Chemical of the Week Part 2 - Ether

Hazard Profile

Chemical Name and Pseudonyms

Diethyl ether, Diethyl oxide, Ether, Solvent ether, Ethoxyethane, 60-29-7

UN Number

1155

Chemical Formula

C₄H₁₀O

(C₂H₅)₂O

Hazards

Flammable liquid with toxic properties

PPE Considerations

SFPC with SCBA

Fire Fighting Considerations

CO ₂, dry chemical, ATC AFFF, dry sand

Decontamination

Ventilation, soap and water, water flush for skin contact

Detection and Monitoring

Colormetric, electrochemical sensor, PID IP = 9.53 ev, spectroscopy

Chemical and Physical Properties

Physical State

Colorless liquid with sweet-ish odor

Vapor Pressure

~440 mmHg

Boiling Point

~94^oF

Vapor Density

~2.5

Specific Gravity

~.7

Miscibility

Insoluble in water

Flash Point

-49^oF

LEL/UEL

1.9% /36%

Autoignition Temp

356^oF

pH

-

Toxicity

IDLH

1900 ppm

PEL/REL/STEL

400 ppm/ - /500 ppm

LD50

~1200 mg/kg

LC50

~97.5mg/l

Radioactive (Yes/No)

No

Medical

Toxicological Considerations

Exposure by inhalation, ingestion, and contact 

Signs/Symptoms of Exposure

Respiratory symptoms, skin and eye irritation, chest tightness, CNS, narcotic-like effects

Medical Treatment

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

Other Information

Incompatible with oxidizers, halogens, sulfur compounds, tends to form explosive peroxides when exposed to air and light

Chemical Structure