1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene is a chemical compound that holds relevance to everyday life due to its various industrial applications. It is commonly used in the manufacturing of pesticides, pharmaceuticals, and other chemicals. Additionally, it can be found in products such as paints, adhesives, and solvents. Despite its utility, 1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene is also known to be harmful to human health and the environment, making it crucial for regulatory agencies and industries to closely monitor and manage its use.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene is primarily used in commercial and industrial applications as a solvent for degreasing and cleaning metal surfaces. It is also utilized as an intermediate in the production of pesticides, pharmaceuticals, and dyes. Additionally, this compound is employed in the manufacturing of rubber chemicals and flame retardants.
In drug and medication applications, 1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene is not commonly used due to its toxicity and potential health risks. However, it has been studied for its potential antifungal properties and has been investigated for its ability to inhibit the growth of certain fungi. Nevertheless, precautions must be taken when handling this compound to minimize exposure and adverse effects on human health.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene is a colorless liquid with a faint sweet odor. It has a molecular formula C6H3Cl3 and a chemical structure composed of three chlorine atoms attached to a benzene ring.
The molar mass of 1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene is approximately 181.45 g/mol, with a density of around 1.46 g/cm3. This places it in the range of common household items such as ethanol (molar mass 46.07 g/mol, density 0.789 g/cm3) and water (molar mass 18.015 g/mol, density 1 g/cm3).
1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene has a melting point of approximately -24 degrees Celsius and a boiling point of around 214 degrees Celsius. These temperature ranges are higher compared to common household items such as ice (melting point 0 degrees Celsius) and water (boiling point 100 degrees Celsius).
1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene is insoluble in water, but soluble in organic solvents such as alcohol and ether. It exhibits a low viscosity, similar to common household items such as vinegar and rubbing alcohol, which also have low viscosity and varying degrees of solubility in water.
🏭 Production & Procurement
1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene is primarily produced as a byproduct in the manufacture of other chlorinated compounds, such as polychlorobenzenes and pesticides. It can also be produced through the chlorination of benzene in the presence of a catalyst. This reaction typically occurs under controlled conditions in a chemical plant.
1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene can be procured from chemical suppliers that specialize in the distribution of industrial chemicals. It is typically available in liquid form and is stored and transported in suitable containers, such as drums or tanks. Special handling precautions must be observed due to its potential hazards and toxicity.
In order to transport 1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene, proper packaging and labeling must be ensured to comply with transportation regulations. The chemical may be shipped by road, rail, or sea, depending on the distance and destination. It is important to follow strict safety guidelines to prevent leaks or spills during transportation.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for 1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene include the potential for skin irritation, eye irritation, and respiratory tract irritation upon exposure. It is important to handle this chemical with caution, using proper personal protective equipment such as gloves, goggles, and a respirator. Care should be taken to prevent inhalation, ingestion, and skin contact, as these routes of exposure can lead to adverse health effects.
The pharmacology of 1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene involves its ability to act as a central nervous system depressant. This chemical can affect the functioning of the brain and spinal cord, leading to symptoms such as dizziness, confusion, and drowsiness. In high doses, 1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene can cause respiratory depression, seizures, and even death. It is important to use this compound with caution and in accordance with proper safety protocols.
Hazard statements for 1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene include “Causes skin irritation,” “Causes serious eye irritation,” and “May cause respiratory irritation.” These statements highlight the potential risks associated with exposure to this chemical, emphasizing the importance of using appropriate protective measures when working with it. It is crucial to be aware of these hazards and to take necessary precautions to minimize the risk of harm.
Precautionary statements for 1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene include “Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection,” “IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing,” and “IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing.” These statements provide specific instructions on how to safely handle and respond to exposure to 1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene in order to mitigate the potential risks and protect one’s health. Following these precautions is essential to ensure the safe use of this chemical.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
One potential research direction for 1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene is its environmental fate and persistence in the environment. This compound has been found to be resistant to degradation, leading to concerns about its potential to bioaccumulate in ecosystems.
Another area of interest is the potential health effects of exposure to 1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene. Research could focus on its toxicity, carcinogenicity, and potential impact on human health through inhalation, ingestion, or dermal contact.
Furthermore, there is a need for studies on the sources and pathways of exposure to 1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene in the environment and in occupational settings. Understanding how this compound is released into the environment and how humans are exposed to it is crucial for developing mitigation strategies.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to 1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene is 1,2,3-Trichlorobenzene. This compound differs from 1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene in the positioning of one of the chlorine atoms on the benzene ring. The molecular structure of 1,2,3-Trichlorobenzene contains three chlorine atoms attached at the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd carbon positions on the benzene ring.
Another similar compound is 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene. This compound contains four chlorine atoms attached to the benzene ring, with one chlorine atom at each of the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th carbon positions. The molecular structure of 1,2,3,4-Tetrachlorobenzene is closely related to 1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene, but with an additional chlorine atom.
A third similar compound is 1,3,5-Trichlorobenzene. In this compound, the three chlorine atoms are attached at the 1st, 3rd, and 5th carbon positions on the benzene ring. The molecular structure of 1,3,5-Trichlorobenzene differs from 1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene in the positioning of the chlorine atoms, resulting in different chemical and physical properties.