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Naphthalene is a white solid that evaporates easily. Fuels such as petroleum and coal contain naphthalene. It is also called white tar, and tar camphor, and has been used in mothballs and moth flakes. Burning tobacco or wood produces naphthalene. It has a strong, but not unpleasant smell. The major commercial use of naphthalene is in the manufacture of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastics. Its major consumer use is in moth repellents and toilet deodorant blocks. 1-Methylnaphthalene and 2-methylnaphthalene are naphthalene-related compounds. 1-Methylnaphthalene is a clear liquid and 2-methylnaphthalene is a solid; both can be smelled in air and in water at very low concentrations. 1-Methylnaphthalene and 2-methylnaphthalene are used to make other chemicals such as dyes and resins. 2-Methylnaphthalene is also used to make vitamin K. Naphthalene appears as a white crystalline volatile solid with a strong coal-tar odor. The solid is denser than water and insoluble in water. Burns, but may be difficult to ignite. In the molten form it is very hot. Exposure to skin must be avoided. Also the vapors given off by the material may be toxic. Used as a moth repellent, fumigant, lubricants, and to make other chemicals, and for many other uses. Naphthalene, methylnaphthalenes appears as a black liquid with the odor of coal tar. Negligibly soluble in water. Slightly denser than water. Vapors, fumes or direct contact may irritate the eyes. Direct skin contact may produce severe burns. Inhalation may produce mucous irritation, dizziness, loss of coordination, cardiovascular collapse and death.

GHS Hazard Statements

• H302: Harmful if swallowed [Warning Acute toxicity, oral]

• H351: Suspected of causing cancer [Warning Carcinogenicity]

• H400: Very toxic to aquatic life [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, acute hazard]

• H410: Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

Chemical and Physical Properties

Source: PubChem