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Propylene oxide

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Synonyms & Trade Names
1,2-Epoxy propane, Methyl ethylene oxide, Methyloxirane, Propene oxide, 1,2-Propylene oxide
CAS No.
75-56-9
RTECS No.
TZ2975000
DOT ID & Guide
1280 127P
Formula
C₃H₆O
Conversion
1 ppm = 2.38 mg/m3
IDLH
Ca [400 ppm]
See: 75569
Exposure Limits
NIOSH REL
Ca See Appendix A
OSHA PEL
TWA 100 ppm (240 mg/m3) See Appendix G
Measurement Methods
NIOSH 1612;
OSHA 88
See: NMAM or OSHA Methods
Physical Description
Colorless liquid with a benzene-like odor. [Note: A gas above 94°F.]
Molecular Weight
58.1
Boiling Point
94°F
Freezing Point
-170°F
Solubility
41%
Vapor Pressure
445 mmHg
Ionization Potential
9.81 eV
Specific Gravity
0.83
Flash Point
-35°F
Upper Explosive Limit
36%
Lower Explosive Limit
2.3%
Class IA Flammable Liquid: Fl.P. below 73°F and BP below 100°F.
Incompatibilities & Reactivities
Anhydrous chlorides of iron, tin, and aluminum; peroxides of iron and aluminum; alkali metal hydroxides; iron; strong acids, caustics & peroxides [Note: Polymerization may occur due to high temperatures or contamination with alkalis, aqueous acids, amines & acidic alcohols.]
Exposure Routes
inhalation, ingestion, skin and/or eye contact
Symptoms
irritation eyes, skin, respiratory system; skin blisters, burns; [potential occupational carcinogen]
Target Organs
Eyes, skin, respiratory system
Cancer Site
[in animals: nasal tumors]
Personal Protection/Sanitation
(See protection codes)
Skin:Prevent skin contact
Eyes:Prevent eye contact
Wash skin:When contaminated
Remove:When wet (flammable)
Change:No recommendation
Provide:Quick drench
First Aid
(See procedures)
Eye:Irrigate immediately
Skin:Water flush immediately
Breathing:Respiratory support
Swallow:Medical attention immediately
Respirator Recommendations

NIOSH

At concentrations above the NIOSH REL, or where there is no REL, at any detectable concentration:
(APF = 10,000) Any self-contained breathing apparatus that has a full facepiece and is operated in a pressure-demand or other positive-pressure mode
(APF = 10,000) Any supplied-air respirator that has a full facepiece and is operated in a pressure-demand or other positive-pressure mode in combination with an auxiliary self-contained positive-pressure breathing apparatus

Escape:
(APF = 50) Any air-purifying, full-facepiece respirator (gas mask) with a chin-style, front- or back-mounted canister providing protection against the compound of concern
Any appropriate escape-type, self-contained breathing apparatus

Important additional information about respirator selection

See also
INTRODUCTION   ICSC CARD: 0192
Page last reviewed: October 30, 2019
Content source: National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health