Six positional isomers are possible for dinitrotoluene. The most common one is 2,4-dinitrotoluene. The nitration of toluene gives sequentially mononitrotoluene, DNT, and finally TNT. 2,4-DNT is the principal product from dinitration, the other main product being about 30% 1,3-DN2-T. The nitration of 4-nitrotoluene gives 2,4-DNT.[5]
Applications
Most DNT is used in the production of toluene diisocyanate, which is used to produce flexible polyurethane foams. DNT is hydrogenated to produce 2,4-toluenediamine, which in turn is phosgenated to give toluene diisocyanate. In this way, about 1.4 billion kilograms are produced annually, as of the years 1999–2000.[6] Other uses include the explosives industry. It is not used by itself as an explosive, but some of the production is converted to TNT.
2,4-Dinitrotoluene is also a listed hazardous waste under 40 CFR 261.24. Its United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Hazardous Waste Number is D030. The maximum concentration that may be contained to not have toxic characteristics is 0.13 mg/L.
^ ab"Dinitrotoluene (mixed isomers)". Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health Concentrations (IDLH). National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). 4 December 2014. Retrieved 17 March 2015.