Toxicity of 2,6 Di-tert-butyl 4 Nitro Phenol (DBNP) W. K. Alexander, K. R. Still, Naval Health Research Center Toxicology Detachment, WPAFB, OH; G. B. Briggs, Geo Centers Inc., WPAFB, OH; and C. Mackerer, Mobil Oil Inc. Toxicology Div., P.O. Box 310, Paulsboro, NJ
U. S. Navy submarines were experiencing a yellowing of their bulkheads and other surfaces. Evaluations determined that the cause of the yellowing was the material 2,6 Di-tert-Butyl 4 Nitro-Phenol (DBNP). DBNP is formed when Di-Butyl Phenol (DBP), an additive in lubricating oils, passes thorough an electrostatic precipitator and is nitrated. The toxicity of DBNP is not well characterized. The material was proposed as a commercial mitocide in the 1960’s, but it was not cost effective for retail sales. The acute oral toxicity study conducted at that time (Vesselinovitch, 1961) indicated that the LD50 for DBNP was in the range of 500 mg/kg. In our recent studies to validate the 1961 findings we found that the acute oral LD50 is closer to 80 mg/kg. Submarine personnel may be exposed to DBNP by dermal contact, inhalation, and oral ingestion. Efforts continue to quantify the risks of DBNP exposure to Navy personnel.
U.S. Air Force Research Laboratories and Mobil Oil Inc.
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