P-Cymene

H226: Flammable liquid and vapor [Warning Flammable liquids]

H304: May be fatal if swallowed and enters airways [Danger Aspiration hazard]

H331: Toxic if inhaled [Danger Acute toxicity, inhalation]

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

P210, P233, P240, P241, P242, P243, P261, P271, P273, P280, P301+P316, P303+P361+P353, P304+P340, P316, P321, P331, P370+P378, P391, P403+P233, P403+P235, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

This chemical does not meet GHS hazard criteria for < 0.1% (1 of 2209) of reports.

H226 (99.7%): Flammable liquid and vapor [Warning Flammable liquids]

H304 (96.5%): May be fatal if swallowed and enters airways [Danger Aspiration hazard]

H315 (15.7%): Causes skin irritation [Warning Skin corrosion/irritation]

H319 (10.7%): Causes serious eye irritation [Warning Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

H411 (93.5%): Toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

P210, P233, P240, P241, P242, P243, P264, P264+P265, P273, P280, P301+P316, P302+P352, P303+P361+P353, P305+P351+P338, P321, P331, P332+P317, P337+P317, P362+P364, P370+P378, P391, P403+P235, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Aggregated GHS information provided per 2209 reports by companies from 47 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 2209 reports by companies.

There are 46 notifications provided by 2208 of 2209 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.

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

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

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

H336: May cause drowsiness or dizziness [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure; Narcotic effects]

P210, P233, P240, P241, P242, P243, P261, P271, P273, P280, P303+P361+P353, P304+P340, P319, P370+P378, P403+P233, P403+P235, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

P210, P233, P240, P241, P242, P243, P261, P271, P280, P303+P361+P353, P304+P340, P319, P370+P378, P403+P233, P403+P235, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Fresh air, rest. Half-upright position. Artificial respiration may be needed. Refer for medical attention.

Remove contaminated clothes. Rinse and then wash skin with water and soap. Wear protective gloves when administering first aid.

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

Rinse mouth. Do NOT induce vomiting. Rest. Refer for medical attention .

INHALATION: remove victim from contaminated area; administer artificial respiration if necessary; call physician.

EYES: flush with water for 15 min.; call a physician.

SKIN: wipe off liquid; wash well with soap and water.

INGESTION: induce vomiting; get medical attention. (USCG, 1999)

Fire Extinguishing Agents Not to Be Used: Water may be ineffective.

Fire Extinguishing Agents: Foam, dry chemical, carbon dioxide (USCG, 1999)

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

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

Excerpt from ERG Guide 130 [Flammable Liquids (Water-Immiscible / Noxious)]:

IMMEDIATE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURE: Isolate spill or leak area for at least 50 meters (150 feet) in all directions.

LARGE SPILL: Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 300 meters (1000 feet).

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)

Collect leaking and spilled liquid in sealable containers as far as possible. Absorb remaining liquid in sand or inert absorbent. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations. Personal protection: filter respirator for organic gases and vapours adapted to the airborne concentration of the substance.

Environmental considerations: Air spill: Apply water spray or mist to knock down vapors. /Cymenes/

Environmental considerations: Water spill: use natural barriers or oil spill control booms to limit spill travel. Remove trapped material with suction hoses. /Cymenes/

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. /Cymenes/

Collect leaking and spilled liquid in sealable containers as far as possible. Absorb remaining liquid in sand or inert absorbent. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations. Personal protection: filter respirator for organic gases and vapors adapted to the airborne concentration of the substance.

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.

If material not on fire and not involved in fire: Keep sparks, flames, and other sources of ignition away. Keep material out of water sources and sewers. Build dikes to contain flow as necessary. Use water spray to knock-down vapors. /Cymenes/

Personnel protection: Avoid breathing vapors. Keep upwind. ... Do not handle broken packages unless wearing appropriate personal protective equipment. Wash away any material which may have contacted the body with copious amounts of water or soap and water. /Cymenes/

Do not eat, drink, or smoke during work.

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

Excerpt from ERG Guide 130 [Flammable Liquids (Water-Immiscible / Noxious)]:

ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames) from immediate area. All equipment used when handling the product must be grounded. Do not touch or walk through spilled material. Stop leak if you can do it without risk. Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas. A vapor-suppressing foam may be used to reduce vapors. Absorb or cover with dry earth, sand or other non-combustible material and transfer to containers. Use clean, non-sparking tools to collect absorbed material.

LARGE SPILL: Dike far ahead of liquid spill for later disposal. Water spray may reduce vapor, but may not prevent ignition in closed spaces. (ERG, 2024)

Fireproof.

Safe storage: Fireproof.

30 [mg/m3]

160 [mg/m3]

940 [mg/m3]

No indication can be given about the rate at which a harmful concentration of this substance in the air is reached on evaporation at 20 °C.

The substance is irritating to the eyes and skin. If this liquid is swallowed, aspiration into the lungs may result in chemical pneumonitis.

The substance defats the skin, which may cause dryness or cracking.

Self-contained or air-line breathing apparatus; solvent- resistant rubber gloves; chemical splash goggles. (USCG, 1999)

Protective gloves.

Wear safety spectacles.

Use ventilation.

NO open flames, NO sparks and NO smoking. Above 47 °C use a closed system, ventilation and explosion-proof electrical equipment. Prevent build-up of electrostatic charges (e.g., by grounding).

PREVENT GENERATION OF MISTS!

Do not eat, drink, or smoke during work.

P-cymene is a colorless liquid with a mild pleasant odor. Floats on water. (USCG, 1999)

Colorless liquid with a mild pleasant odor; [HSDB]

COLOURLESS LIQUID WITH CHARACTERISTIC ODOUR.

Colourless to pale yellow mobile liquid; citrusy aroma reminiscent of lemon

Colorless transparent liquid

Sweetish aromatic odor

Mild pleasant odor

When pure, has a weak citrus odor

351 °F at 760 mmHg (USCG, 1999)

177.10 °C

176.00 to 178.00 °C. @ 760.00 mm Hg

177.1 °C @760 [mm Hg]

-90.2 °F (USCG, 1999)

-68.9 °C

117 °F (USCG, 1999)

117 °F (closed cup)

117 °F (open cup)

47 °C c.c.

In water, 23.4 mg/L at 25 °C

Miscible with ethanol, acetone, benzene, carbon tetrachloride and petroleum ether

0.0234 mg/mL at 25 °C

Solubility in water, g/100ml at 25 °C: 0.002

Insoluble in water; soluble in oils

Soluble (in ethanol)

0.857 at 68 °F (USCG, 1999) - Less dense than water; will float

0.8573 g/cu cm at 20 °C

Relative density (water = 1): 0.85

0.853-0.855

0.853 @25 °C

4.62 (Air = 1)

Relative vapor density (air = 1): 4.62

1.46 [mmHg]

1.50 mm Hg at 25 °C

Vapor pressure, Pa at 20 °C: 200

1.5 [mm Hg] @25 °C

log Kow = 4.10

817 °F (USCG, 1999)

436 °C /From table/

When heated to decomposition it emits acrid smoke and fumes.

-10,400 cal/g = -437X10+5 J/kg

Insoluble in water.

Hydrocarbons, Aromatic

Vigorous reactions, sometimes amounting to explosions, can result from the contact between aromatic hydrocarbons, such as P-CYMENE, and strong oxidizing agents. They can react exothermically with bases and with diazo compounds. Substitution at the benzene nucleus occurs by halogenation (acid catalyst), nitration, sulfonation, and the Friedel-Crafts reaction.

Reacts with oxidants. Attacks rubber.

1-Methyl-4-isopropylbenzene

Volatile Organic Compound (VOC)

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

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

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

Dizziness. Drowsiness. Vomiting.

Dry skin. Redness.

Redness.

Diarrhoea. Drowsiness. Headache. Nausea. Vomiting. Unconsciousness.

Neurotoxin - Acute solvent syndrome

p-Isopropyltoluene

4 x 10^-3 mg/kg-day

4 x 10^-2 mg/kg-day

4 x 10^-2 mg/m^3

1 x 10^-1 mg/m^3

PDF Document

Inadequate information to assess carcinogenic potential

LD50 Rat oral 4750 mg/kg

Previously, /the researchers/ have demonstrated the analgesic-like property of p-cymene in rodents. Short half-life is a limitation for p-cymene application and several approaches have been used to improve pharmaceutical properties of monoterpenes, including the employment of drug-delivery systems. Here, we used p-cymene/beta-cyclodextrin (beta-CD) complex and p-cymene (PC) isolated to evaluated whether the complex formulation is able to improve the antinociceptive activity of this monoterpene. Male mice (26-30 g) were pretreated with PC/beta-CD (20 or 40 mg/kg, p.o.), PC (20 or 40 mg/kg, p.o.) or vehicle (distilled water), 0.5 hr before painful tests and antinociceptive effect was evaluated at times: 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 8, and 16 hr after treatment. We evaluated the analgesic-like effect of PC/beta-CD and PC in acetic acid-induced abdominal writhes, hot-plate, carrageenan-induced paw edema and in rota-rod apparatus. ... Results demonstrated that acute treatment with complex PC/beta-CD produced an antinocicepitve effect (p < 0.01 or p < 0.001) for 8 hr followed whereas isolated PC produced the same effect for 2 hr. Similar results were obtained in hot-plate test, PC/beta-CD, in all doses, significantly reduces (p < 0.01 or p < 0.001) nociceptive behavior for 8 hr while isolated PC for 1 hr, did so only in higher dose. Such results were unlikely to be caused by motor abnormality. Systemic pretreatment with PC/beta-CD and PC inhibited the development paw edema by carrageenan 1%, but PC/beta-CD did so during a longer period when compared with isolated monoterpene alone. ... Results provide evidence to propose that the complex with beta-CD improved analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of p-cymene.

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/

/HUMAN EXPOSURE STUDIES/ A maximization test was carried out on 25 volunteers. The material /p-cymene/ was tested at 4% concentration in petrolatum and produced no sensitization reactions.

/HUMAN EXPOSURE STUDIES/ Tested at 4% in petrolatum, /p-cymene/ produced no irritation after a 48-hr closed-patch test in 25 human subjects

/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ p-Cymene is reported to be a primary skin irritant; contact with the undiluted liquid can produce erythema, dryness and defatting, the intensity depending on the dose and duration of contact.

/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ p-Cymene ... when given by mouth causes headache, nausea and vomiting.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ Ten rabbits were dermally treated with 5000 mg/kg bw /p-cymene/ and observed for 14 days. No rabbits died. Skin irritation was graded as follows: slight redness (3/10), moderate redness (7/10), slight edema (3/10), and moderate edema (7/10).

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ Groups of /male and female/ rats were gavaged with 620, 940, 1400, 2100, 3200, 4700, 7100, or 10700 mg/kg bw /of p-cymene/ and studied for clinical signs and mortality. Surviving animals were killed at 2 weeks. Necropsies were conducted on all rats. Number of deaths (male/female) at each dose level: At doses of 620 to 2100 mg/kg bw, all rats survived. At 3200, 4700, 7100, and 10700 mg/kg bw, 1/2, 2/2, 3/3, and 1/1 rats died, respectively. Prior to death, rats showed typical signs of intoxication: depression, tremor, lethargy, and muscular weakness. Necropsy was reported to show hyperemic lungs with scattered areas of hemorrhage, atelectasis and emphysema, partially digested blood and food in the stomach, petechial hemorrhages in the glandular stomach with hyperemic mucosa, bloody mucus in the upper small intestine and clear mucus in the lower small intestine, pale and mottled liver, congested liver, and distended urinary bladder. Some animals had blood-tinged urine or contained "suspended dark solid material resembling precipitated hemoglobin".

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ Guinea pigs were exposed to atmospheres saturated with 9.7 mg p-cymene/L for a period of 5 hours. Clinical signs and mortality were recorded. Surviving animals were removed from the exposure chamber and observed for an additional week. A "lethal concentration time value (LCt)" was calculated based on the "shortest period of exposure causing death", where the concentration was expressed as mg/L and time as min. Signs reported during the first 30 minutes were those typical of irritation: excitement, pawing at the eyes and nose, increased blinking, squinting, and eye closure. Approximately 90 minutes following exposure, 1 guinea pig had a 10-15-second violent clonic convulsion followed by prolonged quivering. Afterwards, this guinea pig continued to exhibit clonic convulsions of varying degrees. The second guinea pig began quivering at about 120 minutes into the exposure and had a clonic convulsion about 30 minutes later. By the end of the exposure period, both guinea pigs were comatose and had continuous clonic convulsions. The morning after the exposure, the guinea pigs appeared fully recovered.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ Undiluted p-cymene was applied to the shaven abdominal skin (10 x 15 cm area) of an albino rabbit /in 1 mL doses every hour for a total of 6 mL over a 6-hour exposure period/. The rabbit was observed for 1 month following treatment. Slight hyperemia of the skin was observed after 1 hour and persisted approximately 4 hours after which a slight subcutaneous edema developed. After the exposure period, the skin still was slightly edematous and over the next 5 days, it was slightly thickened, hyperemic and showed fine cracks. After the first week, the skin began to return to normal and within the month it was normal with hair growth.

For more Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for P-CYMENE (10 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

EC50; Species: Pseudokirchneriella subcapitata (Green Algae); Conditions: freshwater, static; Concentration: 49000 ug/L for 96 hr; Effect: population, chlorophyll A concentration /formulation/

EC50; Species: Skeletonema costatum (Diatom); Conditions: saltwater, static; Concentration: 22000 ug/L for 96 hr; Effect: population, chlorophyll A concentration /formulation/

LC50; Species: Americamysis bahia (Opossum Shrimp); Conditions: saltwater, static; Concentration: 4400 ug/L for 96 hr /formulation/

LC50; Species: Daphnia magna (Water Flea) age < or =24 hr; Conditions: freshwater, static, 22 °C, pH 7.4-9.4, dissolved oxygen 6.5-9.1 mg/L; Concentration: 9400 ug/L for 24 hr (95% confidence interval: 7900-11000 ug/L) /> or =80% purity/

For more Ecotoxicity Values (Complete) data for P-CYMENE (10 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

1.70e+02

1.10e+03

4.20e+01

1.80e+02

EC50; Species: Pseudokirchneriella subcapitata (Green Algae); Conditions: freshwater, static; Concentration: 49000 ug/L for 96 hr; Effect: population, chlorophyll A concentration /formulation/

EC50; Species: Skeletonema costatum (Diatom); Conditions: saltwater, static; Concentration: 22000 ug/L for 96 hr; Effect: population, chlorophyll A concentration /formulation/

LC50; Species: Americamysis bahia (Opossum Shrimp); Conditions: saltwater, static; Concentration: 4400 ug/L for 96 hr /formulation/

LC50; Species: Daphnia magna (Water Flea) age < or =24 hr; Conditions: freshwater, static, 22 °C, pH 7.4-9.4, dissolved oxygen 6.5-9.1 mg/L; Concentration: 9400 ug/L for 24 hr (95% confidence interval: 7900-11000 ug/L) /> or =80% purity/

For more Ecotoxicity Values (Complete) data for P-CYMENE (10 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

1.70e+02

1.10e+03

4.20e+01

1.80e+02

2.10e+01

5.00e+01

5.20e-02

4.00e-03

4.00e-02

Volatile

1.62e+02

5.00e+02

3.40e+03

1.30e+02

5.30e+02

6.30e+01

p-Cymene's production and use as a solvent, chemical intermediate for p-cresol, carvacrol and other organic compounds and its use as a fragrance agent in commercial and consumer products may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. p-Cymene is found to occur naturally in many arboreous plants and trees and is released through volatile emissions. If released to air, a vapor pressure of 1.50 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates p-cymene will exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase p-cymene 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 about 1 day. p-Cymene will also be degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with nighttime nitrate radicals; the half-life for this reaction is estimated to be 34 days. Monitoring data indicates that p-cymene can be removed from air by wet deposition. If released to soil, p-cymene is expected to have low mobility based upon an estimated Koc of 1120. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 0.011 atm-cu m/mole. p-Cymene is expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces based upon its vapor pressure. However, adsorption to soil may attenuate volatilization. Utilizing the Japanese MITI test, 83-95% of the Theoretical BOD was reached in 2 weeks indicating that biodegradation is an important environmental fate process. If released into water, p-cymene is expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment based upon the estimated Koc. Volatilization from water surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon this compound's estimated Henry's Law constant. Estimated volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 3.5 hours and 4.6 days, respectively. However, volatilization from water surfaces is expected to be attenuated by adsorption to suspended solids and sediment in the water column. The volatilization half-life from a model pond is estimated as 30 days if adsorption is considered. An estimated BCF of 236 suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is high. Hydrolysis is not expected to be an important environmental fate process because p-cymene does not contain hydrolyzable functional groups. Occupational exposure to p-cymene may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where p-cymene is produced or used. Monitoring data indicate that the general population may be exposed to p-cymene through inhalation of ambient air, ingestion of food products which contain p-cymene as a natural constituent and through dermal contact with plants and vegetation that contain p-cymene and through the use of fragrance products that contain this compound. (SRC)

p-Cymene is emitted to the biosphere from natural sources such as California black sage and "disturbed" eucalyptus foliage(1); it is found in the gum terpentines of scotch pine and loblolly pine(1). p-Cymene is emitted from oak species, Quercus ilex L(2) and Japanese hinoki cypress and firs(3). p-Cymene has been found in a variety of arboreous plants including, European larch, Scots pine, European fir, Siberian pine, silver fir, common juniper, Zeravshan juniper, pencil cedar, evergreen cypress, northern white cedar and Chinese arbor vitae(4). p-Cymene has been identified in >1800 essential oils and plant extracts(5). p-Cymene emission rates have been measured from several Australian species of Eucalypts(6).

p-Cymene's production and use as a solvent, chemical intermediate for p-cresol, carvacrol and other organic compounds(1) and its use as a fragrance agent in commercial and consumer products(2) may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams(SRC).

p-Cymene is produced as a by-product in the manufacture of sulphite paper pulp(1), and it has been detected in wastewaters released from pulp manufacturing plants(2,3,4). p-Cymene's use as a solvent and thinner for lacquers and varnishes(3) will release the compound directly to air through evaporation(SRC). p-Cymene has been identified as a gaseous exhaust product from motor vehicles(5).

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 1120(SRC), determined from a structure estimation method(2), indicates that p-cymene is expected to have low mobility in soil(SRC). Volatilization of p-cymene from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process(SRC) given an estimated Henry's Law constant of 0.011 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), derived from its vapor pressure, 1.50 mm Hg(3), and water solubility, 23.4 mg/L(4). However, adsorption may attenuate this process. p-Cymene is expected to volatilize from dry soil based on its vapor pressure(4). p-Cymene, present at 100 mg/L, reached 83-95% of its theoretical BOD in 2 weeks using an activated sludge inoculum at 30 mg/L with the Japanese MITI test(5,6) which classifies p-cymene as readily biodegradable(6).

AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 1120(SRC), determined from a structure estimation method(2), indicates that p-cymene is expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment(SRC). Volatilization from water surfaces is expected(3) based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 0.011 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), derived from its vapor pressure, 1.50 mm Hg(4), and water solubility, 23.4 mg/L(5). Using this Henry's Law constant and an estimation method(3), volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 3.5 hours and 4.6 days, respectively if adsorption is ignored(SRC). The volatilization half-life from a model pond is estimated as 30 days if adsorption is considered(6). According to a classification scheme(7), an estimated BCF of 236(SRC), from its log Kow of 4.10(8) suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is high. p-Cymene, present at 100 mg/L, reached 83-95% of its theoretical BOD in 2 weeks using an activated sludge inoculum at 30 mg/L with the Japanese MITI test(9,10) which classifies p-cymene as readily biodegradable(10). p-Cymene is not expected to undergo hydrolysis in the environment due to the lack of hydrolyzable functional groups(3).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), p-cymene, which has a vapor pressure of 1.50 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), is expected to exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase p-cymene is degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals and nitrate radicals(SRC); the half-life for the reaction with hydroxyl radicals is estimated to be about 1 day(SRC), calculated from its measured rate constant of 1.51X10-11 cu cm/molecule-sec at 22 °C(3). The half-life for the reaction with nitrate radicals is estimated to be 34 days(SRC), calculated from its rate constant of 9.9X10-16 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(3). p-Cymene's detection in snow(4) suggests that removal from air by wet deposition occurs(SRC).

AEROBIC: A batch system die-away test using artificial seawater, a 10-day incubation period, and an inoculum of coastal water from the North Sea found p-cymene to undergo moderate bio-oxidation (actual rates not reported)(1). p-Cymene, present at 100 mg/L, reached 83-95% of its theoretical BOD in 2 weeks using an activated sludge inoculum at 30 mg/L and the Japanese MITI test(2,3) which classifies p-cymene as readily biodegradable(3).

ANAEROBIC: p-Cymene was not degraded during batch system, anaerobic degradation tests using methanogenic bacteria; at 100 mg/L concentration, it did not affect methanogenic gas production, but did cause a 14 day lag period in gas production at 1000 mg/L(1).

PURE CULTURE: Pure culture biodegradation studies using Pseudomonas aeruginosa(1) and Pseudomonas desmolytica(2) have identified cumic acid as a metabolite of p-cymene(1,2).

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of p-cymene with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals has been measured as 1.5X10-11 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(1). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 1 day at an atmospheric concentration of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(1). The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of p-cymene with nitrate radicals has been measured as 9.9X10-16 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 deg C(1). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 34 days at an atmospheric concentration of 2.4X10+8 nitrate radicals per cu cm(2). p-Cymene is not expected to undergo hydrolysis in the environment due to the lack of hydrolyzable functional groups(3). p-Cymene has a UV absorption maxima at 274 nm (log epsilon = 2.74) and a rapidly decreasing log epilson of about 1.1 at 280 nm(4); although p-cymene may have minor absorption >290 nm, direct photolysis is not expected to be an important environmental fate process(SRC).

An estimated BCF of 236 was calculated for p-cymene(SRC), using a log Kow of 4.10(1) and a regression-derived equation(2). According to a classification scheme(3), this BCF suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is high, provided the compound is not metabolized by the organism(SRC).

Using a structure estimation method based on molecular connectivity indices(1), the Koc of p-cymene can be estimated to be 1120(SRC). According to a classification scheme(2), this estimated Koc value suggests that p-cymene is expected to have low mobility in soil.

The Henry's Law constant for p-cymene is estimated as 0.011 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), derived from its vapor pressure, 1.5 mm Hg(1), and water solubility, 23.4 mg/L(2). This Henry's Law constant indicates that p-cymene is expected to volatilize rapidly from water surfaces(3). Based on this Henry's Law constant, the volatilization half-life from a model river (1 m deep, flowing 1 m/sec, wind velocity of 3 m/sec)(3) is estimated as 3.5 hours if adsorption is neglected(SRC). The volatilization half-life from a model lake (1 m deep, flowing 0.05 m/sec, wind velocity of 0.5 m/sec)(3) is estimated as 4.6 days if adsorption is neglected(SRC). The volatilization half-life from a model pond is about 30 days if adsorption is considered(4). p-Cymene's estimated Henry's Law constant indicates that volatilization from moist soil surfaces may occur(SRC). p-Cymene is expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces based upon its vapor pressure(SRC).

GROUNDWATER: p-Cymene was detected in the leachate plume from a municipal landfill in Norman OK(1). As part of the National Water Quality Assessment Program of the US Geological Survey, groundwater samples were collected from 2948 wells between 1985 and 1995 throughout the US(2); positive p-cymene levels ranging from approximately 0.2 to 50 ug/L were detected in 0.3% of all samples(2).

DRINKING WATER: p-Cymene was identified, not quantified, in drinking water samples collected from Philadelphia, PA on Feb 10, 1976 and Cincinnati, OH on Nov 17, 1978(1). p-Cymene was detected at a max concentration of 3.4 ug/L in groundwater wells in the Denver, CO metropolitan area(2).

SURFACE WATER: Surface water samples collected from the lower 25 km of the Brazos River and at the river/ocean mixing in Texas (at the Gulf of Mexico) between Jun 25, 1981 and Aug 5, 1982 contained p-cymene levels of 0.001-0.01 ug/L(1). p-Cymene was detected in rivers in Osaka, Japan at concentrations of 0-0.33 ug/L(2).

RAIN/SNOW: p-Cymene was detected in snow in Austria at a concentration of 7 ug/L(1).

p-Cymene concentration of 15.4 ug/L was detected in the effluent from a large, 5-yr-old community septic tank located near Tacoma, WA(1). p-Cymene levels as high as 80 ug/L were detected in wastewaters from two pulp mills in WA and OR(2). p-Cymene has been qualitatively detected in various wastewaters from the following industries: iron and steel manufacturing, petroleum refining, nonferrous metals, coal mining, pulp and paper, rubber processing, auto amd other laundries, electronics, and mechanical products(3). p-Cymene was identified, not quantified, in water samples collected from an advanced waste treatment facility in Pomona, CA on Sep 25, 1974(4). p-Cymene was identified, not quantified, in landfill gas at 7 waste disposal sites in the UK(5) and in common household waste(6). The average concentration of p-cymene detected in landfill gas emissions from the Fresh Kills Landfill in New York City was 13.14 ppm(7).

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.

/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. Those substances designated with a "P" may polymerize explosively when heated or involved in a fire. Runoff to sewer may create fire or explosion hazard. Containers may explode when heated. Many liquids are lighter than water. /Cymenes/

/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. /Cymenes/

/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. /Cymenes/

/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. /Cymenes/

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

UN 2046; Cymenes

IMO 3; Cymenes

49 131 47; Isopropyltoluene

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.

Flammable Liquid

UN Hazard Class: 3; UN Pack Group: III