CAS Number: 91-20-3. A crystalline, aromatic hydrocarbon usually
obtained by distillation of coal tar and used primarily in
organic synthesis. Chemical formula = C10H8. Molecular weight
= 128.6 g/mol
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Naphthalene is used in the production of phthalic anhydride; it
is also used in mothballs. Acute (short-term) exposure of humans
to naphthalene by inhalation, ingestion, and dermal contact is
associated with hemolytic anemia, damage to the liver, and
neurological damage. Cataracts have also been reported in
workers acutely exposed to naphthalene by inhalation and
ingestion. Chronic (long-term) exposure of workers and rodents
to naphthalene has been reported to cause cataracts and damage to
the retina. Hemolytic anemia has been reported in infants born
to mothers who "sniffed" and ingested naphthalene (as mothballs)
during pregnancy. Available data are inadequate to establish a
causal relationship between exposure to naphthalene and cancer in
humans. EPA has classified naphthalene as a Group C, possible
human carcinogen.