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Substance name: 1,4-Dichloro-2-butene
Chemical category: Chlorinated alkene, sometimes used in organic synthesis and industrial processes
Chemical formula: C4H6Cl2
Appearance: People working with this chemical will spot a colorless to pale yellow liquid, notable for a pungent odor that can quickly dominate small areas.
Recommended use: Key application in specialty chemical production, especially for intermediates in synthesis of other compounds.
GHS Classification: Flammable liquid, Acute toxicity (oral, dermal, inhalation), Skin and eye irritant, Specific target organ toxicity (single exposure)
Physical dangers: It catches fire at moderate temperatures. The vapors are heavier than air so they tend to pool low, making confined space work risky.
Health dangers: Direct contact will irritate skin and eyes. Inhalation brings on headaches, shortness of breath, even central nervous system effects at higher exposures.
Signal word: Danger (due to the combined fire risk and acute toxicity)
Main ingredient: 1,4-Dichloro-2-butene (purity typically above 95%)
Other possible trace substances: Possible presence of other chlorinated butene isomers, residues from synthesis, but rarely in significant concentrations.
Inhalation: Quickly step into fresh air if you feel dizzy or develop a headache.
Skin contact: Remove contaminated clothing, rinse with plenty of water.
Eye contact: Rinse eyes under running water for several minutes—eyewash stations prove their worth here.
Ingestion: Rinse mouth, never induce vomiting. Medical attention is essential if swallowed, as even small amounts can bring on severe internal effects.
Suitable extinguishing media: Use alcohol-resistant foam, dry chemical powder, or carbon dioxide. Water will be less effective—it tends to spread the chemical.
Fire hazards: Burning produces irritating and toxic fumes including hydrogen chloride, phosgene, and carbon oxides.
Protective gear: Full protective gear with self-contained breathing apparatus is the only way to keep firefighters safe from toxic gas clouds.
Containment: Clear the area quickly. Block entry to confined spaces or basements.
Cleanup: Absorb spillage with earth or sand (not sawdust—too flammable). Clean up with explosion-proof equipment, ventilate the area thoroughly.
Personal precautions: Wear gloves, goggles, and a chemical-resistant apron; respiratory protection is necessary if vapor concentrations go up.
Handling: Work in well-ventilated areas. Keep the container tightly closed any time you're not using it. Avoid breathing vapors—local exhaust ventilation and fume hoods make a big difference.
Storage: Store separately from acids, bases, and oxidizers. Choose a cool, dry, well-ventilated place with good spill containment and no ignition sources. Chemical safety cabinets rated for flammable liquids work well here.
Airborne limits: Exposure levels differ across countries, but keeping vapors down is wise in any industrial setting.
Engineering controls: Use fume hoods, process enclosures, and local exhaust ventilation.
Personal protective equipment: Workers use gloves made from nitrile or neoprene, chemical splash goggles, and a face shield. Respirator selection should take account of both the vapor concentration and duration of work.
State: Liquid
Boiling point: Around 155°C
Melting point: Below 0°C
Solubility: Not very soluble in water. Miscible in most organic solvents.
Vapor pressure: Moderate at room temperature, so fumes build up unless there’s good ventilation.
Odor: Strong, acrid, noticeable at low concentrations.
Chemical stability: Remains stable in sealed containers at room temperature.
Hazardous reactions: Contact with strong bases, acids, or oxidizers could trigger rapid decomposition.
Decomposition products: On fire or when heated, produces toxic gases like hydrogen chloride and carbon monoxide.
Acute toxicity: Can irritate eyes, skin, and mucous membranes; accidental inhalation of vapors brings headaches, dizziness, and at high doses, trouble with coordination.
Chronic risks: Long-term exposure, especially without proper protection, can affect the liver, kidneys, and nervous system.
Sensitization: Repeated skin contact brings the risk of dermatitis. Sensitization from vapor inhalation isn’t common, but not impossible.
Aquatic toxicity: Spills hurt aquatic life, especially due to its low water solubility and persistence.
Air and soil behavior: Tends to evaporate; residues linger in contaminated soil. No quick breakdown.
Bioaccumulation: Not known to build up in most organisms, but small persistent quantities can still undermine local ecosystems.
Preferred disposal: Professionals collect waste liquids in properly labeled containers—avoid drains or sewers.
Methods: Incineration by approved carriers works best, backed up by local hazardous waste regulations.
Empty containers: Rinsed and handled as hazardous waste—trace residues matter here, since the vapor remains for a while.
Marine pollutant status: Falls under environmentally hazardous substances.
Class: Flammable liquid
Handling tips: Shipping only in certified, corrosion-resistant drums. Proper placarding and spill safeguards on all road, rail, and sea deliveries.
Workplace standards: Occupational health agencies in many regions list this as hazardous. Restricted volumes for shipping and handling.
Environmental rules: Local and international transport codes put this chemical in the hazardous class—carriers need training.
Reporting duties: Large users often notify environmental authorities, with spill reporting required by statute in many areas.
