3-nitrotoluene

H301+H311+H331 (65.8%): Toxic if swallowed, in contact with skin or if inhaled [Danger Acute toxicity, oral; acute toxicity, dermal; acute toxicity, inhalation]

H301 (94.3%): Toxic if swallowed [Danger Acute toxicity, oral]

H311 (98.7%): Toxic in contact with skin [Danger Acute toxicity, dermal]

H331 (93.7%): Toxic if inhaled [Danger Acute toxicity, inhalation]

H373 (30.4%): May causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, repeated exposure]

H411 (74.1%): Toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

P260, P261, P262, P264, P270, P271, P273, P280, P301+P316, P302+P352, P304+P340, P316, P319, P321, P330, P361+P364, P391, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Aggregated GHS information provided per 158 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.

Not Classified

H401: Toxic to aquatic life [Hazardous to the aquatic environment, acute hazard]

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

P273, P391, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

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

H316: Causes mild skin irritation [Warning Skin corrosion/irritation]

H320: Causes eye irritation [Warning Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

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

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

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

P203, P260, P264, P264+P265, P270, P280, P301+P317, P305+P351+P338, P308+P316, P318, P319, P330, P332+P317, P337+P317, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Fresh air, rest. Refer for medical attention.

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

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

Rinse mouth. Refer for medical attention .

EYES: First check the victim for contact lenses and remove if present. Flush victim's eyes with water or normal saline solution for 20 to 30 minutes while simultaneously calling a hospital or poison control center. Do not put any ointments, oils, or medication in the victim's eyes without specific instructions from a physician. IMMEDIATELY transport the victim after flushing eyes to a hospital even if no symptoms (such as redness or irritation) develop.

SKIN: IMMEDIATELY flood affected skin with water while removing and isolating all contaminated clothing. Gently wash all affected skin areas thoroughly with soap and water. If symptoms such as redness or irritation develop, IMMEDIATELY call a physician and be prepared to transport the victim to a hospital for treatment.

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

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

(General first aid procedures)

Eye: Irrigate immediately - If this chemical contacts the eyes, immediately wash (irrigate) the eyes with large amounts of water, occasionally lifting the lower and upper lids. Get medical attention immediately.

Skin: Soap wash immediately - If this chemical contacts the skin, immediately wash the contaminated skin with soap and water. If this chemical penetrates the clothing, immediately remove the clothing, wash the skin with soap and water, and get medical attention promptly.

Breathing: Respiratory support

Swallow: Medical attention immediately - If this chemical has been swallowed, get medical attention immediately.

Fire Extinguishing Agents Not to Be Used: Water or foam may cause frothing.

Fire Extinguishing Agents: Carbon dioxide, dry chemical, carbon tetrachloride, or water fog. (USCG, 1999)

Use water spray, powder, foam, carbon dioxide. Combat fire from a sheltered position.

To fight fire use water, carbon dioxide, dry chemical.

If material on fire or involved in fire: Do not extinguish fire unless flow can be stopped. Use water in flooding quantities as fog. Cool all affected containers with flooding quantities of water. Apply water from as far a distance as possible. Solid streams of water may be ineffective. Use foam, dry chemical, or carbon dioxide.

Powder, water spray, foam, carbon dioxide. Combat fire from a sheltered position.

Use dry chemical, carbon dioxide, or water spray. Water streams or foam may cause frothing. Use water spray to keep fire-exposed containers cool. Approach fire from upwind to avoid hazardous vapors and toxic decomposition products. Extinguish fire using agent suitable for surrounding fire.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 152 [Substances - Toxic (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)

Evacuate danger area! Consult an expert! Personal protection: chemical protection suit including self-contained breathing apparatus. Ventilation. Collect leaking liquid in covered containers. Absorb remaining liquid in sand or inert absorbent. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations.

Ventilate area of spill or leak. For small quantities of liquid nitrotoluene, absorb on paper towels. For small quantities of solid nitrotoluene, sweep onto paper or other suitable material. Remove to a safe place (such as a fume hood) and burn paper. Large quantities of liquid nitrotoluene can be collected and atomized in a suitable combustion chamber equipped with an appropriate effluent gas cleaning device. Large quantities of solid nitrotoluene can be reclaimed; however, if this is not practical, dissolve in a flammable solvent (such as alcohol) and atomize in a suitable combustion chamber equipped with an appropriate effluent gas cleaning device. /nitrotoluene/

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

Water Spill: Use natural deep water pockets, excavated lagoons, or sand bag barriers to trap material at bottom, remove trapped material with suction hoses. If dissolved, in region of 10 ppm or greater concentration, apply activated carbon at ten times the spilled amount. Use mechanical dredges or lifts to remove immobilized masses of pollutants and precipitates.

For solids: Shovel into suitable dry container. For liquids: Stop or control the leak, if this can be done without undue risk. Cover in noncombustible material for proper disposal.

SRP: The most favorable course of action is to use an alternative chemical product with less inherent propensity for occupational harm/injury/toxicity or environmental contamination. Recycle any unused portion of the material for its approved use or return it to the manufacturer or supplier. Ultimate disposal of the chemical must consider: the material's impact on air quality; potential migration in soil or water; effects on animal and plant life; and conformance with environmental and public health regulations.

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

For liquid nitrotoluene, by absorbing it in vermiculite, dry sand, earth or a similar material and disposing in a secured sanitary landfill. By atomizing liquid nitrotoluene in a suitable combustion chamber equipped with an appropriate effluent gas cleaning device. By making packages of solid nitrotoluene in paper or other suitable material or by dissolving in a flammable solvent (such as alcohol) and burning in a suitable combustion chamber equipped with an appropriate effluent gas cleaning device. /nitrotoluene/

The following wastewater treatment technologies have been investigated for 3-Nitrotoluene: Concentration process: Biological treatment.

SRP: The scientific literature for the use of contact lenses in industry is conflicting. The benefit or detrimental effects of wearing contact lenses depend not only upon the substance, but also on factors including the form of the substance, characteristics and duration of the exposure, the uses of other eye protection equipment, and the hygiene of the lenses. However, there may be individual substances whose irritating or corrosive properties are such that the wearing of contact lenses would be harmful to the eye. In those specific cases, contact lenses should not be worn. In any event, the usual eye protection equipment should be worn even when contact lenses are in place.

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

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

Keep sparks, flames, and other sources of ignition away. Keep material out of water sources and sewers. Build dikes to contain water flow as necessary. /Nitrotoluene/

For more Preventive Measures (Complete) data for 3-NITROTOLUENE (9 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 152 [Substances - Toxic (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. Cover with plastic sheet to prevent spreading. Absorb or cover with dry earth, sand or other non-combustible material and transfer to containers. DO NOT GET WATER INSIDE CONTAINERS. (ERG, 2024)

Separated from strong oxidants, sulfuric acid and food and feedstuffs. Cool. Dry. Keep in a well-ventilated room.

Separated from strong oxidants, sulfuric acid, food and feedstuffs. Cool. Dry. Keep in a well-ventilated room.

Store in a cool. dry, well-ventilated location. Separate from acids, alkalies, oxidizing materials, and reducing agents.

Biological Exposure Indices (BEI) [ACGIH] - Methemoglobin in blood = 1.5% of hemoglobin during or at end of shift. [ACGIH]

2.0 [ppm]

14 [ppm]

200 [ppm]

TWA 2 ppm (11 mg/m3) [skin]

5.0 [ppm]

TWA 5 ppm (30 mg/m3) [skin] See Appendix G

200 ppm (NIOSH, 2024)

200.0 [ppm]

Excerpts from Documentation for IDLHs: Basis for revised IDLH: Based on acute oral toxicity data in animals [Back et al. 1972; Vasilerko et al. 1978] and an analogy to nitrobenzene [Linch 1974] which has an IDLH of 200 ppm, the original IDLH for nitrotoluene (200 ppm) is not being revised at this time.

See: IDLH INDEX

8 hr Time Weighted Avg (TWA): 2 ppm, skin. /Nitrotoluene, all isomers/

Excursion Limit Recommendation: Excursions in worker exposure levels may exceed 3 times the TLV-TWA for no more than a total of 30 minutes during a work day, and under no circumstances should they exceed 5 times the TLV-TWA, provided that the TLV-TWA is not exceeded. /Nitrotoluene, all isomers/

Biological Exposure Index (BEI): Determinant: methemoglobin in blood; Sampling Time: during or end of shift; BEI: 1.5% of hemoglobin. The determinant may be present in biological specimens collected from subjects who have not been occupationally exposed, at a concentration which could affect interpretation of the result. Such background concentrations are incorporated in the BEI value. The determinant is nonspecific, since it is also observed after exposure to other chemicals. The biological determinant is an indicator of exposure to the chemical, but the quantitative interpretation of the measurement is ambiguous. These determinants should be used as a screening test if a quantitative test is not practical or as a confirmatory test if the quantitative test is not specific and the origin of the determinant is in question. /Methemoglobin inducers/

2 ppm as TWA; (skin); BEI issued.

skin absorption (H); carcinogen category: 3

A harmful contamination of the air will be reached rather slowly on evaporation of this substance at 20 °C.

The substance is mildly irritating to the eyes and skin. The substance may cause effects on the blood. This may result in the formation of methaemoglobin. Medical observation is indicated. The effects may be delayed.

Excerpt from NIOSH Pocket Guide for m-Nitrotoluene:

Skin: PREVENT SKIN CONTACT - Wear appropriate personal protective clothing to prevent skin contact.

Eyes: PREVENT EYE CONTACT - Wear appropriate eye protection to prevent eye contact.

Wash skin: WHEN CONTAMINATED - The worker should immediately wash the skin when it becomes contaminated.

Remove: WHEN WET OR CONTAMINATED - Work clothing that becomes wet or significantly contaminated should be removed and replaced.

Change: No recommendation is made specifying the need for the worker to change clothing after the workshift. (NIOSH, 2024)

... Butyl rubber gloves may provide protection from exposure to this compound.

Wear boots, protective gloves, and goggles. /Nitrotoluene/

Wear self contained breathing apparatus when fighting fires involving this material. /Nitrotoluene/

Respirators may be used when engineering & work practice controls are not technically feasible. ... Respirators may also be used for operations which require entry into tanks or closed vessels, & in emergency situations. ... Respirators permitted are those that have been approved by the Mine Safety & Health Admin ... or by the NIOSH. ... Employees should be provided with & required to use impervious clothing, gloves, face shields (8-inch min), & other appropriate protective clothing necessary to prevent repeated or prolonged skin contact with solid or liq nitrotoluene. ... Employees should be provided with & required to use dust- & splash-proof safety goggles where solid or liq nitrotoluene may contact the eyes. /Nitrotoluene/

For more Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) (Complete) data for 3-NITROTOLUENE (12 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Up to 20 ppm:

(APF = 10) Any supplied-air respirator*

Up to 50 ppm:

(APF = 25) Any supplied-air respirator operated in a continuous-flow mode*

Up to 100 ppm:

(APF = 50) Any supplied-air respirator that has a tight-fitting facepiece and is operated in a continuous-flow mode*

(APF = 50) Any self-contained breathing apparatus with a full facepiece

(APF = 50) Any supplied-air respirator with a full facepiece

Up to 200 ppm:

(APF = 2000) Any supplied-air respirator that has a full facepiece and is operated in a pressure-demand or other positive-pressure mode

Emergency or planned entry into unknown concentrations or IDLH conditions:

M-nitrotoluene appears as yellow crystals that melt at 59 °F to a yellow liquid. Often therefore encountered as a liquid. Flash point 223 °F. Boiling point 450 °F. Insoluble in water. Toxic by inhalation and ingestion.

Yellow liquid with a weak, aromatic odor. [Note: A solid below 59 degrees F.]; [NIOSH]

YELLOW LIQUID OR YELLOW CRYSTALS WITH CHARACTERISTIC ODOUR.

Yellow liquid with a weak, aromatic odor. [Note: A solid below 59 °F.]

Yellow liquid [Note: A solid below 59 degrees F]

Weak, aromatic odor

450.7 °F at 760 mmHg (NTP, 1992)

232 °C at 760 mm Hg

231.9 °C

231.9 °C @760 [mm Hg]

59.9 °F (NTP, 1992)

223 °F (NTP, 1992)

106 °C; 223 °F (Closed cup)

106 °C c.c.

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

In water, 500 mg/L at 30 °C; 450 mg/L at 20 °C

Miscible with alcohol and ether; sol in benzene.

Soluble in most organic solvents such as ethanol, benzene, and diethyl ether

Solubility in water, g/100ml at 20 °C: 0.05

1.1571 at 68 °F (USCG, 1999) - Denser than water; will sink

1.1630 at 20 °C/4 °C

1.16 g/cm³

1.1630 @ 15°C

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

4.72 (Air = 1)

Relative vapor density (air = 1): 4.73

0.1 mmHg at 68 °F ; 0.25 mmHg at 86 °F; 1.0 mmHg at 140 °F (NTP, 1992)

0.1 [mmHg]

Vapor pressure: 1.0 mm Hg at 60 °C

0.107 mm Hg at 25 °C

0.27 [mm Hg] @25 °C

0.1 mmHg

log Kow = 2.45

Henry's Law constant = 9.3X10-6 atm-cu m/mole at 25 °C

/Heat contributes/ ... to instability. /Nitrotoluene/

The substance decomposes on burning producing toxic gases, including carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides.

2.33 cP at 20 °C

11,232 Btu/lb = 86.3 cal/g = 3.61X10+5 J/kg

11,831.1 gcal/gmole

43.5 dynes/cm at 25 °C

Insoluble in water.

Nitro, Nitroso, Nitrate, and Nitrite Compounds, Organic

M-NITROTOLUENE reacts with sulfuric acid, strong oxidizing agents and reducing agents.

Decomposes on contact with strong oxidzers; strong acids; reducing agents; strong bases; ammonia, amines producing toxic fumes, causing fire and explosion hazard. Heat above 190 °C may cause explosive decomposition. Attacks some plastics, rubbers, and coatings.

Nitrotoluene will attack some forms of plastics, rubber, & coatings. /Nitrotoluene/

... Contact with strong oxidizers or sulfuric acid may cause fires and explosions. /Nitrotoluene/

Reacts with strong oxidants ... .

Strong oxidizers, sulfuric acid

m-Nitrotoluene

Semi-Volatile Organic Compound (SVOC)

Smith, C.D. and Nowell, L.H., 2024. Health-Based Screening Levels for evaluating water-quality data (3rd ed.). DOI:10.5066/F71C1TWP

Evaluation: There is inadequate evidence in humans for the carcinogenicity of nitrotoluenes. There is inadequate evidence in experimental animals for the carcinogenicity of 3-nitrotoluene. ... Overall evaluation: Nitrotoluenes are not classifiable as to their carcinogenicity to humans (Group 3).

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

inhalation, skin absorption, ingestion, skin and/or eye contact

Blue lips, fingernails and skin. Confusion. Convulsions. Dizziness. Headache. Nausea. Unconsciousness.

MAY BE ABSORBED! Redness. See Inhalation.

Redness. Pain.

See Inhalation.

Anoxia, cyanosis; headache, lassitude (weakness, exhaustion), dizziness; ataxia; dyspnea (breathing difficulty); tachycardia; nausea, vomiting

Blood, central nervous system, cardiovascular system, skin, gastrointestinal tract

Methemoglobinemia - The presence of increased methemoglobin in the blood; the compound is classified as primary toxic effect.

1 x 10^-3 mg/kg-day

PDF Document

Inadequate information to assess carcinogenic potential

SCREEN Current

PPRTV Current

LC50 (rat) = 693 mg/m3

LC50 Rat inhalation >2.417 mg/L /1 hr

LD50 Mouse oral 1231 mg/kg bw

LD50 Rat (female) oral 1784 mg/kg bw

LD50 Rat (male) oral 2121 mg/kg bw

For more Non-Human Toxicity Values (Complete) data for 3-NITROTOLUENE (15 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Immediate first aid: Ensure that adequate decontamination has been carried out. If patient is not breathing, start artificial respiration, preferably with a demand-valve resuscitator, bag-valve-mask device, or pocket mask, as trained. Perform CPR as necessary. Immediately flush contaminated eyes with gently flowing water. Do not induce vomiting. If vomiting occurs, lean patient forward or place on left side (head-down position, if possible) to maintain an open airway and prevent aspiration. Keep patient quiet and maintain normal body temperature. Obtain medical attention. /Aromatic hydrocarbons and related compounds/

Basic treatment: Establish a patent airway (oropharyngeal or nasopharyngeal airway, if needed). Suction if necessary. Watch for signs of respiratory insufficiency and assist 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 0.9% saline (NS) during transport ... . Do not use emetics. For ingestion, rinse mouth and administer 5 ml/kg up to 200 ml of water for dilution if the patient can swallow, has a strong gag reflex, and does not drool. Administer activated charcoal ... . /Aromatic hydrocarbons and related compounds/

Advanced treatment: Consider orotracheal or nasotracheal intubation for airway control in the patient who is unconscious, has severe pulmonary edema, or is in severe respiratory distress. Consider drug therapy for pulmonary edema ... . Positive-pressure ventilation techniques with a bag valve mask device may be beneficial. Consider drug therapy for pulmonary edema ... . Consider administering a beta agonist such as albuterol for severe bronchospasm ... . Monitor cardiac rhythm and treat arrhythmias if necessary ... Start IV administration of D5W /SRP: "To keep open", minimal flow rate/. Use 0.9% saline (NS) or lactated Ringer's (LR) if signs of hypovolemia are present. For hypotension with signs of hypovolemia, administer fluid cautiously. Watch for signs of fluid overload ... .Treat seizures with diazepam or lorazepam ... . Use proparacaine hydrochloride to assist eye irrigation ... . /Aromatic hydrocarbons and related compounds/

Immediate first aid: Ensure that adequate decontamination has been carried out. If patient is not breathing, start artificial respiration, preferably with a demand-valve resuscitator, bag-valve-mask device, or pocket mask, as trained. Perform CPR as necessary. Immediately flush contaminated eyes with gently flowing water. Do not induce vomiting. If vomiting occurs, lean patient forward or place on left side (head-down position, if possible) to maintain an open airway and prevent aspiration. Keep patient quiet and maintain normal body temperature. Obtain medical attention. /Nitrates, nitrites, and related compounds/

For more Antidote and Emergency Treatment (Complete) data for 3-NITROTOLUENE (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Routine checking of lips, tongue, and nail beds of exposed personnel for signs of cyanosis. /Nitrotoluene/

The following medical procedures should be made available to each employee who is exposed to nitrotoluene at potentially hazardous levels.Initial Medical Exam: A complete history & physical exam: ... Exam of blood, nervous system, GI system, & cardiovascular system should be stressed. Skin should be exam for evidence of chronic disorders. ... A complete blood count should be performed, including red cell count, a white cell count, a differential count of stained smear, as well as hemoglobin & hematocrit. Persons with blood disorders may be at increased risk from exposure.Periodic Medical Exam: The ... /initial med exam/ should be repeated on an annual basis. Methemoglobin determinations should be performed if overexposure is suspected or signs & symptoms of toxicity occur.

/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ Symptoms and signs /of methemoglobinemia, from exposure to nitrotoluene,/ are caused by decreased blood oxygen content and cellular hypoxia and include headache, dizziness, and nausea; with greater compromise, these progress to dyspnea, confusion, seizures, and coma. Even at low levels, skin discoloration ("chocolate cyanosis"), especially of the nails, lips, and ears, can be striking. /Nitrotoluene/

/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ Forms methemoglobin, irritation, and kidney and liver damage. /nitrotoluenes from table/

/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ Headache, flushing of face; dizziness, dyspnea (difficult breathing), cyanosis, nausea, vomiting, muscular weakness, increased pulse and respiratory rate, irritability and convulsions.

/OTHER TOXICITY INFORMATION/ Toxic by inhalation, ingestion, skin absorption.

/OTHER TOXICITY INFORMATION/ According to /experts/ cases of poisoning from nitrotoluene are uncommon. /Researchers/ considered nitrotoluene only slightly toxic, especially in comparison with nitrobenzene. There is some evidence that the different isomers vary somewhat in toxicity. These chemicals, as aromatic, nitrogen-containing materials, are capable of forming methemoglobin. ... /Researchers/ considered the nitrotoluenes to be relatively low in anemiagenic potential and considered o-nitrotoluene to present a lesser hazard that the other isomers.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ /In a dermal irritation study/ six rabbits /were exposed to/ 580 mg/rabbit /3-nitrotoluene that was/ applied to intact and abraded areas of the back ... /for/ 24 hr /and was found to be/ not irritating.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ Investigation of methemoglobinemia in cats after intraperitoneal injection, dose range 100 -500 mg/kg /benzene, 1-methyl-3-nitro-/; slight methemoglobinemia and only few Heinz bodies, clotting time /was/ delayed.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ To determine whether hepatic macromolecular covalent binding of mononitrotoluene isomers to hepatic DNA in vivo was decreased by inhibitors of sulfotransferase, male Fischer 344 rats were given a single oral dose of ring-U-(14)C-labeled 2-, 3-, or 4-nitrotoluene, and were killed at various times thereafter. Livers were removed and analyzed for total and covalently bound radiolabel. Maximal concentrations of total radiolabel were observed between 3 and 12 hr after the dose, and there were no large differences among the 3 isomers in peak concentrations achieved. Covalent binding to hepatic macromolecules was maximal 12 hrs after administration for all 3 isomers. Thereafter, concentration of covalently bound 2-nitrotoluene derived material were always 2-6 times higher than those of 3- or 4-nitrotoluene derived material. When DNA was isolated from livers of rats given mononitrotoluene isomers 12 hrs previously, only 2-nitrotoluene was observed to covalently bind at concentration above the limits of detection of the assay. The covalent binding of 2-nitrotoluene, but not that of 3- or 4-nitrotoluene, to both total hepatic macromolecules and DNA was markedly decreased by prior administration of pentachlorophenol or 2,6-dichloro-4-nitrophenol. Covalent binding to hepatic DNA was decreased by >96%. Thus, 2-nitrotoluene, but not 3- or 4-nitrotoluene, induces DNA excision repair. Furthermore, 2-nitrotoluene, like the hepatocarcinogen 2,6-dinitrotoluene, may require the action of sulfotransferase for its conversion to a species capable of covalently binding to hepatic DNA.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Subchronic or Prechronic Exposure/ m-Nitrotoluene was judged to be immunotoxic ... /after/ splenic antibody plaque forming cell response and cell surface marker analysis tests were associated with immunotoxicity in female B6CF1 mice dosed with m-nitrotoluene by gavage for 14 days at 200, 400 and 600 mg/kg/ body weight.

EC50; Species; Chlorella pyrenoidosa (Green micro-algae); Conditions: static, 25 °C, pH 6.6; Concentration: 14 mg/L for 96 hr; Effect: cell count inhibition />98% purity formulation/

EC50; Species: Daphnia magna (Water Flea); Conditions: freshwater, static; Concentration: 7400 ug/L for 48 hr; Effect: intoxicaiton, immobilization />99.5% purity formulation/

LC50; Species: Daphnia magna (Water Flea) age < or =24 hr; Conditions: freshwater, static, 20-22 °C, pH 7.6-7.7; Concentration: 35000 ug/L for 24 hr /formulation/

LC50; Species: Daphnia magna (Water Flea); Conditions: freshwater, static; Concentration: 17600 ug/L for 48 hr />99.5% purity formulation/

For more Ecotoxicity Values (Complete) data for 3-NITROTOLUENE (17 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

6.30e+00

8.20e+01

1.70e+00

1.00e+03

1.60e-03

1.00e-04

Volatile

1.90e+01

2.50e+02

5.20e+00

The substance is harmful to aquatic organisms. Environmental effects from the substance have not been investigated adequately.

3-Nitrotoluene's production and use as an intermediate in the synthesis of dyes and dye intermediates and other organic syntheses may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. 3-Nitrotoluene can be formed in the ambient atmosphere by reaction of toluene and photochemically produced nitrate radicals, and it has been detected in ambient air monitoring studies. If released to air, a vapor pressure of 0.107 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates 3-nitrotoluene will exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase 3-nitrotoluene 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 17 days. 3-Nitrotoluene is also expected to undergo direct photolysis, with 3-methyl-2-nitrophenol, 3-methyl-6-nitrophenol, and 3-methyl-4-nitrophenol being its primary photoproducts. If released to soil, 3-nitrotoluene is expected to have moderate mobility based upon an estimated Koc of 363. Field monitoring at a munition factory site found that 3-nitrotoluene migrated large distances in the subsurface soils. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces may occur based upon a Henry's Law constant of 9.30X10-6 atm-cu m/mole. Photolysis can occur on surfaces exposed to sunlight. Biodegradation screening tests have shown that 3-nitrotoluene can degrade very slowly in tests using unacclimated media such as the Japanese MITI test and a 64-day silt loam soil inoculum test. However, biodegradation in acclimated media can be relatively fast with 98-100% degradation within a few days or two weeks. If released into water, 3-nitrotoluene is expected to adsorb moderately to suspended solids and sediment based upon its estimated Koc. Volatilization from water surfaces is expected based upon the Henry's Law constant. Estimated volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 5 and 38 days, respectively. Hydrolysis is not expected to be an important environmental fate process since this compound lacks functional groups that hydrolyze under environmental conditions. Measured BCF values of 0.47-16 suggest bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low. 3-Nitrotoluene has been observed to be partially or completely degraded in aqueous sewage treatment systems, and completely degraded in aquifers, and in rivers or streams. Half lives for degradation in the studied aquatic environments ranged from less than 3 days to greater than 64 days. Photodegradation is expected to occur in water surfaces exposed to sunlight. Occupational exposure to 3-nitrotoluene may occur through dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where 3-nitrotoluene is produced or used. Monitoring data indicate that the general population may be exposed to 3-nitrotoluene via inhalation of ambient air. (SRC)

3-Nitrotoluene's production and use as an intermediate in the synthesis of dyes and dye intermediates and other organic syntheses(1,2) may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams(SRC). 3-Nitrotoluene can be formed in the ambient atmosphere by reaction of toluene and photochemically produced nitrate radicals(3).

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 363(SRC), determined from a structure estimation method(2), indicates that 3-nitrotoluene is expected to have moderate mobility in soil(SRC). Field monitoring at a munition factory site in Melbourne Australia found that 3-nitrotoluene migrated large distances in the subsurface soil(3); 3-nitrotoluene is reported to have low soil Kd sorption coefficients in a variety of soil types(3) indicating it will leach. Volatilization of 3-nitrotoluene from moist soil surfaces may occur(SRC) given a Henry's Law constant of 9.30X10-6 atm-cu m/mole(4). 3-Nitrotoluene is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon a vapor pressure of 0.107 mm Hg(5). Biodegradation screening tests have shown that 3-nitrotoluene can degrade very slowly in tests using unacclimated media such as the Japanese MITI test(6) or a 64-day silt loam soil inoculum test(7). However, biodegradation in acclimated media can be relatively fast with 98-100% degradation within a few days or two weeks(8-10). 3-Nitrotoluene is susceptible to direct photolysis(11,12); therefore, photodegradation may occur on surfaces exposed to sunlight(SRC).

AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 363(SRC), determined from a structure estimation method(2), indicates that 3-nitrotoluene is expected to adsorb moderately to suspended solids and sediment(SRC). Volatilization from water surfaces is expected(3) based upon a Henry's Law constant of 9.30X10-6 atm-cu m/mole(4). Using this Henry's Law constant and an estimation method(3), volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 5 days and 38 days, respectively(SRC). According to a classification scheme(5), BCF measured values of 0.47 to 16 in fish(6,7) suggests bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC). Biodegradation screening tests have shown that 3-nitrotoluene can degrade very slowly in tests using unacclimated media such as the Japanese MITI test(7). However, biodegradation in acclimated media can be relatively fast with 98-100% degradation within a few days or two weeks(8-12). It was shown to be degraded in a river water in the Netherlands, with a half-life of 2.7 days(11). The photolysis rate constant for 3-nitrotoluene in near surface water at latitude 40 deg N has been experimentally determined to be 6.5 L/days(13). Hydrolysis is not expected to be an important environmental fate process since this compound lacks functional groups that hydrolyze under environmental conditions(3).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), 3-nitrotoluene, which has a vapor pressure of 0.107 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), is expected to exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase 3-nitrotoluene 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 17 days (SRC), calculated from its rate constant of 9.5X10-13 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(3). 3-Nitrotoluene is expected to undergo direct photolysis, with the primary photoproducts being 3-methyl-2-nitrophenol, 3-methyl-6-nitrophenol, and 3-methyl-4-nitrophenol(4).

AEROBIC: 3-Nitrotoluene, present at 100 mg/L, reached 2% of its theoretical BOD in 2 weeks using an activated sludge inoculum at 30 mg/L in the Japanese Ministry of Industry and Trade (MITI) test, which employs a mixed inoculum obtained from freshwater, soil, and sludge(1). Using unacclimated sludge as the inocululm(2) but lower concentrations of 3-nitrotoluene (10 ppm), complete degradation was observed to occur within 14 days. Other evidence supports complete aerobic degradation of 10 mg/L 3-nitrotoluene within 2 weeks when incubated in adapted aerobic composite river sediment and sewage sludges(3). When nitrotoluene-adapted activated sludges were used as an inoculum, however, 3-nitrotoluene (200 mg/L) was almost completely degraded (i.e. 98% removal) within 5 days when incubated at 20 °C(4). Using a mixed culture isolated from a contaminated soil (near an ammunition plant), 3-nitrotoluene (at initial concentrations of 5 and 12 mg/L) degraded completely in 4 days in aerobic batch and continuous reactor tests(5).

ANAEROBIC: 3-Nitrotoluene has been observed to be degraded to toluidine under anaerobic biodegradation conditions with little additional biodegradation (1). Another study demonstrated that 3-nitrotoluene was only partially degraded when incubated in anaerobic sewage sludges at low concentrations (10 ppm)(2). In anaerobic tests using wastewater from a munitions production facility, initial 3-nitrotoluene degraded by 45% in non-sterile conditions and by 20% in sterile conditions over a 36-day incubation period(3).

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of 3-nitrotoluene with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals is 9.5X10-13 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(1). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 17 days at an atmospheric concentration of 0.5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(1). 3-Nitrotoluene is not expected to undergo hydrolysis in the environment due to the lack of hydrolyzable functional groups(2). 3-Nitrotoluene absorbs uv light strongly above 290 nm(3) which suggests that 3-nitrotoluene is susceptible to direct photolysis in the environment(SRC). In aqueous solution, 3-nitrotoluene has a quantum yield of 0.0158 at 313 nm(4) indicating that direct photolysis will occur in sunlight(SRC). 3-Methyl-2-nitrophenol, 3-methyl-6-nitrophenol, and 3-methyl-4-nitrophenol are primary photodegradates of 3-nitrotoluene(5). The photolysis rate constant in pure water for 3-nitrotoluene in near surface water at latitude 40 deg N has been experimentally determined to be 6.5 L/days which corresponds to a half-life of 0.11 days(6); the photolysis rate has been experimentally determined to increase in waters containing humic substances(6).

The BCF for 3-nitrotoluene in fish (Poecilia reticulata) was been experimentally determined to be 16(1). The BCF in carp (Cyprinus carpio) ranged from 0.47 to 12 at test concentrations of 2.5-25 ppb 3-nitrotoluene over a 6-week exposure period(2). According to a classification scheme(2), these BCF values suggest the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC).

Using a structure estimation method based on molecular connectivity indices(1), the Koc of 3-nitrotoluene can be estimated to be 363(SRC). According to a classification scheme(2), this estimated Koc value suggests that 3-nitrotoluene is expected to have moderate mobility in soil. Field monitoring at a munition factory site in Melbourne Australia found that 3-nitrotoluene migrated large distances in the subsurface soils(3); 3-nitrotoluene is reported to have low soil Kd sorption coefficients in a variety of soils types(3) indicating it will leach.

The Henry's Law constant for 3-nitrotoluene is 9.30X10-6 atm-cu m/mole(1). This Henry's Law constant indicates that 3-nitrotoluene is expected to volatilize from water surfaces(2). 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 5 days 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 38 days(SRC). 3-Nitrotoluene's Henry's Law constant indicates that volatilization from moist soil surfaces may occur(SRC). 3-Nitrotoluene is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon a vapor pressure of 0.107 mm Hg at 25 °C(3).

GROUND WATER: 3-Nitrotoluene was detected at a concentration of 0.175 mg/L in a groundwater sample collected beneath a former ammunition production site(1).

SURFACE WATER: 3-Nitrotoluene has been detected at a concentration of 1 ug/L in Rhine River water(1). It has also been qualitatively detected in the Rhine river on several other occasions(2). 3-Nitrotoluene concentrations of 0.059 to 0.146 ug/L were detected in water samples collected from 5 sites on Yellow River in China (at 7 other sites, levels were below detection limits)(3).

Nitrotoluenes have been detected in wastewater resulting from the production and purification of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene. Wastewater concentrations of nitrotoluenes ranged from 0.01 to 0.17 mg/L. 3-Nitrotoluene was found in 43% of the samples(1).

URBAN/SUBURBAN: 3-Nitrotoluene concentrations of 0.488 to 1.723 ng/cu m were detected in ambient air monitoring at Upland, CA during 2006 and 2007(1).

According to the 2006 TSCA Inventory Update Reporting data, the number of persons reasonably likely to be exposed in the industrial manufacturing, processing, and use of 4-nitrotoluene is 100 to 999; the data may be greatly underestimated(1).

NIOSH (NOES Survey 1981-1983) has statistically estimated that 4,354 workers (729 of these were female) were potentially exposed to nitrotoluene (mixed isomers) in the US(1). Occupational exposure to 3-nitrotoluene may occur through dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where 3-nitrotoluene is produced or used(SRC). Monitoring data indicate that the general population may be exposed to 4-nitrotoluene via inhalation of ambient air(SRC).

SRP: The most favorable course of action is to use an alternative chemical product with less inherent propensity for occupational harm/injury/toxicity or environmental contamination. Recycle any unused portion of the material for its approved use or return it to the manufacturer or supplier. Ultimate disposal of the chemical must consider: the material's impact on air quality; potential migration in soil or water; effects on animal and plant life; and conformance with environmental and public health regulations.

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

For liquid nitrotoluene, by absorbing it in vermiculite, dry sand, earth or a similar material and disposing in a secured sanitary landfill. By atomizing liquid nitrotoluene in a suitable combustion chamber equipped with an appropriate effluent gas cleaning device. By making packages of solid nitrotoluene in paper or other suitable material or by dissolving in a flammable solvent (such as alcohol) and burning in a suitable combustion chamber equipped with an appropriate effluent gas cleaning device. /nitrotoluene/

The following wastewater treatment technologies have been investigated for 3-Nitrotoluene: Concentration process: Biological treatment.

/GUIDE 152: SUBSTANCES - TOXIC (COMBUSTIBLE)/ Health: Highly toxic, may be fatal if inhaled, swallowed or absorbed through skin. 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. /Nitrotoluenes; Nitrotoluenes, liquid; Nitrotoluenes, solid/

/GUIDE 152: SUBSTANCES - TOXIC (COMBUSTIBLE)/ Fire or Explosion: Combustible material: may burn but does not ignite readily. Containers may explode when heated. Runoff may pollute waterways. Substance may be transported in a molten form. /Nitrotoluenes; Nitrotoluenes, liquid; Nitrotoluenes, solid/

/GUIDE 152: SUBSTANCES - TOXIC (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. /Nitrotoluenes; Nitrotoluenes, liquid; Nitrotoluenes, solid/

/GUIDE 152: SUBSTANCES - TOXIC (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. /Nitrotoluenes; Nitrotoluenes, liquid; Nitrotoluenes, solid/

For more DOT Emergency Guidelines (Complete) data for 3-NITROTOLUENE (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

UN 1664; Nitrotoluenes, liquid o-, m-, p-; solid m-, p-

IMO 6.1; Nitrotoluenes

49 631 31; m-Nitrotoluene

49 631 55; Nitrotoluene

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.

Do not transport with food and feedstuffs.

UN Hazard Class: 6.1; UN Pack Group: II