Benzonitrile

103.12

103.12

506893

202-855-7

9V9APP5H5S

1103

8039

2224

DTXSID7021491

Liquid|Colorless oil

29269090

23.8

1.56

Clear colorless to slightly yellow Liquid

1.010 g/cm³ @ Temp: 15 °C

-13.1 °C

190.7 °C @ Press: 760 Torr

161 °F

n 20/D 1.528(lit.)

H2O: 10 g/L (100 ºC)

Store below +30°C.

Vapour pressure, Pa at 25°C: 102

Relative vapour density (air = 1): 3.6

Oral-Rat  LDL0: 720 mg/kg; Oral-Mouse  LD50: 971 mg/kg

More flammable; high heat emits toxic nitrogen oxides and cyanide gas

1.4-7.2%(V)

Odor of volatile oil of almond

Sharp taste

3.30e-13 cm3/molecule*sec

Henry's Law constant = 5.21X10-5 atm-cu m/mol at 25 °C (est)

Dipole moment = approximately 4.18 D|Coefficient of expansion = 9X10-41 1/deg C; dielectric constant = 25.5 at 25 °C; dipole moment = 3.94 D at 22 °C|Hydroxyl radical reaction rate constant = 3.30X10-13 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C

Slightly soluble in water.

Nitriles

The cyano group can be readily hydrolyzed in the presence of mineral acids to produce stable, moderately toxic benzoic acid . When heated to decomposition, it emits highly toxic fumes of nitrogen oxides and hydrogen cyanide [Sax, 9th ed., 1996, p. 353].

550 °C

865.5 kg cal/g mol wt at 20 °C (liquid)

Will attack some plastics

45.9 kJ/mole

Critical temperature: 691 K; critical pressure: 4.22 MPa; critical volume: 368 cu cm/mol

II

6.1

UN 2224 6.1/PG 2

2

21/22-38

23

DI2450000

Xn

The warehouse is ventilated at low temperature and dry; stored separately from oxidants, acids and food additives

Stable. Incompatible with strong bases, strong acids, strong oxidizing agents, strong reducing agents. Air-sensitive. Combustible.

P280-P301 + P312 + P330

H302 + H312

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.|Mix with calcium hypochlorite and flush to sewer with water or incinerate.|The following wastewater treatment technology has been investigated for benzonitrile: Concentration process: Biological treatment.|Waste treatment methods. Product: This combustible material may be burned in a chemical incinerator equipped with an afterburner and scrubber. Offer surplus and non-recyclable solutions to a licensed disposal company. Contact a licensed professional waste disposal service to dispose of this material. Contaminated packaging: Dispose of as unused product.|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.

Strong acids which can liberate hydrogen cyanide. Forms explosive mixture with air.|Incompatible materials: Strong bases, strong oxidizing agents, strong reducing agents, acids, chlorates, nitrates, plastics.

OPDYKE DL J; FOOD COSMET TOXICOL 17(SUPPL): 723-5 (1979). REVIEW WITH 28 REF ON PHENYLCYANIDE INCLUDING TOXICITY, INHALATION, IRRITATION, SENSITIZATION, METAB, PHARMACOLOGY, & EFFECT ON ISOLATED TISSUE & PROTEINS.

Special Hazards of Combustion Products: Toxic hydrogen cyanide and oxides of nitrogen may form in fire. (USCG, 1999)|Combustible. Gives off irritating or toxic fumes (or gases) in a fire. Above 75 °C explosive vapour/air mixtures may be formed.|Flammable - 2nd degree

|Warning|H302: Harmful if swallowed [Warning Acute toxicity, oral]|P264, P270, P280, P301+P312, P302+P352, P312, P322, P330, P363, and P501|H302 (100%): Harmful if swallowed [Warning Acute toxicity, oral]|Aggregated GHS information provided by 549 companies from 3 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.|Danger|P261, P264, P270, P271, P280, P301+P312, P302+P352, P304+P340, P311, P312, P321, P322, P330, P332+P313, P362, P363, P403+P233, P405, and P501|H227: Combustible liquid [Warning Flammable liquids]|P210, P264, P270, P273, P280, P301+P312, P302+P352, P312, P321, P322, P330, P332+P313, P362, P363, P370+P378, P403+P235, and P501|P210, P260, P261, P264, P270, P271, P280, P301+P312, P302+P352, P304+P340, P305+P351+P338, P309+P311, P311, P312, P314, P321, P322, P330, P332+P313, P337+P313, P362, P363, P370+P378, P403+P233, P403+P235, P405, and P501|P210, P260, P261, P264, P270, P271, P280, P301+P312, P302+P352, P304+P340, P307+P311, P311, P312, P314, P321, P322, P330, P363, P370+P378, P403+P233, P403+P235, P405, and P501

Excerpt from ERG Guide 152 [Substances - Toxic (Combustible)]: 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. SPILL: Increase, in the downwind direction, as necessary, the isolation distance shown above. FIRE: If tank, rail car or tank truck 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, 2016)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 152 [Substances - Toxic (Combustible)]: ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames in 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, 2016)

Rubber gloves; splash-proof goggles; rubber boots or rubber overshoes; impervious clothing for splash protection; cartridge-type mask or other protection against vapor must be worn for working in poorly ventilated area or where poisoning by inhalation may be possible. (USCG, 1999)|Eye/face protection: Face shield and safety glasses Use equipment for eye protection tested and approved under appropriate government standards such as NIOSH (US) or EN 166(EU).|Skin protection: Handle with gloves.|Body Protection: Complete suit protecting against chemicals, The type of protective equipment must be selected according to the concentration and amount of the dangerous substance at the specific workplace.|Respiratory protection: Where risk assessment shows air-purifying respirators are appropriate use a full-face respirator with multipurpose combination (US) or type ABEK (EN 14387) respirator cartridges as a backup to engineering controls. If the respirator is the sole means of protection, use a full-face supplied air respirator. Use respirators and components tested and approved under appropriate government standards such as NIOSH (US) or CEN (EU).|Personnel Protection: ... Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus. ... Wear appropriate chemical protective gloves, boots, and goggles.

... Combustible but burns with difficulty.

Explosive limits in air: Lower = 1.4%; Upper = 7.2%|Explosive limits , vol% in air: 1.4-7.2

Foam, dry chemical, carbon dioxide. Water may be ineffective. Cool exposed containers with water. Wear goggles & self-contained breathing apparatus.|If material on fire or involved in fire: Do not extinguish fire unless flow can be stopped. Use water in flooding quantities as fog. Solid streams of water may be ineffective. Cool all affected containers with flooding quantities of water. Apply water from as far a distance as possible. Use "alcohol" foam, dry chemical or carbon dioxide.|Evacuation: If fire becomes uncontrollable or container is exposed to direct flame, evacuate for a radius of 1500 feet. If material leaking (not on fire), downwind evacuation must be considered.|Suitable extinguishing media: Use water spray, alcohol-resistant foam, dry chemical or carbon dioxide.|For more Fire Fighting Procedures (Complete) data for BENZONITRILE (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Special hazards arising from the substance or mixture: Carbon oxides, nitrogen oxides (NOx)

Remove all ignition sources. Ventilate area of spill or leak. Absorb liquids in vermiculite, dry sand, earth, or a similar material adn deposit in sealed containers. it maybe nessary to contain and dispose of this chemical as a hazardous waste.|Accidental Release Measures. Personal precautions, protective equipment and emergency procedures: Use personal protective equipment. Avoid breathing vapours, mist or gas. Ensure adequate ventilation. Remove all sources of ignition. Beware of vapours accumulating to form explosive concentrations. Vapours can accumulate in low areas. Environmental precautions: Prevent further leakage or spillage if safe to do so. Do not let product enter drains. Discharge into the environment must be avoided. Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up: Contain spillage, and then collect with an electrically protected vacuum cleaner or by wet-brushing and place in container for disposal according to local regulations. Keep in suitable, closed containers for disposal.

Workers should wash: Immediately when skin becomes contaminated. /Cyanides/|Work clothing should be changed daily: If there is any possibility that the clothing may be contaminated. /Cyanides/|SRP: Contaminated protective clothing should be segregated in a manner such 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.|SRP: The scientific literature for the use of contact lenses by industrial workers is inconsistent. The benefits 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.|For more Preventive Measures (Complete) data for BENZONITRILE (10 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

/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.|/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.|/GUIDE 152: SUBSTANCES - TOXIC (Combustible)/ Public Safety: CALL Emergency Response Telephone Number on Shipping Paper first. If Shipping Paper not available or no answer, refer to appropriate telephone number listed on the inside back cover. 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.|/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.|For more DOT Emergency Guidelines (Complete) data for BENZONITRILE (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

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.

Contact can irritate the eyes and skin.|Vapor is irritating to eyes, nose and throat. Liquid is irritating to skin and eyes.

Personal protection: chemical protection suit including self-contained breathing apparatus. Do NOT let this chemical enter the environment. Collect leaking liquid in sealable containers. Absorb remaining liquid in sand or inert absorbent. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations.

Separated from food and feedstuffs. Well closed. Keep in a well-ventilated room.

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, skin and respiratory tract. The substance may cause effects on the cellular respiration. This may result in cyanosis. The effects may be delayed. Medical observation is indicated.

NO open flames. Above 75 °C use a closed system and ventilation.

PREVENT GENERATION OF MISTS!

Use ventilation, local exhaust or breathing protection.

Protective gloves. Protective clothing.

Wear safety goggles or eye protection in combination with breathing protection.

This action promulgates standards of performance for equipment leaks of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) in the Synthetic Organic Chemical Manufacturing Industry (SOCMI). The intended effect of these standards is to require all newly constructed, modified, and reconstructed SOCMI process units to use the best demonstrated system of continuous emission reduction for equipment leaks of VOC, considering costs, non air quality health and environmental impact and energy requirements. Benzonitrile is produced, as an intermediate or a final product, by process units covered under this subpart.

Persons in charge of vessels or facilities are required to notify the National Response Center (NRC) immediately, when there is a release of this designated hazardous substance, in an amount equal to or greater than its reportable quantity of 5000 lb or 2270 kg. The toll free number of the NRC is (800) 424-8802. The rule for determining when notification is required is stated in 40 CFR 302.4 (section IV. D.3.b).

Benzonitrile was detected, not quantified, in water samples collected from an advanced waste treatment facility in Pomona, CA on June 25, 1975(1). Benzonitrile was detected in leachate samples at a concentration of 2.5 mg/L collected from a sanitary landfill near Waterloo, Ontario in 1982(2). Benzonitrile was also detected, not quantified, in leachate obtained from a simulated landfill lysimeter(3). Benzonitrile was detected at an estimated concentration of 0.7 mg/L in wastewater from the gasification of Indian Head lignite coal in North Dakota(4). Wastewater samples collected from two coal gasification and one shale oil processing facilities in Wyoming contained benzonitrile at concentrations ranging from 24-235 ppb(5). Benzonitrile was detected in condensate retort water from an oil shale processing facility in Colorado at a concentration of 2.7 mg/L(6). Benzonitrile was also detected in the emissions of a municipal waste incineration plant in Germany at a concentration of 0.30 ug/cu m(7).

URBAN/SUBURBAN: Benzonitrile was detected in 4 urban air data points at concentrations ranging from 0.006 to 0.038 ppbv, average 0.022 ppbv; sampling was conducted for the National Ambient Volatile Organic Compounds Data Base of US air monitoring, 1970-1987 (1).|INDOOR: Indoor air samples collected at the shale oil facility in Colorado contained benzonitrile at a concentration of 1.0 ug/cu m(1).|RURAL/REMOTE: Benzonitrile was detected, not quantified, in air samples collected from forest air of the Southern Black Forest in Kalbelescheuer, Germany, in January 1985. It was not detected in sampling carried out in November 1984(1).|SOURCE DOMINATED: Benzonitrile was detected, not quantified, in exhaust gas from engines burning hydrocarbon fuels(1). Benzonitrile was detected in the combustion of scrap tires in a horizontal laboratory scale reactor at 650, 750, 850, 950 degrees C at yields of 240, 580, 420, 120 mg/kg scrap tire; benzonitrile was not detected at 1050 degrees C(2). Benzonitrile was also detected in the emissions from a simulated automobile fire at 0.23 mg/kg(3).

moderately

IDENTIFICATION AND USE: Benzonitrile is a colorless liquid. It is used as intermediate for rubber chemicals; solvent for nitrile rubber, specialty lacquers, and many resins and polymers, and for many anhydrous metallic salts. HUMAN EXPOSURE AND TOXICITY: Benzonitrile was tested at a concentration of 2% in petrolatum on 27 volunteers in a mixed panel, and was found to produce no sensitization reactions after 48 hr close patch test. Extensive reddening and blister formation resulted from accidental exposure of human skin to benzonitrile. Following an occupational accident in which a worker's head and clothing were drenched with benzonitrile, the worker suffered severe respiratory distress and tonic convulsions between periods of unconsciousness which lasted for 75 min. Thereafter he gradually recovered, but several years later he experienced episodes of unconsciousness which might have been related to the benzonitrile exposure. ANIMAL STUDIES: CNS depression signs and changes in blood cholinesterase activity were observed in rats and mice in an inhalation study with benzonitrile. Indication of cumulative effects of benzonitrile were reported. Toxic signs included sluggishness, unsteady gait, a comatose state, convulsions of limb muscles, and death. Benzonitrile produced mild eye irritation and no skin irriation in albino rabbits. Benzonitrile applied full strength to intact or abraded rabbit skin for 24 hr under occlusion was moderately irritating. When benzonitrile was administered orally to rats in a single lethal dose (2 g/kg), cytochrome oxidase activity of the liver, kidneys, and heart was increased by 2-4 times. The nitrile initially increased the hippuric acid and NH3 and decreased the glucuronides of the urine. Rhodanides in the blood remained unchanged. Certain responses of rats following exposure to benzonitrile vapor exhibited age-rated differences. Erythrocyte and leukocyte counts and hemoglobin , albumin and gamma-globulin levels decreased while alpha1-, alpha2- and beta-globulin levels increased earlier and were compensated far more rapidly in adult rats than in juvenile or older animals. Both, nitrobenzene and benzonitrile applied to V79 cells, induced mostly kinetochor (CREST)-positive micronuclei, thus characterising the chromosomal effects as aneugenic. Benzonitrile was tested for anticonvulsant effect in mice and gave protection against pentylenetetrazole-induced convulsions.

Benzonitrile was tested for anticonvulsant effect in mice and gave protection against pentylenetetrazole-induced convulsions.|The extent of cyanide liberation and the effect of carbon tetrachloride pretreatment on the mortality of /mice/ differed among nitriles. Benzonitrile toxicity was clearly enhanced.|When sodium thiosulfate was given in multiple injections, it protected mice against death by propionitrile.|The toxic mechanism of nitriles and the effect of metabolic modifiers in mice were studied in relation to their physicochemical properties. All the test nitriles liberated cyanide both in vivo and in vitro, with the exception of benzonitrile, although the extent of liberation and the effect of carbon tetrachloride pretreatment on the mortality of animals differed among nitriles. From these results, test compounds were tentatively divided into 3 groups. In group 1, acute toxicity was greatly reduced by carbon tetrachloride pretreatment, in group 2, toxicity was not significantly changed or was somewhat enhanced, and in group 3, benzonitrile only, toxicity was clearly enhanced. The amount of cyanide was higher at death in the brains of mice given group 1 compounds, the level being comparable to that found in mice killed by dosing with potassium cyanide. The relation between log (1/LD50) and log p for the compounds in group 1 fitted a parabolic plot, while that for compounds in group 2 was linear. For most nitriles, the in vitro metabolism was inhibited when the incubation mixture contained either SKF-525A, carbon monoxide, or microsomes from mice treated with carbon tetrachloride. When mice were dosed with ethyl alcohol, metabolic enhancement of nitriles was seen compared with the control. However, ethyl alcohol, when added to the incubation mixture, inhibited the in vitro metabolism of nitriles. /Nitriles/

LD50 Rat 1000 mg/kg bw|LD50 Rat oral 720 mg/kg bw|LD50 Rat 690 mg/kg bw|LD50 Mouse oral 971 mg/kg|For more Non-Human Toxicity Values (Complete) data for BENZONITRILE (13 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Benzonitrile's production and use in the synthesis of benzoquanamine; as an additive in nickel-plating baths; for separating naphthalene and alkylphthalates from non-aromatics by azetropic distillation; as jet-fuel additive; in cotton bleaching baths; as a drying additive for acrylic fibers; in the removal of titanium tetrachloride and vanadium oxytrichloride from silicon tetrachloride(1); as an intermediate of rubber chemicals; and as a solvent for nitrile rubber, speciality lacquers, and many resins, polymers and anhydrous metallic salts(2) may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams(SRC).

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 150(SRC), determined from a log Kow of 1.56(2) and a regression-derived equation(3), indicates that benzonitrile is expected to have moderate mobility in soil(SRC). Volatilization of benzonitrile from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process(SRC) given an estimated Henry's Law constant of 5.21X10-5 atm-cu m/mole (SRC), derived from its vapor pressure, 0.768 mm Hg(4), and water solubility of 2000 mg/L(5). Benzonitrile is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon its vapor pressure(4). Benzonitrile achieved 88% degradation after 8, 10, and 12.5 hours in char-amended soil, soil and washed-char-amended soil slurries, respectively(6), indicating that biodegradation may be an important environmental fate process in soil(SRC).|AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 150(SRC), determined from a log Kow of 1.56(2) and a regression-derived equation(3), indicates that benzonitrile is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment(SRC). Volatilization from water surfaces is expected(4) based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 5.21X10-5 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), derived from its vapor pressure, 0.768 mm Hg(5), and water solubility of 2000 mg/L(6). Using this Henry's Law constant and an estimation method(4), volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 20 and 9 days, respectively(SRC). According to a classification scheme(7), an estimated BCF of 5(SRC), from its log Kow(2) and a regression-derived equation(3), suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC). Utilizing the Japanese MITI test, 63% of the Theoretical BOD was reached in 2 weeks(8) indicating that biodegradation is an important environmental fate process in water(SRC).|ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), benzonitrile, which has a measured vapor pressure of 0.768 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), is expected to exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere(SRC). Vapor-phase benzonitrile 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 31 days(SRC), calculated from its rate constant of 3.30X10-13 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(3). Benzonitrile absorbs light at wavelengths >290 nm(4) and, therefore, may be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight(SRC).

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of benzonitrile with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals has been reported as 3.30X10-13 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(1). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 31 days at an atmospheric concentration of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(1). Benzonitrile is expected to undergo hydrolysis in the environment due to the presence of functional groups that hydrolyze under environmental conditions(2). Benzonitrile is hydrolyzed to benzoic acid in water, anaerobic river and sediment, and sediment extract at elevated temperatures(3). The first order hydrolysis rate of benzonitrile in a phosphate buffer (pH 7.7) was 0.045 1/day with a half-life of 15.4 days at 85 degrees C(4). Benzonitrile absorbs at wavelengths >290 nm(5) and, therefore, may be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight(SRC).

An estimated BCF of 5 was calculated in fish for benzonitrile(SRC), using a measured log Kow of 1.56(1) and a regression-derived equation(2). According to a classification scheme(3), this BCF suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC).

The Koc of benzonitrile is estimated as 150(SRC), using a log Kow of 1.56(1) and a regression-derived equation(2). According to a classification scheme(3), this estimated Koc value suggests that benzonitrile is expected to have moderate mobility in soil(SRC).

The Henry's Law constant for benzonitrile is estimated as 5.21X10-5 atm-cu m/mole(SRC) derived from its vapor pressure, 0.768 mm Hg(1), and water solubility of 2000 mg/L(2). This Henry's Law constant indicates that benzonitrile is expected to volatilize 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 20 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)(3) is estimated as 9 days(SRC). Benzonitrile's estimated Henry's Law constant indicates that volatilization from moist soil surfaces may occur(SRC). Benzonitrile is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon its vapor pressure(1).

DRINKING WATER: Benzonitrile was qualitatively detected in drinking water samples collected from treatment facilities in Cincinnati, OH on Oct 17, 1978 and Philadelphia, PA on Feb 10, 1976(1).|SURFACE WATER: Benzonitrile was detected at concentrations of 1300, 12, and 2.6 ug/L in surface water samples collected 0.67, 1.1, and 9 km downstream, respectively, from the site of the large tire fire in Winchester, VA in 1983(1).

Benzonitrile was qualitatively detected in the volatile components of baked potatoes(1), roasted filbert nuts(2), chickpeas(3), and meat(4).|Benzonitrile is found in milk products, roasted filberts and peanuts, and cooked trassi.

Benzonitrile was qualitatively detected in 3 of 12 samples of human milk collected from volunteers in Bayonne, NJ, Jersey City, NJ, Bridgeville, PA, and Baton Rouge, LA(1).|Benzonitrile is found in milk products.

According to the 2012 TSCA Inventory Update Reporting data, the number of persons reasonably likely to be exposed in the industrial manufacturing, processing, and use of benzonitrile is 1-99; the data may be greatly underestimated(1).|Inhalation, ingestion, skin absorption.|Occupational exposure to nitriles, such as benzonitrile, may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where benzonitrile is produced or used(1). Monitoring data indicate that the general population may be exposed to benzonitrile via inhalation of ambient air, and ingestion of food containing benzonitrile(SRC).

Benzonitrile was qualitatively detected in 3 of 12 samples of human milk collected from volunteers in Bayonne, NJ, Jersey City, NJ, Bridgeville, PA, and Baton Rouge, LA(1). Benzonitrile was detected in 24.6% of 387 of expired air samples collected from healthy, urban human adults; the mean concentration in expired air was 0.105 ng/L(2).

Aromatic cyanides or nitriles can be metabolized by hydrolysis of the cyanide group to give the corresponding carboxylic acid. This reaction is only a minor pathway, the major metabolic transformation being aromatic hydroxylation. Benzonitrile /by hydrolation yields/ benzamide /which by hydrolysis yields/ benzoic acid and ammonia.|Benzonitrile yields o-hydroxybenzonitrile, m-hydroxybenzonitrile, and p-hydroxybenzonitrile in rabbits.|Benzonitrile is mainly hydroxylated in vivo to cyanophenols, a small amount being hydrolyzed to benzoic acid. ... In rabbit, 50% of a dose of 150 mg/kg was converted to conjugated cyanophenols and 10% of the benzonitrile fed was excreted as benzoic acid. Hydrogen cyanide is not a metabolite of benzonitrile ... and cyanide was not found to be formed by benzonitrile either in vivo or in vitro. ... The in vivo microsomal hydroxylation of specifically deuterated benzonitrile in the rat yielded mainly 4-hydroxybenzonitrile with 41% retention of deuterium.

Benzonitrile may enter the human body by ingestion, absorption through the skin, or inhalation. The earliest symptoms of cyano compound intoxication may be weakness, headaches, confusion, and occasionally nausea and vomiting. The respiratory rate and depth will usually be increased at the beginning and at later stages become slow and gasping. Blood pressure is usually normal, especially in the mild or moderately severe cases, although the pulse rate is usually more rapid than normal. (USCG, 1999)

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)

Fresh air, rest. Artificial respiration may be needed. Refer for medical attention.

Remove contaminated clothes. Rinse skin with plenty of water or shower. Refer for medical attention .

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

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. /Cyanide and related compounds/|Basic treatment: Establish a patent airway. 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 ... . Anticipate seizures and treat if necessary ... . Monitor for shock and treat if necessary ... . Monitor for pulmonary edema 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 ... . /Cyanide and related compounds/|Advanced treatment: Consider orotracheal or nasotracheal intubation for airway control in the patient who is unconscious or has severe pulmonary edema, or is in severe respiratory distress. Positive-pressure ventilation techniques with a bag-valve-mask device may be beneficial. Consider drug therapy for pulmonary edema ... . Monitor cardiac rhythm and treat arrhythmias as necessary ... . Start an IV with D5W TKO /SRP: "To keep open", minimal flow rate/. Use lactated Ringer's (LR) if signs of hypovolemia are present. For hypotension with signs of hypovolemia, administer fluid cautiously. If patient is unresponsive to these measures, vasopressors may be helpful. Watch for signs of fluid overload ... . Administer cyanide antidote kit as per protocol and physicians order ... . Treat seizures with diazepam (Valium) or lorazepam (Ativan) ... . Use proparacaine hydrochloride to assist eye irrigation ... . /Cyanide and related compounds/|/SRP:/ 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 if necessary. Immediately flush contaminated eyes with gently flowing water. Do not induce vomiting. If vomiting occurs, lean patient forward or place on the 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. /Poisons A and B/|For more Antidote and Emergency Treatment (Complete) data for BENZONITRILE (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

/HUMAN EXPOSURE STUDIES/ Benzonitrile was tested at a concentration of 2% in petrolatum on 27 volunteers in a mixed panel, and was found to produce no sensitization reactions after 48 hr close patch test.|/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ Extensive reddening and blister formation resulted from accidental exposure of human skin to benzonitrile.|/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ Following an occupational accident in which a worker's head and clothng were drenched with benzonitrile, the worker suffered severe respiratory distress and tonic convulsions between periods of unconsciousness which lasted for 75 min. Thereafter he gradually recovered, but several years later he experienced episodes of unconsciousness which might have been related to the benzonitrile exposure.

benzonitrile

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

Confusion. Headache. Laboured breathing. Nausea. Unconsciousness. Vomiting. Weakness.

Redness.

Redness. Pain.

99.5% min wt/water content of 0.40% max|Grades of purity: Pure, 99+%

All other chemical product and preparation manufacturing|Benzonitrile: ACTIVE

Determination of benzonitrile in aqueous solution by using GLC with flame ionization detector. The estimated detection limit is 1 mg/L.|Benzonitrile can be determined by GC/MS using purge-and-trap techniques. The determination limit for most compounds by this technique is <10 ppb. Recovery and precision measurements demonstrated that the method provided semiquantitative analysis for this volatile hazardous substance.

Fire Hazards -> Flammable - 2nd degree