Naphthalene, 1-Methylnapthalene, 2-Methylnapthalene

CAS ID #: 91-20-3, 90-12-0

Affected Organ Systems: Hematological (Blood Forming), Hepatic (Liver), Neurological (Nervous System), Ocular (Eyes), Respiratory (From the Nose to the Lungs)

Cancer Classification: NTP: Reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen

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Chemical Classification: Hydrocarbons (contain hydrogen and carbon atoms)

Summary: Naphthalene is a white solid that evaporates easily. Fuels such as petroleum and coal contain naphthalene. It is also called white tar, and tar camphor, and has been used in mothballs and moth flakes. Burning tobacco or wood produces naphthalene. It has a strong, but not unpleasant smell. The major commercial use of naphthalene is in the manufacture of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastics. Its major consumer use is in moth repellents and toilet deodorant blocks. 1-Methylnaphthalene and 2-methylnaphthalene are naphthalene-related compounds. 1-Methylnaphthalene is a clear liquid and 2-methylnaphthalene is a solid; both can be smelled in air and in water at very low concentrations. 1-Methylnaphthalene and 2-methylnaphthalene are used to make other chemicals such as dyes and resins. 2-Methylnaphthalene is also used to make vitamin K.