Potential Exposure
Terphenyl is used primarily as a plasticizer and heat transfer agent. It is also used as a high-temperature lubricant; a constituent of waxes and polishes; as a plasticizer for resinbodied paints; as a coolant and heat storage agent.
First aid
If this chemical gets into the eyes, remove any contact lenses at once and irrigate immediately for at least 15 minutes, occasionally lifting upper and lower lids. Seek medical attention immediately. If this chemical contacts theskin, remove contaminated clothing and wash immediately with soap and water. Seek medical attention immediately. If this chemical has been inhaled, remove from exposure, begin rescue breathing (using universal precautions, including resuscitation mask) if breathing has stopped and CPR if heart action has stopped. Transfer promptly to a medical facility. When this chemical has been swallowed, get medical attention. Give large quantities of water and induce vomiting. Do not make an unconscious person vomit.
Shipping
UN3151 Polyhalogenated biphenyls, liquid or Polyhalogenated terphenyls liquid, Hazard class: 9; Labels: 9-Miscellaneous hazardous material. UN3152 Polyhalogenated biphenyls, solid or Polyhalogenated terphenylssolid, Hazard class: 9; Labels: 9-Miscellaneous hazardous material.
Incompatibilities
Materials are combustible. Incompatible with oxidizers (chlorates, nitrates, peroxides, permanganates, perchlorates, chlorine, bromine, fluorine, etc.); contact may cause fires or explosions. Keep away from alkaline materials, strong bases, strong acids, oxoacids, epoxides.
Chemical Properties
There are multiple isomeric terphenyls, all having the formula C6H5-C6H4-C6H5. Pure terphenyl is a white, crystalline solid. The commercial grades are light yellow. All three isomers are unusually stable toward heat.
Waste Disposal
Dissolve or mix the material with a combustible solvent and burn in a chemical incinerator equipped with an afterburner and scrubber. All federal, state, and local environmental regulations must be observed.
Uses
Coolant for heat exchange in nuclear
reactors
Health Hazard
Terphenyls are irritants of the
eyes, mucous membranes, and skin.
Flammability and Explosibility
Nonflammable
