1,10-phenanthroline

C12H8N2

CAS66-71-7
GHS06 Gefahrensymbol: Giftig – Totenkopf mit Knochen
GHS09 Gefahrensymbol: Umweltgefährlich – Umwelt
Danger

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Identification

CAS Number
66-71-7
EC Number
200-629-2
UN Number
2811
Index Number
613-092-00-8
PubChem CID
1318

Physical-chemical properties

Molecular Formula
C12H8N2
Molar Mass
180.20 g/mol
IUPAC Name
1,10-phenanthroline

Chemical Identifiers

InChI
InChI=1S/C12H8N2/c1-3-9-5-6-10-4-2-8-14-12(10)11(9)13-7-1/h1-8H
InChI Key
DGEZNRSVGBDHLK-UHFFFAOYSA-N

Overview

1,10-phenanthroline (CAS 66-71-7) is a heterocyclic organic compound with strong metal-chelating properties and significant analytical applications. This nitrogen-containing aromatic compound consists of three fused benzene rings with nitrogen atoms positioned at the 1 and 10 positions, creating a planar molecular structure that exhibits exceptional coordination chemistry capabilities. As a bidentate ligand, 1,10-phenanthroline forms stable complexes with various transition metals, particularly iron, copper, and zinc, making it invaluable in analytical chemistry and industrial processes. The compound appears as white to pale yellow crystalline powder with a molecular weight of 180.2 g/mol and demonstrates excellent stability under normal storage conditions. However, safety considerations are paramount when handling this substance, as it carries significant hazard classifications including Acute Toxicity Category 3 and aquatic toxicity warnings. The GHS06 and GHS09 pictograms indicate both acute toxicity risks and environmental hazards, requiring appropriate personal protective equipment and containment measures during use. Primary industrial applications include its use as a analytical reagent for spectrophotometric determination of iron and other metals, as a redox indicator in various chemical analyses, and as a chelating agent in water treatment processes. Unlike simpler carbamate compounds such as (2-propan-2-yloxyphenyl) N-methylcarbamate, 1,10-phenanthroline's rigid planar structure provides superior selectivity for specific metal ions. The compound also serves as a building block in pharmaceutical synthesis and as a stabilizing agent in certain industrial formulations. Its classification under ADR Class 6.1 necessitates specialized transportation and storage protocols, reflecting its toxic properties that require professional handling expertise. OYSI maintains reliable supply chains for 1,10-phenanthroline to support European industrial and research applications.

Safety & Classification

Danger
Classification:

Acute Tox. 3 *; Aquatic Acute 1; Aquatic Chronic 1

HHazard Statements (H-Statements)

Describe the nature and severity of the hazard

H301

Toxic if swallowed.

H400

Very toxic to aquatic life.

H410

Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects.

Classification according to CLP Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008. The complete list of hazard and precautionary statements can be found in the Safety Data Sheet (SDS).

First Aid Measures

Ingestion

Toxic

Measures if substance is accidentally swallowed

First Aid Actions

  • +P301IF SWALLOWED:
  • +P330Rinse mouth.
  • +P331Do NOT induce vomiting.
  • +P310Immediately call a POISON CENTER/doctor.

Related hazard statements:

General Measures

Emergency 112 | Poison Control: +49 30 19240 (DE), +33 1 45 42 59 59 (FR), +31 30 274 88 88 (NL)

First aid measures are based on CLP classification and associated P-statements. They do not replace the Safety Data Sheet (SDS). In case of emergency, always consult the full SDS and a physician.

Transport (ADR)

UN Number2811
ADR Class6.1
Packing GroupIII
Tunnel CodeE
Proper Shipping Name1,10-Phenanthrolin
Marine PollutantNo

Frequently Asked Questions

What is 1,10-phenanthroline?

1,10-phenanthroline is an organic nitrogen-containing heterocyclic compound with the molecular formula C12H8N2 and CAS number 66-71-7. This white to pale yellow crystalline solid belongs to the phenanthroline family and serves as a bidentate chelating ligand. With a molecular weight of 180.2 g/mol, it forms stable complexes with various metal ions, making it valuable in analytical chemistry and coordination chemistry applications.

What are the physicochemical properties of 1,10-phenanthroline?

1,10-phenanthroline appears as white to pale yellow crystalline needles or powder at room temperature. It has a molecular weight of 180.2 g/mol and melts at approximately 117°C. The compound is sparingly soluble in water but readily dissolves in organic solvents like ethanol and acetone. It exhibits excellent chelating properties due to its two nitrogen atoms positioned to form five-membered rings with metal ions.

What is 1,10-phenanthroline used for?

1,10-phenanthroline serves primarily as a chelating agent and analytical reagent in laboratory applications. It is widely used for the spectrophotometric determination of iron, forming an orange-red complex with Fe(II). The compound also finds applications in coordination chemistry research, as a ligand in metal complex synthesis, and in some pharmaceutical intermediates. Its strong metal-binding properties make it valuable in various analytical procedures.

How to handle 1,10-phenanthroline safely?

1,10-phenanthroline requires careful handling due to its Acute Tox. 3 classification and 'Danger' signal word. Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment including safety glasses, gloves, and lab coats. Work in well-ventilated areas or under fume hoods to avoid inhalation. Prevent skin and eye contact, and avoid ingestion. The compound displays GHS06 (skull and crossbones) and GHS09 (environmental hazard) pictograms, indicating both toxicity and environmental concerns.

How to store 1,10-phenanthroline correctly?

1,10-phenanthroline should be stored in tightly sealed containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Keep the substance away from incompatible materials and ensure proper labeling according to CLP regulations. Due to its environmental hazard classification (Aquatic Acute 1, Aquatic Chronic 1), implement measures to prevent environmental release. Store in original containers and maintain inventory records for regulatory compliance.

What to do in case of contact with 1,10-phenanthroline?

In case of skin contact with 1,10-phenanthroline, immediately remove contaminated clothing and wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water. For eye contact, rinse immediately with plenty of clean water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention. If inhaled, move the person to fresh air and seek medical advice if symptoms persist. In case of ingestion, do not induce vomiting and seek immediate medical attention.

How to dispose of 1,10-phenanthroline properly?

1,10-phenanthroline waste must be disposed of according to local, national, and international regulations due to its toxic and environmentally hazardous properties. Contact licensed waste disposal companies for proper treatment and disposal. Do not discharge into sewers, waterways, or soil due to its aquatic toxicity classification. Collect waste in appropriate containers, label clearly, and maintain disposal records. Consider recovery or recycling options where available and economically feasible.

How to transport 1,10-phenanthroline?

1,10-phenanthroline is classified under ADR as Class 6.1 (toxic substances), Packing Group III, indicating moderate toxicity during transport. It must be packaged in UN-approved containers with appropriate hazard labels and documentation. Transport vehicles must comply with ADR requirements for Class 6.1 substances. Ensure proper documentation including transport documents, safety data sheets, and emergency response information accompanies shipments throughout the European transport network.

Is 1,10-phenanthroline subject to specific regulations?

1,10-phenanthroline is subject to various European chemical regulations including REACH registration requirements and CLP classification obligations. It is not currently listed as an SVHC (Substance of Very High Concern). Companies must comply with safety data sheet requirements, proper labeling with GHS pictograms, and workplace exposure limits. Environmental regulations may apply due to its aquatic toxicity classification, requiring appropriate risk management measures and environmental monitoring.

Where to buy 1,10-phenanthroline in Europe?

1,10-phenanthroline is available through OYSI, a trusted European distributor of specialty chemicals serving laboratories and industrial customers across Europe. OYSI provides high-quality 1,10-phenanthroline with complete regulatory documentation, safety data sheets, and technical support. As a professional chemical distributor, OYSI ensures compliance with European regulations and offers reliable supply chains for research institutions, analytical laboratories, and industrial applications requiring this chelating agent.

Data Sources

Classification per CLP Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008. Data from ECHA and PubChem.