Chemical of the Week Part 2 - Butanol

Hazard Profile

Chemical Name and Pseudonyms

Butanol, Butanone, Butyl Alcohol, 1-Hydroxybutane, n-Propyl Carbinol, 1-Butanol, sec-Butyl Alcohol, n-

Butyl Alcohol, Butylene Hydrate, Methyl Ethyl Carbinol

UN Number

1120

Chemical Formula

(sec) CH₂CH(OH)CH₂CH₃   

or 

(n) CH₃CH₂CH₂CH₃OH

Hazards

Flammable liquid, irritant to skin, eyes, and respiratory tract

PPE Considerations

SFPC with SCBA

Fire Fighting Considerations

Foam, CO₂, water spray, dry chemical

Decontamination

Soap and water

Detection and Monitoring

Colormetric, electrochemical sensor, PID IP = 10.04-10.10 ev

Chemical and Physical Properties

Physical State

Colorless liquid with mild alcohol odor

Vapor Pressure

~6-12 mmHg

Boiling Point

~211-243^oF

Vapor Density

~2.6

Specific Gravity

~.8

Miscibility

Slightly soluble

Flash Point

~75-85^oF

LEL/UEL

1.4-11.2%

Autoignition Temp

~644^oF

pH

-

Toxicity

IDLH

1400-2000 ppm

PEL/REL/STEL

100-150 ppm/50-100 ppm/150 ppm

LD50

Oral 700 mg/kg, Dermal 3402 mg/kg

LC50

>8000 ppm

Radioactive (Yes/No)

No

Medical

Toxicological Considerations

Vapors may cause CNS depression, irritating to skin and eyes 

Signs/Symptoms of Exposure

Respiratory symptoms, skin irritation, eye damage, chest tightness, CNS symptoms

Medical Treatment

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

Other Information

Reacts with oxi8dizers,m mineral acids, alkali metals, halogens

Chemical Structure