as 34 days(SRC). The volatilization half-life from a model lake (1 m deep, flowing 0.05 m/sec, wind velocity of 0.5 m/sec)(3) is estimated as approximately 250 days(SRC). 3,4-Dimethylphenol's estimated Henry's Law constant(1,2) indicates that volatilization from moist soil surfaces is expected to occur(SRC). 3,4-Dimethylphenol is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon a vapor pressure of 0.036 mm Hg(1).

GROUNDWATER: 3,4-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 3,4-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 1.05 mg/l and 0.95-3.23 mg/l, respectively(2). Groundwater samples collected from three creosote-contaminated sites in Denmark, date unspecified, were found to contain 3,4-dimethylphenol ranging in concn from below detection to 100 ug/l(3). 3,4-Dimethylphenol was detected at a concn of 0.4 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 3,4-dimethylphenol ranging in concn from below detection to 0.50 mg/l(5).

GROUNDWATER: 3,4-Dimethylphenol was found in concns ranging from 1-130 ug/l in 4 out of 4 up-gradient wells, and 1,800-9,400 ug/l in 6 out of 7 down-gradient wells near a former pine-tar manufacturing facility in Gainesville, FL, analyzed as a mixture with 2,5-dimethylphenol(1). Studies near a closed wood preserving facility in Pensacola, FL detected 3,4-dimethylphenol in groundwater ranging from 2.20 mg/l at 6 m depth and 0.85 mg/l at 18 m depth approximately 170 m from the plant site; at approximately 330 m from the site, 0.16 mg/l 3,4-dimethylphenol was detected at a depth of 6 m but was not detected at a depth of 12 m(2). 3,4-Dimethylphenol was detected in concns ranging from 7.1 to 780 ppm in groundwater samples from two aquifers near underground coal gasification sites in northeastern Wyoming(3).

DRINKING WATER: 3,4-Dimethylphenol was found qualitatively in finished drinking water in Cincinnati, OH, Jan 1980(1).

SURFACE WATER: 3,4-Dimethylphenol was qualitatively identified in samples from the Saint Lawrence River(1).

RAIN/SNOW: In 1984, 3,4-dimethylphenol was detected in seven rain events in Portland, OR, with concns ranging from 54-190 ng/l range and averaging 130 ng/l(1).

3,4-Dimethylphenol was measured in raw waste water from a paper mill at 0.0457 mg/l in 1974, and had been observed at this site in 1972. It was not detected in the treated effluent from the plant(1). 3,4-Dimethylphenol was identified in Los Angeles County, CA effluent (1980-81) at 20 ug/l(2). Waste water from the gasification of Indian Head lignite coal in North Dakota was determined to have an approximate 3,4-dimethylphenol concn of 158 mg/l(3). 3,4-Dimethylphenol was detected in treated refinery effluent (Geelong, Victoria, Australia, 1985) at a concn of 0.02 mg/l(4). 3,4-Dimethylphenol was identified but not quantified in leachate collected from a Swedish municipal landfill in May 1990(5). 3,4-Dimethylphenol was also identified in the leachate from a sanitary landfill in Barcelona, Spain(6).

3,4-Dimethylphenol was qualitatively detected in soil samples at site of a former pine-tar manufacturer in Gainesville, FL(1).

URBAN/SUBURBAN: In 1984, a gas phase concn of 3,4-dimethylphenol was detected in two of seven rain events in Portland, OR, at 5.4 and 3.5 ng/cu m respectively. The amount associated with adsorption to particulate matter was <5% of the gas phase concn in every case(1). Not detected in either rural or urban air samples (detection limit = 0.05 ug/cu m)(2). SOURCE DOMINATED: Although found in gasoline and diesel motor exhaust, it was not detected in an Allegheny Mountain highway tunnel(3).

3,4-Dimethylphenol was identified as a volatile flavor component of the Japanese dried food, Bonito(1).

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.

The effectiveness of anaerobic filters containing granular activated carbon in treating synthetically prepared wastewaters which contained phenols, polycyclic hydroxy compounds, monocyclic n-aromatics, polycyclic n-aromatics, and aliphatic acids was evaluated. The ability of the activated carbon to retain these compounds along with its external surface, which provides vast sheltered microbial attachment areas, renders activated carbon a very unique medium for anaerobic filter treatment of coal gasification wastewater.

Chemical Treatability of 3,4-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: 95.5% reduction based on chemical oxygen demand; rate of biodegradation 13.4 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 3,4-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.