Chemical of the Week Part 2 - Butyric Acid

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

323^oF

Vapor Density

3.04

Specific Gravity

.96

Miscibility

Miscible

Flash Point

56^oF (closed cup)

LEL/UEL

2/10%

Autoignition Temp

797^oF

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