alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol

This chemical does not meet GHS hazard criteria for 1.9% (37 of 1934) of reports.

H302 (98.1%): Harmful if swallowed [Warning Acute toxicity, oral]

H319 (77.2%): Causes serious eye irritation [Warning Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

P264, P264+P265, P270, P280, P301+P317, P305+P351+P338, P330, P337+P317, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Aggregated GHS information provided per 1934 reports by companies from 11 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.

Reported as not meeting GHS hazard criteria per 37 of 1934 reports by companies.

There are 10 notifications provided by 1897 of 1934 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 (100%): Harmful if swallowed [Warning Acute toxicity, oral]

H315 (100%): Causes skin irritation [Warning Skin corrosion/irritation]

H318 (100%): Causes serious eye damage [Danger Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

H335 (100%): May cause respiratory irritation [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure; Respiratory tract irritation]

P261, P264, P264+P265, P270, P271, P280, P301+P317, P302+P352, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P317, P319, P321, P330, P332+P317, P362+P364, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Aggregated GHS information provided per 30 reports by companies from 3 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.

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. IMMEDIATELY call a physician and be prepared to transport the victim to a hospital even if no symptoms (such as wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, or burning in the mouth, throat, or chest) develop. 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.

OTHER: Since this chemical is a known or suspected carcinogen you should contact a physician for advice regarding the possible long term health effects and potential recommendation for medical monitoring. Recommendations from the physician will depend upon the specific compound, its chemical, physical and toxicity properties, the exposure level, length of exposure, and the route of exposure. (NTP, 1992)

General First Aid:

· Call 911 or emergency medical service.

· Ensure that medical personnel are aware of the material(s) involved, take precautions to protect themselves and avoid contamination.

· Move victim to fresh air if it can be done safely.

· Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult.

· If victim is not breathing:

-- DO NOT perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation; the victim may have ingested or inhaled the substance.

-- If equipped and pulse detected, wash face and mouth, then give artificial respiration using a proper respiratory medical device (bag-valve mask, pocket mask equipped with a one-way valve or other device).

-- If no pulse detected or no respiratory medical device available, provide continuous compressions. Conduct a pulse check every two minutes or monitor for any signs of spontaneous respirations.

· Remove and isolate contaminated clothing and shoes.

· For minor skin contact, avoid spreading material on unaffected skin.

· In case of contact with substance, remove immediately by flushing skin or eyes with running water for at least 20 minutes.

· For severe burns, immediate medical attention is required.

· Effects of exposure (inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact) to substance may be delayed.

· Keep victim calm and warm.

· Keep victim under observation.

· For further assistance, contact your local Poison Control Center.

· Note: Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Life Support (ALS) should be done by trained professionals.

Specific First Aid:

· For corrosives, in case of contact, immediately flush skin or eyes with running water for at least 30 minutes. Additional flushing may be required.

· Removal of solidified molten material from skin requires medical assistance.

In Canada, an Emergency Response Assistance Plan (ERAP) may be required for this product. Please consult the shipping paper and/or the "ERAP" section.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 153 [Substances - Toxic and/or Corrosive (Combustible)]:

SMALL FIRE: Dry chemical, CO2 or water spray.

LARGE FIRE: Dry chemical, CO2, alcohol-resistant foam or water spray. If it can be done safely, move undamaged containers away from the area around the fire. Dike runoff from fire control for later disposal.

FIRE INVOLVING TANKS, RAIL TANK CARS OR HIGHWAY TANKS: Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles. Do not get water inside containers. Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out. Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of tank. ALWAYS stay away from tanks in direct contact with flames. (ERG, 2024)

"ALCOHOL" FOAM

· CALL 911. Then call emergency response telephone number on shipping paper. If shipping paper not available or no answer, refer to appropriate telephone number listed on the inside back cover.

· Keep unauthorized personnel away.

· Stay upwind, uphill and/or upstream.

· Ventilate closed spaces before entering, but only if properly trained and equipped.

· ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames) from immediate area.

· Do not touch damaged containers or spilled material unless wearing appropriate protective clothing.

· Stop leak if you can do it without risk.

· Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas.

· Absorb or cover with dry earth, sand or other non-combustible material and transfer to containers.

· DO NOT GET WATER INSIDE CONTAINERS.

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)

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.

· For highlighted materials: see Table 1 - Initial Isolation and Protective Action Distances.

· For non-highlighted materials: increase the immediate precautionary measure distance, in the downwind direction, as necessary.

· 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.

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.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 153 [Substances - Toxic and/or Corrosive (Combustible)]:

ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames) from immediate area. Do not touch damaged containers or spilled material unless wearing appropriate protective clothing. Stop leak if you can do it without risk. Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas. Absorb or cover with dry earth, sand or other non-combustible material and transfer to containers. DO NOT GET WATER INSIDE CONTAINERS. (ERG, 2024)

· Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).

· Wear chemical protective clothing that is specifically recommended by the manufacturer when there is NO RISK OF FIRE.

· Structural firefighters' protective clothing provides thermal protection but only limited chemical protection.

Small Fire

· Dry chemical, CO2 or water spray.

Large Fire

· Dry chemical, CO2, alcohol-resistant foam or water spray.

· If it can be done safely, move undamaged containers away from the area around the fire.

· Dike runoff from fire control for later disposal.

Fire Involving Tanks, Rail Tank Cars or Highway Tanks

· Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles.

· Do not get water inside containers.

· Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out.

· Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of tank.

· ALWAYS stay away from tanks in direct contact with flames.

Approved respirator, chemical safety goggles, chemical resistant gloves, other protective clothing. (USCG, 1999)

Alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol appears as a colorless liquid. Insoluble in water and less dense than water. Contact may slightly irritate skin, eyes and mucous membranes. May be slightly toxic by ingestion, inhalation and skin absorption. Used to make other chemicals.

Colorless liquid with a mild floral odor; [HSDB]

colourless to pale yellow liquid or white solid with a mild floral odour

COLORLESS LIQ

MILD FLORAL ODOR

MILD HYACINTH-GARDENIA ODOR

Weak, bitter, almond-like odor

399 °F at 745 mmHg (NTP, 1992)

204.00 to 205.00 °C. @ 745.00 mm Hg

68 °F (NTP, 1992)

185 °F (NTP, 1992)

200 °F (93 °C) (CLOSED CUP)

less than 1 mg/mL at 67.1 °F (NTP, 1992)

Sol in glycerol, mineral oil, alcohol

SOL IN MOST ORGANIC SOLVENTS

A high solvency for alcohol-soluble cellulose nitrate, cellulose acetate, and cellulose acetobutyrate; for many natural and synthetic resins; and for fats and oils. In contrast to benzyl alcohol, it is miscible with white spirit.

In water, 1,950 mg/l @ 25 °C

1.95 mg/mL at 25 °C

insoluble in water; soluble in organic solvents, oils

miscible at room temperature (in ethanol)

1.015 at 68 °F (USCG, 1999) - Denser than water; will sink

1.013 @ 25 °C

1.009-1.014

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

0.1 mmHg at 68 °F ; 1 mmHg at 120.2 °F; 5 mmHg at 167.4 °F (NTP, 1992)

0.05 [mmHg]

Refractive index = 1.525-1.529 at 20 °C

1.524-1.529

CONGEALS BELOW ROOM TEMP

BP 203 °C @ 760 MM HG; DENSITY 1.0129 @ 20 °C/4 °C; INDEX OF REFRACTION: 1.5272 @ 20 °C/D; SPECIFIC OPTICAL ROTATION: +42.9 DEG @ 19 °C/D; MAX ABSORPTION (UNDIL SULFURIC ACID): 435 NM (LOG E= 4.0); VERY SOL IN ALC; SOL IN BENZENE, CHLOROFORM /D-FORM/

SPECIFIC OPTICAL ROTATION: -45.5 DEG @ 23 °C/D (METHANOL, 5%); BP 202-204 °C @ 760 MM HG; DENSITY 1.0129; SLIGHTLY SOL IN WATER; VERY SOL IN ALC, ETHER /L-FORM/

GLASSY; INSOL IN WATER; SOL IN ALL PROPORTIONS IN ALC, ETHER; INDEX OF REFRACTION: 1.5275 @ 20 °C/4 °C /DL-FORM/

Flammable agents - 2nd degree

EU Flavoring substances

FLAVORING AGENT OR ADJUVANT -> FDA Substance added to food

Fragrance Ingredient (alpha-Methylbenzyl alcohol) -> IFRA transparency List

Other Classes -> Alcohols and Polyols, Other

Insoluble in water.

Alcohols and Polyols

Attacks plastics. [Handling Chemicals Safely, 1980. p. 236]. Acetyl bromide reacts violently with alcohols or water [Merck 11th ed. 1989]. Mixtures of alcohols with concentrated sulfuric acid and strong hydrogen peroxide can cause explosions. Example: An explosion will occur if dimethylbenzylcarbinol is added to 90% hydrogen peroxide then acidified with concentrated sulfuric acid. Mixtures of ethyl alcohol with concentrated hydrogen peroxide form powerful explosives. Mixtures of hydrogen peroxide and 1-phenyl-2-methyl propyl alcohol tend to explode if acidified with 70% sulfuric acid [Chem. Eng. News 45(43):73. 1967; J, Org. Chem. 28:1893. 1963]. Alkyl hypochlorites are violently explosive. They are readily obtained by reacting hypochlorous acid and alcohols either in aqueous solution or mixed aqueous-carbon tetrachloride solutions. Chlorine plus alcohols would similarly yield alkyl hypochlorites. They decompose in the cold and explode on exposure to sunlight or heat. Tertiary hypochlorites are less unstable than secondary or primary hypochlorites [NFPA 491 M. 1991]. Base-catalysed reactions of isocyanates with alcohols should be carried out in inert solvents. Such reactions in the absence of solvents often occur with explosive violence [Wischmeyer 1969].

1-Phenylethanol

B: Compounds that form peroxides on concentration (distillation/evaporation)

Alpha-Methylbenzyl Alcohol

TR-369: Toxicology and Carcinogenesis Studies of alpha-Methylbenzyl Alcohol (CASRN 98-85-1) in F344/N Rats and B6C3F1 Mice (Gavage Studies) (1990 )

03/13/89

Some Evidence

No Evidence

Under the conditions of these 2-year gavage studies, there was some evidence of carcinogenic activity of a-methylbenzyl alcohol for male F344/N rats, as shown by increased incidences of renal tubular cell adenomas and adenomas or adenocarcinomas (combined). There was no evidence of carcinogenic activity for female F344/N rats administered 375 or 750 mg/kg. Renal toxicity characterized by severe nephropathy and related secondary lesions was observed in the dosed rats, and excessive mortality occurred during the last quarter of the studies. Poor survival reduced the sensitivity of the studies for detecting the presence of a carcinogenic response both in chemically exposed groups of male rats and in the high dose group of female rats. There was no evidence of carcinogenic activity of a-methylbenzyl alcohol for male or female B6C3F1 mice administered 375 or 750 mg/kg for 2 years.

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.

Similar threshold conc (0.5%) for conjunctival irritation were noted for phenethyl alcohol in humans and rabbits ... .

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=98-85-1]

Toxicology and carcinogenesis studies of a-methylbenzyl alcohol (greater than 99% pure) ... were conducted by administering the chemical in corn oil by gavage to groups of F344/N rats and B6C3F1 mice of each sex for ... 2 yr. ... Doses of 375 and 750 mg/kg a-methylbenzyl alcohol were administered in corn oil by gavage, 5 days/wk for 103 wk, to groups of 50 rats and 50 mice of each sex. ... Under the conditions of these 2 yr gavage studies, there was some evidence of carcinogenic activity of a-methylbenzyl alcohol for male F344/N rats, as shown by incr incidences of renal tubular cell adenomas and adenomas or adenocarcinomas (combined). There was no evidence of carcinogenic activity for female F344/N rats administered 375 or 750 mg/kg. Renal toxicity ... was observed in dosed rats, and excessive mortality occurred during the last quarter of the studies. Poor survival reduced the sensitivity of the studies for detecting the presence of a carcinogenic response both in chemically exposed groups of male rats and in the high dose group of female rats. There was no evidence of carcinogenic activity of a-methylbenzyl alcohol for male and female B6C3F1 mice administered 375 or 750 mg/kg for 2 yr.

Alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol's production and use as a dye carrier, in perfumes, flavorings, dyes, and as a laboratory agent may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. If released to the atmosphere, alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol will mainly exist in the vapor phase based on an estimated vapor pressure of 0.058 mm Hg at 25 °C. Vapor-phase alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol is degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically produced hydroxyl radicals with an estimated half-life of about 8 hours. Measured Koc values from <5-52, with the higher values corresponding to greater organic content in soil, suggest that alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol will have very high mobility in soil. Biodegradation is expected to be a major fate process for this compound in both soil and water. In screening tests, alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol was completely biodegraded under aerobic conditions within 2-3 weeks; a half life of 7 days was measured under anaerobic conditions. Acetophenone was produced as a metabolite under both aerobic and anaerobic conditions. In water, alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol is not expected to adsorb to sediment or suspended matter in the water column. An estimated Henry's Law constant of 2.9X10-7 atm-cu m/mole suggests that this compound will not volatilize from water surfaces. Bioconcentration in aquatic organisms should not occur based on an estimated BCF value of 9. Exposure to alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol may occur occupationally during its production or use in the manufacture of other products. The general population may be exposed to alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol through the ingestion of contaminated drinking water and food or the inhalation of air from new buildings. (SRC)

Alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol's production and use as a dye carrier(1), in perfumes, flavorings, dyes, and as a laboratory agent(2) may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams(SRC).

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a recommended classification scheme(1), measured Koc values of <5-52, with higher values corresponding to soils with a greater organic content(2), indicate that alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol will have very high mobility in soil(SRC). Biodegradation is expected to be a major fate process for this compound(SRC). Alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol was completely biodegraded within 2-3 weeks under aerobic conditions using an activated sludge inoculum(3). Under anaerobic conditions, this compound had a half-life of 7 days(3). Acetophenone was reported as a major metabolite for both oxygen conditions(3). Volatilization of alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol from either moist surfaces will not be a major fate process(SRC) based on estimated values for Henry's Law constant (2.9X10-7 atm-cu m/mole)(4,SRC). Volatilization from dry soil surfaces should not be significant based on an estimated vapor pressure (0.058 mm Hg)(5,SRC).

AQUATIC FATE: Based on a recommended classification scheme(1), experimental Koc values of <5 to 52(2) indicate that alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol will not adsorb to suspended solids and sediment(SRC) in the water column. Biodegradation is expected to be a major fate process for this compound(SRC). Alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol was completely biodegraded within 2-3 weeks under aerobic conditions using an activated sludge inoculum(3). Under anaerobic conditions, this compound had a half-life of 7 days(3). Acetophenone was reported as the major metabolite for both oxygen conditions(3). Retention pond and aerated lagoon systems reported 12 and 17% biodegradation after 260 hours(3) indicating that under some conditions, biodegradation may not occur rapidly(SRC). Alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol should not volatilize from water surfaces based on an estimated Henry's Law constant of 2.9X10-7 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), developed using a fragment constant estimation method(4). An estimated BCF value of 9(3,SRC), from a measured water solubility(2), suggests that alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol will not bioconcentrate in aquatic organisms(SRC), according to a recommended classification scheme(5).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a suggested classification scheme(1), an estimated vapor pressure of 0.058 mm Hg at 25 °C(2,SRC) indicates that alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol will mainly exist in the vapor phase in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol 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 about 1.1 days(3,SRC).

In an aerobic, sewage die-away screening test alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol (at 6000 ppm) biodegraded rapidly with 78.2% of the theoretical BOD reached in 8-10 days(1). Phenol-adapted cultures grown without alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol, with alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol (at 100 mg/L), and with both phenol and alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol consumed 69, 75, and 320 ul O2, respectively, over a 210 minute period(2). An Arthrobacter strain initially dehydrogenates alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol to acetophenone which is then converted to an ester, producing phenyl acetate which is then hydrolysed to phenol and acetate(3). A Nocardia strain first oxygenates the benzene nucleus to give 3-(1'-hydroxyethyl)-3,5-cyclo-hexadiene-1,2-diol which is then reduced and subjected to extra-diol cleavage(3). This same strain is also able to degrade alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol using the same pathway as described above for Arthrobacter(3). Alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol, inoculated with a mixed microbial culture, was readily biodegraded from 550 ppm to 20 ppm over 32 days(4). Nitrosomonas europaea degraded 2.5% of alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol (initially present at 200 nmol) over a 15 hour period(5). Alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol had a BOD of 1.0 g/g alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol after a 10 day incubation with a sewage inoculum(6).

Loss of alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol was monitored in four systems. In an aerobic, screening test using an activated sludge inoculum, alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol (at 100 ppm) was nearly completely biodegraded within either 14 or 20 days, depending on the inoculum size(heavy or light, respectively); acetophenone was the major metabolite(1). In an aerobic, retention pond system, 12% biodegradation was measured over 260 hours (alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol initially present at 300 ppm)(1). 17% degradation of alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol (at 300 ppm) was reported in an aerated lagoon system after 240 hours(1). Alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol had a half-life of 7 days under anaerobic conditions using a digester sludge inoculum; acetophenone was formed as a metabolite(1).

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol with photochemically produced hydroxyl radicals has been estimated as 1.2X10-11 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(SRC) using a structure estimation method(1,SRC). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 1.1 days at an atmospheric concentration of 2.1X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(1,SRC).

An estimated BCF value of 9 was calculated for alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol(SRC), using a measured water solubility of 1950 mg/L at 25 °C(1) and a recommended regression-derived equation(2). According to a recommended classification scheme(3), this BCF value suggests that bioconcentration in aquatic organisms will not be an important fate process(SRC).

Koc values for alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol were determined for three subsoils: Apison (organic content = 0.11%) had a Koc of 37, Fullerton (organic content = 0.06%) had a Koc of <5, and Dormont (organic content = 1.2%) had a Koc of 52(1). According to a recommended classification scheme(2), these Koc values suggest that alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol has very high mobility in soil, although increasing organic content will act to reduce mobility slightly(SRC).

The Henry's Law constant for alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol is estimated as 2.9X10-7 atm-cu m/mole(SRC) using a fragment constant estimation method(1). This value indicates that alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol will not volatilize from water surfaces(2,SRC). Volatilization from either dry or moist soil surfaces is not expected to be a major fate process based on estimated values for vapor pressure, 0.058 mm Hg(3,SRC) and Henry's Law constant(1,SRC).

SURFACE WATER: Alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol was present in water from the Kanawha River, Nitro, West Virginia (first samples collected in 1959) at a concentration of 17 mg/1000 L water(1).

DRINKING WATER: Alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol was detected in drinking water in the United States at unreported concentrations(1).

Alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol was detected once in the wastewater from a mechanical products industry(1). Wastewater from a petrochemical company contained alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol at unreported concentrations(2). Alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol was detected in finished water from the Blue Plains Advanced Waste Treatment Plant in Washington, DC in September, 1974(3).

Alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol was present in samples taken of indoor air from residential houses at "low relative abundance"(1).

Alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol was identified in Beaufort cheese in France at unreported concentrations(1).

NIOSH (NOES Survey 1981-1983) has statistically estimated that 15,990 workers (1959 of these are female) are potentially exposed to alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol in the USA(1). Workers, employed to varnish vehicles with alkyd-, phenol- and polyester varnishes which were dissolved in solvent mixtures, had an average concentration of 1.9 mg alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol/L urine (average over six workplaces, 35 exposed persons)(2). The general population may be exposed to alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol through the ingestion of contaminated drinking water and food or the inhalation of air from new buildings(SRC).

Alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol's production and use as a dye carrier, in perfumes, flavorings, dyes, and as a laboratory agent may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. If released to the atmosphere, alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol will mainly exist in the vapor phase based on an estimated vapor pressure of 0.058 mm Hg at 25 °C. Vapor-phase alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol is degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically produced hydroxyl radicals with an estimated half-life of about 8 hours. Measured Koc values from <5-52, with the higher values corresponding to greater organic content in soil, suggest that alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol will have very high mobility in soil. Biodegradation is expected to be a major fate process for this compound in both soil and water. In screening tests, alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol was completely biodegraded under aerobic conditions within 2-3 weeks; a half life of 7 days was measured under anaerobic conditions. Acetophenone was produced as a metabolite under both aerobic and anaerobic conditions. In water, alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol is not expected to adsorb to sediment or suspended matter in the water column. An estimated Henry's Law constant of 2.9X10-7 atm-cu m/mole suggests that this compound will not volatilize from water surfaces. Bioconcentration in aquatic organisms should not occur based on an estimated BCF value of 9. Exposure to alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol may occur occupationally during its production or use in the manufacture of other products. The general population may be exposed to alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol through the ingestion of contaminated drinking water and food or the inhalation of air from new buildings. (SRC)

Alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol's production and use as a dye carrier(1), in perfumes, flavorings, dyes, and as a laboratory agent(2) may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams(SRC).

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a recommended classification scheme(1), measured Koc values of <5-52, with higher values corresponding to soils with a greater organic content(2), indicate that alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol will have very high mobility in soil(SRC). Biodegradation is expected to be a major fate process for this compound(SRC). Alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol was completely biodegraded within 2-3 weeks under aerobic conditions using an activated sludge inoculum(3). Under anaerobic conditions, this compound had a half-life of 7 days(3). Acetophenone was reported as a major metabolite for both oxygen conditions(3). Volatilization of alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol from either moist surfaces will not be a major fate process(SRC) based on estimated values for Henry's Law constant (2.9X10-7 atm-cu m/mole)(4,SRC). Volatilization from dry soil surfaces should not be significant based on an estimated vapor pressure (0.058 mm Hg)(5,SRC).

AQUATIC FATE: Based on a recommended classification scheme(1), experimental Koc values of <5 to 52(2) indicate that alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol will not adsorb to suspended solids and sediment(SRC) in the water column. Biodegradation is expected to be a major fate process for this compound(SRC). Alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol was completely biodegraded within 2-3 weeks under aerobic conditions using an activated sludge inoculum(3). Under anaerobic conditions, this compound had a half-life of 7 days(3). Acetophenone was reported as the major metabolite for both oxygen conditions(3). Retention pond and aerated lagoon systems reported 12 and 17% biodegradation after 260 hours(3) indicating that under some conditions, biodegradation may not occur rapidly(SRC). Alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol should not volatilize from water surfaces based on an estimated Henry's Law constant of 2.9X10-7 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), developed using a fragment constant estimation method(4). An estimated BCF value of 9(3,SRC), from a measured water solubility(2), suggests that alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol will not bioconcentrate in aquatic organisms(SRC), according to a recommended classification scheme(5).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a suggested classification scheme(1), an estimated vapor pressure of 0.058 mm Hg at 25 °C(2,SRC) indicates that alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol will mainly exist in the vapor phase in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol 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 about 1.1 days(3,SRC).

In an aerobic, sewage die-away screening test alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol (at 6000 ppm) biodegraded rapidly with 78.2% of the theoretical BOD reached in 8-10 days(1). Phenol-adapted cultures grown without alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol, with alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol (at 100 mg/L), and with both phenol and alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol consumed 69, 75, and 320 ul O2, respectively, over a 210 minute period(2). An Arthrobacter strain initially dehydrogenates alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol to acetophenone which is then converted to an ester, producing phenyl acetate which is then hydrolysed to phenol and acetate(3). A Nocardia strain first oxygenates the benzene nucleus to give 3-(1'-hydroxyethyl)-3,5-cyclo-hexadiene-1,2-diol which is then reduced and subjected to extra-diol cleavage(3). This same strain is also able to degrade alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol using the same pathway as described above for Arthrobacter(3). Alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol, inoculated with a mixed microbial culture, was readily biodegraded from 550 ppm to 20 ppm over 32 days(4). Nitrosomonas europaea degraded 2.5% of alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol (initially present at 200 nmol) over a 15 hour period(5). Alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol had a BOD of 1.0 g/g alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol after a 10 day incubation with a sewage inoculum(6).

Loss of alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol was monitored in four systems. In an aerobic, screening test using an activated sludge inoculum, alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol (at 100 ppm) was nearly completely biodegraded within either 14 or 20 days, depending on the inoculum size(heavy or light, respectively); acetophenone was the major metabolite(1). In an aerobic, retention pond system, 12% biodegradation was measured over 260 hours (alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol initially present at 300 ppm)(1). 17% degradation of alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol (at 300 ppm) was reported in an aerated lagoon system after 240 hours(1). Alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol had a half-life of 7 days under anaerobic conditions using a digester sludge inoculum; acetophenone was formed as a metabolite(1).

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol with photochemically produced hydroxyl radicals has been estimated as 1.2X10-11 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(SRC) using a structure estimation method(1,SRC). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 1.1 days at an atmospheric concentration of 2.1X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(1,SRC).

An estimated BCF value of 9 was calculated for alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol(SRC), using a measured water solubility of 1950 mg/L at 25 °C(1) and a recommended regression-derived equation(2). According to a recommended classification scheme(3), this BCF value suggests that bioconcentration in aquatic organisms will not be an important fate process(SRC).

Koc values for alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol were determined for three subsoils: Apison (organic content = 0.11%) had a Koc of 37, Fullerton (organic content = 0.06%) had a Koc of <5, and Dormont (organic content = 1.2%) had a Koc of 52(1). According to a recommended classification scheme(2), these Koc values suggest that alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol has very high mobility in soil, although increasing organic content will act to reduce mobility slightly(SRC).

The Henry's Law constant for alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol is estimated as 2.9X10-7 atm-cu m/mole(SRC) using a fragment constant estimation method(1). This value indicates that alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol will not volatilize from water surfaces(2,SRC). Volatilization from either dry or moist soil surfaces is not expected to be a major fate process based on estimated values for vapor pressure, 0.058 mm Hg(3,SRC) and Henry's Law constant(1,SRC).

SURFACE WATER: Alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol was present in water from the Kanawha River, Nitro, West Virginia (first samples collected in 1959) at a concentration of 17 mg/1000 L water(1).

DRINKING WATER: Alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol was detected in drinking water in the United States at unreported concentrations(1).

Alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol was detected once in the wastewater from a mechanical products industry(1). Wastewater from a petrochemical company contained alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol at unreported concentrations(2). Alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol was detected in finished water from the Blue Plains Advanced Waste Treatment Plant in Washington, DC in September, 1974(3).

Alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol was present in samples taken of indoor air from residential houses at "low relative abundance"(1).

Alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol was identified in Beaufort cheese in France at unreported concentrations(1).

NIOSH (NOES Survey 1981-1983) has statistically estimated that 15,990 workers (1959 of these are female) are potentially exposed to alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol in the USA(1). Workers, employed to varnish vehicles with alkyd-, phenol- and polyester varnishes which were dissolved in solvent mixtures, had an average concentration of 1.9 mg alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol/L urine (average over six workplaces, 35 exposed persons)(2). The general population may be exposed to alpha-methylbenzyl alcohol through the ingestion of contaminated drinking water and food or the inhalation of air from new buildings(SRC).

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.

/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. /alpha-Methylbenzyl alcohol; alpha-Methylbenzyl alcohol, liquid; alpha-Methylbenzyl alcohol, solid; Methylbenzyl alcohol (alpha)/

/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. /alpha-Methylbenzyl alcohol; alpha-Methylbenzyl alcohol, liquid; alpha-Methylbenzyl alcohol, solid; Methylbenzyl alcohol (alpha)/

/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. /alpha-Methylbenzyl alcohol; alpha-Methylbenzyl alcohol, liquid; alpha-Methylbenzyl alcohol, solid; Methylbenzyl alcohol (alpha)/

/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. /alpha-Methylbenzyl alcohol; alpha-Methylbenzyl alcohol, liquid; alpha-Methylbenzyl alcohol, solid; Methylbenzyl alcohol (alpha)/

For more DOT Emergency Guidelines (Complete) data for ALPHA-METHYLBENZYL ALCOHOL (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

UN 2937; alpha-Methylbenzyl alcohol

IMO 6.1; alpha-Methylbenzyl alcohol

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.