Nitrobenzene does not occur naturally. The largest users of nitrobenzene are companies that make aniline. Other companies use smaller amounts of nitrobenzene to make explosives, aniline dyes, pesticides, and drugs. Companies also use nitrobenzene as a solvent in products like paint and shoe, floor, and metal polishes. Exposure can occur in the workplace during its manufacture, processing, and use, or in the environment following releases to air, water, land, and groundwater.
Exposure can also occur when people use nitrobenzene-containing paints and polishes.
Nitrobenzene enters the body when people breathe air or consume food or water contaminated with nitrobenzene. It can also be absorbed through skin contact. It does not remain in the body due to its breakdown and removal. Nitrobenzene can evaporate when exposed to air. It dissolves when mixed with water.