Dimethyl Glutarate – Safety Data Sheet

When working with Dimethyl Glutarate, it’s essential to understand its properties, hazards, and safety measures. Whether you’re handling this compound in an industrial setting or a laboratory, knowing the right safety protocols ensures a secure working environment. This guide covers everything you need to know about Dimethyl Glutarate, including its physical and chemical properties, potential hazards, safe handling procedures, and first-aid measures.

1. Chemical Identification

• Chemical Name: Dimethyl Glutarate
• Chemical Formula: C7H12O4
• CAS Number: 1119-40-0
• Molecular Weight: 160.17 g/mol
• Synonyms: Glutaric acid dimethyl ester, Dimethyl pentanedioate
• Appearance: Colorless liquid with a mild odor

2. Hazards Identification

Before using Dimethyl Glutarate, it’s crucial to understand its potential risks. While this chemical is generally considered to have low toxicity, improper handling can cause health issues.

GHS Classification

• Health Hazards: May cause mild skin and eye irritation
• Environmental Hazards: Not classified as hazardous to the environment
• Physical Hazards: Non-flammable but combustible under extreme conditions

Signal Word: Warning

Hazard Statements:

• H315: Causes skin irritation
• H319: Causes serious eye irritation
• H335: May cause respiratory irritation

Precautionary Statements:

• P264: Wash hands thoroughly after handling
• P280: Wear protective gloves, clothing, and eye protection
• P305+P351+P338: If in eyes, rinse cautiously with water for several minutes
• P337+P313: If eye irritation persists, seek medical advice

3. Composition and Ingredients

• Dimethyl Glutarate: 98-100%
• Other Impurities: Less than 2% (non-hazardous components)

4. First-Aid Measures

If exposure to Dimethyl Glutarate occurs, follow these first-aid procedures:

Inhalation:

• Move the person to fresh air.
• Seek medical attention if breathing difficulties persist.

Skin Contact:

• Wash the affected area with soap and water.
• Remove contaminated clothing and rinse skin thoroughly.

Eye Contact:

• Flush eyes with water for at least 15 minutes.
• Seek medical attention if irritation continues.

Ingestion:

• Do not induce vomiting.
• Rinse mouth with water and seek medical help immediately.

5. Fire-Fighting Measures

Dimethyl Glutarate is not highly flammable, but it can burn under high temperatures.

• Suitable Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, dry chemical, foam, or CO2.
• Hazardous Combustion Products: May release carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide.
• Firefighter Protection: Wear self-contained breathing apparatus and protective gear.

6. Accidental Release Measures

If Dimethyl Glutarate spills, follow these steps:

• Personal Precautions: Wear protective gloves, goggles, and clothing.
• Containment Measures: Prevent leakage into waterways or drainage systems.
• Cleanup Procedures: Absorb spills with inert materials such as sand or vermiculite and dispose of them according to local regulations.

7. Handling and Storage

To ensure safe handling and storage of Dimethyl Glutarate, follow these best practices:

• Handling Precautions:
• Use in a well-ventilated area.
• Avoid inhalation, ingestion, and skin contact.
• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Storage Conditions:
• Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place.
• Keep containers tightly closed when not in use.
• Avoid exposure to heat and direct sunlight.

8. Exposure Controls and Personal Protection

Occupational Exposure Limits:

• No specific limits set by OSHA or ACGIH, but general workplace ventilation is recommended.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

• Eye Protection: Safety goggles or face shields
• Skin Protection: Chemical-resistant gloves (e.g., nitrile or neoprene)
• Respiratory Protection: If exposure limits are exceeded, use an approved respirator
• Clothing: Long-sleeved shirts and chemical-resistant aprons

9. Physical and Chemical Properties

• Appearance: Colorless liquid
• Odor: Mild, fruity
• Boiling Point: 198°C (388°F)
• Melting Point: -40°C (-40°F)
• Density: 1.08 g/cm³
• Solubility: Slightly soluble in water, highly soluble in organic solvents
• Flash Point: 102°C (216°F)
• Viscosity: Low viscosity

10. Stability and Reactivity

Stability:

• Stable under normal conditions but can react with strong oxidizing agents.

Reactivity:

• Avoid contact with strong acids, bases, and oxidizers.
• Under high temperatures, decomposition may produce hazardous fumes.

11. Toxicological Information

• Acute Toxicity: Low toxicity, but prolonged exposure may cause irritation.
• Skin Corrosion/Irritation: May cause mild irritation on prolonged exposure.
• Eye Damage/Irritation: Can cause eye irritation.
• Respiratory Effects: Inhalation of high concentrations can cause respiratory discomfort.
• Carcinogenicity: Not classified as a carcinogen.

12. Ecological Information

• Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable
• Aquatic Toxicity: Low toxicity to aquatic organisms
• Bioaccumulation Potential: Low potential for bioaccumulation
• Environmental Precautions: Avoid uncontrolled release into the environment

13. Disposal Considerations

• Dispose of Dimethyl Glutarate in accordance with local, state, and federal regulations.
• Do not dispose of it in household waste or sewer systems.
• Use a licensed chemical disposal service if necessary.

14. Transport Information

• UN Number: Not classified as hazardous for transport
• Hazard Class: Not regulated
• Packing Group: Not applicable
• Proper Shipping Name: Dimethyl Glutarate

Conclusion

Understanding the safety data of Dimethyl Glutarate ensures that it is handled correctly and safely. While this chemical is relatively low in toxicity, it can still cause irritation and should be managed with appropriate precautions. Proper storage, handling, and disposal will not only protect workers but also minimize environmental impact. Always refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for the most up-to-date information on handling and safety practices.