National Toxicology Program

(CAS# 81-49-2)

• Primary Uses or Exposures: ADBAQ and other aminoanthraquinones are key intermediates for production of almost all anthraquinone dyes. Anthraquinones, including ADBAQ, are widely used as starting material for the manufacture of vat dyes. Vat dyes are a class of water-insoluble dyes that can easily be reduced to a water-soluble and usually colorless form. In this form, they are readily impregnated into fibers and textiles. Oxidation then produces an insoluble colored form that is remarkably fast to washing, light, and chemicals. Vat dyes typically are used with cotton, wool, and cellulose acetate.
• Nominated by: NIEHS
• Basis for Nomination: NTP Bioassay (TR-383) reporting clear evidence of carcinogenicity in rats and mice
• Current Status: Listed in the RoC as reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen since the 11th RoC (2004)