| This fact sheet provides a brief summary of dinitrotoluene (DNT), including physical and chemical properties; environmental and health impacts; existing federal and state guidelines; and detection and treatment methods. DNT is a nitroaromatic explosive that exists as six isomers: 2,4- and 2,6-DNT are the two major forms of the chemical. It does not naturally occur in the environment but is commonly found deposited at military ranges or found in the waste streams of DNT manufacturing or processing facilities due to its widespread use in the production of munitions, polyurethane foams, and other chemical products. Because of its moderate solubility and relatively low volatility, DNT is expected to remain in water for long periods of time unless degraded by light, oxygen, or biota. As a result, releases to water are important sources of human exposure. DNT is considered toxic to most organisms, with identified adverse effects in the blood, nervous system, liver, and kidney in animals after exposure. EPA has classified the mixture of 2,4- and 2,6-DNT as a Class B2 (probable human) carcinogen. To address these potential health effects, health-based goals, exposure limits, and state drinking water guidelines have been developed. |