2-Nitrophenol belongs to the family of nitrophenol compounds, commonly found in both industrial settings and laboratory environments. This solid organic molecule, showing up in yellow crystals or a pale-yellow crystalline powder, carries the chemical formula C6H5NO3. Its molecular structure brings together a nitro group at the ortho position (2-position) on the benzene ring, sitting right next to the hydroxyl group. Anyone who has ever handled this material in a lab will notice how quickly it can stain hands and bench tops, hinting at its reactive nature.
The core structure of 2-Nitrophenol comes down to a benzene ring with substitutions – a nitro group (-NO2) attached to the second carbon and a hydroxyl group (-OH) on the first. This proximity between nitro and hydroxyl changes the physical and chemical properties quite a bit, compared to other nitrophenols. Chemically, 2-Nitrophenol has a molar mass of 139.11 g/mol. As a crystalline compound, its melting point ranges around 45 to 47°C, and in its pure form, a faint odor gives away its presence long before you see it. Its properties include moderate solubility in water, with higher solubility in organic solvents like ethanol and ether. The density typically lands near 1.485 g/cm3, and in physical form you might find it as flakes, powder, or sometimes pearls if prepared through certain crystallization processes.
2-Nitrophenol stands out as hazardous, both to health and the environment. The nitro group enhances its toxicity, making proper handling essential in both lab and industrial settings. Breathing in dust or allowing prolonged skin contact can cause irritation, respiratory discomfort, or longer-term health problems. Its inclusion on lists of hazardous raw materials is reflected in required safety precautions and documentation. Teachers and students working with this compound quickly get familiar with goggles, gloves, and strong ventilation. Storage in tightly sealed containers, away from heat and direct sunlight, helps avoid accidents caused by decomposition or release of fumes.
2-Nitrophenol finds use as an intermediate in the production of dyes, pharmaceuticals, and agrochemicals. Its reactivity makes it a valuable building block for more complex molecules, particularly in both academic and industrial organic chemistry. It often acts as a precursor for herbicides, antiseptics, and even in some polymer manufacturing chains. Having worked with it in research, it's easy to appreciate how essential careful weighing, transfer, and disposal practices become when dealing with hazardous chemicals like this.
Import and export of 2-Nitrophenol require accurate classification under the Harmonized System (HS) code. The commonly used code for this material is 2908.90, which covers derivatives of phenols or phenol-alcohols. Countries and customs agencies rely on the HS code for appropriate regulation, safety assessment, and logistics planning. Documentation shows up regularly in shipments, with detailed mention of chemical composition, packaging, and safety labeling. Regular experience in customs compliance highlights the importance of accuracy here, avoiding costly delays or regulatory trouble.
In commercial supply, 2-Nitrophenol is usually delivered as crystals or coarse powder, sealed in airtight containers to prevent moisture uptake and degradation. Bulk suppliers often provide the substance in bags, drums, or special-lined barrels, labeled with hazard warnings and chemical identifiers. The material can dissolve readily in certain organic solvents, which expands its usefulness in various formulations and solutions, such as in laboratory preparations or intermediate solutions for reactions. Flakes and pearls might result from specific crystallization methods, but these forms still demand careful handling to minimize dust inhalation and environmental release.
Any chemical with a nitro group demands extra care because of environmental persistence and potential bioaccumulation. Across the years in laboratory work, waste management for 2-Nitrophenol always ranked high on safety lists: neutralization, careful collection, and registered hazardous waste disposal all become routine tasks. Spills on surfaces linger: the color and odor make even small accidents obvious, pushing handlers to act quickly. Analytical data shows the compound degrades slowly in the environment, posing risks to aquatic organisms. Companies and researchers focus on reducing emissions, improving handling equipment, and ensuring clear hazard communication to prevent workplace and environmental harm.
A practical approach involves using effective personal protective equipment (PPE), ongoing training for all handlers, and clear instructions for spill response and waste collection. In bigger plants, closed systems decrease the risk of exposure, while fume hoods and scrubbing equipment handle vapors effectively. On a global level, tracking shipments with proper HS codes and safety sheets, paired with stringent regulatory oversight, keeps the supply chain safer for everyone involved. Sharing knowledge with staff and students works as a first line of defense, backed up by real-world practice in handling emergencies and knowing the compound’s effect on both people and nature.
