chloronitrobenzene

General Description

Either a clear yellow liquid or solid. Melting point near 89°F. Burns, but difficult to ignite. Denser than water and insoluble in water. Toxic by inhalation and skin absorption. Produces toxic oxides of nitrogen during combustion.

Air & Water Reactions

Insoluble in water.

Reactivity Profile

Organonitrate compounds range from slight to strong oxidizing agents. If mixed with reducing agents, including hydrides, sulfides and nitrides, they may begin a vigorous reaction that culminates in a detonation. The aromatic nitro compounds may explode in the presence of a base such as sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide even in the presence of water or organic solvents. The explosive tendencies of aromatic nitro compounds are increased by the presence of multiple nitro groups.

Health Hazard

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.

Fire Hazard

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.

Safety Profile

A poison. Mutation data reported. When heated to decomposition it emits toxic fumes of Cl and NOx. See also other chloronitrobenzene entries and NITRO COMPOUNDS of AROMATIC HYDROCARBONS.