UN 2078: Toluene diisocyanate
DOT Classification and Shipping
UN 2078 is assigned the proper shipping name Toluene diisocyanate in the U.S. DOT Hazardous Materials Table (49 CFR 172.101). It is classified as a Class 6.1 Toxic Substance material, Packing Group II. Required label(s): 6.1.
Packing group indicates the degree of danger within a hazard class: PG I is high danger, PG II medium, PG III low. The proper shipping name, hazard class, UN number, and packing group together form the basic shipping description that must appear on shipping papers and, where required, on the package and placard.
Emergency Response (ERG Guide 156)
Hazards: TOXIC or CORROSIVE. FLAMMABLE. Vapors may travel to ignition source.
Fire: Alcohol-resistant foam, dry chemical, CO2. Water spray for cooling only.
Spill: Eliminate ignition sources. Do not touch. Ventilate area.
Chemical and Physical Properties
Toluene diisocyanate appears as a clear colorless to pale yellow liquid with a pungent odor. Denser than water. Burns, but may be difficult to ignite. Vapors are heavier than air. Vapors irritate the respiratory system. Toxic under prolonged exposure to vapor in low concentrations or short exposure to high concentrations of vapor. Carcinogenic. Produces toxic oxides of nitrogen during combustion. Used to make polyurethane foams and paints.
Regulatory Data
A release of this material at or above its CERCLA reportable quantity (100 lb) requires immediate notification to the National Response Center at 800-424-8802.
Special Provisions
49 CFR 172.102 special provision codes for this entry: IB2, T7, TP2, TP13. These codes modify the general requirements (packaging, quantity limits, exceptions) for this specific material. Look up each code in 49 CFR 172.102 for the full text.
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Reference data compiled from the DOT Hazardous Materials Table (49 CFR 172.101), the 2024 Emergency Response Guidebook, and public chemical databases (PubChem, NIOSH, EPA). Always verify the correct shipping description against the current regulation and the manufacturer's SDS Section 14 before shipping.