Trichlorobenzene
Definition of trichlorobenzene:
Trichlorobenzenes are cyclic aromatic compounds formed by the addition of 3 atoms of chlorine to the benzene ring. There are 3 isomers: 1,2,3-trichlorobenzene (1,2,3-TCB), 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene (1,2,4-TCB) and 1,3,5-trichlorobenzene (1,3,5-TCB).
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This is the common definition for trichlorobenzene, other definitions can be discussed in the article
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Notes
The EU production of TCBs in 2003 was estimated below 4 000 tonnes, of which a high amount is exported. Today TCBs are be used as intermediate in the production of herbicides and pesticides. However they were historically used as dye carriers, which adsorb into the polyester fibers. During dying a significant amount of TCBs were emitted to waste waters. It has also been used as an additive to PCB|PCBs for insulating and cooling dielectric fluids.
When entered into the marine environment, TCBs will most likely be evaporated, or adsorb to sediments. Concentrations in marine waters range from 0,002 µg/l (in open ocean) to 0,03 µg/l (in polluted areas).
whereas concentrations from 0,002 – 0,007 μg/l were detected in marine waters
TCBs are not readily biodegradable and very toxic to
aquatic organisms and may cause long term adverse effects in the aquatic environment. The
bioaccumulation potential is very high. Furthermore, recent reports have shown that TCBs have
reproductive and endocrine disrupting effects and therefore TCBs have been included in the EU List of
