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1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene

Hazardous Substances DataBank Number
6005
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Related CIDs

1 Human Health Effects

1.1 Toxicity Summary

IDENTIFICATION AND USE: 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene (TNB) is a solid. It is used as an explosive, as a vulcanizing agent for natural rubber, and as an indicator for pH 12.0-14.0. HUMAN STUDIES: TNB is alleged to have caused optic neuritis and amblyopia. Chronic intoxication also is said to have caused yellowing of the conjunctiva or sclera. These reports of intoxication and ocular disturbances have come from the munitions industry where commonly there is exposure to a variety of substances, and it is difficult to be sure of the individual substance responsible. TNB was found toxic in TK6 human lymphoblastic cells. ANIMAL STUDIES: Male rats were gavaged with TNB at 35.5 and 71 mg/kg in corn oil. Blood was collected 5 hr and 24 hr after a single oral dose or 24 hr after daily oral doses for 4 or 10 d in four different sets of experiments. A dose-dependent methemoglobinemia was present only in blood collected 5 hr after a single dose. A highly significant dose-dependent anemia with reduced red cells, hemoglobin, and hematocrit was present in rats receiving TNB for 4 or 10 d. In a 90-day oral toxicity study of TNB, kidneys in male rats receiving TNB at dose levels of 67, 400 and 800 ppm TNB had an increased incidence of cytoplasmic hyaline droplets in proximal cortical tubular epithelial cells at all treatment levels. However, a diagnosis of alpha-2-u-globulin nephropathy was not deemed appropriate since there was no significant increase in single cell necrosis, no presence of granular casts or linear papillary mineralization or increased tubular hyperplasia. A 90-day toxicity test of TNB in mice revealed treatment-related changes in spleen (erythroid cell hyperplasia) and in testis (seminiferous tubule degeneration) in the 750 ppm TNB group. The carcinogenic activity of TNB was studied in mouse skin and lung tumor assays. A single application of 10 or 50 mg of TNB to the skin of mice increased the incidence of inflammation, epidermal hyperplasia and dark cells. TNB was found negative in assay for initiation-promotion of skin carcinogenicity. In rats, TNB-mediated tissue damage is accompanied by breakdown of the blood-brain barrier. The presence of vacuolation and associated extravasated serum proteins in TNB-treated rats is an indication of vasogenic brain edema, which appears to be a critical event in TNB toxicity. Sperm depletion and degeneration of the seminiferous tubules were noted in a reproduction study in rats. Mutagenicity was evaluated with the Salmonella fluctuation test (FT) and the V79 Chinese hamster lung cell mutagenicity assay. The fluctuation test results indicated that TNB was mutagenic. However, TNB was not mutagenic for the V79 mammalian cells with or without metabolic activation. ECOTOXICITY STUDIES: Slight irritant effects suggesting respiratory distress upon short term exposure to marine fish Kuhlia sandvicensis were observed at exposure levels of 100 ug/L, while moderate and violent reactions to the chemical were produced at exposures of 1,000 and 10,000 ug/L. Results from the hydra assay of TNB indicated the minimal affective concentrations required to elicit a toxic response in the adult hydra and in the regenerating hydra were 3.8 ug/mL and 1.8 ug/mL, respectively.

1.2 Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete)

/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ Trinitrobenzene ... is alleged to have caused optic neuritis and amblyopia. Chronic intoxication also is said to have caused yellowing of the conjunctiva or sclera. These reports of intoxication and ocular disturbances have come from the munitions industry where commonly there is exposure to a variety of substances, and it is difficult to be sure of the individual substance responsible.
Grant, W.M. Toxicology of the Eye. 3rd ed. Springfield, IL: Charles C. Thomas Publisher, 1986., p. 953
/GENOTOXICITY/ ...Mutagenicity was evaluated with the Salmonella fluctuation test (FT) and the V79 Chinese hamster lung cell mutagenicity assay. Cytotoxicity was evaluated using V79 and TK6 human lymphoblastic cells. For the TK6 and V79 assays, 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene (TNB) and 2,4,6-triaminotoluene were more toxic than as 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT), whereas hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX) and octahydro-1,3,5,7-tetranitro-1,3,5,7-tetrazocine (HMX) were without effect at their maximal aqueous solubility limits. The primary TNT metabolites (2-amino-4,6-dinitrotoluene, 4-amino-2,6-dinitrotoluene, 2,4-diamino-6-nitrotoluene and 2,6-diamino-4-nitrotoluene) were generally less cytotoxic than the parent compound. The fluctuation test results indicated that TNB, TNT and all the tested primary TNT metabolites were mutagenic. Except for the cases of 4-amino-2,6-dinitrotoluene and 2,4-diamino-6-nitrotoluene in the TA98 strain, addition of rat liver S9 resulted in either no effect, or decreased activity. None of the tested compounds were mutagenic for the V79 mammalian cells with or without S9 metabolic activation.
Lachance B et al; Mutat Res 444 (1): 25-39 (1999)

2 Emergency Medical Treatment

2.1 Antidote and Emergency Treatment (Complete)

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 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/
Currance, P.L. Clements, B., Bronstein, A.C. (Eds).; Emergency Care For Hazardous Materials Exposure. 3rd revised edition, Elsevier Mosby, St. Louis, MO 2007, p. 209
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/
Currance, P.L. Clements, B., Bronstein, A.C. (Eds).; Emergency Care For Hazardous Materials Exposure. 3rd revised edition, Elsevier Mosby, St. Louis, MO 2007, p. 209-10
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. 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 (Valium) or lorazepam (Ativan) ... . Use proparacaine hydrochloride to assist eye irrigation ... . /Aromatic hydrocarbons and related compounds/
Currance, P.L. Clements, B., Bronstein, A.C. (Eds).; Emergency Care For Hazardous Materials Exposure. 3rd revised edition, Elsevier Mosby, St. Louis, MO 2007, p. 210
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/
Currance, P.L. Clements, B., Bronstein, A.C. (Eds).; Emergency Care For Hazardous Materials Exposure. 3rd revised edition, Elsevier Mosby, St. Louis, MO 2007, p. 286
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 shock and treat if necessary ... . Anticipate seizures and treat as 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 ... . /Nitrates, nitrites, and related compounds/
Currance, P.L. Clements, B., Bronstein, A.C. (Eds).; Emergency Care For Hazardous Materials Exposure. 3rd revised edition, Elsevier Mosby, St. Louis, MO 2007, p. 286-7
Advanced treatment: Consider orotracheal or nasotracheal intubation for airway control in the patient who is unconscious or is in severe respiratory distress. 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. If unresponsive to these measures, vasopressors may be helpful. Watch for signs of fluid overload ... . Treat seizures with diazepam (Valium) or lorazepam (Ativan) ... . Administer 1% solution methylene blue if patient is symptomatic with severe hypoxia, cyanosis, and cardiac compromise not responding to oxygen. ... . Use proparacaine hydrochloride to assist eye irrigation ... . /Nitrates, nitrites, and related compounds/
Currance, P.L. Clements, B., Bronstein, A.C. (Eds).; Emergency Care For Hazardous Materials Exposure. 3rd revised edition, Elsevier Mosby, St. Louis, MO 2007, p. 287

3 Animal Toxicity Studies

3.1 Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete)

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ Male F-344 rats were gavaged with 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene (TNB) at 35.5 and 71 mg/kg in corn oil. Blood was collected 5 hr and 24 hr after a single oral dose or 24 hr after daily oral doses for 4 or 10 d in four different set of experiments. A dose-dependent methemoglobinemia was present only in blood collected 5 hr after a single dose. A highly significant dose-dependent anemia with reduced red cells, hemoglobin, and hemotocrit was present in rats receiving TNB for 4 or 10 d. A dose-dependent decrease in serum triglycerides was present in rats receiving TNB for 10 d. There was no hemolysis when rat erythrocytes were incubated with TNB (in vitro) for 9 hr. Spectral changes of hemoglobin recorded during the incubation with TNB confirm methemoglobin formation and progressive denaturation of hemoglobin-forming hemichromes.
Chandra Am et al; J Toxicol Environ Health 46 (1): 57-72 (1995)
/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Subchronic or Prechronic Exposure/ ... Male Fischer 344 (F344) rats were gavaged with 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene (TNB) at 71 mg/kg or with corn oil (vehicle). Rats were killed after 10 daily oral doses or were allowed to recover for 10 or 30 d after the 10 doses. ... proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) labeling in the control rats was confined to the nuclei of spermatogonia, pachytene spermatocytes, and nuclei of elongate spermatocytes. Conventional (hematoxylin and eosin) staining of testes from rats treated with TNB at 71 mg/kg for 10 d revealed loss of germ cells and cessation of spermatogenesis. Immunohistochemical staining of sections from these treated rats revealed only PCNA-positive spermatogonia. Rats allowed a 10-d recovery had both spermatogonial and spermatocytic staining. In rats allowed to recover for 30 d, the PCNA staining pattern was identical to the control rats.
Chandra AM et al; J Toxicol Environ Health 50 (4): 379-87 (1997)
/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Subchronic or Prechronic Exposure/ Male and female Fischer-344 (F-344) and male NCI-Black-Reiter (NBR) rats were dosed with 0, 35.5, or 71 mg 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene (TNB)/kg/day for 10 days. Male F-344 rats were dosed with TNB (0 and 35.5 mg/kg) for 20 and 30 days. Hematoxylin and eosin and Mallory-Heidenhain stains and alpha-2u-globulin and proliferating cell nuclear antigen immunohistochemical stains were performed on kidney sections. All treated male F-344 rats exhibited dose-related accumulation of hyaline droplets containing alpha-2u-globulin in proximal tubules. The kidney weights were significantly increased in male and female rats treated with TNB. Significant increases in cell proliferation in proximal tubules were observed in male F-344 rats. Renal changes observed in TNB-treated rats appeared identical to those from other chemicals that induce alpha-2u-globulin nephropathy in male rats. No hyaline droplet accumulation was found in female F-344 and male NBR rats at any doses. We can conclude that TNB induces dose-related exacerbation of hyaline droplets containing alpha-2u-globulin in male rat kidney and subsequent cell proliferation.
Kim S et al; Toxicol Pathol 25 (2): 195-201 (1997)
/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Subchronic or Prechronic Exposure/ Toxic effects of 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene (TNB) in male and female rats were evaluated by feeding powdered certified laboratory chow diet supplemented with varied concentrations of TNB (0, 50, 200, 400, 800 and 1200 mg/kg diet) for 14 days. Food intake by female rats in 400, 800 and 1200 mg TNB diet groups was reduced and resulted in a significant decrease in absolute body weights (BW). Food and water consumption by male rats in high-dose groups (800 and 1200 mg TNB/kg diet) was also reduced and resulted in a significant decrease in body weight. The calculated average TNB intake (from 1200 mg TNB/kg diet) was 92 mg/kg BW/day for male rats and 80 mg/kg BW/day for females. A decrease in testicular weight in males and an increase in spleen weight of both sexes in high-dose groups was noted. Histopathological examinations revealed that the susceptible organs for TNB toxicity were kidney (hyaline droplets), spleen (extramedullary hematopoiesis), brain (hemorrhage, malacia and gliosis) and testes (seminiferous tubular degeneration). Hematology and clinical chemistry studies indicated a decrease in red blood cell count and hematocrit, a decrease in alkaline phosphatase, an increase in Heinz bodies and increased methemoglobin concentration as compared to controls in both sexes. A lowest observed adverse effect level of 4.41 mg TNB/kg BW/day was established ... .
Reddy TV et al; J Appl Toxicol 16 (4): 289-95 (1996)
/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Subchronic or Prechronic Exposure/ ... Rats receiving 4 daily doses of 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene (TNB) at 71 mg/kg had the earliest evidence of testicular damage, with necrosis and degeneration of pachytene spermatocytes including a significant decrease in testicular weight. Rats dosed at 35.5 mg/kg for 10 d had severe testicular lesions, in addition to the decrease in testicular weight. There was degeneration of round and elongate spermatids, and formation of multinucleate syncytial cells. The epididymis was devoid of sperm, instead containing exfoliated syncytial spermatids. Rats dosed at 71 mg/kg of TNB for 10 d had testicular atrophy and cessation of spermatogenesis. These rats also had apoptic cells in the ventral prostate. ... Reversibility studies indicate testicular effects of TNB are at least partially reversible.
Chandra AM et al; J Toxicol Environ Health 50 (4): 365-78 (1997)
/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Subchronic or Prechronic Exposure/ ... A 90-day subchronic oral toxicity study of trinitrobenzene (TNB) (99.83% pure) /was conducted/ in 10 male and 10 female Fischer 344 rats that were randomly assigned to each of four dose groups. The dose groups were selected on the basis of 14-day toxicity studies. The rats were fed a diet containing 0, 67, 400 and 800 ppm TNB for 90 days. The average daily TNB consumption for females was 0, 4, 25 and 49 and for males 0, 4, 23 and 44 mg/kg/day. The mean daily food consumption decreased significantly in male and female rats receiving 400 and 800 ppm TNB in the diet, which resulted in significant decrease in body weight gain. However, the water consumption in females in those groups was significantly increased. The mean relative organ weights (g/100 g body weight), liver, spleen (males and females) and brain weights (males), were increased significantly in rats receiving 400 and 800 ppm TNB in the diet. The relative testicular weight was decreased significantly in males in the 400 and 800 ppm TNB dose groups. TNB produced hematological effects in rats. A significant decrease in total red blood cell count in both sexes receiving 400 and 800 ppm TNB was noted. In contrast, there was a significant increase in the percent of reticulocyte in males (400 and 800 ppm TNB) and in all female groups. A decrease in hemoglobin content and a significant increase in methemoglobin was observed in both dose groups of male and females (400 and 800 ppm TNB). Clinical chemistry results showed no significant changes in any of the analytes studied. Histopathological analysis revealed significant changes in testes (moderate to severe seminiferous tubular degeneration) in mid- and high-dose groups (400 and 800 ppm TNB) and in kidney (deposition of hyaline droplets) in all male rats receiving TNB in the diet. Possibly in response to decreased hemoglobin levels, the spleen and bone marrow featured mild to moderate erythroid cell hyperplasia in male and female rats receiving 400 and 800 ppm TNB. Kidneys in male rats receiving TNB at dose levels of 67, 400 and 800 ppm TNB had an increased incidence of cytoplasmic hyaline droplets in proximal cortical tubular epithelial cells at all treatment levels. The severity of this change was dose dependent, ranging from moderate in the high-dose group (800 ppm TNB) to mild in the low-dose group (67 ppm TNB). These droplets were occasionally irregularly shaped and had angular contours, but were more often spheroid. These droplets stained positive with Mallory's Heidenhain protein stain. Further characterization of these droplets would require immunohistochemical staining. A diagnosis of alpha-2-u-globulin nephropathy was not deemed appropriate since there was no significant increase in single cell necrosis, no presence of granular casts or linear papillary mineralization or increased tubular hyperplasia. In addition to the deposition of hyaline droplets, the presence of early chronic progressive nephropathy was evident in both treated as well as control male rats. This change was characterized by an increased incidence of tubular degeneration and regeneration, as well as mineralized foci. Tubular degeneration was the only change that appeared to be dose related as noted by an increased severity (mild) in the high- and mid-dose groups.
USEPA; Support Document for 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene (TNB) (CAS No. 99-35-4). In Support of Summary Information on Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) p.6-7 (August 1997). Available from, as of February 6, 2018: https://www.epa.gov/iris
/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Subchronic or Prechronic Exposure/ Administration of 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene (TNB) to male Fischer-344 rats produced ataxia after 6 or 7 oral doses (71 mg/kg). Light microscopic examination after 10 days revealed petechial hemorrhages in the brain stem and cerebellum and bilaterally symmetric degeneration and necrosis (malacia) with reactive gliosis in the cerebellar peduncles. The malacia was dorsal and lateral to the fourth ventricle involving the cerebellar nuclei, medial and lateral vestibular nuclei, and inferior colliculi. Blood vessels associated with the lesion had widened Virchow-Robin spaces, occasionally with extravasated erythrocytes. Rats administered daily oral doses of 35.5 mg/kg of TNB for 10 days and 35.5 and 71 mg/kg of TNB for 1 or 4 days did not have brain lesions.
Chandra AM et al; Toxicol Pathol 23 (4): 527-32 (1995)
/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Subchronic or Prechronic Exposure/ .../A/ 90-day subchronic toxicity of trinitrobenzene (TNB) (99.83% pure) in White footed mice (Peromyscus leucopus) /was coinducted/. Groups of 10 males and 10 females were fed diets containing 0, 150, 375 and 750 ppm TNB. The average calculated TNB consumption was 20.2, 64.8 and 108.2 mg/kg/day for females and 23.5, 67.4 and 113.5 mg/kg/day for males. The only significant change noted was an increase in relative kidney weight (females) and an absolute and relative spleen weight (male) in mice of the 750 ppm TNB group, ... . Hematology data showed no significant changes in female mice, while male mice reticulocyte increased significantly in the 150 and 750 ppm TNB groups and white blood cells increased only in the 750 ppm TNB group. Histopathological analysis revealed treatment-related changes in spleen (erythroid cell hyperplasia) and in testis (seminiferous tubule degeneration) in the 750 ppm TNB (113.5 mg/kg-day) group. ...
USEPA; Support Document for 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene (TNB) (CAS No. 99-35-4). In Support of Summary Information on Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) p.7 (August 1997). Available from, as of February 6, 2018: https://www.epa.gov/iris
/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Chronic Exposure or Carcinogenicity/ The chronic toxicity of 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene (TNB) in male and female Fischer 344 (F344) rats was evaluated by feeding a diet containing 0, 5, 60, and 300 ppm of TNB for 2 years. The calculated average 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene intake over 2 years for males and females was 0.22, 2.64, 13.44 and 0.23, 2.68, 13.31 mg/kg body weight (BW)/day respectively. Terminal body weights were decreased and water intake was increased in both sexes (300 ppm), whereas food consumption was decreased in males (60 and 300 ppm groups) only. The relative spleen weights were significantly decreased in both sexes (300 ppm), whereas the relative brain weights were increased in females only (300 ppm). Hematological effects were not observed in animals killed at the 2-year time point, except significant decrease in the mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) in males (300 ppm) and in females (60 and 300 ppm). Methemoglobin levels were increased in both sexes in the high dose group. Histopathological examination showed treatment-related changes in the kidney (hyaline droplets; 60 and 300 ppm) and the spleen (erythroid cell hyperplasia and pigment deposition; 300 ppm) of both sexes. Cytoplasmic hyaline droplets in the kidneys were characterized by immunohistochemistry as alpha-2u-globulin.
Reddy TV et al; Int J Toxicol 20(2): 59-67 (2001)
/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Chronic Exposure or Carcinogenicity/ ... The carcinogenic activity of trinitrobenzene (TNB) /was studied/ in mouse skin and lung tumor assays. A single application of 10 or 50 mg of TNB (in acetone) to the skin of (Sencar) mice increased the incidence of inflammation, epidermal hyperplasia and dark cells. The response elicited by these dose levels was similar to the maximum response obtained with 12-O-tetra-decanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA), a potent promoter of two-stage carcinogenic tumors in the skin of SENCAR mice. TNB was found negative in assay for initiation of TPA-promoted skin carcinogenicity. Potentiation for the promotion of the skin cancers was not conducted with TNB.
USEPA; Support Document for 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene (TNB) (CAS No. 99-35-4). In Support of Summary Information on Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) p.8 (August 1997). Available from, as of February 6, 2018: https://www.epa.gov/iris
/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Developmental or Reproductive Toxicity/ ... Male and female Sprague-Dawley rats received a diet containing approximately 30, 150, or 300 mg 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene/kg diet. Mating occurred following 14 days of treatment. All dams, one-half the males, and representative pups were maintained for a total of 90 days of treatment. No mortality occurred during the study; however, a decrease in mean body weights was noted in both sexes of high-dose rats. A dose-related effect was noted in measurements of sperm function/activity. Sperm depletion and degeneration of the seminiferous tubules were noted histopathologically. Methemoglobinemia and splenic hemosiderosis were common findings in the high- and mid-dose levels of both sexes at necropsy. No adverse effects were noted in mating or fertility indices. No significant treatment-related differences were found in length of gestation, sex ratio, gestation index, or mean number of pups per litter.
Kinkead ER et al; Toxicol Ind Health 11 (3): 309-23 (1995)
/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Developmental or Reproductive Toxicity/ ... Male and female Sprague-Dawley rats received diet containing approximately 300, 150, or 30 mg 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene/kg diet. Mating occurred following 14 days of treatment. All dams, one-half the males, and representative pups were maintained for a total of 90 days of treatment. No mortality occurred during the study; however, a decrease in mean body weights was noted in both sexes of high-dose rats. A dose-related effect was noted in most measurements of sperm function/activity. Sperm depletion and degeneration of the seminiferous tubules were noted histopathologically. Methemoglobinemia was a common finding in the high- and mid-dose levels of both sexes. Splenic hemosiderosis was observed in the same dose groups at necropsy.
Kinkead ER et al; Toxicologist 15 (1): 249 (1995)
/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Developmental or Reproductive Toxicity/ ... Male and female Sprague-Dawley rats received diet containing approximately 800, 400, or 70 g 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene/kg diet throughout the study. Mating occurred following 14 days of treatment. Dams and pups were maintained through 21-days postpartum while male rats were necropsied following 35 treatment days. No mortality occurred in parental animals during the study. A treatment-related decrease in food consumption occurred in both sexes with a concurrent depression of body weight gain. Mean testes weights of the high- and mid-dose rats were significantly less than control testes weights. Epididymides of test animals weighed significantly less than those of controls. Histopathologic examination showed testicular degeneration in 100% of the high-dose and 70% of the mid-dose animals. Sperm depletion was evident in the lumen of these same groups. All high-dose dams and one mid-dose dam displayed signs of neurotoxicity, primarily head tilt and loss of equilibrium, during the postpartum time period. Mating indices were normal, however 4- and 21-day pup survival rates were significantly less in the high-dose group of animals.
Kinkead ER et al; Toxicologist 14 (1): 161 (1994)
/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Neurotoxicity/ ... Male Fischer 344 rats (five rats/group) were euthanatized after four, five, six, seven, eight, or 10 daily doses of 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene (TNB) (71 mg/kg). A different set of rats (five rats/group) was allowed to recover for 10 or 30 days after receiving 10 doses of TNB. ... Rats euthanatized after four to eight doses had no lesions, and albumin extravasation in the susceptible regions of the brain was minimal. Rats receiving 10 daily doses of TNB had bilaterally symmetric vacuolation and microcavitation in the cerebellar nuclei, vestibular nuclei, and inferior colliculi in association with multifocal, often confluent foci of extravasated albumin in susceptible nuclei. Albumin was present in vascular walls, extracellular space, and neurons. ... In rats allowed to recover for 10 days, the microcavitated foci were infiltrated by glial and gitter cells. Albumin immunoreactivity was present as extracellular granular debris, and neuronal staining (for albumin) was mild. In rats allowed to recover for 30 days, immunoreactivity to albumin was not seen. This study demonstrates that TNB-mediated tissue damage is accompanied by breakdown of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). The presence of vacuolation and associated extravasated serum proteins in TNB-treated rats is an indication of vasogenic brain edema, which appears to be a critical event in TNB toxicity...
Chandra AM et al; Vet Pathol 36 (3): 212-20 (1999)
/GENOTOXICITY/ ...Mutagenicity was evaluated with the Salmonella fluctuation test (FT) and the V79 Chinese hamster lung cell mutagenicity assay. Cytotoxicity was evaluated using V79 and TK6 human lymphoblastic cells. For the TK6 and V79 assays, 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene (TNB) and 2,4,6-triaminotoluene were more toxic than as 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT), whereas hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX) and octahydro-1,3,5,7-tetranitro-1,3,5,7-tetrazocine (HMX) were without effect at their maximal aqueous solubility limits. The primary TNT metabolites (2-amino-4,6-dinitrotoluene, 4-amino-2,6-dinitrotoluene, 2,4-diamino-6-nitrotoluene and 2,6-diamino-4-nitrotoluene) were generally less cytotoxic than the parent compound. The fluctuation test results indicated that TNB, TNT and all the tested primary TNT metabolites were mutagenic. Except for the cases of 4-amino-2,6-dinitrotoluene and 2,4-diamino-6-nitrotoluene in the TA98 strain, addition of rat liver S9 resulted in either no effect, or decreased activity. None of the tested compounds were mutagenic for the V79 mammalian cells with or without S9 metabolic activation.
Lachance B et al; Mutat Res 444 (1): 25-39 (1999)
/GENOTOXICITY/ RDX (hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine), TNT (2,4,6-trinitrotoluene), tetryl (N-methyl-N-2,4,6-tetranitroaniline), TNB (1,3,5-trinitrobenzene) and metabolites were examined for mutagenicity in a microsuspension modification of the Salmonella histidine reversion assay with and without metabolic activation. 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene and tetryl were positive in TA98 (32.5, 5.2revertants/nmole) and TA100 (7.4, 9.5revertants/nmole) without metabolic activation and were more potent than 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) (TA98, 0.3revertants/nmole; TA100, 2.4revertants/nmole). With the exception of the tetranitroazoxytoluene derivatives, TNT metabolites were less mutagenic than TNT. hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine and two metabolites were negative in both strains, however, hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitroso-1,3,5-triazine was positive in TA100 with and without S9. ...
George SE et al; Mutat Res 490 (1): 45-56 (2001)
/GENOTOXICITY/ N-Methyl-N,2,4,6-tetranitroaniline (tetryl), 1,3-dinitrobenzene, and 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene were subjected to DNA repair assays using the Escherichia coli W3110/polA+, p3478/polA- system, reverse mutation assays with His-Salmonella typhimurium strains TA1535, TA1537, TA1538, TA98, and TA100, and mitotic recombinogenic tests with the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae D5. Tests were carried out in the absence of an exogenous activation system and in tissue homogenate-mediated assays using Aroclor 1254-induced, male rat-liver-derived S9 mix. Mutagenic activity of tetryl was demonstrated with S typhimurium strains TA1537, TA1538, TA98, and TA100. The responses were particularly strong in the absence of S9 mix. Tetryl also induced increases in recombinant numbers and frequencies in the S cerevisiae test without the S9 mix, but not in its presence. 1,3-Dinitrobenzene was demonstrated to be mutagenic with S typhimurium strains TA1538, TA98, and TA100. Slight activity was also seen with TA1537. The S9 mix reduced the magnitude of the responses. 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene was also demonstrated to be mutagenic with S typhimurium strains TA1535, TA1537, TA1538, TA98, and TA100. Again, the S9 mix reduced the magnitude of the responses. In this segment of a programme initiated by military authorities, the genotoxic potential of three nitroaromatic compounds, which have found significant use in explosive preparations, has been demonstrated. Twelve other compounds used in ordnance were not active in any of the test systems. These were octahydro-1-acetyl-3,5,7-trinitro-S-tetramine (SEX), hexahydro-1,3-dinitro-5-acetyl-S-triamine (TAX), ethyl centralite, 2-nitrodiphenylamine, N-nitrosodiphenylamine, diphenylamine, diethyleneglycoldinitrate, nitroguanidine, lead salicylate, lead resorcylate, red phosphorus, and zinc chloride.
McGregor DB et al; Environ Mutagen 2 (4): 531-41 (1980)
/ALTERNATIVE and IN VITRO TESTS/ 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene (TNB) is a munitions chemical that causes gliovascular lesions in the brain stem of rats similar to those produced by thiamine deficiency and nitroaromatic compounds, including m-dinitrobenzene. To identify neuropathic indices of toxicity, the effects of varying concentrations (0 to 2 mM) of TNB on cytotoxicity and cellular metabolic activity were examined using cultured astrocytes from Fischer-344 rats. The cytotoxicity was assessed by lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) leakage into the culture medium. Astrocyte metabolic activity was assessed by measuring the conversion of a tetrazolium salt to a formazan product. Additionally, the effects of oxidative stress on cellular metabolic activity were determined by varying oxygen tension via alteration of culture media depth. In vitro, the toxic concentration 50% (TC50) of TNB, which induced cell death, was 16 uM following a 24-hr exposure. The concentration of TNB that reduced cellular metabolic activity by 50% was 29 uM following a 24-hr exposure. Varying the depth of the culture media did not influence the cellular metabolic activity in control or TNB-treated astrocytes. These results support the hypothesis that TNB induced neurotoxicity could partially be mediated via injury to astrocytes, a major component of the blood-brain barrier.
Stair EL et al; Int J Toxicol 24 (1): 51-7 (2005)
/OTHER TOXICITY INFORMATION/ A series of toxicity studies in rats, mice, and guinea pigs have indicated that orally administered trinitrobenzene causes liver damage and central nervous system damage.
Korolev A et al; Gig Sanit 10: 17 (1977)

3.2 Ecotoxicity Excerpts (Complete)

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ Slight irritant effects ie, excitability, violent swimming, opercular movement increases suggesting respiratory distress upon short term exposure to marine fish Kuhlia sandvicensis were observed at exposure levels of 100 ug/L, while moderate and violent reactions to the chemical were produced at exposures of 1,000 and 10,000 ug/L. No effects were noted on exposures to concentrations of 50 or 10 ug/L.
Hiatt RW et al; Nature 179: 904 (1957)
/AQUATIC SPECIES/ The acute toxicity and bioconcentration factor of a series of nitrobenzene derivatives was determined for the guppy. Toxicity is found to be determined by both hydrophobicity (expressed by the octanol/water partition coefficient) and rate of reduction of the nitro group (expressed by either electrochemical halfwave reduction potential or Hammett sigma values).
Deneer JW et al; Aquat Toxicol 10 (23): 115-30 (1987)
/AQUATIC SPECIES/ The toxicity of the explosives 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT); hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (royal demolition explosive [RDX]); and octahydro-1,3,5,7-tetranitro-1,3,5,7-tetrazocine (high-melting explosive [HMX]), was evaluated in spiked sediment with two freshwater invertebrates. The midge Chironomus tentans and the amphipod Hyalella azteca demonstrated significant toxic effects after exposure to TNT and its degradation products, 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene (TNB) and 2,4-diamino-6-nitrotoluene (2,4-DANT). Significant reductions in survival of C. tentans exposed to TNT, TNB, and 2,4-DANT were observed at nominal sediment concentrations as low as 200 mg/kg. Hyalella azteca was more sensitive to TNT, TNB, and 2,4-DANT than the midge, where significant reductions in survival were observed at nominal concentrations of 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg, respectively. Survival of the midge and the amphipod was unaffected after exposure to RDX or HMX at the highest concentrations of 1,000 and 400 mg/kg, respectively. Growth of the midge, measured as total weight, was significantly reduced by 2,4-DANT. However, significantly increased growth was observed after exposure to sublethal concentrations of RDX and HMX. Although significant reductions in amphipod survival were observed at high concentrations of TNB, growth was significantly increased at sublethal concentrations. The results of the current investigation suggest that organisms exposed to explosives at contaminated sites may be affected at concentrations less than 25 mg/kg through hormetic growth enhancement and at higher concentrations through increased mortality.
Steevens JA et al; Environ Toxicol Chem 21 (7): 1475-82 (2002)
/AQUATIC SPECIES/ ... Results from the hydra assay of 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene (TNB) indicated the minimal affective concentrations required to elicit a toxic response in the adult hydra and in the regenerating hydra were 3.8 ug/mL and 1.8 ug/mL, respectively.
Wolfe RE et al; Technical Report (NTIS/AD-A325 797) 27 pp (1997)
/AQUATIC SPECIES/ The toxicity of nitroaromatic (2,4-diaminonitrotoluene [2,4-DANT] and 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene [TNB]) and 14C-labeled cyclonitramine compounds (hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine [RDX] and octahydro-1,3,5,7-tetranitro-1,3,5,7-tetrazocine [HMX]) to the marine polychaete Neanthes arenaceodentata and the estuarine amphipod Leptocheirus plumulosus following 10-or 28-day exposures to spiked sediments was investigated. Organismal-level effects on survival, growth, and reproduction and cellular-level effects on apoptosis (programmed cell death) were evaluated. Because cyclonitramines have low affinity for sediment, overlying water was not exchanged in the RDX and HMX exposures. Nitroaromatics sorbed strongly to sediment, resulting in near complete resistance to solvent extraction. Cyclonitramines sorbed weakly to sediment, as more 14C-activity was found in the overlying water than in the sediment at exposure termination. No significant decrease in survival or growth was observed with cyclonitramines at initial sediment concentrations as high as 1,000 ug/g. Survival was significantly affected by nitroaromatics at nominal sediment concentrations as low as 200 ug/g, with L. plumulosus being more sensitive than N. arenaceodentata. Growth was significantly decreased at sublethal concentrations of 2,4-DANT for N. arenaceodentata. Reproduction, measured only with L. plumulosus, was significantly decreased only in the highest RDX treatment and also in the lower TNB treatment. However, no decrease was observed in higher concentrations of TNB. Body burden at exposure termination was below detection limit (1 ug/kg) for all compounds. Significant inhibition of apoptosis was not accompanied by significant decreases in growth or reproduction. Because of its critical function in many biological processes, alterations in this endpoint may result in adverse effects on the organism and could be used as an early indicator of toxicity.
Lotufo GR et al; Environ Toxicol Chem 20 (8): 1762-71 (2001)
/OTHER TERRESTRIAL SPECIES/ Scientifically based ecological soil-screening levels are needed to identify concentrations of contaminant energetic materials (EMs) in soil that present an acceptable ecological risk at a wide range of military installations. Insufficient information regarding the toxicity of 2,4-dinitrotoluene (2,4-DNT), 2,6-dinitrotoluene (2,6-DNT), and 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene (TNB) to soil invertebrates necessitated toxicity testing. ...The standardized Enchytraeid Reproduction Test (International Standardization Organization 16387:2003) /wa adapted/ and ... Enchytraeus crypticus /was selected/ for these studies. Tests were conducted in Sassafras sandy loam soil, which supports relatively high bioavailability of nitroaromatic EMs. Weathering and aging procedures for EMs amended to test soil were incorporated into the study design to produce toxicity data that better reflect the soil exposure conditions in the field compared with toxicity in freshly amended soils. This included exposing hydrated, EM-amended soils in open glass containers in the greenhouse to alternating wetting and drying cycles. Definitive tests established that the order of EM toxicity to E. crypticus based on the median effect concentration values for juvenile production in either freshly amended or weathered and aged treatments was (from the greatest to least toxicity) TNB > 2,4-DNT > 2,6-DNT. Toxicity to E. crypticus juvenile production was significantly increased in 2,6-DNT weathered and aged soil treatments compared with toxicity in freshly amended soil, based on 95% confidence intervals. This result shows that future investigations should include a weathering and aging component to generate toxicity data that provide more complete information regarding ecotoxicological effects of energetic contaminants in soil.
Kuperman RG et al; Environ Toxicol Chem 25 (5): 1368-75 (2006)
/OTHER TERRESTRIAL SPECIES/ Environmental toxicity testing and chemical analyses of soil were performed as part of an ecological risk assessment at the Joliet Army Ammunition Plant (JAAP), Joliet, Illinois Soils were collected from an area where munitions were loaded, assembled, and packed (area L7, group 1), and from an area where waste explosives were burned on unprotected soil (area L2) Control samples were collected from an adjacent field Soil toxicity was determined using early seedling growth and vigor tests, earthworm survival and growth tests, and Microtox assays Relative toxicity of soils was determined within each area based on statistical significance (p = 0 05) of plant and earthworm growth and survival, and the effective concentration at which luminescence of the bacterium Photobacterium phosphoreum was reduced by 50% (EC50) in the Microtox assay Samples were designated as having high, moderate, or no significant toxicity Soil that had significant toxicity according to at least one test, and representative samples showing no toxicity, were analyzed for munitions via HPLC Chemical residues found in soils were 2,4,6 trinitrotoluene (TNT), 1,3,5 trinitrobenzene (TNB), 2,4 dinitrotoluene (2,4-DNT), 2,6 dinitrotoluene, 2 amino-4,6-DNT, 4-ammo-2,6 DNT, 1,3,5 trinitro 1,3,5 triazine (RDX), and octahydro-1,3,5,7 tetramtro-l,3,5,7-tetrazocme (HMX) All soils with no significant toxicity were void of these chemicals However, some soils void of munitions still showed toxicity that may have been caused by elevated levels of heavy metals Linear regressions of toxicity test results vs chemical concentrations showed that TNT and TNB accounted for most of the soil toxicity Lowest observable-effect concentrations (LOEC) of TNT were de termined from these data This study presents a simple, relatively inexpensive methodology for assessing toxicity of soils containing TNT, RDX, and other contaminants related to munitions production.
Simini M et al; Environ Toxicol Chem 14 (4): 623-30 (1995)

3.3 Non-Human Toxicity Values (Complete)

LD50 Guinea pig oral 730 mg/kg
Lewis, R.J. Sr. (ed) Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 11th Edition. Wiley-Interscience, Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ. 2004., p. 3602
LD50 Mouse iv 32 mg/kg
Lewis, R.J. Sr. (ed) Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 11th Edition. Wiley-Interscience, Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ. 2004., p. 3602
LD50 Mouse oral 572 mg/kg
Lewis, R.J. Sr. (ed) Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 11th Edition. Wiley-Interscience, Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ. 2004., p. 3602
LD50 Rat oral 275 mg/kg
Lewis, R.J. Sr. (ed) Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 11th Edition. Wiley-Interscience, Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ. 2004., p. 3602

3.4 Ecotoxicity Values (Complete)

EC50; Species: Daphnia magna (Water flea); Conditions: freshwater, static; Concentration: 2700 ug/L for 48 hr; Effect: intoxication, immobile /formulated product/
Pearson JG et al; In: L.L.Marking and R.A.Kimerle (Eds.), Aquatic Toxicology and Hazard Assessment, 2nd Symposium, ASTM STP 667, Philadelphia, PA :284-301 (Author Communication Used) (1979) as cited in the ECOTOX dtabase. Available from, as of January 30, 2018
LC50; Species: Pimephales promelas (Fathead minnow); Conditions: freshwater, static; Concentration: 1030 ug/L for 96 hr /formulated product/
Pearson JG et al; In: L.L.Marking and R.A.Kimerle (Eds.), Aquatic Toxicology and Hazard Assessment, 2nd Symposium, ASTM STP 667, Philadelphia, PA :284-301 (Author Communication Used) (1979) as cited in the ECOTOX database. Available from, as of January 30, 2018
LC50; Species: Pimephales promelas (Fathead minnow) size 2.4 cm, weight 0.28 g; Conditions: freshwater, static; Concentration: 1100 ug/L for 96 hr (95% confidence limit: 1000 to 1200 ug/L) /95-99% purity/
Bailey HC, Spanggord RJ; In: W.E.Bishop, R.D.Cardwell, and B.B.Heidolph (Eds.), Aquatic Toxicology and Hazard Assessment, 6th Symposium, ASTM STP 802, Philadelphia, PA :98-107 (1983) as cited in the ECOTOX database. Available from, as of January 30, 2018
LC50; Species: Lepomis macrochirus (Bluegill) age 20-36 wk, size 29-40 mm, weight 0.64-1.82 g; Conditions: freshwater, static; Concentration: 850 ug/L for 96 hr (95% confidence limit: 520 to 1380 ug/L) />99.9% purity/
Van der Schalie WH; Tech Rep 8305, U.S.Army Medical Bioengineering Research & Development Lab, Frederick, MD: 53 (U.S.NTIS AD-A138408) (1983) as cited in the ECOTOX database. Available from, as of January 30, 2018
LC50; Species: Oncorhynchus mykiss (Rainbow trout) age 10-13 wk, size 35-40 mm, weight 0.67-0.95 g; Conditions: freshwater, static; Concentration: 520 ug/L for 96 hr (95% confidence limit: 370 to 800 ug/L) /active ingredient/
Van der Schalie WH; Tech Rep 8305, U.S.Army Medical Bioengineering Research & Development Lab, Frederick, MD: 53 (U.S.NTIS AD-A138408) (1983) as cited in the ECOTOX database. Available from, as of January 30, 2018
LC50; Species: Ictalurus punctatus (Channel catfish) age 40-44 wk, size 63-83 mm, weight 1.48-3.59 g; Conditions: freshwater, static; Concentration: 380 ug/L for 96 hr (95% confidence limit: 340 to 430 ug/L) />99.9% purity/
Van der Schalie WH; Tech.Rep.8305, U.S.Army Medical Bioengineering Research & Development Lab, Frederick, MD: 53 (U.S.NTIS AD-A138408) (1983) as cited in the ECOTOX database. Available from, as of January 30, 2018
LC50; Species: Oncorhynchus mykiss (Rainbow trout) age 28-38 wk, size 63-83 mm, weight 3.98-9.28 g; Conditions: freshwater, flow-through; Concentration: 430 ug/L for 18 days (95% confidence limit: 240 to 730 ug/L) />99.9% purity/
Van der Schalie WH; Tech.Rep.8305, U.S.Army Medical Bioengineering Research & Development Lab, Frederick, MD: 53 (U.S.NTIS AD-A138408) (1983) as cited in the ECOTOX database. Available from, as of January 30, 2018
LC50; Species: Oncorhynchus mykiss (Rainbow trout) age 28-38 wk, 63-83 mm, weight 3.98-9.28 g; Conditions: freshwater, flow-through; Concentration: 520 ug/L for 10 days (95% confidence limit: 370 to 730 ug/L) />99.9% purity/
Van der Schalie WH; Tech.Rep.8305, U.S.Army Medical Bioengineering Research & Development Lab, Frederick, MD: 53 p. (U.S.NTIS AD-A138408) (1983) as cited in the ECOTOX database. Available from, as of January 30, 2018
LC50; Species: Pimephales promelas (Fathead minnow) age 39-112 wk, size 39-43 mm, weight 0.91-1.51 g; Conditions: freshwater, flow-through; Concentration: 460 ug/L (95% confidence limit: 420 to 530 ug/L) for 10 days />99.9% purity/
Van der Schalie WH; Tech.Rep.8305, U.S.Army Medical Bioengineering Research & Development Lab, Frederick, MD: 53 (U.S.NTIS AD-A138408) (1983) as cited in the ECOTOX database. Available from, as of January 30, 2018
LC50; Species: Brachionus calyciflorus (Rotifer); Conditions: freshwater, static; Concentration: 1400 ug/L for 24 hr (95% confidence limit: 1200 to 1600 ug/L) /formulated product/
Snell TW; Final Report, U.S.Army Medical Research and Development Command, Ft.Detrick, Frederick, MD: 29 (U.S.NTIS AD-A258002) (1991) as cited in the ECOTOX database. Available from, as of January 30, 2018
EC50; Species: Eisenia fetida (Earthworm) adult; direct application (natural soil- 69.00% sand, 13.00% silt, 17.00% clay, 1.30% organic matter, 95% moisture) 59.1 mg/kg for 56 days (95% confidence interval: 37.0-81.2 mg/kg); Effect: reproduction, progeny counts/number of cocoons
Simini M et al; Edgewood Chem Biol Ctr, Aberdeen Proving Ground MD, Rep No ECBC-TR-467: 47 (2006) as cited in the ECOTOX database. Available from, as of February 7, 2018
EC50; Species: Eisenia fetida (Earthworm) adult; direct application (natural soil- 69.00% sand, 13.00% silt, 17.00% clay, 1.30% organic matter, 95% moisture) 33.3 mg/kg for 56 days (95% confidence interval: 9.0-57.5 mg/kg); Effect: reproduction, progeny counts/number of juveniles
Simini M et al; Edgewood Chem Biol Ctr, Aberdeen Proving Ground MD, Rep No ECBC-TR-467: 47 (2006) as cited in the ECOTOX database. Available from, as of February 7, 2018
LC50; Species: Americamysis bahia (Opossum Shrimp) age 4 days, juvenile; Conditions: saltwater, static, 20 °C, pH 7.5-8.0, dissolved oxygen 70-121% saturated; Concentration: 740 ug/L for 96 hr /> or =99% purity/
Nipper M et al; Arch Environ Contam Toxicol 41 (3): 308-318 (2006) as cited in the ECOTOX database. Available from, as of February 7, 2018
LC50; Species: Hyalella azteca (Scud) age 10-12 days, juvenile, length 2.1 mm; Conditions: freshwater, renewal, 23 °C, pH 6.5-9.0, dissolved oxygen > or =6 mg/L; Concentration: 2260 ug/L for 96 hr (95% confidence interval: 1950-2620 ug/L) /98% purity/
Sims JG, Steevens JA; Ecotoxicol Environ Saf 70 (1): 38-46 (2008) as cited in the ECOTOX database. Available from, as of February 7, 2018

4 Metabolism / Pharmacokinetics

4.1 Metabolism / Metabolites (Complete)

... Trinitrobenzene (TNB) and its metabolites /were determined/ in the biological fluids of rats exposed to TNB in the diet and identified reductive metabolites, 1,3-dinitro,5-aniline (urine), 1,3-diamino-5-nitrobenzene (urine, feces and blood) and 1,3,5-triaminobenzene (urine and feces). No TNB was found in the checked samples by a GC/MS method. ... The metabolism of (14)C-TNB /was studied/ in an in vitro rat liver microsomal system and found that TNB (43 ug) is metabolized in 5 minutes. No parent compound and three metabolites were detected by HPLC. The two major peaks were identified as 3-amino-5-nitroaniline (3,5-diamino-nitrobenzene) and 3,5-dinitroaniline by either spiking or coelution with authentic standards. (14)C-TNB when administered orally (single dose, 225 mg/kg) to Fischer rats formed stable adducts with blood proteins and tissue DNA. Hemoglobin binding persisted throughout the life span of red blood cells (65 days); 10 weeks later, a significant amount of radioactivity was associated with spleen and kidney DNA.
USEPA; Support Document for 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene (TNB) (CAS No. 99-35-4). In Support of Summary Information on Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) p.2 (August 1997). Available from, as of February 6, 2018: https://www.epa.gov/iris
The fluid in the receptor cell from human or rat skin contained 3,5-dinitroaniline and 1,3,5-triacetylaminobenzene. Guinea pig skin also metabolized TNB to 1-nitro-3,5-diacetamidobenzene and 3,5-diaminonitrobenzene to a minor extent ... TNB was absorbed and metabolized to a similar extent by human and rodent skin. Liver microsomes from male F344 rats produced 3,5-diaminobenzene as a major metabolite of TNB.
Bingham, E.; Cohrssen, B.; Powell, C.H.; Patty's Toxicology Volumes 1-9 5th ed. John Wiley & Sons. New York, N.Y. (2001)., p. V4 847

4.2 Absorption, Distribution and Excretion (Complete)

Acute oral toxicity studies conducted with dogs indicate that trinitrobenzene is effectively absorbed by this route.
Fogleman RW et al; Agric Food Chem 3: 936 (1955)
Male Wistar rats injected intraperitoneally with 100 umol/kg body weight (21.3 mg/kg) of TNB (in propylene glycol) excreted approximately 3.24-3.42 mg p-aminophenol equivalents per kilogram in the urine 5 hours after dosing... Since these levels were twice the base line levels excreted by vehicle-only treated animals, it was concluded that absorption and metabolism of TNB is slow. Additional details on TNB deposition were not included in the study.
USEPA; Support Document for 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene (TNB) (CAS No. 99-35-4). In Support of Summary Information on Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) p.2 (August 1997). Available from, as of February 6, 2018: https://www.epa.gov/iris
The toxicokinetics (absorption, distribution and elimination) of (14)C-trinitrobenzene (TNB) were studied in Fischer 344 rats following a single oral dose. Male (4) and female (4) rats were dosed with (14)C-TNB (152 mg/kg, 6-8 mCi) in DMSO. Groups of 2 male and 2 female rats were used in experiments to determine (14)C-TNB elimination through expired CO2. (14)C-TNB levels in urine and feces were measured at 24, 48, 72 and 96 hours after dosing. Approximately 10% of the dose was eliminated in the urine of male and female rats in the first 24 hours. Approximately 21% and 36% of the dose appeared in the urine in 4 days in male and female rats, respectively. Excretion via feces was approximately 4% in the same period in both sexes. The expired (14)C-CO2 was about 3% and 5% of the dose in 2 days in male and female rats, respectively. At 4 days after treatment, the radioactive residues were about 0.02-0.03%/g of tissue in the liver, kidney, skin and lungs, whereas other tissues showed lower levels of residues (about 0.001%/g or less). The results showed that a single dose of TNB in the rat was absorbed in the gut (administered in DMSO) and was eliminated mainly in the urine, with low levels in feces in 4 days. The results from this study did not show bioaccumulation of TNB in rats.
USEPA; Support Document for 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene (TNB) (CAS No. 99-35-4). In Support of Summary Information on Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) p.2 (August 1997). Available from, as of February 6, 2018: https://www.epa.gov/iris
The percutaneous absorption of 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene (TNB) was studied in viable skin from hairless guinea pigs (HGP), Fischer 344 rats and humans. Skin was dermatomed and assembled in flow-through diffusion cells followed by TNB application in either an acetone or a water vehicle. Skin absorption was expressed as the percentage of applied dose absorbed into skin and receptor fluid within 24 hr. Rapid absorption of TNB by rodent skin was obtained with both vehicles. For HGP skin, TNB absorption was 72.7+/-5.5% in the acetone vehicle and 82.3+/-4.5% in the water vehicle. For rat skin, TNB absorption was 61.0+/-4.1% (acetone) and 66.5+/-4.1% (water). Absorption of TNB from acetone was significantly reduced (38.0+/-11.0%, P = 0.0118) in human skin, but absorption from water remained high (75.5+/-10.8%). Little TNB remained in skin when a thin (200 um) dermatome section was used (HGP and human skin). A thicker dermatome section was required (350 um) with haired rat skin, and 13-21% of the absorbed radioactivity remained in the skin at 24 hr. Rodent skin did not simulate satisfactorily the barrier properties of human skin when TNB absorption was reduced by application in a volatile solvent.
Kraeling ME et al; J Appl Toxicol 18 (6): 387-92 (1998)

5 Environmental Fate & Exposure

5.1 Environmental Fate / Exposure Summary

1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene's production and use in the vulcanization of natural rubber and as an indicator in the pH range of 12.0-14.0 and a chemical intermediate may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. Its use in explosive compositions will result in its direct release to the environmen. It is a by-product of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) production as well as a photodegradation product of TNT. If released to air, a vapor pressure of 6.44X10-6 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene will exist in both the vapor and particulate phases in the atmosphere. Vapor-phase 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene 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 34 years. Particulate-phase 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene will be removed from the atmosphere by wet or dry deposition. 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene contains chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm and, therefore, may be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight. If released to soil, 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene is expected to have low mobility based upon an estimated Koc of 1680. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces is not expected to be an important fate process based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 3.7X10-9 atm-cu m/mole. 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces based upon its vapor pressure. 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene contaminated soils showed 93-99.2% reduction after 238 days with controlled flooding, tilling and addition of grass clippings. 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene was degraded an average of 93.5% in 3 days at room temperature in three soils. If released into water, 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene is expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment based upon the estimated Koc. 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene degraded (up to 100% in 85 days) aerobically in five river waters, faster degradation was noted in water with higher dissolved organic carbon content. Volatilization from water surfaces is not expected to be an important fate process based upon this compound's estimated Henry's Law constant. An estimated BCF of 3 suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low. Hydrolysis is not expected to be an important environmental fate process since this compound lacks functional groups that hydrolyze under environmental conditions (pH 5 to 9). Occupational exposure to 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene may occur through dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene is produced or used. The general population may be exposed to 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene in areas where spent TNT contamination has occurred. (SRC)

5.2 Probable Routes of Human Exposure (Complete)

Occupational exposure to 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene may occur through dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene is produced or used. The general population may be exposed to 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene in areas where spent 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene contamination has occurred. (SRC)

5.3 Artificial Pollution Sources (Complete)

1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene's production and use in the vulcanization of natural rubber and as an indicator in the pH range of 12.0-14.0(1) and a chemical intermediate(2) may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams(SRC). Its use in explosive compositions(3) will result in its direct release to the environment(SRC). It is a by-product of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene production as well as a photodegradation product of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene(2).
(1) O'Neil MJ, ed; The Merck Index. 15th ed. Cambridge, UK: The Royal Society of Chemistry. p. 1802 (2013)
(2) Bingham E, McGowan WJ; Aromatic Nitro and Amino Compounds. Patty's Toxicology. (1999-2018). New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. On-line Posting Date: 17 Aug 2012
(3) Larranaga MD et al; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 16th ed., Hoboken, NJ: John Wiley & Sons, Inc., p. 1383 (2016)

5.4 Environmental Fate (Complete)

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 1680(SRC), determined from a structure estimation method(2), indicates that 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene is expected to have low mobility in soil(SRC). Volatilization of 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene from moist soil surfaces is not expected to be an important fate process(SRC) given an estimated Henry's Law constant of 3.7X10-9 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), based upon its vapor pressure, 6.44X10-6 mm Hg(3), and water solubility, 492 mg/L(4). 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon its vapor pressure(3). Three 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene contaminated soils with initial concentrations of 127-179 mg/kg showed 93-99.2% reduction after 238 days with controlled flooding, tilling and addition of grass clippings(5). 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene was degraded an average of 93.5% in 3 days at room temperature in three different soils(6), suggesting that biodegradation may be an important environmental fate process in soil(SRC).
(1) Swann RL et al; Res Rev 85: 17-28 (1983)
(2) US EPA; Estimation Program Interface (EPI) Suite. Ver. 4.1. Nov, 2012. Available from, as of March 13, 2018: https://www2.epa.gov/tsca-screening-tools
(3) Ohe S; Computer Aided Data Book of Vapor Pressure (1976)
(4) Luning Prak DJ, O'Sullivan DW; J Chem Eng Data 52: 2446-50 (2007)
(5) Widrig DL et al; Environ Toxicol Chem 16: 1141-8 (1997)
(6) Grant CL et al; Environ Toxicol Chem 14: 1865-74 (1995)
AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 1680(SRC), determined from a structure estimation method(2), indicates that 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene is expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment(SRC). Volatilization from water surfaces is not expected(3) based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 3.7X10-9 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), derived from its vapor pressure, 6.44X10-6 mm Hg(4), and water solubility, 492 mg/L(5). 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene is not expected to undergo hydrolysis in the environment due to the lack of functional groups that hydrolyze under environmental conditions(3). According to a classification scheme(6), an estimated BCF of 3(SRC), from its log Kow of 1.18(7) and a regression-derived equation(2), suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low. 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene degraded (up to 100% in 85 days) aerobically in five river waters, faster degradation was noted in water with higher dissolved organic carbon content(8), suggesting that biodegradation may be an important environmental fate process in water(SRC).
(1) Swann RL et al; Res Rev 85: 17-28 (1983)
(2) US EPA; Estimation Program Interface (EPI) Suite. Ver. 4.1. Nov, 2012. Available from, as of March 13, 2018: https://www2.epa.gov/tsca-screening-tools
(3) Lyman WJ et al; Handbook of Chemical Property Estimation Methods. Washington, DC: Amer Chem Soc pp. 7-4, 7-5, 15-1 to 15-29 (1990)
(4) Ohe S; Computer Aided Data Book of Vapor Pressure (1976)
(5) Luning Prak DJ, O'Sullivan DW; J Chem Eng Data 52: 2446-50 (2007)
(6) Franke C et al; Chemosphere 29: 1501-14 (1994)
(7) Hansch C et al; Exploring QSAR. Hydrophobic, Electronic, and Steric Constants. ACS Prof Ref Book. Heller SR, consult. ed., Washington, DC: Amer Chem Soc p. 16 (1995)
(8) Douglas TA et al; Chemosphere 76: 1-8 (2009)
ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene, which has a vapor pressure of 6.44X10-6 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), will exist in both the vapor and particulate phases in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene 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 34 years(SRC), calculated from its rate constant of 1.3X10-15 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(SRC), that was derived using a structure estimation method(3). Particulate-phase 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene may be removed from the air by wet or dry deposition(SRC). 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene contains chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm(4) and, therefore, may be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight(SRC).
(1) Bidleman TF; Environ Sci Technol 22: 361-367 (1988)
(2) Ohe S; Computer Aided Data Book of Vapor Pressure (1976)
(3) US EPA; Estimation Program Interface (EPI) Suite. Ver. 4.1. Nov, 2012. Available from, as of March 13, 2018: https://www2.epa.gov/tsca-screening-tools
(4) Lyman WJ et al; Handbook of Chemical Property Estimation Methods. Washington, DC: Amer Chem Soc pp. 8-12, 8-13 (1990)

5.5 Environmental Biodegradation (Complete)

AEROBIC: The microbial degradation of 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene was incomplete and unsustained in Tennessee river water(1). Nitro group reduction occurred in the presence of added nutrients and lab cultures of Tennessee river microorganisms(1). 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene was reported to degrade 84% in 7 days from surface water at room temperature(2). 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene degraded (up to 100% in 85 days) aerobically in five river waters, faster degradation was noted in water with higher dissolved organic carbon content(3). Simulated biological treatment system, consisting of an aerator inoculated with A. agilis (first stage) and an activated sludge system (2nd stage), initial concentration of 118-146 mg/L nitroaromatic compounds gave 96-98% removal in first stage and 2-4% removal in second stage(4). 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene at an initial concentration of 100 ppm was found to be resistant to biodegradation when incubated 180 minutes in a Warburg respirometer inoculated with a phenol-adapted mixed culture of microorganisms obtained from garden soil, compost, river sediment, and a petroleum refinery waste lagoon(5). 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene was degraded an average of 93.5% in 3 days at room temperature in three different soils; Windsor (pH 6.2, clay 30 %, total organic carbon 1.1%), Charlton (pH 6.0, clay 20%, total organic carbon 1.8%), Ft Edwards (pH 8.4, clay 70%, total organic carbon 0.5%)(6).
(1) Mitchell WR et al; Microbial Interactions with Several Munitions Compounds: 1,3-dinitrobenzene, 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene, and 3,5-dinitroaniline; report. ISS USAMBRDL-TR-8201, order no AD-A116651, p. 44 (1982)
(2) Grant CL et al; Cold Regions Res Eng Lab, Hanover, NH. Report 1993, ENAEC-TS-CR-93096; AD-A271547 p.18 (1993)
(3) Douglas TA et al; Chemosphere 76: 1-8 (2009)
(4) Bringmann G, Kuehn R; Gesundh Ing 92: 273-6 (1971)
(5) Tabak HH et al; J Bacteriol 87: 910-9 (1964)
(6) Grant CL et al; Environ Toxicol Chem 14: 1865-74 (1995)
ANAEROBIC: 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene was 100% degraded under anaerobic conditions in 8 days by Desulfovibrio spp(1). In 30 days 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene was biodegraded 100% by Methanococcus strain B, 70% by Methanococcus deltae and 65% by M. thermolithotrophicus bacteria(2).
(1) Boopathy R et al; Curr Microbiol 37: 127-31 (1998)
(2) Boopathy R et al; Bioresource Technol 63: 81-9 (1998)

5.6 Environmental Abiotic Degradation (Complete)

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals has been estimated as 1.3X10-15 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(SRC) using a structure estimation method(1). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 34 years at an atmospheric concentration of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(1). 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene is not expected to undergo hydrolysis in the environment due to the lack of functional groups that hydrolyze under environmental conditions(2). 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene contains chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm(2) and, therefore, may be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight(SRC).
(1) US EPA; Estimation Program Interface (EPI) Suite. Ver. 4.1. Nov, 2012. Available from, as of March 13, 2018: https://www2.epa.gov/tsca-screening-tools
(2) Lyman WJ et al; Handbook of Chemical Property Estimation Methods. Washington, DC: Amer Chem Soc pp. 7-4, 7-5, 8-12, 8-13 (1990)

5.7 Environmental Bioconcentration (Complete)

An estimated BCF of 3 was calculated in fish for 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene(SRC), using a log Kow of 1.18(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.
(1) Hansch C et al; Exploring QSAR. Hydrophobic, Electronic, and Steric Constants. ACS Prof Ref Book. Heller SR, consult. ed., Washington, DC: Amer Chem Soc p. 16 (1995)
(2) US EPA; Estimation Program Interface (EPI) Suite. Ver. 4.1. Nov, 2012. Available from, as of March 13, 2018: https://www2.epa.gov/tsca-screening-tools/
(3) Franke C et al; Chemosphere 29: 1501-14 (1994)

5.8 Soil Adsorption / Mobility (Complete)

Using a structure estimation method based on molecular connectivity indices(1), the Koc of 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene can be estimated to be 1680(SRC). According to a classification scheme(2), this estimated Koc value suggests that 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene is expected to have low mobility in soil.
(1) US EPA; Estimation Program Interface (EPI) Suite. Ver. 4.1. Nov, 2012. Available from, as of March 13, 2018: https://www2.epa.gov/tsca-screening-tools
(2) Swann RL et al; Res Rev 85: 17-28 (1983)

5.9 Volatilization from Water / Soil (Complete)

The Henry's Law constant for 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene is estimated as 3.7X10-9 atm-cu m/mole(SRC) derived from its vapor pressure, 6.44X10-6 mm Hg(1), and water solubility, 492 mg/L(2). This Henry's Law constant indicates that 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene is expected to be essentially nonvolatile from water and moist soil surfaces(3). 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon its pressure(1).
(1) Ohe S; Computer Aided Data Book of Vapor Pressure (1976)
(2) Luning Prak DJ, O'Sullivan DW; J Chem Eng Data 52: 2446-50 (2007)
(3) Lyman WJ et al; Handbook of Chemical Property Estimation Methods. Washington, DC: Amer Chem Soc pp. 15-1 to 15-29 (1990)

5.10 Environmental Water Concentrations (Complete)

GROUNDWATER: 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene was detected in groundwater from Grand Island, NE sampled from 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene-contaminated wells in the vicinity of an Army munitions facility(2). Groundwater from the Milan Army Ammunition Plant, TN contained 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene at concentrations of 79.4 ug/L(3).
(1) Spanggord RJ et al; Environ Sci Tech 16: 229-32 (1982)
(2) Spalding RF, Fulton JW; J Contam Hydrol 2: 139-53 (1988)
(3) Best EPH et al; Chemosphere 38: 3383-96 (1999)
SURFACE WATER: 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene was not detected (detection limit 0.05 mg/L) in surface water samples collected from the Werk Tanne munitions site in Germany(1). 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene concentrations in aqueous samples from the former ammunition sites in Lower Saxony were 0.1-220 ug/L(2). 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene was detected in 23% of 107 surface water samples collected from 1994-2004 from four of the largest rivers of north Germany (Elbe, Weser, Aller, Ems) at 0.0001-9.5 ug/L(3).
(1) Eisentraeger A et al; Environ Toxicol Chem 26: 634-46 (2007)
(2) Neuwoehner J et al; Environ Toxicol Chem 26: 1091-9 (2007)
(3) Schafer RB et al; Environ Sci Technol 45: 6167-74 (2011)

5.11 Effluent Concentrations (Complete)

1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene was detected in plant effluent from the production and purification of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT); 54 samples were collected over a period of 1 year with 3.8% reported as positive (detection limit not reported), concentration ranging from 0.06 to 0.30 mg/L(1).
(1) Spanggord RJ et al; Environ Sci Tech 16: 229-32 (1982)

5.12 Sediment / Soil Concentrations (Complete)

SEDIMENT: 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene was not detected (detection limit 2.9-7.8 ug/kg dry weight) in 52 samples collected from 43 locations in the fall of 2009 from within Ostrich Bay, Puget Sound, WA(1).
(1) Pascoe GA et al; Chemosphere 81: 807-16 (2010)
SOIL: In 26 soil sample sites collected from Joliet Army Ammunition Plant, IL and 4 soil sample sites collected from Iowa Army Ammunition plant in Burlington, IA, 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene was detected at 0-282 and 1-305 ug/g of dry soil, respectively(1). 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene was reported in soil from Alabama Army Ammunition Plant, Childersburg, AL at 4.3 mg/kg and US Army Engineer Waterways Experimental Station in Vicksburg, MS at 25 mg/kg(2). Louisiana Army Ammunition Plant, Norwood site and Kolin site reported a 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene soil concentration of 18.4 and 32.4 ug/g, respectively(3). 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene was detected at <0.10-0.63 mg/kg in soil samples collected from a former ammunition destruction facility in Belgium(4). 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene was detected at <0.05-39.2 ng/kg in soil samples collected from the Werk Tanne munitions site in Germany(5). Soil samples collected from two former ammunition plants in Germany contained 24.2 and 1.1 ng/kg of 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene(6).
(1) Fuller ME, Manning JF, Jr; Environ Toxicol Chem 17: 2185-95 (1998)
(2) Valsaraj KT et al; J Hazard Mater 59: 1-12 (1998)
(3) Xue SK et al; Soil Sci 160: 317-27 (1995)
(4) Bausinger T, Preub J; Bull Environ Contam Toxicol 74: 1045-52 (2005)
(5) Eisentraeger A et al; Environ Toxicol Chem 26: 634-46 (2007)
(6) Emmrich M; Environ Sci Technol 35: 874-7 (2001)
SOIL: 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene was not detected (detection limit not reported) in soil samples from US munitions plants in Newport, IN, VIGO Chemical Plant, IN, Chickasaw Ordnance Works, TN, Lexington-Bluegrass Depot, KY, Camp Shelby, MO, EOD site and impact area samples(1). 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene was detected in soil samples from the following US munitions plants(1):
Location
Nebraska Ordnance Works
No. samples
13
Concn (ug/g)
0.12-159
Location
Umatilla Depot, OR
No. samples
5
Concn (ug/g)
9.52-63.5
Location
Weldon Springs Training Area, MO
No. samples
6
Concn (ug/g)
0.3-60.7
Location
Iowa Army Ammunition Plant
No. samples
3
Concn (ug/g)
53.2-549
Location
Raritan Arsenal, NJ
No. samples
2
Concn (ug/g)
0.12-3.85
Location
Hawthorne Army Ammunition Plant, NV
No. samples
4
Concn (ug/g)
3.2-116
Location
Hastings East Park, NE
No. samples
1
Concn (ug/g)
2.7
Location
Milan, TN
No. samples
2
Concn (ug/g)
2.5-6.1
Location
Louisiana Army Ammunition Plant
No. samples
2
Concn (ug/g)
2.1-3.8
Location
Sangamon Ordnance Plant, IL
No. samples
1
Concn (ug/g)
0.63
(1) Walsh ME, Jenkins TF; Identification of TNT Transformation Products in Soil. CRREL-SR-92-16, NTIS AD-A255308. Hanover, NH: Cold Regions Res Eng Lab. pp. 37 (1992)

6 Environmental Standards & Regulations

6.1 CERCLA Reportable Quantities (Complete)

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 10 lb or 4.54 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).
40 CFR 302.4 (USEPA); U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of February 16, 2018: https://www.ecfr.gov

6.2 RCRA Requirements (Complete)

U234; As stipulated in 40 CFR 261.33, when 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene, as a commercial chemical product or manufacturing chemical intermediate or an off-specification commercial chemical product or a manufacturing chemical intermediate, becomes a waste, it must be managed according to Federal and/or State hazardous waste regulations. Also defined as a hazardous waste is any residue, contaminated soil, water, or other debris resulting from the cleanup of a spill, into water or on dry land, of this waste. Generators of small quantities of this waste may qualify for partial exclusion from hazardous waste regulations (40 CFR 261.5).
40 CFR 261.33 (USEPA); U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of February 16, 2018: https://www.ecfr.gov

6.3 State Drinking Water Guidelines (Complete)

(MN) MINNESOTA 0.3 ug/L
USEPA/Office of Water; Federal-State Toxicology and Risk Analysis Committee (FSTRAC). Summary of State and Federal Drinking Water Standards and Guidelines (11/93) To Present
(FL) FLORIDA 60 ug/L
USEPA/Office of Water; Federal-State Toxicology and Risk Analysis Committee (FSTRAC). Summary of State and Federal Drinking Water Standards and Guidelines (11/93) To Present

7 Chemical / Physical Properties

7.1 Molecular Formula

C6-H3-N3-O6
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Cambridge, UK: Royal Society of Chemistry, 2013., p. 1802

7.2 Molecular Weight

213.104
Haynes, W.M. (ed.). CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. 95th Edition. CRC Press LLC, Boca Raton: FL 2014-2015, p. 3-538

7.3 Color / Form (Complete)

Yellow crystals
Larranaga, M.D., Lewis, R.J. Sr., Lewis, R.A.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 16th Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ 2016., p. 1383
Rhombic plates from benzene; leaflets from water
Lide, D.R., G.W.A. Milne (eds.). Handbook of Data on Organic Compounds. Volume I. 3rd ed. CRC Press, Inc. Boca Raton ,FL. 1994., p. V2: 1266
Orthorhombic bipyramidal plates from glacial acetic acid
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Cambridge, UK: Royal Society of Chemistry, 2013., p. 1802

7.4 Odor

Odorless
ATSDR; Toxicological Profile for 1,3-Dinitrobenzene and 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene. Atlanta, GA: Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, US Public Health Service (June 1995). Available from, as of Oct 12, 2015: https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxprofiles/index.asp

7.5 Taste

Tasteless
ATSDR; Toxicological Profile for 1,3-Dinitrobenzene and 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene. Atlanta, GA: Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, US Public Health Service (June 1995). Available from, as of Oct 12, 2015: https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxprofiles/index.asp

7.6 Boiling Point

315 °C
Haynes, W.M. (ed.). CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. 95th Edition. CRC Press LLC, Boca Raton: FL 2014-2015, p. 3-538

7.7 Melting Point

121.3 °C
Haynes, W.M. (ed.). CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. 95th Edition. CRC Press LLC, Boca Raton: FL 2014-2015, p. 3-538

7.8 Density

1.688 at 20 °C/4 °C
Larranaga, M.D., Lewis, R.J. Sr., Lewis, R.A.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 16th Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ 2016., p. 1383

7.9 Heat of Combustion

-663.7 kg cal/g mol wt at 20 °C (solid)
Weast, R.C. (ed.) Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. 69th ed. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press Inc., 1988-1989., p. D-279

7.10 LogP

log Kow = 1.18
Hansch, C., Leo, A., D. Hoekman. Exploring QSAR - Hydrophobic, Electronic, and Steric Constants. Washington, DC: American Chemical Society., 1995., p. 16

7.11 Solubility (Complete)

Solubility in water, 278 mg/L at 15 °C
Yalkowsky, S.H., He, Yan, Jain, P. Handbook of Aqueous Solubility Data Second Edition. CRC Press, Boca Raton, FL 2010, p. 200
In water, 492 mg/L at 25 °C
Luning Prak DJ, O'Sullivan DW; J Chem Eng Data 52: 2446-50 (2007)
Insoluble in water
Larranaga, M.D., Lewis, R.J. Sr., Lewis, R.A.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 16th Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ 2016., p. 1383
Soluble in alcohol and ether
Larranaga, M.D., Lewis, R.J. Sr., Lewis, R.A.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 16th Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ 2016., p. 1383
6.2 g/100 g benzene; 4.9 g/100 g methanol; 1.9 g/100 g alcohol; 0.25 g/100 g carbon disulfide; 1.5 g/100 g ether; 0.05 g/100 g petroleum ether. Freely soluble in dilute sodium sulfite
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Cambridge, UK: Royal Society of Chemistry, 2013., p. 1802
Slightly soluble in ethanol, ethyl ether, carbon disulfide; soluble in benzene, chloroform, pyrene; very soluble in acetone, toluene
Lide, D.R., G.W.A. Milne (eds.). Handbook of Data on Organic Compounds. Volume I. 3rd ed. CRC Press, Inc. Boca Raton ,FL. 1994., p. V2: 1266

7.12 Vapor Pressure

6.44X10-6 mm Hg at 25 °C (extrapolated)
Ohe S; Computer Aided Data Book of Vapor Pressure (1976)

7.13 Refractive Index

Index of refraction: 1,4775 at 152 C
Haynes, W.M. (ed.). CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. 95th Edition. CRC Press LLC, Boca Raton: FL 2014-2015, p. 3-538

7.14 Other Experimental Properties (Complete)

Can be sublimed by careful heating; it is dimorphous, the other (rare) form melts at 61 °C
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Cambridge, UK: Royal Society of Chemistry, 2013., p. 1802
Enthalpy of formation: -78.4 kJ/mol (crystalline solid); -13.4 kJ/mol (gas)
Haynes, W.M. (ed.). CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. 95th Edition. CRC Press LLC, Boca Raton: FL 2014-2015, p. 5-30
Half-wave potentials (vs saturated calomel electrode) of 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene at 25 °C: -0.20, -0.29, -0.34 (phthalate buffer, pH 4.1) & -0.34, -0.48, -0.65 (borate buffer, pH 9.2)
Dean, J.A. Handbook of Organic Chemistry. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill Book Co., 1987., p. 8-86
Heat of sublimation: 23.8 kcal/mole at 298 K
Dean, J.A. Handbook of Organic Chemistry. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill Book Co., 1987., p. 5-44
UV: 4-51 (Organic Electronic Spectral Data, Phillips et al, John Wiley & Sons, New York) /Benzene, 1,2,4-trinitro-/
Lide, D.R., G.W.A. Milne (eds.). Handbook of Data on Organic Compounds. Volume I. 3rd ed. CRC Press, Inc. Boca Raton ,FL. 1994., p. V2: 1266

8 Spectral Information

8.1 Mass Spectrometry

8.1.1 Other MS

Other MS
MASS: 174 (Aldermaston, Eight Peak Index of Mass Spectra, UK)

8.2 UV Spectra

MAX ABSORPTION (ALCOHOL): 222 NM (LOG E= 4.5); 330 NM (LOG E= 2.5); SADTLER REF NUMBER: 1086 (IR, PRISM); 328 (UV)
Weast, R.C. (ed.). Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. 60th ed. Boca Raton, Florida: CRC Press Inc., 1979., p. C-172
UV: 5-45 (Organic Electronic Spectral Data, Phillips et al, John Wiley & Sons, New York)
Lide, D.R., G.W.A. Milne (eds.). Handbook of Data on Organic Compounds. Volume I. 3rd ed. CRC Press, Inc. Boca Raton ,FL. 1994., p. V2: 1266

8.3 IR Spectra

IR Spectra
IR: 3515 (Documentation of Molecular Spectroscopy Collection) /Benzene, 1,2,4-trinitro-/
IR Spectra
IR: 6177 (Coblentz Society Spectral Collection)

8.4 Raman Spectra

Raman Spectra
Raman: 737 (Sadtler Research Laboratories spectral collection)

9 Chemical Safety & Handling

9.1 DOT Emergency Guidelines (Complete)

/GUIDE 113 FLAMMABLE SOLIDS - TOXIC (Wet/Desensitized Explosive)/ Fire or Explosion: Flammable/combustible material. May be ignited by heat, sparks or flames. DRIED OUT material may explode if exposed to heat, flame, friction or shock; treat as an explosive (GUIDE 112). Keep material wet with water or treat as an explosive (GUIDE 112). Runoff to sewer may create fire or explosion hazard. /Trinitrobenzene, wetted with not less than 30% water; Trinitrobenzene, wetted with not less than 10% water/
U.S. Department of Transportation. 2016 Emergency Response Guidebook. Washington, D.C. 2016
/GUIDE 113 FLAMMABLE SOLIDS - TOXIC (Wet/Desensitized Explosive)/ Health: Some are toxic and may be fatal if inhaled, swallowed or absorbed through skin. Contact may cause burns to skin and eyes. Fire may produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Runoff from fire control or dilution water may cause pollution. /Trinitrobenzene, wetted with not less than 30% water; Trinitrobenzene, wetted with not less than 10% water/
U.S. Department of Transportation. 2016 Emergency Response Guidebook. Washington, D.C. 2016
/GUIDE 113 FLAMMABLE SOLIDS - TOXIC (Wet/Desensitized Explosive)/ 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. Isolate spill or leak area immediately for at least 100 meters (330 feet) in all directions. Keep unauthorized personnel away. Stay upwind, uphill and/or upstream. Ventilate closed spaces before entering. /Trinitrobenzene, wetted with not less than 30% water; Trinitrobenzene, wetted with not less than 10% water/
U.S. Department of Transportation. 2016 Emergency Response Guidebook. Washington, D.C. 2016
/GUIDE 113 FLAMMABLE SOLIDS - TOXIC (Wet/Desensitized Explosive)/ Protective Clothing: Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Structural firefighters' protective clothing will only provide limited protection. /Trinitrobenzene, wetted with not less than 30% water; Trinitrobenzene, wetted with not less than 10% water/
U.S. Department of Transportation. 2016 Emergency Response Guidebook. Washington, D.C. 2016
/GUIDE 113 FLAMMABLE SOLIDS - TOXIC (Wet/Desensitized Explosive)/ Evacuation: Large Spill Consider initial evacuation for 500 meters (1/3 mile) in all directions. 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. [FLAG] In Canada, an Emergency Response Assistance Plan (ERAP) may be required for this product. Please consult the shipping document and/or the ERAP Program Section (page 391). /Trinitrobenzene, wetted with not less than 30% water; Trinitrobenzene, wetted with not less than 10% water/
U.S. Department of Transportation. 2016 Emergency Response Guidebook. Washington, D.C. 2016
/GUIDE 113 FLAMMABLE SOLIDS - TOXIC (Wet/Desensitized Explosive)/ Fire: CARGO Fire DO NOT fight fire when fire reaches cargo! Cargo may EXPLODE! Stop all traffic and clear the area for at least 1600 meters (1 mile) in all directions and let burn. Do not move cargo or vehicle if cargo has been exposed to heat. TIRE or VEHICLE Fire Use plenty of water - FLOOD it! If water is not available, use CO2, dry chemical or dirt. If possible, and WITHOUT RISK, use unmanned hose holders or monitor nozzles from maximum distance to prevent fire from spreading to cargo area. Pay special attention to tire fires as re-ignition may occur. Stand by, at a safe distance, with extinguisher ready for possible re-ignition. /Trinitrobenzene, wetted with not less than 30% water; Trinitrobenzene, wetted with not less than 10% water/
U.S. Department of Transportation. 2016 Emergency Response Guidebook. Washington, D.C. 2016
/GUIDE 113 FLAMMABLE SOLIDS - TOXIC (Wet/Desensitized Explosive)/ Spill or Leak: ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames in immediate area). All equipment used when handling the product must be grounded. Do not touch or walk through spilled material. Small Spill Flush area with flooding quantities of water. Large Spill Wet down with water and dike for later disposal. KEEP WETTED PRODUCT WET BY SLOWLY ADDING FLOODING QUANTITIES OF WATER. /Trinitrobenzene, wetted with not less than 30% water; Trinitrobenzene, wetted with not less than 10% water/
U.S. Department of Transportation. 2016 Emergency Response Guidebook. Washington, D.C. 2016
/GUIDE 113 FLAMMABLE SOLIDS - TOXIC (Wet/Desensitized Explosive)/ First Aid: Ensure that medical personnel are aware of the material(s) involved and take precautions to protect themselves. Move victim to fresh air. Call 911 or emergency medical service. Give artificial respiration if victim is not breathing. Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult. Remove and isolate contaminated clothing and shoes. In case of contact with substance, immediately flush skin or eyes with running water for at least 20 minutes. /Trinitrobenzene, wetted with not less than 30% water; Trinitrobenzene, wetted with not less than 10% water/
U.S. Department of Transportation. 2016 Emergency Response Guidebook. Washington, D.C. 2016

9.2 Fire Fighting Procedures (Complete)

If material is on fire and conditions permit, do not extinguish. Cool exposures using unattended monitors. If fire must be extinguished, use any agent appropriate for the burning material. ... If material or contaminated runoff enters waterways, notify downstream users of potentially contaminated waters. Notify local health and fire officials and pollution control agencies. Cool exposed containers from unattended equipment or remove intact containers if it can be done safely. If cooling streams are ineffective (venting sound increases in volume and pitch, tank discolors, or shows any signs of deforming), withdraw immediately to a secure position. ... The only respirators recommended for firefighting are self-contained breathing apparatuses that are operated in a pressure-demand or other positive-pressure mode.
Pohanish, R.P. (ed). Sittig's Handbook of Toxic and Hazardous Chemical Carcinogens 6th Edition Volume 1: A-K,Volume 2: L-Z. William Andrew, Waltham, MA 2012, p. 2655
If material on fire or involved in fire: Dangerously explosive. Do not fight fires in a cargo of explosives. Evacuate area and let burn. /Trinitrobenzene/
Association of American Railroads; Bureau of Explosives. Emergency Handling of Hazardous Materials in Surface Transportation. Association of American Railroads, Pueblo, CO. 2005, p. 917
If material on fire or involved in fire: Solid streams of water may spread fire. Use water in flooding quantities as fog. Use dry chemical, graphite, or dry earth. /Trinitrobenzene, wetted (with not less than 10% water, by mass)/
Association of American Railroads; Bureau of Explosives. Emergency Handling of Hazardous Materials in Surface Transportation. Association of American Railroads, Pueblo, CO. 2005, p. 917
If material on fire or involved in fire: Dangerously explosive. Flood with water. Cool all affected containers with flooding quantities of water. Apply water from as far a distance as possible. /Trinitrobenzene, wetted (with not less than 30% water, by mass)/
Association of American Railroads; Bureau of Explosives. Emergency Handling of Hazardous Materials in Surface Transportation. Association of American Railroads, Pueblo, CO. 2005, p. 917
Evacuation: If material is on fire or involved in fire consider evacuation of one (1) mile radius. /Trinitrobenzene; Trinitrobenzene, wetted (with not less than 30% water, by mass)/
Association of American Railroads; Bureau of Explosives. Emergency Handling of Hazardous Materials in Surface Transportation. Association of American Railroads, Pueblo, CO. 2005, p. 917

9.3 Explosive Limits and Potential (Complete)

A severe explosion hazard when shocked or exposed to heat. Trinitrobenzene is considered a powerful high explosive and has more shattering power than TNT. ... It is less sensitive to impact than TNT ... . The complex with potassium trimethyl stannate explodes at room temperature. Forms heat-sensitive explosive complexes with alkyl or aryl metallates (e.g., lithium or potassium salts of trimethyl-, triethyl-, or triphenyl-germanate, -silanate, or -stannate).
Lewis, R.J. Sr. (ed) Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 11th Edition. Wiley-Interscience, Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ. 2004., p. 3602

9.4 Hazardous Reactivities and Incompatibilities (Complete)

The product /potassium 4-methyoxy-1-aci-nitro-3,5-dinitro-2,5-cyclohexadienonide/ of interaction of /1,3,5-/trinitrobenzene and concn aqueous potassium hydroxide in methanol is explosive, and analyses as the hemihydrate of a hemiacetal of the aci-p-quinonoid form of picric acid, and/or the mesomeric o-forms.
Bretherick, L. Handbook of Reactive Chemical Hazards. 4th ed. Boston, MA: Butterworth-Heinemann Ltd., 1990, p. 698
The tetrahydrofuran-containing complexes formed between trinitrobenzene and the lithium or potassium salts of trimethyl-, triethyl- or triphenyl-germanate, -silanate or -stannate decomp explosively on heating, though trinitrobenzene-potassium trimethylstannate decomp explosively at ambient temp.
Bretherick, L. Handbook of Reactive Chemical Hazards. 4th ed. Boston, MA: Butterworth-Heinemann Ltd., 1990, p. 572
Can react vigorously with with reducing materials.
Lewis, R.J. Sr. (ed) Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 11th Edition. Wiley-Interscience, Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ. 2004., p. 3602
Incompatible with initiating explosives, combustible materials, oxidizers.
Pohanish, R.P. (ed). Sittig's Handbook of Toxic and Hazardous Chemical Carcinogens 6th Edition Volume 1: A-K,Volume 2: L-Z. William Andrew, Waltham, MA 2012, p. 2654

9.5 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) (Complete)

Wear protective gloves and clothing to prevent any reasonable probability of skin contact. ... All protective clothing (suits, gloves, footwear, headgear) should be clean, available each day, and put on before work. ... Wear dust-proof chemical goggles and face shield unless full face-piece respiratory protection is worn.
Pohanish, R.P. (ed). Sittig's Handbook of Toxic and Hazardous Chemical Carcinogens 6th Edition Volume 1: A-K,Volume 2: L-Z. William Andrew, Waltham, MA 2012, p. 2655

9.6 Preventive Measures (Complete)

If material not on fire and not involved in fire: Keep sparks, flames, and other sources of ignition away. Keep spilled material wet. Wet spilled material before picking it up. Do not attempt to sweep up dry material. /Trinitrobenzene/
Association of American Railroads; Bureau of Explosives. Emergency Handling of Hazardous Materials in Surface Transportation. Association of American Railroads, Pueblo, CO. 2005, p. 917
If material not on fire and not involved in fire: Keep sparks, flames, and other sources of ignition away. Keep material out of warer sources and sewers. Keep spilled material wet. Do not attempt to sweep up dry material. /Trinitrobenzene, wetted (with not less than 30% water, by mass)/
Association of American Railroads; Bureau of Explosives. Emergency Handling of Hazardous Materials in Surface Transportation. Association of American Railroads, Pueblo, CO. 2005, p. 917
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. Cover all suspected material with wet sand or earth to prevent ignition until material can be permanently disposed of. /Trinitrobenzene, wetted (with not less than 10% water, by mass)/
Association of American Railroads; Bureau of Explosives. Emergency Handling of Hazardous Materials in Surface Transportation. Association of American Railroads, Pueblo, CO. 2005, p. 917
Personnel protection: Avoid breathing dusts, and fumes from burning material. ... 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. ... /Trinitrobenzene/
Association of American Railroads; Bureau of Explosives. Emergency Handling of Hazardous Materials in Surface Transportation. Association of American Railroads, Pueblo, CO. 2005, p. 917
Personnel protection: Avoid breathing vapors or dusts. Wear positive self-contained breathing apparatus when fighting fires involving this material. ... 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. /Trinitrobenzene, wetted (with not less than 10% water, by mass)/
Association of American Railroads; Bureau of Explosives. Emergency Handling of Hazardous Materials in Surface Transportation. Association of American Railroads, Pueblo, CO. 2005, p. 917
Personnel protection: ... 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. Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus when fighting fires involving this material. /Trinitrobenzene, wetted (with not less than 30% water, by mass)/
Association of American Railroads; Bureau of Explosives. Emergency Handling of Hazardous Materials in Surface Transportation. Association of American Railroads, Pueblo, CO. 2005, p. 917
Employees should wash immediately with soap when skin is wet or contaminated. Provide emergency showers and eyewash.
Pohanish, R.P. (ed). Sittig's Handbook of Toxic and Hazardous Chemical Carcinogens 6th Edition Volume 1: A-K,Volume 2: L-Z. William Andrew, Waltham, MA 2012, p. 2655

9.7 Shipment Methods and Regulations (Complete)

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)./
49 CFR 171.2 (USDOT); U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of February 20, 2018: https://www.ecfr.gov
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. Trinitrobenzene, dry or wetted with less than 30% water, by weight; trinitrobenzene, wetted with 30% or more water, by weight; and trinitrobenzene, wetted, with 10% or more water but less than 30% water, by weight are included on the dangerous goods list. /Trinitrobenzene, dry or wetted with less than 30% water, by weight; Trinitrobenzene, wetted with 30% or more water, by weight; and Trinitrobenzene, wetted, with 10% or more water but less than 30% water, by weight/
International Air Transport Association. Dangerous Goods Regulations. 59th Edition. Montreal, Quebec Canada. 2018., p. 355
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. Trinitrobenzene, dry or wetted with less than 30% water, by mass; trinitrobenzene, wetted with not less than 30% water, by mass; and trinitrobenzene, wetted with not less than 10% water, by mass are included on the dangerous goods list. /Trinitrobenzene, dry or wetted with less than 30% water, by mass; Trinitrobenzene, wetted with not less than 30% water, by mass; and Trinitrobenzene, wetted with not less than 10% water, by mass/
International Maritime Organization. IMDG Code. International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code Volume 2 2016, p. 31, 60, 178

9.8 Storage Conditions (Complete)

Treat as an explosive. ... Store separately from all other flammable materials. Prior to working with this chemical you should be trained on its proper handling and storage. Store in tightly closed containers in a cool, well-ventilated area away from heat, explosives, oxidizable materials. Sources of ignition, such as smoking and open flames, are prohibited where this chemical is used, handled, or stored in a manner that could create a potential fire or explosion hazard. Use only nonsparking tools and equipment, especially when opening and closing containers of this chemical.
Pohanish, R.P. (ed). Sittig's Handbook of Toxic and Hazardous Chemical Carcinogens 6th Edition Volume 1: A-K,Volume 2: L-Z. William Andrew, Waltham, MA 2012, p. 2655

9.9 Cleanup Methods (Complete)

Evacuate and restrict persons not wearing protective equipment from area of spill or leak until cleanup is complete. Remove all ignition sources. Ventilate area of spill or leak. Absorb liquids in vermiculite, dry sand, earth, peat, carbon, or a similar material and deposit in sealed containers. Keep this chemical out of a confined space, such as a sewer, because of the possibility of an explosion, unless the sewer is designed to prevent the buildup of explosive concentrations. It may be necessary to contain and dispose of this chemical as a hazardous waste. If material or contaminated runoff enters waterways, notify downstream users of potentially contaminated waters.
Pohanish, R.P. (ed). Sittig's Handbook of Toxic and Hazardous Chemical Carcinogens 6th Edition Volume 1: A-K,Volume 2: L-Z. William Andrew, Waltham, MA 2012, p. 2655

9.10 Disposal Methods (Complete)

Generators of waste (equal to or greater than 100 kg/mo) containing this contaminant, EPA hazardous waste number U234, must conform with USEPA regulations in storage, transportation, treatment and disposal of waste.
40 CFR 240-280, 300-306, 702-799 (USEPA); U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of April 2, 2015: https://www.ecfr.gov
Dissolve in a combustible solvent and spray into an incinerator equipped with afterburner and scrubber.
Pohanish, R.P. (ed). Sittig's Handbook of Toxic and Hazardous Chemical Carcinogens 6th Edition Volume 1: A-K,Volume 2: L-Z. William Andrew, Waltham, MA 2012, p. 2655
A potential candidate for rotary kiln incineration at a temperature range of 820 to 1,600 °C and residence times of seconds for liquids and gases, and hours for solids.
USEPA; Engineering Handbook for Hazardous Waste Incineration p.3-16 (1981) EPA 68-03-3025
A potential candidate for fluidized bed incineration at a temperature range of 450 to 980 °C and residence times of seconds for liquids and gases, and longer for solids.
USEPA; Engineering Handbook for Hazardous Waste Incineration p.3-16 (1981) EPA 68-03-3025
The following wastewater treatment technologies have been investigated for nitrobenzene: Biological treatment. /Nitrobenzene/
USEPA; Management of Hazardous Waste Leachate, EPA Contract No.68-03-2766 p.E-3-E-22 (1982)
The following wastewater treatment technologies have been investigated for nitrobenzene: Chemical precipitation. /Nitrobenzene/
USEPA; Management of Hazardous Waste Leachate, EPA Contract No.68-03-2766 p.E-3-E-22 (1982)
The following wastewater treatment technologies have been investigated for nitrobenzene: Stripping. /Nitrobenzene/
USEPA; Management of Hazardous Waste Leachate, EPA Contract No.68-03-2766 p.E-3-E-22 (1982)
The following wastewater treatment technologies have been investigated for nitrobenzene: Solvent extraction. /Nitrobenzene/
USEPA; Management of Hazardous Waste Leachate, EPA Contract No.68-03-2766 p.E-3-E-22 (1982)
The following wastewater treatment technologies have been investigated for nitrobenzene: Activated carbon. /Nitrobenzene/
USEPA; Management of Hazardous Waste Leachate, EPA Contract No.68-03-2766 p.E-3-E-22 (1982)

10 Manufacturing / Use Information

10.1 Uses (Complete)

Explosive compositions.
Larranaga, M.D., Lewis, R.J. Sr., Lewis, R.A.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 16th Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ 2016., p. 1383
Vulcanizing agent for natural rubber. Indicator for pH 12.0-14.0 .
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Cambridge, UK: Royal Society of Chemistry, 2013., p. 1802
... Preparation of fine chemicals.
Boileau J et al; Explosives. Ullmann's Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry 7th ed. (1999-2018). NY, NY: John Wiley & Sons. Online Posting Date: April 15, 2009

10.2 Manufacturers

0 Reporting facilities
US EPA; Chemical Data Reporting (CDR). Non-confidential 2016 Chemical Data Reporting information on chemical production and use in the United States. Available from, as of Mar 6, 2018: https://www.epa.gov/chemical-data-reporting

10.3 Methods of Manufacturing (Complete)

Prepared by decarboxylation of trinitrobenzoic acid, obtained by oxidation of TNT. ... by the action of alkali on 2,4,6-trinitrobenzaldehyde.
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Cambridge, UK: Royal Society of Chemistry, 2013., p. 1802
From trinitrotoluene by removal of methyl group.
Larranaga, M.D., Lewis, R.J. Sr., Lewis, R.A.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 16th Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ 2016., p. 1383
The nitration of benzene to a monoderivative occurs readily in yields as high as 98% when a mixture of concentrated nitric and sulfuric acids is used at 50-55 °C. ... With a mixture of fuming nitric and fuming sulfuric acids, 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene can be obtained.
Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology. 3rd ed., Volumes 1-26. New York, NY: John Wiley and Sons, 1978-1984., p. 3(78) 749
1,3-Dinitrobenzene may be further nitrated with strong mixed acid, extensive (dangerous) side reactions occur and the yield of 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene is low. The preferred synthesis is by decarboxylation of 2,4,6-trinitrobenzoic acid (obtained from TNT by oxidation with chromic acid) by heating in aqueous medium.
Booth G; Nitro Compounds, Aromatic. Ullmann's Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry 7th ed. (1999-2018). NY, NY: John Wiley & Sons. Online Posting Date: June 15, 2000

10.4 General Manufacturing Information (Complete)

Trinitrobenzene occurs as a by-product of trinitrotoluene (TNT) production and as a contaminant in water systems where it is formed by photolysis of TNT. It is not biodegraded readily and thus occurs in water, in TNT production waste disposal sites, and in soils at many military installations. It is not manufactured except for research purposes.
Bingham, E.; Cohrssen, B.; Powell, C.H.; Patty's Toxicology Volumes 1-9 5th ed. John Wiley & Sons. New York, N.Y. (2001)., p. 4:847

11 Laboratory Methods

11.1 Analytic Laboratory Methods (Complete)

Method: EPA-NERL 529; Procedure: gas chromatography/mass spectrometry; Analyte: 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene; Matrix: finished drinking water; Detection Limit: 0.037 ug/L.
National Environmental Methods Index; Analytical, Test and Sampling Methods. 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene (99-35-4). Available from, as of February 21, 2018: https://www.nemi.gov
Method: EPA-RCA 8270D; Procedure: gas chromatography/mass spectrometry; Analyte: 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene; Matrix: solid waste matrices, soils, air sampling media and water; Detection Limit: not provided.
National Environmental Methods Index; Analytical, Test and Sampling Methods. 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene (99-35-4). Available from, as of February 21, 2018: https://www.nemi.gov
Method: EPA-RCA 8330B; Procedure: high performance liquid chromatography using a dual wavelength ultraviolet detector; Analyte: 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene; Matrix: water, soils and sediment; Detection Limit: not provided.
National Environmental Methods Index; Analytical, Test and Sampling Methods. 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene (99-35-4). Available from, as of February 21, 2018: https://www.nemi.gov
Method: USGS-NWQL O-1124-94; Procedure: high performance liquid chromatography; Analyte: 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene; Matrix: water; Detection Limit: 0.19 ug/L.
National Environmental Methods Index; Analytical, Test and Sampling Methods. 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene (99-35-4). Available from, as of February 21, 2018: https://www.nemi.gov
EPA Method 8090: Nitroaromatics and Cyclic Ketones. This method provides gas chromatographic conditions for the detection of ppb levels of nitroaromatic and cyclic ketone compounds. ... Compounds in the gas chromatography effluent are detected by an electron capture detector or a flame ionization detector. Column 1 is a 1.2 m by 2 or 4 mm ID glass column packed with 1.95% QF-1/1.5% OV-17 on Gas-Chrom Q (80/100 mesh) or equivalent. Column 2 is a 3.0 m by 2 or 4 mm ID glass column packed with 3% OV-101 on Gas-Chrom Q (80/100 mesh) or equivalent. The method detection limit of nitrobenzene for the ECD is 13.7 ug/L, and for the FID is 3.6 ug/L, the range for the average recovery of four measurements is 0.60-2.00 ug/L, and the limit for the standard deviation is 33.3 ug/L. /Nitrobenzene/
USEPA; Methods for Evaluating Solid Waste SW-846 (1986)
Method: AOAC 991.09; Procedure: liquid chromatographic method; Analyte: 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene; Matrix: soil; Detection Limit: not provided.
Horwitz W, ed.; Official Methods of Analysis of AOAC International 17th ed. (2003). CD-ROM, AOAC International, Gaithersburg, MD

12 Special References

12.1 Special Reports (Complete)

U.S. EPA; Health and Environmental Effects Profile for Trinitrobenzene (1980) ECAO-CIN-171
HHS/ASTDR; Toxicological Profile for 1,3-Dinitrobenzene/1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene NTIS # PB/95/264289/AS (June 1995)[Available from, as of February 6, 2018: https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/ToxProfiles/tp.asp?id=842&tid=164]
USEPA; Support Document for 1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene (TNB) (CAS No. 99-35-4). In Support of Summary Information on Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) p.2 (August 1997)[Available from, as of February 6, 2018: https://cfpub.epa.gov/ncea/iris2/chemicalLanding.cfm?substance_nmbr=316]

13 Synonyms and Identifiers

Synonyms

99-35-4

1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene

Benzene, trinitro- (wet)

syn-Trinitrobenzene

TNB

Trinitrobenzeen (Dutch)

Trinitrobenzene

Trinitrobenzol (German)

Benzite

1,3,5-TNB

sym-Trinitrobenzene

13.1 Substance Title

1,3,5-Trinitrobenzene

13.2 Associated Chemicals (Complete)

Benzene, 1,2,4-trinitro;610-31-1

13.3 Shipping Name / Number DOT/UN/NA/IMO (Complete)

UN 0214; Trinitrobenzene, dry or wetted with less than 30% water, by mass
UN 1354; Trinitrobenzene, wetted with not less than 30% water, by mass
UN 3367; Trinitrobenzene, wetted, with not less than 10% water, by mass
IMO 1.1D; Trinitrobenzene, dry or wetted with less than 30% water, by mass
IMO 4.1; Trinitrobenzene, wetted with not less than 30% water, by mass; Trinitrobenzene, wetted, with not less than 10% water, by mass

13.4 Standard Transportation Number

49 015 66; Trinitrobenzene, dry (high explosive), class A
49 171 40; Trinitrobenzene, wet (containing at least 10% water)
49 015 67; Trinitrobenzene, wet, containing at least 10% water, over 16 ounces in one outside package (high explosive), class A

13.5 EPA Hazardous Waste Number

U234; A toxic waste when a discarded commercial chemical product or manufacturing chemical intermediate or an off-specification commercial chemical product or manufacturing chemical intermediate.

14 Administrative Information

14.1 Hazardous Substances DataBank Number

6005

14.2 Last Revision Date

20181128

14.3 Last Review Date

Reviewed by SRP on 9/27/2018

14.4 Update History

Complete Update on 2018-11-28, 51 fields added/edited/deleted

Field Update on 2008-09-04, 1 fields added/edited/deleted

Complete Update on 2007-06-04, 47 fields added/edited/deleted

Field Update on 2006-04-18, 2 fields added/edited/deleted

Field Update on 2006-04-17, 2 fields added/edited/deleted

Complete Update on 02/14/2003, 1 field added/edited/deleted.

Complete Update on 01/24/2003, 10 fields added/edited/deleted.

Field Update on 11/08/2002, 1 field added/edited/deleted.

Field Update on 01/14/2002, 1 field added/edited/deleted.

Complete Update on 08/09/2001, 1 field added/edited/deleted.

Complete Update on 09/12/2000, 1 field added/edited/deleted.

Complete Update on 02/08/2000, 1 field added/edited/deleted.

Complete Update on 02/02/2000, 1 field added/edited/deleted.

Complete Update on 09/21/1999, 1 field added/edited/deleted.

Complete Update on 08/27/1999, 1 field added/edited/deleted.

Complete Update on 03/25/1999, 1 field added/edited/deleted.

Complete Update on 08/25/1998, 1 field added/edited/deleted.

Complete Update on 06/03/1998, 1 field added/edited/deleted.

Complete Update on 11/01/1997, 1 field added/edited/deleted.

Complete Update on 05/09/1997, 1 field added/edited/deleted.

Complete Update on 04/23/1997, 2 fields added/edited/deleted.

Complete Update on 10/20/1996, 1 field added/edited/deleted.

Complete Update on 05/14/1996, 1 field added/edited/deleted.

Complete Update on 04/09/1996, 1 field added/edited/deleted.

Complete Update on 01/31/1996, 1 field added/edited/deleted.

Complete Update on 05/26/1995, 1 field added/edited/deleted.

Complete Update on 01/12/1995, 1 field added/edited/deleted.

Complete Update on 04/04/1994, 1 field added/edited/deleted.

Field update on 01/11/1993, 1 field added/edited/deleted.

Complete Update on 11/26/1990, 49 fields added/edited/deleted.

Field Update on 05/05/1989, 1 field added/edited/deleted.

Complete Update on 04/22/1988, 10 fields added/edited/deleted.

Complete Update on 12/17/1984

Created 19830401 by SYS

CONTENTS