Trichlorobenzenes

CAS ID #: 12002-48-1

Affected Organ Systems: 1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene- renal (kidney) and hepatic (liver)

Cancer Classification: EPA: Not evaluated. IARC: 1,2,4-Trichlorobenzene-not classifiable as to human carcinogenicity. NTP: Not evaluated

Please contact NTP, IARC, or EPA’s IRIS Hotline with questions on cancer and cancer classification.

Chemical Classification: None

Summary: Trichlorobenzenes are human-made compounds that occur in three different chemical forms. Although they have the same molecular weight and molecular formula, they differ structurally by where the chlorine atoms are attached to the benzene ring. Compounds like these are referred to as isomers. 1,2,3-Trichlorobenzene and 1,3,5-trichlorobenzene are colorless solids, while 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene is a colorless liquid. Although the three isomers of trichlorobenzenes have the same molecular weight and formula, they each may have different chemical and toxicological properties. Trichlorobenzenes have primarily been used as solvents and chemical intermediates to produce other compounds. In the past, mixed isomers of trichlorobenzene had been used for termite control, but this is not a current use. One of the isomers (1,2,4-trichlorobenzene) is produced in large quantities and is used as a solvent to dissolve such special materials as oils, waxes, resins, greases, and rubber. It is also frequently used to produce dyes and textiles. The other two isomers, 1,2,3-trichlorobenzene and 1,3,5-trichlorobenzene, are produced in lower quantities and have fewer uses.