Chemical of the Week Part 2 - Butyric Acid

Chemical of the Week – Part 2

 

Hazard Profile

Chemical Name and Pseudonyms

Butyric Acid, Butanoic Acid

UN Number

2820

Chemical Formula

C3H7COOH

Hazards

Combustible, caustic

PPE Considerations

SFPC or Splash Protective Garment with SCBA

Fire Fighting Considerations

CO2, Dry Chemical, ATC-AFFF, dry sand

Decontamination

Soap and Water

Detection and Monitoring

Colormetric, electrochemical sensor,

Chemical and Physical Properties

Physical State

Colorless liquid with strong stench

Vapor Pressure

.43 mm/Hg

Boiling Point

323oF

Vapor Density

3.04

Specific Gravity

.96

Miscibility

Miscible

Flash Point

56oF (closed cup)

LEL/UEL

2/10%

Autoignition Temp

797oF

pH

2 in 50% water

Toxicity

IDLH

N.D.

PEL/REL/STEL

-

LD50

~1600 mg/kg

LC50

-

Radioactive (Yes/No)

No

Medical

Toxicological Considerations

Caustic liquid, respiratory irritant.  Primarily skin and respiratory hazard 

Signs/Symptoms of Exposure

Respiratory symptoms, skin burns, eye damage

Medical Treatment

Fresh air and treat symptomatically, flush areas of contact with water

Other Information

May form explosive atmosphere in air, possible violent reactions with strong oxidizers and Chromium (IV) oxide

 

Chemical Structure