Chem of the Week Part 2 - Benzene

Hazard Profile

Chemical Name and Pseudonyms

Benzene

Benzol, Phenyl hydride

UN Number

1144

Chemical Formula

C₆H₆

Primary Hazards

Flammable, skin/eye irritant, carcinogen, CNS

PPE Considerations

SFPC with SCBA

Fire Fighting Considerations

CO₂, foam, dry chem

Decontamination

Soap and water, flush with water if in eyes

Detection and Monitoring

4/5-gas meter, colormetric, IP = 9.24 eV

Chemical and Physical Properties

Physical State

Colorless to light yellow liquid

Vapor Pressure

75 mmHg

Boiling Point

176^oF

Vapor Density

2.77

Specific Gravity

.88

Miscibility

Miscible with alcohol, chloroform, ether, acetone, oils, glacial acetic acid 

Flash Point

12^oF

LEL/UEL

1.2/7.6%

Ignition Temperature

928^oF

Flash Point

12^oF

Routes of Exposure

Inhalation, absorption, ingestion, contact, inhalation

IDLH

 Ca, 500 ppm

PEL/REL/STEL

½.1/2.5 ppm

pH

Radioactive (Yes/No)

No

Medical

Toxicological Considerations

Avoid contact, carcinogen

Signs/Symptoms of Exposure

Irritation of skin, respiratory tract, eyes, CNS depression

Medical Treatment

Fresh air, flush

Other Information

Incompatible with strong acids and bases, calcium hypochlorite, alkali metals, halogens

Chemical Structure

OR