Registration Dossier

Data platform availability banner - registered substances factsheets

Please be aware that this old REACH registration data factsheet is no longer maintained; it remains frozen as of 19th May 2023.

The new ECHA CHEM database has been released by ECHA, and it now contains all REACH registration data. There are more details on the transition of ECHA's published data to ECHA CHEM here.

Diss Factsheets

Environmental fate & pathways

Endpoint summary

Administrative data

Description of key information

Additional information

Biodegradability testing of 4-vinylpyridine (4VP) indicates that 4VP is not readily biodegradable. A model prediction (BIOWIN, U. S. EPA) based on chemical structure also indicates that 4VP is not readily biodegradable, while indicating some primary degradability. 

The BIOWIN model contains seven predictive modules. Although the overall prediction for the ready biodegradability of 4VP was negative, the results from three of the modules were indicative of rapid biodegradability (BIOWIN 1, BIOWIN 3 and BIOWIN 7); the results of a seventh module (BIOWIN 4) indicated that the primary degradation timeframe is days to weeks. The primary structural feature shaping the prediction is the pyridine ring, a substance which has been demonstrated to be biodegradable.

Some primary degradability is also indicated by the ready biodegradability assay of structural analogue 2 vinylpyridine (2VP)conducted by Paulus (2004) showing 22.6% degradation.

The result of the CONCAWE inherent biodegradation test conducted on the structural analgue 2VP by Clarke (2010) showing negligible biodegradation in 56 days duration suggests that 2VP has reacted with other substances or itself to autopolymerise. Reactivity is the hallmark of the functionality of both 4VP and 2VP as commercial chemicals; in order to maximize product quality, it is recommended to transport and distribute the substance in refrigerated stainless steel containers. Reactivity is also suggested by its corrosivity to biological tissues. Further testing in biodegradation test protocols is not indicated, as all test media will provide chemical substances which will react with 2VP or result in dilution of the polymerisation inhibitor.

As 4VP is not readily biodegradable, it may be considered to be potentially "persistent" in the aquatic environment based on screening tests; a definitive determination with respect to persistence has not been made.  Classification of the material as "very persistent" is premature until the degree of complexation, polymerization and /or reactivity which may be occurring is elucidated. The demonstrated biodegradability of the pyridine ring (the largest structural fragment in 2VP) and the predicted timeframe for primary biodegradability of 4VP (i.e., days to weeks, as determined by the BIOWIN 4 module) demonstrate that primary degradation of 4VP likely occurs in the environment and that the substance does not meet the criteria for classification as “very Persistent”.