Chemical Properties
colourless liquid
Uses
2,6-TDI may be used as a reference standard for the quantification of residual 2,6-TDI in foam samples using high performance liquid chromatography coupled to coordination-ionspray tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-CIS-MS/MS).
Uses
2-Methyl-m-phenylene Diisocyanate is used in method for preparing breathable sweat-absorbing EVA foam shoe material.
Definition
ChEBI: A toluene meta-diisocyanate in which the isocyanato groups are at positions 2 and 6 relative to the methyl group on the benzene ring.
Synthesis Reference(s)
The Journal of Organic Chemistry, 60, p. 257, 1995
DOI: 10.1021/jo00106a044
General Description
Liquid. Used in the manufacture of polyurethane foams, elastomers, and coatings; crosslinking agent for nylon 6.
Reactivity Profile
2-METHYL-M-PHENYLENE DIISOCYANATE reacts violently with amines, alcohols, bases and warm water, causing fire and explosion hazards. [Handling Chemcials Safely 1980. p. 907]. Reaction with water to form Carbon Dioxide [Merck 11th ed. 1989].
Health Hazard
Classified as slightly toxic orally. Probable oral lethal dose in humans is 5 to 15 g/kg or between 1 pint and 1 quart for a 70 (l50 lb.) person. Particularly poisonous when breathed. This is among the most poisonous of isocyanates. Acute and chronic exposures to low concentrations may produce asthmatic attacks.
Fire Hazard
When heated to decomposition, 2-METHYL-M-PHENYLENE DIISOCYANATE emits toxic fumes of nitrogen oxides. Ventilation should be adequate. If polyurethane products are heated, protection against isocyanate release is necessary. Avoid decomposing heat.
Flammability and Explosibility
Non flammable
Safety Profile
Confirmed carcinogen.
Poison by ingestion and inhalation. Human
systemic effects by inhalation: olfactory, eye,
and pulmonary changes. Flammable liquid.
When heated to decomposition it emits
toxic fumes of NOx. See also CYANATES.
Purification Methods
It is purified by fractional distillation in a vacuum. Store it under N2 in sealed dark ampoules as it is water and light sensitive. Like the preceding 2,4-isomer, it has a sharp pungent odour, is TOXIC and is IRRITATING TO THE EYES. [Beilstein 13 IV 259.]
