The information in this profile may be out-of-date. It was last revised in 1996. EXTOXNET no longer updates this information, but it may be useful as a reference or resource.

Please visit the National Pesticide Information Center (NPIC) to find updated pesticide fact sheets. If you don't find a fact sheet related to your question, feel free to call 1-800-858-7378. NPIC is open five days a week from 8:00am to 12:00pm Pacific Time.





E X T O X N E T

Extension Toxicology Network

Pesticide Information Profiles

A Pesticide Information Project of Cooperative Extension Offices of Cornell University, Oregon State University, the University of Idaho, and the University of California at Davis and the Institute for Environmental Toxicology, Michigan State University. Major support and funding was provided by the USDA/Extension Service/National Agricultural Pesticide Impact Assessment Program.

EXTOXNET primary files maintained and archived at Oregon State University

Revised June 1996


Tributyltin (TBT)


Trade and Other Names: Trade names include Alumacoat, Bioclean, FloTin, Fungitrol, TinSan, Ultrafresh and Vikol.

Regulatory Status: Some applications are Restricted Use, primarily those involving potential exposures to non-target aquatic organisms, such as may occur with use of TBT-containing marine paints [1]. Tributyltin is in EPA toxicity class II - moderately toxic. Depending on the product, labels will be required to display the Signal Words DANGER or WARNING.

These paint uses are now regulated under the Organotin Antifouling Paint Control Act of 1988. This Act sets guidelines on the amount and rate of TBT compounds leaching from marine paints into the aquatic environment.

Chemical Class: trialkyl organotin compound

Introduction: The tributyltin compounds are a subgroup of the trialkyl organotin family of compounds. They are the main active ingredients in biocides used to control a broad spectrum of organisms. Uses include wood treatment and preservation, antifouling of boats (in marine paints), antifungal action in textiles and industrial water systems, such as cooling tower and refrigeration water systems, wood pulp and paper mill systems, and breweries. It is also used for control of shistosomiasis in various parts of the world [188].

Tributyltin compounds are present in varying proportions in commercial products; ready-to-use wood preservatives typically contain as little as 0.3% TBT, but some products used only in manufacturing may contain as much as 48% [160].

Unless otherwise specified, all toxicity and environmental chemistry data presented are for tributyltin oxide, a representative compound.

Formulation: Tributyltin compounds are present in varying proportions in commercial products; ready-to-use wood preservatives typically contain as little as 0.3% TBT, but some products used only in manufacturing may contain as much as 48% [160].

Toxicological Effects:

Ecological Effects:

Environmental Fate:

Physical Properties:

Exposure Guidelines:

Basic Manufacturer:

Agtrol Chemical Products
7322 Southwest Freeway
Suite 1400
Houston, TX 77074

References:

References for the information in this PIP can be found in Reference List Number 10




DISCLAIMER: The information in this profile does not in any way replace or supersede the information on the pesticide product labeling or other regulatory requirements. Please refer to the pesticide product labeling.