This report considers the large number of chemicals which contain at least one nitro substituent on an aromatic ring. Approximately 250-300 chemicals are listed as commercial nitroaromatic compounds. However, only about 40 compounds are produced or consumed annually in quantities over 500,000 pounds and perhaps another 50-100 compounds exceed 100,000 pounds. Nitroaromatic compounds are used as pesticides, perfumes, explosives, and chemical intermediates. This report focuses upon the non-pesticidal nitroaromatics. Because of the large number of compounds considered in this report, comprehensive information on individual compounds could not be developed. However, adequate information is available to provide priorities for further study and research. Production volume, uses, environmental fate, monitoring, and biological effects were considered. In general, nitroaromatic compounds appear to be fairly persistent and exhibit either hematologic or metabolic effects at high levels of exposure. Most of the large-volume nitroaromatics have not been screened for carcinogenic, mutagenic, or teratogenic effects.

Prepared for the Office of Toxic Substances, Environmental Protection Agency. "EPA 560-2-76-010." "PB 275 078." Cover title. Includes bibliographical references (pages 549-600). "TR 76-573." "June 1976."