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2-Chlorophenol is an exogenous organic compound with the formula C6H5ClO and an average molecular weight of 128.56 g/mol. It exists as a liquid at room temperature. 2-Chlorophenol belongs to the halophenols, a subclass of phenols within the organic compounds. In the chemical hierarchy, it is further classified as a benzenoid.
This compound is found in or released from 30 recorded sources. These include household cleaning and consumer products such as soap detergents, bleaching agents, tobacco smoke filters, cigar cigarettes, and perfumes within detergents and soaps. It is associated with food, food processing and cookware, specifically food contact materials, food preservation, processing meats, and fermentation processes for beer, the preparation of wine or sparkling wine. Other sources include drinking water and water supply, as well as building and construction materials such as tents or canopies. Additionally, it is linked to electrical and electronic equipment, including antennas, amplifiers, coils, cores yokes or armatures, and conductors or conductive bodies characterised by the conductive materials. Recorded routes of exposure include touch, oral, and inhalation.
2-Chlorophenol interacts with five recorded protein targets: the nuclear receptor ROR-beta (RORB), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARA), mitogen-activated protein kinase 14 (MAPK14), estrogen receptor (ESR1), and estrogen receptor beta (ESR2). By binding to and inhibiting the estrogen receptor, the compound causes endocrine disruption in humans.
2-chlorophenol works as a weak uncoupler of oxidative phosphorylation and inhibitors of cellular respiration. The ability of chlorophenols to uncouple oxidative phosphorylation increases with increasing chlorination. In fact, studies indicate a concentration-dependent triphasic effect of chlorophenols on phosphorylation and cellular respiration. At low concentrations, uncoupling produces stimulation of the resting state respiration as a result of increased adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase) activity in the absence of a phosphate acceptor.Inhibition of active respiration is also observed. At moderate concentrations, resting respiration is neither stimulated nor inhibited. Significant inhibition of respiration, associated with a breakdown of the
electron transport process and decreased ATPase activity, occurs at very high concentrations. Uncoupling activity has been attributed to a protonophoric effect (a disruption of the energy gradient across the mitochondrial membrane resulting from distribution of chlorophenols in the phospholipid bilayer of the membrane), whereas inhibition of cellular respiration has been attributed to a direct action on intracellular proteins (2).
No indication of carcinogenicity (not listed by IARC). (1)
Minimum Risk Level
Not Available
Symptoms
Cough, shortness of breath and sore throat can result from inhalation of 2-chlorophenol. These symptoms may be delayed. Abdominal pain, drowsiness, weakness, and convulsions can result from ingestion as well as inhalation. Moreover, ingestion of 2-chlorophenol can cause restlessness, tremors, or central nervous system depression to occur. Eye exposure to 2-chlorophenol can lead to redness, pain, and blurred vision, while dermal contact can lead to redness and pain of the skin. Moreover, the substance can be rapidily absorbed after derma exposure (4).
Treatment
Avoid dilution following oral exposure; instead, administer charcoal as a slurry. Following inhalation, move patient to fresh air. Monitor for respiratory distress. If cough or difficulty breathing develops, evaluate for respiratory tract irritation, bronchitis, or pneumonitis. Administer oxygen and assist ventilation as required. Treat bronchospasm with inhaled beta2 agonist and oral or parenteral corticosteroids. In case the exposure occurs through eye contact, irrigate exposed eyes with copious amounts of room temperature water for at least 15 minutes. Following dermal exposure, remove phenol with undiluted polyethylene glycol 300 to 400 or isopropyl alcohol prior to washing, if readily available. Wash exposed areas twice or for at least 10 minutes with large quantities of soapy water. Water alone may be harmful. (5)
Health Effects
Health Effect
Relationship
Direction
Description
Reference
multiple myeloma
Associated With?
Not Available
A myeloid neoplasm that is located in the plasma cells in bone marrow. (DO)
Soil?Soil serves as a critical medium for plant growth and sustains various ecological functions; however, it can become a reservoir for synthetic chemical contamination.
Groundwater?Groundwater serves as a vital resource for drinking water and agricultural irrigation but is increasingly susceptible to contamination from synthetic chemicals.
Stormwater runoff?Stormwater runoff refers to the flow of rainwater or melted snow that does not soak into the ground and instead collects pollutants as it travels over impervious surfaces such as roads and parking lots.
Drinking water?Drinking water can be a medium for synthetic chemical contamination, often originating from various industrial processes and agricultural practices.
Ballast water?Ballast water, taken on by ships to maintain stability and balance, often contains a diverse array of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and plankton.
Bilge water?Bilge water is a byproduct generated from the accumulation of water in the lowest part of a ship's hull, which may include a mixture of seawater, oil, fuel residues, and various contaminants.
Brushes?Brushes used in personal care and cosmetics can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the materials and coatings used in their manufacturing.
Industrial wastewater?Industrial wastewater is a byproduct generated during various manufacturing and processing activities, which often contains a complex mixture of organic and inorganic synthetic chemicals.
Food contact materials?Food contact materials refer to substances and products that are intended to come into contact with food during processing, packaging, or preparation.
Tents Or Canopies?Tents and canopies used in various applications can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination primarily due to the materials from which they are made.
Amplifiers?Amplifiers, commonly used in various electronic devices to enhance signal strength, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the materials and processes involved in their production and disposal.
Antennas?Antennas, commonly used in communication technologies, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination through the materials and coatings used in their construction.
Conductors Or Conductive Bodies Characterised By The Conductive Materials?Conductors, or conductive bodies, are materials that allow the flow of electrical current, typically made from metals such as copper, aluminum, or silver.
Cores Yokes Or Armatures?Cores, yokes, or armatures are components commonly found in electrical devices, used to facilitate the magnetic and electrical functions within motors, transformers, and generators.
Discharge Lamps?Discharge lamps, including fluorescent and high-intensity discharge (HID) lamps, are commonly used for lighting applications due to their energy efficiency and brightness.
Electric Switches?Electric switches, integral components in numerous devices, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the materials and manufacturing processes involved in their production.
Electrically Stimulated Smoking Devices?Electrically stimulated smoking devices, commonly known as e-cigarettes or vape pens, utilize electrical components to heat a liquid solution, often containing nicotine, flavorings, and other additives, to produce an aerosol for inhalation.
Electrodes?Electrodes, used in various electrical and electronic applications, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the materials from which they are constructed and the processes involved in their manufacturing.
Emergency Protective Devices?Emergency protective devices, such as circuit breakers and surge protectors, are essential components in electrical systems designed to prevent damage from overcurrent and surges.
Fixed Capacitors And Their Manufacture?Fixed capacitors are passive electronic components used to store and release electrical energy, playing a critical role in various circuits.
Hybrid Capacitors?Hybrid capacitors are energy storage devices that combine the properties of electrolytic and supercapacitors, utilizing a combination of electrochemical principles to achieve higher energy density and power density.
Magnets?Magnets, commonly used in various electrical and electronic applications, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the materials used in their production.
Television Systems?Television systems can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the various materials and components used in their manufacture and operation.
Thin Magnetic Films?Thin magnetic films are layers of magnetic material ranging from a few nanometers to several micrometers in thickness, commonly used in applications such as magnetic sensors, data storage devices, and electronic components.
Food Preservation?Food preservation often involves the use of synthetic chemicals, such as preservatives, flavor enhancers, and color additives, to extend shelf life and enhance the sensory qualities of food products.
Preparation Of Wine Or Sparkling Wine?The preparation of wine or sparkling wine involves various stages, including fermentation, aging, and bottling, which can introduce potential sources of synthetic chemical contamination.
Bleaching Agents?Bleaching agents are chemical substances used to whiten or lighten materials, often employed in various cleaning products for their stain removal and disinfecting properties.
Perfumes Within Detergents And Soaps?Perfumes within detergents and soaps are synthetic fragrance compounds added to enhance the sensory experience of cleaning products.
Soap Detergents?Soap detergents are synthetic surfactants designed to enhance the cleaning efficacy of water by reducing surface tension, allowing for better interaction with dirt and grease.
Tobacco Smoke Filters?Tobacco smoke filters are designed to reduce the inhalation of harmful substances in cigarette smoke, including tar and other particulate matter.
Manufacture Preparation Of Tobacco Products?The manufacture and preparation of tobacco products involve various processes that can result in the introduction of synthetic chemicals into the environment.
Paper Making Machines?Paper making machines utilize various synthetic chemicals throughout the production process, including additives, coatings, and bleaching agents.
Marine Propulsion Or Steering?Marine propulsion and steering systems often rely on various synthetic chemicals, including lubricants, fuels, and hydraulic fluids.
Chemosterilants?Chemosterilants are synthetic chemicals designed to induce sterility in target pest populations, thereby controlling their reproduction and mitigating damage to crops.
Fertiliser Distributors?Fertiliser distributors play a critical role in the supply of synthetic fertilizers, which are widely used to enhance soil fertility and crop yield.
Molluscicides?Molluscicides are synthetic chemicals specifically designed to control and eliminate mollusks, such as snails and slugs, which can be detrimental to crops and agricultural productivity.
Nematocides?Nematocides are synthetic chemicals specifically designed to control nematodes, which are microscopic roundworms that can cause significant damage to crops and plants.
Rodenticides(1)?Rodenticides are synthetic chemicals specifically formulated to control rodent populations, serving as a crucial tool in managing pests that can damage crops and spread diseases.
Rodenticides?Rodenticides are chemical substances specifically designed to control rodent populations by causing death through various mechanisms, including anticoagulation or neurotoxicity.
Aftersun Products?Aftersun products are designed to soothe and hydrate the skin after sun exposure, often containing various synthetic chemicals such as emollients, preservatives, and fragrances.
Anti Perspirants Or Body Deoderants?Antiperspirants and body deodorants commonly contain synthetic chemicals such as aluminum compounds, parabens, and synthetic fragrances.
Body Washing Or Cleaning Implements?Body washing or cleaning implements, such as synthetic sponges, loofahs, and washcloths, can be sources of synthetic chemical contamination due to the materials used in their production.
Depilatories?Depilatories are products designed to remove unwanted hair through the application of synthetic chemicals that break down the protein structure of hair, facilitating its removal.
Essential Oils Or Perfumes?Essential oils and perfumes are complex mixtures of volatile compounds derived from natural or synthetic sources, commonly used for their aromatic properties.
Eye Makeup Products?Eye makeup products, including mascaras, eyeliners, and eyeshadows, often contain a variety of synthetic chemicals such as pigments, preservatives, and film-forming agents.
Face Mask Cosmetics?Face mask cosmetics often contain a variety of synthetic chemicals, including preservatives, emulsifiers, and fragrances, which can contribute to chemical contamination.
Lip Care Products?Lip care products, including lipsticks, balms, and glosses, often contain a variety of synthetic chemicals such as parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances.
Lip Makeup Products?Lip makeup products, such as lipsticks, lip glosses, and lip liners, often contain a variety of synthetic chemicals, including pigments, preservatives, and emollients.
Rocking Horses?Rocking horses, often made from various synthetic materials such as plastics, foams, and treated woods, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the presence of additives and coatings used in their production.
Toys?Toys, particularly those made from synthetic materials such as plastics, can be a source of chemical contamination due to the presence of various additives and compounds used in their production.
Anthraquinone Dyes?Anthraquinone dyes are a class of synthetic organic compounds characterized by their vibrant colors and stability, making them widely used in various applications, particularly in coloring textiles and leather.
Azo Dyes?Azo dyes are synthetic organic compounds characterized by the presence of one or more azo groups (-N=N-), which are widely used for coloring textiles, leather, and furnishings.
Embroidering And Tufting?Embroidering and tufting processes often involve the use of synthetic chemicals such as dyes, adhesives, and finishing agents.
Footwear?Footwear production often involves the use of various synthetic chemicals, such as adhesives, dyes, and treatments, which can contribute to environmental contamination.
Headwear?Headwear made from synthetic materials often incorporates chemicals used in the manufacturing and finishing processes, such as dyes, flame retardants, and water repellents.
Multicolour Dyeing?Multicolour dyeing involves the application of multiple synthetic dyes to textiles and other materials to achieve vibrant, diverse color patterns.
Purses Luggage Hand Bags?Purses, luggage, and handbags are often manufactured using synthetic materials such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyurethane, and various types of nylon.
Ropes?Ropes manufactured from synthetic fibers, such as polypropylene, nylon, and polyester, are widely used in various applications, including marine, construction, and outdoor activities.
Surface Finishing Of Leather?Surface finishing of leather often involves the use of various synthetic chemicals, including dyes, resins, and finishing agents.
Transfer Printing?Transfer printing is a process used to apply designs and patterns onto various substrates, commonly utilizing synthetic dyes and inks that can contain hazardous chemicals.
Yarns Or Threads?Yarns or threads used in textiles can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination due to the production processes and treatments they undergo.
Solid Fire Fighting Substances?Solid fire fighting substances, such as certain types of dry chemical powders, are used in fire suppression applications to extinguish flames and prevent fire spread.
Airplanes And Helicopters?Airplanes and helicopters are significant sources of synthetic chemical contamination primarily through the use of aviation fuels, lubricants, and de-icing agents.
Nitrogenous Fertilisers?Nitrogenous fertilizers are synthetic chemical compounds primarily used to enhance plant growth by supplying essential nitrogen, a crucial nutrient for photosynthesis and protein synthesis.
Cements?Cements are a composite material primarily used as a binding agent in construction applications, formed by the calcination of limestone and clay minerals at high temperatures.
Clay Wares?Clay wares are ceramic products made from natural clay, often utilized in various construction applications such as tiles, bricks, and sanitary ware.
Glass Coatings?Glass coatings are synthetic chemical formulations applied to glass surfaces to enhance properties such as durability, UV resistance, and aesthetic appeal.
Silica Free Oxide Glass?Silica Free Oxide Glass is a type of glass that is produced using alternative materials to traditional silica-based formulations.
Silica Glass?Silica glass, primarily composed of silicon dioxide (SiO2), is widely used in various applications, including windows, glass facades, and insulation materials.
Nanotechnology?Nanotechnology involves the manipulation of materials at the molecular or atomic level, typically within the range of 1 to 100 nanometers.
Mining Or Quarrying?Mining and quarrying operations can lead to synthetic chemical contamination through the release of various pollutants associated with the extraction and processing of minerals.
Erasers?Erasers, commonly used in writing and drawing applications, are often made from synthetic rubber or thermoplastic materials, which can contain various additives such as plasticizers, fillers, and colorants.
Fountain Pens?Fountain pens utilize a liquid ink that often contains synthetic chemicals, including dyes, pigments, and solvents, which can contribute to environmental contamination.
Ink Reservoir Pens2?Ink reservoir pens are writing instruments that utilize a reservoir to store ink, which is often composed of synthetic dyes, solvents, and additives.
Pens?Pens, commonly utilized for writing and marking, can be a source of synthetic chemical contamination primarily due to the materials used in their manufacturing.
Contact Lens Cases?Contact lens cases are small containers designed to store contact lenses in a sterile environment, typically made from various synthetic materials including plastics such as polypropylene or polycarbonate.
Coating Compositions?Coating compositions, which include paints, sealants, and varnishes, are formulated with a variety of synthetic chemicals such as solvents, resins, pigments, and additives.
Leather Tanning?Leather tanning is a process that transforms raw animal hides into durable leather through the application of various chemicals, including chromium salts, aldehydes, and vegetable tannins.
Sludge Treatment?Sludge treatment involves the processing of waste materials generated from wastewater treatment plants, which often contain a variety of organic and inorganic substances.
Water, Wastewater, & Sewage Treatment?Water, wastewater, and sewage treatment processes are critical for managing and mitigating pollutants in water systems.
International Agency for Research on Cancer (2014). IARC Monographs on the Evaluation of Carcinogenic Risks to Humans. - http://monographs.iarc.fr/index.php
ATSDR - Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (1999). Toxicological profile for chlorophenols. U.S. Public Health Service in collaboration with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). - http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxprofiles/tp107.html
