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DIMETHYL SULPHOXIDEICSC: 0459 (April 2000)
Methyl sulphoxide
DMSO
CAS #: 67-68-5
EC Number: 200-664-3

  ACUTE HAZARDS PREVENTION FIRE FIGHTING
FIRE & EXPLOSION Combustible. Gives off irritating or toxic fumes (or gases) in a fire.  Above 87°C explosive vapour/air mixtures may be formed.  NO open flames.  Above 87°C use a closed system, ventilation and explosion-proof electrical equipment.  Use water spray, foam, powder, carbon dioxide.  In case of fire: keep drums, etc., cool by spraying with water. 

 PREVENT GENERATION OF MISTS! STRICT HYGIENE!  
  SYMPTOMS PREVENTION FIRST AID
Inhalation Headache. Nausea.  Use ventilation, local exhaust or breathing protection.  Fresh air, rest. 
Skin MAY BE ABSORBED! Dry skin.  Protective gloves. Protective clothing.  Remove contaminated clothes. Rinse and then wash skin with water and soap. Refer for medical attention . 
Eyes Redness. Blurred vision.  Wear safety spectacles.  First rinse with plenty of water for several minutes (remove contact lenses if easily possible), then refer for medical attention. 
Ingestion Nausea. Vomiting. Drowsiness.  Do not eat, drink, or smoke during work.  Do NOT induce vomiting. Refer for medical attention . 

SPILLAGE DISPOSAL CLASSIFICATION & LABELLING
Personal protection: chemical protection suit and filter respirator for organic gases and vapours adapted to the airborne concentration of the substance. Ventilation. Collect leaking and spilled liquid in sealable containers as far as possible. Absorb remaining liquid in sand or inert absorbent. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations. 

According to UN GHS Criteria

 

Transportation
UN Classification
 

STORAGE
Separated from strong oxidants. Cool. Keep in the dark. Keep in a well-ventilated room. 
PACKAGING
 
DIMETHYL SULPHOXIDE ICSC: 0459
PHYSICAL & CHEMICAL INFORMATION

Physical State; Appearance
COLOURLESS HYGROSCOPIC LIQUID. 

Physical dangers
The vapour is heavier than air and may travel along the ground; distant ignition possible. 

Chemical dangers
Decomposes on heating and on burning. This produces toxic fumes including sulfur oxides. Reacts violently with strong oxidants such as perchlorates. 

Formula: C2H6OS / (CH3)2SO
Molecular mass: 78.1
Boiling point: 189°C
Melting point: 18.5°C
Relative density (water = 1): 1.1
Solubility in water: miscible
Vapour pressure, Pa at 20°C: 59.4
Relative vapour density (air = 1): 2.7
Flash point: 87°C c.c.
Auto-ignition temperature: 215°C
Explosive limits, vol% in air: 2.6-42.0
Octanol/water partition coefficient as log Pow: -1.35 (calculated) 


EXPOSURE & HEALTH EFFECTS

Routes of exposure
The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation, through the skin and by ingestion. 

Effects of short-term exposure
The substance is irritating to the eyes and skin. Exposure to high concentrations could cause lowering of consciousness. May accelerate skin absorption of other materials. See Notes. 

Inhalation risk
No indication can be given about the rate at which a harmful concentration of this substance in the air is reached on evaporation at 20°C. 

Effects of long-term or repeated exposure
Repeated or prolonged contact with skin may cause dermatitis. The substance may have effects on the liver and blood. This may result in impaired functions and lesions of blood cells. 


OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE LIMITS
MAK: 160 mg/m3, 50 ppm; peak limitation category: I(2); skin absorption (H); pregnancy risk group: B 

ENVIRONMENT
 

NOTES
Special attention needed when toxic materials present in Dimethyl sulphoxide because of enhanced skin absorption. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
  EC Classification
 

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    See Also:
       Toxicological Abbreviations