para-Dichlorobenzene
Synonyms: 1,4-Dichlorobenzene, p-Dichlorobenzene
CAS Number: 106-46-7
Sources of exposure:
Mothballs, moth repellents, toilet deodorizer blocks, older air fresheners, chemical manufacturing, and indoor air
Description:
para-Dichlorobenzene, also known as 1,4-dichlorobenzene, is a chlorinated aromatic compound used in certain moth repellents and deodorizing products. It readily evaporates into air, making inhalation an important exposure pathway. It is also used as a chemical intermediate in industrial manufacturing.
Health concerns:
Cancer
Known or suspected to increase cancer risk in humans.
Reproductive Toxicity
May alter hormone function and harm reproduction.
Genotoxicity
May cause mutations or damage DNA in cells.
Neurotoxicity
May impact brain function or development.
Organ System Toxicity
May cause organ damage and disease.
Immunotoxicity & Allergens
May impact immune system function or cause allergic reactions.
Respiratory Toxicity & Asthmagens
May damage the lungs or trigger asthma.
Irritant
May cause skin, eye, or respiratory irritation.
Ecotoxicity
May be toxic to ecosystems and wildlife.
Banned/restricted lists:
- California Proposition 65 - OEHHA - cancer
- EU Cosmetics Regulation Annex II - Prohibited
- REACH Annex XVII - Restrictions - Restricted under specified conditions
References
- US Environmental Protection Agency. Cheminformatics Modules, Computational Toxicology and Exposure Informatics (CompTox).
- California Department of Public Health. California Safe Cosmetics Reportable Ingredients List. US National Library of Medicine. PubChem database.