3,3-Dichlorobenzidine

**Semantic type:** Hazardous or Poisonous Substance

**Definition:** A synthetic, light-sensitive, gray to purple crystalline solid that is insoluble in cold water but is soluble in ether, benzene, glacial acetic acid and alcohol. It is used primarily in the manufacture of pigments for printing ink, textiles, paper, paint, rubber, and plastics and as a curing agent for isocyanate-containing polymers and solid urethane plastics. When heated to decomposition, 3,3-dichlorobenzidine emits toxic fumes of chlorinated compounds and nitrogen oxides. The primary routes of potential human exposure to 3,3-dichlorobenzidine are inhalation of airborne dust, ingestion of contaminated well water by those living near hazardous waste sites, and dermal contact, primarily during industrial operations. Contact with this compound may cause dermatitis. It is reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen. (NCI05)

**Synonyms:** - 3,3'-DICHLOROBENZIDINE - 3,3-Dichloro-(1,1-Biphenyl)-4,4-Diamine - Curithane C126 - DCB