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Nitrobenzene

A representation of Nitrobenzene

Nitrobenzene is an organic compound consisting of a benzene ring with a nitro group. It is a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a bitter almond-like odor. Nitrobenzene is mainly used in the production of aniline, which in turn is a starting material for many dyes, medicines and plastics.

What is nitrobenzene?

Nitrobenzene was first synthesized in 1834 by the German chemist Eilhard Mitscherlich. He heated benzene with nitric acid and sulphuric acid and obtained nitrobenzene as the main product.

Nitrobenzene has the molecular formula C6H5NO2 and a molar mass of 123.11 g/mol. It has a high refractive index of 1.5530 and a density of 1.20 g/cm3 at 20 °C. It melts at 6 °C and boils at 211 °C. It is poorly soluble in water, but miscible with ethanol, benzene and diethyl ether.

How does nitrobenzene affect dogs?

Nitrobenzene is toxic to dogs and can lead to severe symptoms of poisoning. It can be ingested orally, by inhalation or percutaneously. The toxicity depends on the size of the molecule, the viscosity and the volatility of the substance. Short-chain, volatile compounds such as gasoline are quickly and completely absorbed, while long-chain, less viscous compounds such as motor oil are hardly absorbed.

Nitrobenzene causes direct damage to the skin, mucous membranes and eyes at the point of contact. It dissolves the lipid membranes of the cells and leads to inflammation, erosion and ulceration. After inhalation, pulmonary edema, pulmonary emphysema and aspiration pneumonia may occur. After systemic uptake, nitrobenzene is converted to aniline in the liver, which in turn is oxidized to methaemoglobin. Methemoglobin can no longer bind and transport oxygen, which leads to life-threatening anemia (methemoglobinemia). The symptoms of nitrobenzene poisoning include

  • vomiting
  • diarrhea
  • shortness of breath
  • cyanosis
  • weakness
  • ataxia
  • convulsions
  • coma
  • Death

Treatment of nitrobenzene poisoning consists of immediate removal of the source, administration of activated charcoal, symptomatic therapy and administration of methylene blue as an antidote. Methylene blue reduces the methemoglobin back to hemoglobin and thus restores the oxygen supply.

What are the advantages of nitrobenzene?

Nitrobenzene has no advantages for dogs, only disadvantages. There is no reason why nitrobenzene should be fed to or exposed to dogs. Nitrobenzene is also harmful to humans and is suspected of causing cancer. It is toxic to reproduction and harmful to the environment. It should therefore be handled and disposed of with care.

 

Nitrobenzene is a dangerous ingredient for dogs and humans. It has no positive properties, only negative ones. It can lead to severe poisoning, which can be fatal. It should therefore be avoided to bring nitrobenzene into contact with dogs. If you suspect that your dog has ingested nitrobenzene, you should consult a vet immediately.

Learn even more about Nitrobenzene

If you notice any signs of hypersensitivity or poisoning in your dog, you should see your vet immediately. We are not a substitute for a vet, but we try to be as accurate as possible. Every dog reacts differently and we recommend you get a second opinion or consult your vet if in doubt.

Stay healthy and take good care of your four-legged friend!😊