1,2,4,5-Tetrachlorobenzene

This chemical does not meet GHS hazard criteria for 1.1% (1 of 94) of reports.

H302 (98.9%): Harmful if swallowed [Warning Acute toxicity, oral]

H315 (50%): Causes skin irritation [Warning Skin corrosion/irritation]

H319 (50%): Causes serious eye irritation [Warning Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

H335 (40.4%): May cause respiratory irritation [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure; Respiratory tract irritation]

H400 (55.3%): Very toxic to aquatic life [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, acute hazard]

H410 (55.3%): Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

P261, P264, P264+P265, P270, P271, P273, P280, P301+P317, P302+P352, P304+P340, P305+P351+P338, P319, P321, P330, P332+P317, P337+P317, P362+P364, P391, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Aggregated GHS information provided per 94 reports by companies from 8 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 94 reports by companies.

There are 7 notifications provided by 93 of 94 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]

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

H362: May cause harm to breast-fed children [Reproductive toxicity, effects on or via lactation]

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

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

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, P263, P264, P270, P271, P273, P280, P301+P317, P304+P340, P318, P319, P330, P391, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Fresh air, rest. Refer for medical attention.

Remove contaminated clothes. Rinse skin with plenty of water or shower.

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)

Fires involving this material can be controlled with a dry chemical, carbon dioxide or Halon extinguisher. A water spray may also be used. (NTP, 1992)

Use powder, carbon dioxide.

/USE/ CARBON DIOXIDE /&/ DRY CHEMICAL.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 171 [Substances (Low to Moderate Hazard)]:

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)

Personal protection: P2 filter respirator for harmful particles. Do NOT let this chemical enter the environment. Sweep spilled substance into covered containers. If appropriate, moisten first to prevent dusting.

Environmental considerations: Land spill: Dig a pit, pond, lagoon, holding area to contain liquid or solid material. /SRP: If time permits, pits, ponds, lagoons, soak holes, or holding areas should be sealed with an impermeable flexible membrane liner./ Dike surface flow using soil, sand bags, foamed polyurethane, or foamed concrete. Absorb bulk liquid with fly ash, cement powder, or commercial sorbents. Apply universal gelling agent to immobilize spill. Apply appropriate foam to diminish vapor and fire hazard. /Chlorobenzene/

Environmental considerations: Water spill: Use natural deep water pockets, excavated lagoons, or sand bag barriers to trap material at bottom. If dissolved, in region of 10 ppm or greater concn, 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. /Chlorobenzene/

Environmental considerations: Air spill: Apply water spray or mist to knock down vapors. Combustion products include corrosive or toxic vapors. /Chlorobenzene/

Generators of waste (equal to or greater than 100 kg/mo) containing this contaminant, EPA hazardous waste number U207, must conform with USEPA regulations in storage, transportation, treatment and disposal of waste.

A potential candidate for rotary kiln incineration at a temperature range of 820 to 1,600 °C and residence times of seconds for liquids and gases, and hours for solids. A potential candidate for fluidized bed incineration at a temperature range of 450 to 980 °C and residence times of seconds for liquids and gases, and longer for solids. A potential candidate for liquid injection incineration at a temperature range of 650 to 1,600 °C and a residence time of 0.1 to 2 seconds.

The following wastewater treatment technologies have been investigated for 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene: Biological treatment.

If material /is/ 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. Attempt to stop leak if without undue personnel hazard. Use water spray to knock down vapors. /Chlorobenzene/

Avoid breathing vapors. Keep upwind. /Chlorobenzene/

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

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 protect this material from exposure to light. Store it under refrigerated temperatures, and keep it away from oxidizing materials and alkalies. (NTP, 1992)

Separated from strong oxidants.

4.5 [mg/m3]

50 [mg/m3]

300 [mg/m3]

Evaporation at 20 °C is negligible; a harmful concentration of airborne particles can, however, be reached quickly on spraying or when dispersed, especially if powdered.

The substance may have effects on the liver. This may result in liver impairment.

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

... Wear appropriate chemical protective gloves, boots and goggles. /Chlorobenzene/

NO open flames.

Use local exhaust.

Protective gloves.

Wear safety goggles.

Do not eat, drink, or smoke during work.

1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene appears as odorless white flakes or chunky solid. (NTP, 1992)

Colorless needles with a strong, unpleasant odor; [HSDB]

COLOURLESS CRYSTALS.

COLORLESS SUBLIMABLE NEEDLES

STRONG, UNPLEASANT ODOR

464 to 475 °F at 760 mmHg (NTP, 1992)

244.5 °C

243-246 °C

244.5 °C @760 [mm Hg]

280 to 284 °F (NTP, 1992)

139.5 °C

139-140 °C

311 °F (NTP, 1992)

311 °F (155 °C) (closed cup)

155 °C c.c.

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

Slightly soluble in ethanol; soluble in ether and benzene

In water, 0.595 mg/l at 25 °C.

Solubility in water, mg/l at 25 °C: 2.16

1.858 at 70 °F (NTP, 1992) - Denser than water; will sink

1.833 kg/l

Heat of fusion: 112.2 J/g; heat capacity for liquid: 1.142 J/g; critical density: 0.475 kg/l

1.83 g/cm³

1.858 @ 22°C

7.4 (NTP, 1992) - Heavier than air; will sink (Relative to Air)

7.4 (air=1)

Relative vapor density (air = 1): 7.4

less than 0.1 mmHg at 77 °F ; 40 mmHg at 295 °F (NTP, 1992)

0.0054 [mmHg]

0.0054 mm Hg at 25 °C

Vapor pressure, Pa at 25 °C: 0.7

0.0054 [mm Hg] @25 °C

Log Kow= 4.60

Henry's Law constant = 1.0X10-3 atm-cu m/mol at 20 °C

WHEN HEATED TO DECOMPOSITION IT EMITS HIGHLY TOXIC FUMES OF /HYDROGEN CHLORIDE/.

221.8 J/g

NEEDLES, MONOCLINIC PRISMS FROM ETHER, ALCOHOL OR BENZENE

13C nuclear magnetic resonance spectrum

Schoenflies notation

Angular frequency

Insoluble in water.

Aryl Halides

1,2,4,5-TETRACHLOROBENZENE is incompatible with strong oxidizing agents. Reacts violently with sodium hydroxide in methanol. Several explosions have occurred during alkaline hydrolysis. (NTP, 1992)

... Serious accidents have occurred during the commercial preparation of 2,4,5-trichlorophenol by alkaline partial hydrolysis of 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene during the period 1949 to 1976 ... The earlier process used methanolic alkali under autogenous pressure to effect the hydrolysis, and on 2 occasions around 1949 the reaction at 125 °C went out of control, one attaining 400 °C. ... In a further incidents in 1953, the explosion was associated with the post reaction stage during distillation of methanol from the reaction mixture. The later process used ethylene glycol as solvent to effect hydrolysis with sodium hydroxide and operated essentially at or near atmosphere pressure. ... Violent decomposition could ... occur during the subsequent solvent distillation phase in the absence of effective temp control. A laboratory residue from vacuum stripping using electric heating (without knowledge of the liquid temp) exploded when the vapor temp had reached 160 °C. In the Coalite plant incident in 1968, where the hydrolysis was run at about 180 °C in a reaction vessel heated by circulating oil at 300 °C, failure of the manually regulated oil heating system led to an uncontrollable temp incr during 50 min to above 250 °C, when a violent explosion occurred.

... CAN REACT VIGOROUSLY WITH OXIDIZING MATERIALS.

1,2,4,5-Tetrachlorobenzene

3 x 10 ^-4 mg/kg-day

The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation of its aerosol and by ingestion.

Neurotoxin - Acute solvent syndrome

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.

3 x 10^-5 mg/kg-day

PDF Document

Inadequate information to assess carcinogenic potential

PPRTV Memo

PPRTV Current

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 ... . For eye contamination, flush eyes immediately with water. Irrigate each eye continuously with normal saline 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. Administer activated charcoal ... . /Aromatic hydrocarbons and related compounds/

Advanced treatment: Consider orotracheal or nasotracheal intubation for airway control in the patient who unconscious or 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 lactated Ringer's to maintain hydration and adequate urine flow. Watch for signs of fluid overload and pulmonary edema. Consider drug therapy for pulmonary edema ... . Treat seizures with diazepam (Valium) ... . Use proparacaine hydrochloride to assist eye irrigation ... . /Aromatic hydrocarbons and related compounds/

WORKERS PRODUCING 1,2,4,5-TETRACHLOROBENZENE SHOWED A CLUSTER OF CHROMOSOMAL ABERRATIONS. NO APPRECIABLE INCREASE WAS FOUND IN THE LINDANE WORKERS; CHROMATID-TYPE ABERATIONS WERE MODERATELY INCREASED IN WORKERS IN THE BASUDIN E (DIAZINON) AND THE SAFIDON 40 WP (PHOSMET) GROUPS; STABLE CHROMOSOME-TYPE ABERRATIONS WERE OBSERVED IN THE DITRIFON 50 (TRICHLOROFON) AND THE BASUDIN E GROUPS.

OF 12 CHLORINATED BENZENES GIVEN ORALLY TO RATS, THE ONES WITH HIGHEST CHLORINE NUMBER, SUCH AS 1,2,3,4-TETRACHLOROBENZENE, HAD THE MOST DELTA-AMINOLEVULINIC ACID SYNTHETASE (DELTA-ALA), CYTOCHROME P450 & DRUG METABOLIZING ENZYME INCREASING ACTIVITY.

PURE HEXACHLOROBENZENE & DIFFERENT MIXT WERE FED TO RATS. 20% OF HEXACHLOROBENZENE WAS REPLACED BY 1,2,4,5-TETRACHLOROBENZENE. DETERMINATION OF PORPHYRINS AT DIFFERENT INTERVALS ONCE FEEDING HAD STARTED DID NOT GIVE RISE TO AN INCR IN PORPHYRIA.

1,2,4,5-TETRACHLOROBENZENE WAS ADMIN IN DIET TO DOGS AT 5 MG/KG/DAY FOR 2 YR, FOLLOWED BY A 20 MONTH RECOVERY PHASE. AFTER 18 MO OF EXPOSURE, ALL CLINICAL CHEM PARAMETERS WERE NORMAL. AFTER 24 MO, SERUM ALKALINE PHOSPHATASE ACTIVITY & TOTAL BILIRUBIN LEVELS WERE SLIGHTLY ELEVATED.

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.

For more Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for 1,2,4,5-TETRACHLOROBENZENE (13 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

The following link will take the user to the National Toxicology Program (NTP) Test Agent Search Results page, which tabulates all of the "Standard Toxicology & Carcinogenesis Studies", "Developmental Studies", and "Genetic Toxicity Studies" performed with this chemical. Clicking on the "Testing Status" link will take the user to the status (i.e., in review, in progress, in preparation, on test, completed, etc.) and results of all the studies that the NTP has done on this chemical. [http://ntp-apps.niehs.nih.gov/ntp_tox/index.cfm?fuseaction=ntpsearch.searchresults&searchterm=95-94-3]

1,2,4,5-Tetrachlorobenzene (TCB) was tested for its effects on fertility & reproduction in Swiss CD-1 mice using the continuous breeding protocol. Male & female mice (F0) were continuously exposed for a 7 day precohabitation & a 98 day cohabitation period (Task 2) to TCB at levels of 0.028, 0.072, & 0.18% /weight/volume/ in the diet. TCB treatment at 0.18% was significantly more toxic than anticipated. Nineteen of the 20 high-dose females died (or were humanely sacrificed) & almost all of these deaths occurred at parturition. None of the males died. In the 0.072% group, a 9% (significant) decr in the number of live pups/litter was noted; no changes were observed in pup weights, proportion of male pups, or days to deliver each litter. Task 3, the determination of the affected sex, was not conducted, given the small change in litter size. At terminal sacrifice, the avg liver weight & the liver-to-body weight ratio in F0 males exposed to 0.18% TCB were almost twice the control values. In the F1 generation, liver & kidneys were enlarged in both sexes exposed to 0.072% TCB. Sperm abnormalities were greater in the 0.18% TCB group by 40%, compared to controls. Seminal vesicle weight was increased in the high-dose-treated males. The second generation was reared consuming control diet, or diet with 0.072% TCB. At sexual maturity, there was no difference in mating, litter size, pup weight (absolute or adjusted), or dam weight. At F1 necropsy, there was an incr in the absolute & relative weights of liver, kidneys, & testis in the 0.072% TCB group, with similar increases in female liver & kidneys weights. There was no change in F1 female estrual cycle parameters. TCB, under the present experimental conditions, exerted mild reproductive toxicity in the presence of considerable systemic toxicity. Thus, TCB is a reproductive toxicant in the presence of significant systemic toxicity.

The skin absorption of 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene (TCB) was studied in male New Zealand rabbits (number of animals not reported) exposed to TCB by skin painting at concentrations of 0, 1 or 2 g/kg. The animals were placed on their backs and were denied access to food or water. Blood samples were taken at 3, 6, 12, and 24 hrs, the samples were extracted with isooctane, and the extracts analyzed for the presence of TCB. No TCB was detected in blood plasma up to 24 hrs after skin application. The TCB animals exhibited symptoms of hyperemia and slight edema of the skin.

... Certain medical conditions /skin, liver, kidney, & chronic respiratory disease/ ... might place the employee at increased risk from chlorobenzene exposure. /Chlorobenzene/

LC50 Bluegill (sunfish) 5.69 mg/l/24 hr; 4.35 mg/l/48 hr; 1.55 mg/l/96 hr /Conditions of bioassay not specified/

LC50 Sheepshead minnow > 1.80 mg/l/24 hr; 0.90 mg/l/48 hr /Conditions of bioassay not specified/

LC50 Guppy (Poecilia reticulata) 0.30 ppm/14 days /Conditions of bioassay not specified/

2.30e+00

3.50e+01

1.70e-01

1.00e+02

7.90e-04

Volatile

7.00e+00

1.10e+02

5.10e-01

The substance is very toxic to aquatic organisms. Bioaccumulation of this chemical may occur in fish.

1,2,4,5-Tetrachlorobenzene's former production and use as an insecticide and intermediate in the production of herbicides and defoliants will have resulted 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 0.005 mm Hg at 25 °C, 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene is expected to exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene is degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals with an estimated atmospheric half-life of 200 days. 1,2,4,5-Tetrachlorobenzene is expected to have low mobility in soils based upon log Koc values in the range of 3.2-3.9. Volatilization of 1,2,4,5-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 1.0X10-3 atm-cu m/mole at 20 °C, but adsorption may attenuate this process. Biodegradation of 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene is expected to occur slowly based on a half-life of 47 days in a sewage sludge amended soil and a half-life of 29 days in anaerobic river sediment. In water, 1,2,4,5-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 if adsorption is neglected. The volatilization half-life from a model pond is about 34 days when adsorption is considered. When irradiated with light greater than 285 nm, this compound was 61 percent degraded in a water solution in 16 hrs, suggesting that photolysis in surface waters may be important. Bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is considered high based on BCF values in the range of 1,600 to 4,800 measured in carp and log BCF values of 3.7-4.1 measured in trout. The general population may be exposed to 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene via inhalation of ambient air, ingestion of food and drinking water. (SRC)

The Interagency Testing Committee (ITC) cited several possible sources of contamination /of air, water, soil, and food chains by chlorinated benzenes/ which include the use of chlorinated benzenes as chemical intermediates, as solvents in the manufacture of dyes, as lubricants and pesticides, and as transformer oils. /Chlorinated benzenes/

1,2,4,5-Tetrachlorobenzene's /former/ production and use as an insecticide and intermediate in the production of herbicides and defoliants may have resulted in its release to the environment through various waste streams(1,SRC).

1,2,4,5-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).

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a recommended classification scheme(1), and log Koc values in the range of 3.2-3.9(2-4), 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene is expected to have low mobility in soil(SRC). Volatilization of 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene is expected from moist soil surfaces(SRC) given its Henry's Law constant of 1.0X10-3 atm-cu m/mole at 20 °C(5), but adsorption may attenuate this process(SRC). Volatilization of 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene from dry soil surfaces is not expected(SRC) based on a vapor pressure of 0.005 mm Hg at 25 °C(5). Biodegradation is expected to occur slowly based on a half-life of 47 days in a sewage sludge ammended soil(6).

LC50 Bluegill (sunfish) 5.69 mg/l/24 hr; 4.35 mg/l/48 hr; 1.55 mg/l/96 hr /Conditions of bioassay not specified/

LC50 Sheepshead minnow > 1.80 mg/l/24 hr; 0.90 mg/l/48 hr /Conditions of bioassay not specified/

LC50 Guppy (Poecilia reticulata) 0.30 ppm/14 days /Conditions of bioassay not specified/

2.30e+00

3.50e+01

1.70e-01

1.00e+02

7.90e-04

Volatile

7.00e+00

1.10e+02

5.10e-01

The substance is very toxic to aquatic organisms. Bioaccumulation of this chemical may occur in fish.

1,2,4,5-Tetrachlorobenzene's former production and use as an insecticide and intermediate in the production of herbicides and defoliants will have resulted 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 0.005 mm Hg at 25 °C, 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene is expected to exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene is degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals with an estimated atmospheric half-life of 200 days. 1,2,4,5-Tetrachlorobenzene is expected to have low mobility in soils based upon log Koc values in the range of 3.2-3.9. Volatilization of 1,2,4,5-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 1.0X10-3 atm-cu m/mole at 20 °C, but adsorption may attenuate this process. Biodegradation of 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene is expected to occur slowly based on a half-life of 47 days in a sewage sludge amended soil and a half-life of 29 days in anaerobic river sediment. In water, 1,2,4,5-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 if adsorption is neglected. The volatilization half-life from a model pond is about 34 days when adsorption is considered. When irradiated with light greater than 285 nm, this compound was 61 percent degraded in a water solution in 16 hrs, suggesting that photolysis in surface waters may be important. Bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is considered high based on BCF values in the range of 1,600 to 4,800 measured in carp and log BCF values of 3.7-4.1 measured in trout. The general population may be exposed to 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene via inhalation of ambient air, ingestion of food and drinking water. (SRC)

The Interagency Testing Committee (ITC) cited several possible sources of contamination /of air, water, soil, and food chains by chlorinated benzenes/ which include the use of chlorinated benzenes as chemical intermediates, as solvents in the manufacture of dyes, as lubricants and pesticides, and as transformer oils. /Chlorinated benzenes/

1,2,4,5-Tetrachlorobenzene's /former/ production and use as an insecticide and intermediate in the production of herbicides and defoliants may have resulted in its release to the environment through various waste streams(1,SRC).

1,2,4,5-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).

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a recommended classification scheme(1), and log Koc values in the range of 3.2-3.9(2-4), 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene is expected to have low mobility in soil(SRC). Volatilization of 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene is expected from moist soil surfaces(SRC) given its Henry's Law constant of 1.0X10-3 atm-cu m/mole at 20 °C(5), but adsorption may attenuate this process(SRC). Volatilization of 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene from dry soil surfaces is not expected(SRC) based on a vapor pressure of 0.005 mm Hg at 25 °C(5). Biodegradation is expected to occur slowly based on a half-life of 47 days in a sewage sludge ammended soil(6).

AQUATIC FATE: Based on a recommended classification scheme(1), and log Koc values in the range of 3.2-3.9(2-4), 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene is expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediments in water(SRC). 1,2,4,5-Tetrachlorobenzene is expected to volatilize from water surfaces(5,SRC) given its Henry's Law constant of 1.0X10-3 atm-cu m/mole at 20 °C(6), 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(5,SRC). The volatilization half-life in a model pond is approximately 34 days when adsorption is considered(7). According to a classification scheme(8), BCF values in the range of 1,600 to 4,800, measured in carp(9) and log BCF values of 3.7-4.1 measured in trout(10), suggest that bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is high(SRC). Biodegradation is expected to occur slowly based on a half-life of 29 days measured in anaerobic river sediment(11). When irradiated with light greater than 285 nm, this compound was degraded 61 percent in a water solution in 16 hrs(12), 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), 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene, which has a vapor pressure of 0.005 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), is expected to exist in the vapor phase in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase 1,2,4,5-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).

Using the Warburg technique, 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene was not biologically-oxidized by benzene-acclimated activated sludge at a concn of 500 ppm over 192 hr of incubation(1). Microbial decomposition of 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene by a Pseudomonas sp. or by a mixed culture of soil bacteria yielded 2,3,5,6-tetrachlorophenol(2,3). An analysis of monitoring data from sediment cores indicated insufficient evidence to show occurrence of anaerobic dehalogenation of tetrachlorobenzene in Lake Ontario sediments(4). Anaerobic incubation of 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene with mixed primary sewage sludge for 32 days reduced its concn by 61%(5).

A 0% theoretical BOD in sludge over a 4 week incubation period suggests that biodegradation of 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene will be slow(1). 1,2,4,5-Tetrachlorobenzene was biodegraded by an acclimated anaerobic sediment slurry obtained from the Tsurumi River, Japan(2). The first-order biodegradation rate constant was 0.024 days-1, corresponding to a half-life of about 29 days(2). The half-life of 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene in sewage sludge amended soil was 47 days(3). An enriched microbial culture derived from sediment of the Rhine River reductively dechlorinated 1,2,4,5-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 1,2,4,5-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). 1,2,4,5-Tetrachlorobenzene is not expected to undergo hydrolysis in the environment due to the lack of hydrolyzable functional groups(SRC). 1,2,4,5-Tetrachlorobenzene in a water solution irradiated at wavelengths greater than 285 nm was 61 percent degraded in 16 hours(2).

Bioconcentration factor predicted from water solubility= 225 (calculated). /From table/

BCF values of 2,700 to 4,800 were calculated in carp exposed to 10 ug/l of 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene during a 6 week incubation period and BCF values of 1,600 to 3,900 were measured in carp exposed to 1 ug/l of 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene during a 6 week incubation period(1). Mean log BCF values of 3.7-4.1 were calculated for rainbow trout exposed to 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene(2). Mean BCF values of 4,500 and 4,900 were calculated in fish exposed to 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene in flowing water and static aquaria(3). According to a classification scheme(4), these BCF values suggest that bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is high(SRC).

Koc= 1600 (calculated). /From table/

Log Koc values of 3.9(1) and 3.2(2) were observed for 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene. A log Koc value of 3.9 was measured for 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene in sediment obtained from Ise Bay, Japan(3). According to a recommended classification scheme(4), these Koc values suggest that 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene has low mobility in soil(SRC).

The Henry's Law constant for 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene is 1.0X10-3 atm-cu m/mole at 20 °C(1). This value indicates that 1,2,4,5-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)(2) is estimated as approximately 6 hours(SRC). The volatilization half-life from a model lake (1 m deep, flowing 0.05 m/sec, wind velocity of 0.5 m/sec)(2) is estimated as approximately 150 hours(SRC). The volatilization half-life in a model pond is approximately 34 days when adsorption is considered(3). 1,2,4,5-Tetrachlorobenzene's Henry's Law constant(1) indicates that volatilization from moist soil surfaces is expected, but adsorption may attenuate(SRC). 1,2,4,5-Tetrachlorobenzene is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based on a vapor pressure of 0.005 mm Hg at 25 °C(1).

DRINKING WATER: Combined isomers of tetrachlorobenzene were detected in the drinking water of homes near Love Canal, NY at concns of 120-2,000 ng/l(1). 1,2,4,5-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected in drinking water from 3 Canadian cities near Lake Ontario, with a mean concn of 0.2 ng/l (2).

SURFACE WATER: A mean concentration of 0.1 ng/l was reported at 5 stations on Lake Ontario, but 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene was not detected in Lake Huron or the Grand River(1). Concentrations of 0.63-6.9 ng/l (mean concn 1.6 ng/l) were detected in Niagara River water between Sept. 1981 and March 1983(2). Levels of 0.39-9.3 ng/l (mean concn 2.0 ng/l) were found in the Niagara River at Niagara-on-the Lake(3). Unidentified isomers of tetrachlorobenzene were detected at levels of 25-200 ppm in water samples taken from sites near two hazardous waste disposal areas in Niagara Falls, NY(4). 1,2,4,5-Tetrachlorobenzene was identified, not quantified, in water/sediment samples from Love Canal, NY(5). Concn of 25 ng/l found in the Rhine River in Germany in 1977(6). Concentrations ranging from approximately 1 to 100 ng/l were detected in the Rhine River in July 1976(7).

SURFACE WATER: Tetrachlorobenzenes (1,2,4,5- and/or 1,2,3,5-tetrachlorobenzene) have been found in water from 9 of 14 stations in Lake Ontario sampled in Oct 1983. The concn found at positive stations ranged from 0.009-0.322 ng/l and the avg of positives was 0.064 ng/l(1).

SURFACE WATER: 1,2,4,5-Tetrachlorobenzene was reported at a mean concn of 0.1 parts per trillion in Lake Ontario(1). 1,2,4,5-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected at concns of 0.39-9.3 ng/l in the Niagara River(2). Water collected in the vicinity of an industrial outfall in the Calacasieu River, LA contained 1,2,3,5- and 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene at a concn of 42 ng/l(3). Combined isomers of tri- and tetrachlorobenzene were reported in rivers from Slovenia at a mean concn of 80 ng/l(4) and combined isomers of 1,2,3,5- and 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene were detected at 0.04 ug/l in the Forth Estuary, England(5). 1,2,4,5-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected at concns of 0.048, 0.053 and 0.057 ng/l in Lake Ontario(6). 1,2,4,5-Tetrachlorobenzene was reported at an avg concn of 73 pg/l in Lake Ontario(7). 1,2,4,5-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected in the Elbe River, Germany at concns of 0.2-1.6 ng/l(8). 1,2,4,5-Tetrachlorobenzene was reported at mean concns of 0.02 ng/l (Edwards Point) and 0.04 ng/l (Port Lambton) in Ontario, Canada(9).

Concentrations of 0.3 to 2 ng/l (mean concentration 1.2 ng/l) were reported in waste water effluents from 4 treatment plants discharging into Lake Ontario and the Grand River(1). An unidentified isomer of tetrachlorobenzene was qualitatively identified in an effluent from a sewage treatment plant(2). 1,2,4,5-Tetrachlorobenzene was identified, not quantified, in effluent from the organic chemical industry in the US from 1979 to 1982(3). 1,2,4,5-Tetrachlorobenzene was found at concn of 81, 80, and 550 ng/cu m in the raw flue gas (up-stream from the electrostatic precipitator) from three runs under different conditions of a Swedish hazardous waste incinerator which was burning chlorinated waste, mostly solvents(4).

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(1) and detected at concns of 74.7 and 48 ng/cu m in the effluent of a hazardous waste incinerator in Biebesheim, Germany(2). 1,2,4,5-Tetrachlorobenzene was identified, not quantified, in pulp mill effluents in Canada(3). 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(4). 1,2,4,5-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected at concns of 450 and 100 ppb in the ash of municipal waste incinerators in the US(5).

1,2,4,5-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected in the sediment of Lake Ketelmeer, Netherlands at concns of 45 and 20 ng/kg(1). Mean 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene concns of 0.3, 1, 1 and 52 ppb were reported in the surficial sediments from Lakes Superior, Huron, Erie, and Ontario, respectively(2). Combined 1,2,3,5- and 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene was detected at concns of 0-0.4 ng/g in sediment from Ise Bay, Japan(3). 1,2,4,5-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected at a max concn of 21 ng/g in sediment taken from the Scheldt estuary, Netherlands(4). Combined 1,2,3,5- and 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene was detected in soil samples in Niagara Falls, NY at mean concns of 910, 4,620, 2,000, 1,300 and 290 pg/g(5). Sediment from the St Lawrence River contained 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene at concns of 0.18-2.1 ng/g(6). 1,2,4,5-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected in sediment(42 ng/g) and suspended particulate matter (14 ng/g) in Lake Ontario(7). Combined isomers of 1,2,3,5- and 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzne were detected in sediment off the coast of Taiwan at concns of 1-12 ng/g(8).

Mean concentrations of 0.3, 1, 1, and 52 ppb were detected in surficial sediments from Lake Superior, Lake Huron, Lake Erie and Lake Ontario, respectively(1). Concentrations of 0.6 to 210 ppb found in a Lake Ontario sediment core (0 to 8 cm in depth) with the higher concentration in the upper 2 cm(1). Concentration of 17 ng/g detected in the settling particulates at a station on Lake Ontario(2). Concentrations ranging from 7 to 24 ng/g detected in suspended sediments collected at 6 locations of the Niagara River in 1982(3). Concentrations ranging from 13 to 21 ng/g detected in suspended sediment of Lake Ontario at depths from 20 to 68 meters with an average concentration of 68 ng/g found on bottom sediment(3). Unidentified isomers of tetrachlorobenzene identified at levels from not detected to 70 ng/g in the suspended sediment of the Niagara River in 1981(4). Qualitative detection reported for sediments collected in a canal in Berlin, Germany(5). Qualitative detection reported for both soil and sediment collected near the Love Canal(6). The ranges and mean concn (dry wt basis) of 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene detected in sediments taken from the following Great Lakes area in 1980 and 1982 were: southern Lake Huron, 0.3-1.7 ppb, 1.1 ppb avg; Lake St. Clair, 3.3-7.8 ppb, 5.6 ppb avg; western Lake Erie; 0.6-5.3 ppb, 1.7 ppb avg; central Lake Erie, 0.2-0.9 ppb, 0.6 ppb avg; and eastern Lake Erie, 0.2-1.0 ppb, 0.6 ppb avg(7).

SEDIMENT SAMPLES FROM THE WESTERN PORTION OF LAKE ONTARIO WERE COLLECTED IN OCTOBER 1980. THE SAMPLES WERE ANALYZED FOR CHLORINATED ORGANIC COMPOUNDS USING GC/MS. MANY OF THE CHLORINATED COMPOUNDS PREVIOUSLY FOUND TO BE LEAKING INTO THE NIAGARA RIVER FROM WASTE DISPOSAL SITES IN THE CITY OF NIAGARA FALLS WERE IDENTIFIED IN THE SEDIMENTS OF LAKE ONTARIO. THE COMPOUNDS (INCLUDING PENTACHLOROBENZENE) SHOWED A TENDENCY TO ACCUMULATE IN THE ZONES OF HIGH SEDIMENTATION IN BOTH THE NIAGARA AND MISSISSAUGA BASINS. THE AVERAGE RELATIVE CONCENTRATIONS OF TRI, TETRA, PENTA, AND HEXACHLOROBENZENES OBSERVED AT THE NIAGARA RIVER DUMP SITES WERE 25%, 100%, 45%, AND 25%, RESPECTIVELY. IN THE NIAGARA BASIN OF LAKE ONTARIO, THE CORRESPONDING PROPORTIONS WERE 72%, 100%, 48%, AND 126% (NORMALIZED TO TETRACHLOROBENZENE FOR COMPARISON). /TETRACHLOROBENZENE/

URBAN/SUBURBAN: 1,2,4,5-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected in the air of Hamburg, Germany at concns of 0.5-20.9 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). 1,2,4,5-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected in suburban air in MI at concns of 22-30 pg/cu m(3). The overall mean concn of tetrachlorobenzene isomers in 3 US locations was 3,502 ng/cu m with mean concns of 198 ng/cu m in urban-remote areas, 6,196 ng/cu m in urban areas and 853 ng/cu m in source dominated areas(4). Combined tetrachlorobenzene isomers were detected at concns of trace levels to 300 ng/cu m in the air of Love Canal, NY(5).

1,2,4,5-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected in potatoes (0.486 and 2.19 mg/kg) and lettuce (0.012 mg/kg)(1). Combined 1,2,3,5- and 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene were detected in the following oils: corn (0.04 mg/kg), rape (0.005 mg/kg), sunflower (0.001 mg/kg), peanut (0.001 mg/kg), sesame (0.005 mg/kg) walnut (0.005 mg/kg), hazelnut (0.01 mg/kg) and poppy (0.005 mg/kg)(2). 1,2,4,5-Tetrachlorobenzene was detected in meat from Yugoslavia at a concn of 1.8 ng/g(3).

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

Generators of waste (equal to or greater than 100 kg/mo) containing this contaminant, EPA hazardous waste number U207, must conform with USEPA regulations in storage, transportation, treatment and disposal of waste.

A potential candidate for rotary kiln incineration at a temperature range of 820 to 1,600 °C and residence times of seconds for liquids and gases, and hours for solids. A potential candidate for fluidized bed incineration at a temperature range of 450 to 980 °C and residence times of seconds for liquids and gases, and longer for solids. A potential candidate for liquid injection incineration at a temperature range of 650 to 1,600 °C and a residence time of 0.1 to 2 seconds.

The following wastewater treatment technologies have been investigated for 1,2,4,5-tetrachlorobenzene: Biological treatment.

/GUIDE 130: FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS (NON-POLAR/WATER-IMMISCIBLE/NOXIOUS)/ Fire or Explosion: HIGHLY FLAMMABLE: Will be easily ignited by heat, sparks or flames. Vapors may form explosive mixtures with air. Vapors may travel to source of ignition and flash back. Most vapors are heavier than air. They will spread along ground and collect in low or confined areas (sewers, basements, tanks). Vapor explosion hazard indoors, outdoors or in sewers. Runoff to sewer may create fire or explosion hazard. Containers may explode when heated. Many liquids are lighter than water. /Chlorobenzene/

/GUIDE 130: FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS (NON-POLAR/WATER-IMMISCIBLE/NOXIOUS)/ Health: May cause toxic effects if inhaled or absorbed through skin. Inhalation or contact with material may irritate or burn skin and eyes. Fire will produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Vapors may cause dizziness or suffocation. Runoff from fire control or dilution water may cause pollution. /Chlorobenzene/

/GUIDE 130: FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS (NON-POLAR/WATER-IMMISCIBLE/NOXIOUS)/ Public Safety: CALL Emergency Response Telephone Number ... . As an immediate precautionary measure, isolate spill or leak area for at least 50 meters (150 feet) in all directions. Keep unauthorized personnel away. Stay upwind. Keep out of low areas. Ventilate closed spaces before entering. /Chlorobenzene/

/GUIDE 130: FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS (NON-POLAR/WATER-IMMISCIBLE/NOXIOUS)/ Protective Clothing: Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Structural firefighters' protective clothing will only provide limited protection. /Chlorobenzene/

For more DOT Emergency Guidelines (Complete) data for 1,2,4,5-TETRACHLOROBENZENE (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

UN 1134; Chlorobenzene

IMO 3.3; Chlorobenzene

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.