IPCS INCHEM Home
ACETONE CYANOHYDRINICSC: 0611 (March 1998)
2-Hydroxy-2-methyl propionitrile
2-Methyl-lactonitrile
2-Cyanopropan-2-ol
p-Hydroxyisobutyronitrile
CAS #: 75-86-5
UN #: 1541
EC Number: 200-909-4

  ACUTE HAZARDS PREVENTION FIRE FIGHTING
FIRE & EXPLOSION Combustible. Gives off irritating or toxic fumes (or gases) in a fire.  Above 74°C explosive vapour/air mixtures may be formed.  NO open flames.  Above 74°C use a closed system and ventilation.  Use powder, AFFF, foam, carbon dioxide.  In case of fire: keep drums, etc., cool by spraying with water. NO direct contact with water. Combat fire from a sheltered position. 

 AVOID ALL CONTACT! IN ALL CASES CONSULT A DOCTOR! 
  SYMPTOMS PREVENTION FIRST AID
Inhalation Convulsions. Cough. Dizziness. Headache. Laboured breathing. Nausea. Shortness of breath. Unconsciousness. Vomiting. Irregular heartbeat. Chest tightness.  Use closed system or ventilation.  Fresh air, rest. Half-upright position. Artificial respiration may be needed. Refer for medical attention. 
Skin MAY BE ABSORBED! Redness. Pain. See Inhalation.  Protective gloves. Protective clothing.  Rinse and then wash skin with water and soap. Refer for medical attention . 
Eyes Redness. Pain.  Wear face shield or eye protection in combination with breathing protection.  First rinse with plenty of water for several minutes (remove contact lenses if easily possible), then refer for medical attention. 
Ingestion Abdominal cramps. Burning sensation. Convulsions. Unconsciousness. See Notes. See Inhalation.  Do not eat, drink, or smoke during work.  Rinse mouth. Refer for medical attention . 

SPILLAGE DISPOSAL CLASSIFICATION & LABELLING
Personal protection: complete protective clothing including self-contained breathing apparatus. Do NOT let this chemical enter the environment. Sweep spilled substance into covered containers. Carefully collect remainder. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations. 

According to UN GHS Criteria

 

Transportation
UN Classification
UN Hazard Class: 6.1; UN Pack Group: I 

STORAGE
Provision to contain effluent from fire extinguishing. Separated from strong bases, acids, water and food and feedstuffs. Well closed. Keep in a well-ventilated room. 
PACKAGING
Airtight.
Do not transport with food and feedstuffs.
Marine pollutant. 
ACETONE CYANOHYDRIN ICSC: 0611
PHYSICAL & CHEMICAL INFORMATION

Physical State; Appearance
COLOURLESS LIQUID WITH CHARACTERISTIC ODOUR. 

Physical dangers
The vapour is heavier than air. 

Chemical dangers
Decomposes rapidly on heating and on contact with bases and water. This produces highly toxic and flammable hydrogen cyanide (see ICSC 0492) and acetone (see ICSC 0087). Reacts violently with acids and oxidants. This generates fire and explosion hazard. 

Formula: (CH3)2C(OH)CN / C4H7NO
Molecular mass: 85.1
Boiling point: 95°C
Melting point: -19°C
Relative density (water = 1): 0.93
Solubility in water: freely soluble, but decomposes in water
Vapour pressure, kPa at 20°C: 3.0
Relative vapour density (air = 1): 2.93
Flash point: 74°C c.c.
Explosive limits, vol% in air: 2.2-12 


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, skin and respiratory tract. The substance may cause effects on the cardiovascular system and central nervous system. This may result in asphyxia, cardiac disorders, convulsions, cyanosis and respiratory failure. Exposure could cause death. Medical observation is indicated. See Notes. 

Inhalation risk
A harmful contamination of the air can be reached rather quickly on evaporation of this substance at 20°C. 

Effects of long-term or repeated exposure
The substance may have effects on the central nervous system and thyroid. This may result in impaired functions. 


OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE LIMITS
TLV: 5 mg/m3 (ceiling value); (skin) 

ENVIRONMENT
The substance is very toxic to aquatic organisms. Avoid release to the environment in circumstances different to normal use. 

NOTES
The occupational exposure limit value should not be exceeded during any part of the working exposure.
Specific treatment is necessary in case of poisoning with this substance; the appropriate means with instructions must be available.
Hazard and toxicity of this substance is due to its major metabolite - hydrogen cyanide (see ICSC 0492). 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
  EC Classification
Symbol: T+, N; R: 26/27/28-50/53; S: (1/2)-7/9-27-45-60-61 

All rights reserved. The published material is being distributed without warranty of any kind, either expressed or implied. Neither ILO nor WHO nor the European Commission shall be responsible for the interpretation and use of the information contained in this material.


    See Also:
       Toxicological Abbreviations