Chemical Name: 2-Ethylhexan-1-ol
Synonyms: 2-Ethylhexyl Alcohol, Octanol, Isooctanol
Molecular Formula: C8H18O
CAS Number: 104-76-7
Classification: Flammable Liquid, Category 4; Acute Toxicity (Oral and Inhalation) Category 5; Eye Irritant Category 2A; Specific Target Organ Toxicity (Single Exposure), Category 3
Label Elements: Warning pictogram for flammable liquids; exclamation mark for irritation
Hazard Statements: Causes serious eye irritation; may cause drowsiness or dizziness; combustible liquid
Major Hazards: Vapors can accumulate and pose explosive risk; eye and respiratory irritation, potential effects on central nervous system after inhalation
Main Ingredient: 2-Ethylhexanol (typically >99%)
Impurities: Trace esters, water, and minor aldehydes from manufacturing
Physical State: Liquid at ambient temperature
Exposure Potential: Highest during handling, filling, or transfer operations in the plant
Inhalation: Move affected person to fresh air quickly; seek medical attention if symptoms persist
Skin Contact: Flush with plenty of soap and water; remove contaminated clothing
Eye Contact: Rinse thoroughly with water for several minutes; remove contact lenses if present
Ingestion: Rinse mouth with water; seek medical advice
Suitable Extinguishing Media: Alcohol-resistant foam, carbon dioxide, dry powder
Specific Hazards: Releases toxic fumes when burned including carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and possibly aldehydes
Protective Equipment: Full protective clothing, self-contained breathing apparatus
Special Observations: Containers exposed to fire can rupture; cooling tanks with water spray reduces risk
Spill Clean-Up: Use non-sparking tools, absorb with inert material like sand or earth, collect for disposal
Environmental Precautions: Prevent entry to drains, surface, and groundwater
Personal Protective Equipment: Chemical resistant gloves, eye protection, splash-proof clothing
Ventilation: Use local exhaust in enclosed areas
Handling: Transfer and store away from ignition sources; use electrical equipment rated for explosive atmospheres; avoid inhalation and skin contact
Storage: Keep drums tightly closed, placed in cool, well-ventilated, and dry areas away from oxidizers and acids
Workplace Practice: All process pipes and lines need regular inspection to minimize leaks
Engineering Controls: Local exhaust ventilation, vapor sensors near transfer stations, proper sealing of fittings
Eye Protection: Chemical splash goggles or face shields
Hand Protection: Nitrile or neoprene gloves
Respiratory Protection: Organic vapor mask recommended in confined spaces
Exposure Limits: Consult regional occupational regulatory agencies for threshold values such as ACGIH and OSHA guidelines
Appearance: Clear, colorless to slightly yellow viscous liquid
Odor: Faint, floral, somewhat fatty odor
Boiling Point: Around 184°C
Melting Point: Approximately -76°C
Flash Point: Typically about 81°C (closed cup)
Solubility: Practically insoluble in water, miscible with most organic solvents
Vapor Pressure: Low at ambient conditions
Density: About 0.83 g/cm³ at 20°C
Chemical Stability: Remains stable under normal storage and handling conditions in the plant; prolonged exposure to heat or light can induce peroxide formation
Incompatible Substances: Strong oxidizers, acids, and alkali metals
Potential Decomposition Products: Carbon oxides, sometimes volatile aldehydes
Acute Toxicity: Low oral toxicity (LD50 rat about 2047 mg/kg); vapor inhalation can cause respiratory tract irritation, headache, dizziness
Skin and Eye Contact: Moderately irritating to eyes, mild to moderate skin irritation with prolonged exposure
Chronic Exposure: Repeated exposure affects kidneys and central nervous system in animal studies
Sensitization: Not classed as a sensitizer in standard tests
Aquatic Toxicity: Potentially harmful to aquatic life (fish, daphnia LC50 typically under 100 mg/L); not rapidly biodegradable
Bioaccumulation: Moderate tendency based on partition coefficients
Fate in the Environment: Partial breakdown in the environment, with persistence in soils and water if released in large quantities
Waste Handling: Collect and dispose using licensed chemical waste contractors
Disposal Methods: Incineration under controlled conditions preferred
Best Practice: Prevent entry to natural waterways, use spill containment techniques on-site
Regulatory Requirements: Dispose following local, regional, and national requirements for hazardous chemical waste
UN Number: 1993
Proper Shipping Name: Flammable liquid, n.o.s. (contains 2-Ethylhexanol)
Hazard Class: 3 – Flammable liquid
Packing Group: III
Special Provisions: Secure containers from leaks and movement; ensure compatibility with transport materials; appropriate warning placards required on all road and sea shipments
Inventory List Inclusion: Registered under EU REACH, TSCA (US), DSL (Canada), AICS (Australia), and similar chemical inventories
Labeling Requirements: Containers must display correct hazard symbols, hazard and precautionary statements in accordance with GHS
Workplace Regulations: Facilities handling bulk volumes are subject to local regulations covering fire codes, emergency preparedness, spill response, and occupational exposure control
Reporting Obligations: Significant leaks or incidents need notification to relevant environmental and health authorities without delay
