Trichlorophenols exists as 6 isomers (2,4,5-;
3,4,5-; 2,4,6-; 2,3,4-; 2,3,5-and 2,3,6-). The most important
(heavily regulated) are the 2,4,5-and 2,4,6-isomers. The
2,4,5-isomer is white powder or needles; 2,3,5-and 2,3,6-
are colorless crystals; 2,4,5-is a gray crystalline solid or
flakes; 2,4,6-is a colorless to light yellow crystalline solid.
They have a phenolic odor.
2,4,5-TCP is used as antifungal agent in
adhesives and as preservative in polyvinylacetate emulsions.
2,4,6-T is used in manufacturing slime-control agents and as
an effective germicide and preservative; to produce defoliant
2,4,5-T and related products. Also used directly as a fungicide,
anti-mildew and preservative agent; algicide, bactericide.
2,4,6-TCP is used to produce 2,3,4,6-TCP and PCP. Used
directly as germicide, bactericide, glue and wood preservative;
and anti-mildew treatment. 2,3,6-TCP is used as intermediate
in production of fungicides and plant growth regulators
UN2020 Chlorophenols, solid, Hazard Class:
6.1; Labels: 6.1-Poisonous materials.
Perhaps the most notable incompatibility
is the reaction of 2,4,5-trichlorophenol in alkaline medium
at high temperatures to produce dioxin. (2,3,4-isomer)
reacts with oxidizers, acid anhydrides; and acid chlorides.
(2,3,5-isomer) Decomposes on heating, on burning and on
contact with strong oxidants producing toxic and corrosive
fumes of hydrogen chloride. The substance is a weak acid.
(2,3,6-isomer); the substance is a weak acid. pH=4.8/4.2-;
(2,4,6-isomer); reacts violently with strong oxidants and is
incompatible with acid chlorides and acid anhydrides.
Consult with environmental
regulatory agencies for guidance on acceptable disposal practices.
Generators of waste containing this contaminant
(≥100 kg/mo) must conform with EPA regulations governing
storage, transportation, treatment, and waste disposal.
Incineration, preferably after mixing with another combustible
fuel. Care must be exercised to assure complete combustion
to prevent the formation of phosgene. An acid scrubber is
necessary to remove the halo acids produced.
