Ethyl cyanoacetate

This chemical does not meet GHS hazard criteria for 74.7% (204 of 273) of all reports.

H302 (21.2%): Harmful if swallowed [Warning Acute toxicity, oral]

H312 (22.3%): Harmful in contact with skin [Warning Acute toxicity, dermal]

H332 (22%): Harmful if inhaled [Warning Acute toxicity, inhalation]

P261, P264, P270, P271, P280, P301+P317, P302+P352, P304+P340, P317, P321, P330, P362+P364, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Aggregated GHS information provided per 273 reports by companies from 11 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.

Reported as not meeting GHS hazard criteria per 204 of 273 reports by companies.

There are 8 notifications provided by 69 of 273 reports by companies with hazard statement code(s).

Information may vary between notifications depending on impurities, additives, and other factors. The percentage value in parenthesis indicates the notified classification ratio from companies that provide hazard codes. Only hazard codes with percentage values above 10% are shown. For more detailed information, please visit ECHA C&L website.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 151 [Substances - Toxic (Non-Combustible)]:

Refer to the "General First Aid" section. (ERG, 2024)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 151 [Substances - Toxic (Non-Combustible)]:

SMALL FIRE: Dry chemical, CO2 or water spray.

LARGE FIRE: Water spray, fog or regular foam. If it can be done safely, move undamaged containers away from the area around the fire. Dike runoff from fire control for later disposal. Avoid aiming straight or solid streams directly onto the product.

FIRE INVOLVING TANKS, RAIL TANK CARS OR HIGHWAY TANKS: Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles. Do not get water inside containers. Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out. Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of tank. ALWAYS stay away from tanks in direct contact with flames. For massive fire, use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles; if this is impossible, withdraw from area and let fire burn. (ERG, 2024)

Carbon dioxide, dry chemical

Water or foam may cause frothing.

Suitable extinguishing media: Use water spray, alcohol-resistant foam, dry chemical or carbon dioxide.

Special protective equipment for fire-fighters: Wear self contained breathing apparatus for fire fighting if necessary.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 151 [Substances - Toxic (Non-Combustible)]:

IMMEDIATE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURE: Isolate spill or leak area in all directions for at least 50 meters (150 feet) for liquids and at least 25 meters (75 feet) for solids.

SPILL: See ERG Table 1 - Initial Isolation and Protective Action Distances on the UN/NA 3276 datasheet.

FIRE: If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions. (ERG, 2024)

Use personal protective equipment. Avoid breathing vapors, mist or gas. Ensure adequate ventilation.

Soak up with inert absorbent material and dispose of as hazardous waste. Keep in suitable, closed containers for disposal.

SRP: The most favorable course of action is to use an alternative chemical product with less inherent propensity for occupational harm/injury/toxicity or environmental contamination. Recycle any unused portion of the material for its approved use or return it to the manufacturer or supplier. Ultimate disposal of the chemical must consider: the material's impact on air quality; potential migration in soil or water; effects on animal and plant life; and conformance with environmental and public health regulations.

SRP: The scientific literature for the use of contact lenses by industrial workers is inconsistent. The benefits or detrimental effects of wearing contact lenses depend not only upon the substance, but also on factors including the form of the substance, characteristics and duration of the exposure, the uses of other eye protection equipment, and the hygiene of the lenses. However, there may be individual substances whose irritating or corrosive properties are such that the wearing of contact lenses would be harmful to the eye. In those specific cases, contact lenses should not be worn. In any event, the usual eye protection equipment should be worn even when contact lenses are in place.

Avoid contact with skin and eyes. Avoid inhalation of vapor or mist.

Choose body protection according to the amount and concentration of the dangerous substance at the work place.

Handle in accordance with good industrial hygiene and safety practice. Wash hands before breaks and at the end of workday.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 151 [Substances - Toxic (Non-Combustible)]:

Do not touch damaged containers or spilled material unless wearing appropriate protective clothing. Stop leak if you can do it without risk. Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas. Cover with plastic sheet to prevent spreading. Absorb or cover with dry earth, sand or other non-combustible material and transfer to containers. DO NOT GET WATER INSIDE CONTAINERS. For solids, prevent dust cloud and avoid inhalation of dust. (ERG, 2024)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 151 [Substances - Toxic (Non-Combustible)]:

Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Wear chemical protective clothing that is specifically recommended by the manufacturer when there is NO RISK OF FIRE. Structural firefighters' protective clothing provides thermal protection but only limited chemical protection. (ERG, 2024)

Where risk assessment shows air-purifying respirators are appropriate use a full-face respirator with multi-purpose combination (US) or type ABEK (EN 14387) respirator cartridges as a backup to engineering controls. If the respirator is the sole means of protection, use a full-face supplied air respirator. Use respirators and components tested and approved under appropriate government standards such as NIOSH (US) or CEN (EU).

For prolonged or repeated contact use protective gloves.

Face shield and safety glasses.

Ethyl cyanoacetate appears as a colorless liquid. Denser than water. Contact may irritate skin, eyes and mucous membranes. May be toxic by ingestion. Used to make other chemicals.

Colorless to pale straw-colored liquid; Insoluble in water; [HSDB] Colorless or pale clear liquid; Evolves toxic gas on contact with water; [MSDSonline]

Colorless liquid

Colorless to pale straw-colored liquid

Slight, pleasant odor

BP: 206.00 °C at 750 mm Hg; 152.8 °C at 100 mm Hg; 133.8 °C at 40 mm Hg; 119.8 °C at 20 mm Hg; 106.0 °C at 10 mm Hg; 93.5 °C at 5 mm Hg; 67.8 °C at 1.0 mm Hg

-22.5 °C

230 °F (NFPA, 2010)

Very soluble in ethyl ether, ethanol

Soluble in ammonia water, aqueous solution of alkalies; miscible with alcohol, ether

In water, 2.0X10+4 mg/L at 25 °C

1.0654 g/cu cm at 20 °C

3.9 (Air = 1)

0.03 [mmHg]

VP: 1 mm Hg at 67.8 °C

3.88X10-2 mm Hg at 25 °C

When heated to decomposition or on contact with acid or acid fumes, it emits highly toxic fumes of /cyanides/.

Hazardous decomposition products formed under fire conditions. - Carbon oxides, nitrogen oxides (NOx)

Index of refraction = 1.4175 at 20 °C/D

Index of refraction: 1.41793 at 20.5 °C/D

Specific gravity: 1.0560 at 25 °C/4 °C; 1.0306 at 50 °C/4 °C; 1.0110 at 70 °C/

Boiling point

Chemical diffusion

Diamagnetic susceptibility

Dielectric constant

Diffusion

Diffusive flux

Fusion temperature

Heat of sublimation

Magnetic susceptibility

Melting temperature

Nuclear quadrupole resonance spectroscopy

Optical coefficient

Phase transition

Quadrupole coupling

Refractive index

Surface tension

Transition enthalpy

Vapor pressure

Viscosity

Slightly soluble in water.

Esters, Sulfate Esters, Phosphate Esters, Thiophosphate Esters, and Borate Esters

Nitriles

ETHYL CYANOACETATE is both a nitrile and an ester. Esters react with acids to liberate heat along with alcohols and acids. Strong oxidizing acids may cause a vigorous reaction that is sufficiently exothermic to ignite the reaction products. Heat is also generated by the interaction of esters with caustic solutions. Flammable hydrogen is generated by mixing esters with alkali metals and hydrides. Nitriles may polymerize in the presence of metals and some metal compounds. They are incompatible with acids; mixing nitriles with strong oxidizing acids can lead to extremely violent reactions. Nitriles are generally incompatible with other oxidizing agents such as peroxides and epoxides. The combination of bases and nitriles can produce hydrogen cyanide. Nitriles are hydrolyzed in both aqueous acid and base to give carboxylic acids (or salts of carboxylic acids). These reactions generate heat. Peroxides convert nitriles to amides. Nitriles can react vigorously with reducing agents. Acetonitrile and propionitrile are soluble in water, but nitriles higher than propionitrile have low aqueous solubility. They are also insoluble in aqueous acids.

Will react with water or steam to produce toxic and flammable vapors.

Can react with oxidizing materials

Materials to avoid: Strong acids, strong bases, strong oxidizing agents, strong reducing agents.

Ethyl cyanoacetate is the ethyl ester of cyanoacetic acid. Ethyl cyanoacetate hydrolyzes rapidly under neutral and alkaline conditions to cyanoacetic acid and ethanol ... , while in acid pH the half life is considerably longer. It also is likely that unspecific esterases in the body catalyze the hydrolysis to cyanoacetic acid and ethanol ... As the acid and the ester have different physical chemical properties due to their chemical nature, effects that are related to the acidity of the acid (e.g. ecotoxicity data, local irritating effects) have to be assessed separately. The environmental and toxicokinetic distribution can however be expected to range in a similar order of magnitude due to the similar polarity, vapor pressure and log Kow. ... Human Health. From the physical chemical properties of both cyanoacetic acid and ethyl cyanoacetate it can be expected that both substances will be moderately absorbed by all exposure routes. A relatively even distribution between tissues and also to embryonic tissues of pregnant rats was observed after oral administration of cyanoacetic acid. A similar behavior can be expected for ethyl cyanoacetate. Ethyl cyanoacetate is likely to be metabolized by unspecific esterases of different tissues, in particular in the liver to cyanoacetic acid and ethanol. While no mortality and no signs of toxicity were observed in a 7-hour vapor inhalation study in rats with saturated vapors of cyanoacetic acid, the 4-hour LC50 in rats for an aerosol of 50% cyanoacetic acid in water was 1900 mg/cu m. The most prominent symptoms were signs of severe irritation of eyes, mouth and respiratory tract. In a 1-hour inhalation study with ethyl cyanoacetate at the maximum attainable aerosol concentration of 7380 mg/cu m the only substance related findings were reversible signs of irritation of the eyes and the upper respiratory tract. For cyanoacetic acid a dermal LD50 > 2000 mg/kg bw in rabbits was reported. In this study with limited documentation local irritant effects on the skin and some systemic effects (dyspnea, behavioral changes) were reported, indicating a possible systemic toxicity after dermal exposure. For ethyl cyanoacetate a dermal LD50 > 1000 and > 2000 mg/kg bw was reported in rabbits and rats, respectively ... . No treatment related findings except for slight local skin irritation in the study in rabbits were observed. An acute oral LD50 value in rats of 1010 mg/kg bw has been reported for cyanoacetic acid. Symptoms including dyspnea, labored breathing, apathy and staggered gait were observed from doses of 1000 mg/kg bw and necropsy revealed local effects in the stomach. Only systemic effects similar to those reported for cyanoacetic acid were observed with ethyl cyanoacetate at a limit dose of 2000 mg/kg bw in rats. Cyanoacetic acid was corrosive to rabbit skin ... and eyes ... while ethyl cyanoacetate was not irritating to rabbit skin ... and moderately irritating to rabbit eyes... . Based on the results of the inhalation toxicity studies, cyanoacetic acid can be regarded as highly irritating to the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract while ethyl cyanoacetate only had a slight irritant effect on the respiratory tract. Both substances were not skin sensitizing in a Buehler test in guinea pigs ... . One 90-day oral (gavage) study in rats ... has been conducted with ethyl cyanoacetate at doses of 0, 100, 300 and 1000 mg/kg bw/day. The NOAEL in this study was 100 mg/kg bw/day for female rats and 300 mg/kg bw/day for male rats. A significant dose related reduction in hemoglobin values was observed at dose levels of 300 and 1000 mg/kg bw/day in female animals. In males of the 1000 mg/kg bw/day dose group increased urine volume and reversible pathological changes in liver (chronic peribiliary inflammation) and adrenals (vacuolization in the zona fasciculata of the adrenals) were observed. An additional examination of sperm counts and sperm motility in high dosed males revealed an apparently treatment related decrease in the percentage of motile sperms and sperm counts in the epididymis (changes within 2 standard deviations of the historical control data, no significant changes in organ weights or pathological findings in testes or epididymis). No effects were observed on female sex organs and estrous cycle. Both cyanoacetic acid and ethyl cyanoacetate were not mutagenic in the standard Ames assay in bacteria with and without metabolic activation. Neither Salmonella typhimurium TA102 nor E. coli WP2 were tested in these Ames tests, however, this is an acceptable restriction, because it can be assumed that neither cyanoacetic acid nor ethyl cyanoacetate has oxidizing or cross-linking potential, which may be detected by TA102 or E. coli WP2. Ethyl cyanoacetate did not show any clastogenic activity in the in vitro cytogenetic assay with V79 Chinese Hamster lung cells in the presence and absence of a metabolic activation system. All tests with ethyl cyanoacetate were conducted according to OECD or EC guidelines and GLP. For both substances, there is no structural alert for genotoxicity. In conclusion, from the available information, there is no indication of a genotoxic potential of the substances, both for gene mutations and chromosomal aberrations. No data are available on carcinogenicity. No specific studies on fertility are available for cyanoacetic acid or ethyl cyanoacetate. In a 90-day oral gavage study ... with ethyl cyanoacetate that included a histopathological evaluation of the gonads as well as additional investigations on sperm motility and sperm counts a NOAEL for these fertility related endpoints of 300 mg/kg bw/day was derived. A decrease of sperm motility and epididymal sperm counts observed in this study at 1000 mg/cu m (LOAEL) were not accompanied by significant reductions in testicular, epididymal, ovary or uterus weights, or any histopathological findings in these organs. Moreover, these effects are observed together with systemic toxicity. In a developmental toxicity study with ethyl cyanoacetate ... the NOAEL for embryotoxic or fetotoxic effects was 100 mg/kg bw/day based on an increase in minor skeletal anomalies in litters of the 300 and 1000 mg/kg bw/day dose groups and a reduced mean fetal weight at 1000 mg/kg bw/day. The NOAEL for maternal toxicity in this study was 300 mg/kg bw/day. Maternal toxicity in this study was however, only defined based on clinical signs, body weight development and macroscopic organ changes. Therefore it can not be excluded that the observed developmental effects are due to maternal toxicity. Studies on repeated dose toxicity and developmental toxicity conducted with ethyl cyanoacetate are considered relevant for cyanoacetic acid as well, as the ester will be rapidly metabolized to cyanoacetic acid and ethanol and its toxicity is likely to be mediated predominantly by cyanoacetic acid. Furthermore the study of the ester represents a "worst case" assumption for the acid as it can be assumed that the slightly more lipophilic ethyl ester is more readily absorbed than the corresponding acid and the maximum applicable dose of the ester is not limited by local irritation to mucous membranes. Therefore the ester can be administered at higher dose levels and is assumed to have a better bioavailability than the acid.

Organic nitriles decompose into cyanide ions both in vivo and in vitro. Consequently the primary mechanism of toxicity for organic nitriles is their production of toxic cyanide ions or hydrogen cyanide. Cyanide is an inhibitor of cytochrome c oxidase in the fourth complex of the electron transport chain (found in the membrane of the mitochondria of eukaryotic cells). It complexes with the ferric iron atom in this enzyme. The binding of cyanide to this cytochrome prevents transport of electrons from cytochrome c oxidase to oxygen. As a result, the electron transport chain is disrupted and the cell can no longer aerobically produce ATP for energy. Tissues that mainly depend on aerobic respiration, such as the central nervous system and the heart, are particularly affected. Cyanide is also known produce some of its toxic effects by binding to catalase, glutathione peroxidase, methemoglobin, hydroxocobalamin, phosphatase, tyrosinase, ascorbic acid oxidase, xanthine oxidase, succinic dehydrogenase, and Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase. Cyanide binds to the ferric ion of methemoglobin to form inactive cyanmethemoglobin. (L97)

No indication of carcinogenicity to humans (not listed by IARC).

Exposure to high levels of cyanide for a short time harms the brain and heart and can even cause coma, seizures, apnea, cardiac arrest and death. Chronic inhalation of cyanide causes breathing difficulties, chest pain, vomiting, blood changes, headaches, and enlargement of the thyroid gland. Skin contact with cyanide salts can irritate and produce sores. (L96, L97)

Oral (L96) ; inhalation (L96) ; dermal (L96)

Cyanide poisoning is identified by rapid, deep breathing and shortness of breath, general weakness, giddiness, headaches, vertigo, confusion, convulsions/seizures and eventually loss of consciousness. (L96, L97)

Other Poison - Chemical Asphyxiant

Lacrimator (Lachrymator) - A substance that irritates the eyes and induces the flow of tears.

LD50 Rat dermal 1010 mg/kg

LD50 Rat dermal >2000 mg/kg

LD50 Rabbit dermal >1000 mg/kg bw

LC50 Rat inhalation >7380 mg/cu m 1hr

LD50 Mouse intraperitoneal 500 mg/kg

Antidotes to cyanide poisoning include hydroxocobalamin and sodium nitrite, which release the cyanide from the cytochrome system, and rhodanase, which is an enzyme occurring naturally in mammals that combines serum cyanide with thiosulfate, producing comparatively harmless thiocyanate. Oxygen therapy can also be administered. (L97)

Immediate first aid: Ensure that adequate decontamination has been carried out. If patient is not breathing, start artificial respiration, preferably with a demand-valve resuscitator, bag-valve-mask device, or pocket mask, as trained. Perform CPR as necessary. Immediately flush contaminated eyes with gently flowing water. Do not induce vomiting. If vomiting occurs, lean patient forward or place on left side (head-down position, if possible) to maintain an open airway and prevent aspiration. Keep patient quiet and maintain normal body temperature. Obtain medical attention. /Esters and related compounds/

Basic treatment: Establish a patent airway (oropharyngeal or nasopharyngeal airway, if needed). Suction if necessary. Watch for signs of respiratory insufficiency and assist ventilations if necessary. Administer oxygen by nonrebreather mask at 10 to 15 L/min. Provide a low-stimulus environment. Monitor for shock and treat if necessary ... . Anticipate seizures and treat if necessary ... . For eye contamination, flush eyes immediately with water. Irrigate each eye continuously with 0.9% saline (NS) during transport ... . Do not use emetics. For ingestion, rinse mouth and administer 5 mL/kg up to 200 mL of water for dilution if the patient can swallow, has a strong gag reflex, and does not drool ... . Treat frostbite by rapid rewarming ... . /Esters and related compounds/

Advanced treatment: Consider orotracheal or nasotracheal intubation for airway control in the patient who is unconscious, has severe pulmonary edema, or is in severe respiratory distress. Positive-pressure ventilation techniques with a bag-valve-mask device may be beneficial. Consider drug therapy for pulmonary edema ... . Monitor cardiac rhythm and treat arrhythmias if necessary ... . Start IV administration of D5W /SRP: "To keep open", minimal flow rate/. Use 0.9% saline (NS) or lactated Ringer's (LR) if signs of hypovolemia are present. For hypotension with signs of hypovolemia, administer fluid cautiously. Consider vasopressors if patient is hypotensive with a normal fluid volume. Watch for signs of fluid overload ... . Use proparacaine hydrochloride to assist eye irrigation ... . /Esters and related compounds/

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ In a 1-hour inhalation study (according to US EPA DOT, 49 CFR, GLP) with ethyl cyanoacetate at the maximum attainable aerosol concentration of 7380 mg/cu m the only substance related findings were reversible signs of irritation of the eyes and the upper respiratory tract.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ For ethyl cyanoacetate a dermal LD50 > 1000 and >2000 mg/kg bw was reported in rabbits and rats, respectively, in studies in accordance with OECD TG 402 or 92/69/EEC B.3. No treatment related findings except for slight local skin irritation in the study in rabbits were observed.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ Ethyl cyanoacetate was not irritating to rabbit skin (studies in accordance with OECD TG 404, GLP) and moderately irritating to rabbit eyes (study according to OECD TG 405, GLP). Based on the results of the inhalation toxicity studies, ... ethyl cyanoacetate only had a slight irritant effect on the respiratory tract. /Ethyl cyanoacetate was/ not skin sensitizing in a Buehler test in guinea pigs according to US EPA OTS 798.4100 and GLP.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ An acute oral LD50 value in rats of 1010 mg/kg bw has been reported for cyanoacetic acid. Symptoms including dyspnea, labored breathing, apathy and staggered gait were observed from doses of 1000 mg/kg bw and necropsy revealed local effects in the stomach. Only systemic effects similar to those reported for cyanoacetic acid were observed with ethyl cyanoacetate at a limit dose of 2000 mg/kg bw in rats (studies in accordance with OECD TG401 or EC 92/69/EEC B.1 and GLP).

For more Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for ETHYL CYANOACETATE (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ Acute toxicity data for 3 trophic levels of the aquatic environment are available for ethyl cyanoacetate ... . A 96 h LC50 of 59 mg/L was derived (Danio rerio). This test was conducted under flow-through conditions to ensure stability of the test concentration. The 48 hr EC50 for Daphnia magna was ... 471 mg/L for ethyl cyanoacetate (nominal concentration). The 72 hr ErC50 /median effective concentration for growth rate/ for algae (Scenedesmus subspicatus) was 142 mg/L (72 hr EbC50 /median effective concentration for biomass/ 72.4 mg/L) and the NOEC based on growth rate was 17 mg/L for ethyl cyanoacetate. It can reasonably be assumed that hydrolysis of the ester occurred in this study and the acid and the lowered pH have contributed considerably to the toxicity. Therefore the data of the ester are relevant for cyanoacetic acid as well.

/PLANTS/ No growth inhibition of ethyl cyanoacetate to terrestrial plants in soil was observed up to concentrations of >100 mg/kg soil (dry weight) and no toxicity to Eisenia fetida /(earthworm)/ was observed at concentrations of 1000 mg ethyl cyanoacetate /kg soil (dry weight) after 14 days of exposure.

Ethyl cyanoacetate's production and use in organic synthesis, pharmaceuticals, and dyes may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. If released to air, a vapor pressure of 3.88X10-2 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates ethyl cyanoacetate will exist solely as a vapor in the atmosphere. Vapor-phase ethyl cyanoacetate will be degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals; the half-life for this reaction in air is estimated to be 6 days. Ethyl cyanoacetate does not contains chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm, and therefore is not expected to be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight. If released to soil, ethyl cyanoacetate is expected to have very high mobility based upon an estimated Koc of 4. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces is expected to be a moderate fate process based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 2.9X10-7 atm-cu m/mole. Ethyl cyanoacetate may not volatilize from dry soil surfaces based upon its vapor pressure. Utilizing the Japanese MITI test, 68% of the Theoretical BOD was reached in 4 weeks indicating that biodegradation is an important environmental fate process. If released into water, ethyl cyanoacetate is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment based upon the estimated Koc. Volatilization from water surfaces is expected to be a moderate fate process based upon this compound's estimated Henry's Law constant. Estimated volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 4 months and 2.7 years, respectively. An estimated BCF of 3 suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low. Hydrolysis is expected to be an important environmental fate process since this compound contains functional groups that hydrolyze under environmental conditions. Occupational exposure to ethyl cyanoacetate may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where ethyl cyanoacetate is produced or used. (SRC)

Ethyl cyanoacetate's production and use in organic synthesis, pharmaceuticals, and dyes(1) may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams(SRC).

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 4(SRC), determined from a structure estimation method(2), indicates that ethyl cyanoacetate is expected to have very high mobility in soil(SRC). Volatilization of ethyl cyanoacetate from moist soil surfaces is expected to be a moderate fate process(SRC) given an estimated Henry's Law constant of 2.9X10-7 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), based upon its vapor pressure, 3.88X10-2 mm Hg(3), and water solubility, 2.0X10+4 mg/L(4). Ethyl cyanoacetate is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon its vapor pressure(4). A 68% of its theoretical BOD in 28 days in the Japanese MITI test(5) indicates that biodegradation may be an important environmental fate process in soil(SRC).

AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 4(SRC), determined from a structure estimation method(2), indicates that ethyl cyanoacetate is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment(SRC). Volatilization from water surfaces is expected(3) based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 2.9X10-9 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), derived from its vapor pressure, 3.9X10-2 mm Hg(4), and water solubility, 2.0X10+4 mg/L(5). Using this Henry's Law constant and an estimation method(3), volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 4 months and 2.7 years, respectively(SRC). According to a classification scheme(6), an estimated BCF of 3(SRC), from an estimated log Kow of 0.02(7) and a regression-derived equation(8), suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC). A 68% of its theoretical BOD in 28 days in the Japanese MITI test(9) indicates that biodegradation may be an important environmental fate process in water(SRC).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), ethyl cyanoacetate, which has a vapor pressure of 3.88X10-2 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), is expected to exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase ethyl cyanoacetate is degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals(SRC); the half-life for this reaction in air is estimated to be 6 days(SRC), calculated from its rate constant of 1.7X10-12 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(SRC) that was derived using a structure estimation method(3). Ethyl cyanoacetate does not contain chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm(4), and therefore is not expected to be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight(SRC).

AEROBIC: Ethyl cyanoacetate, present at 30 mg/L, reached 68% of its theoretical BOD in 4 weeks using an activated sludge inoculum at 100 mg/L in the Japanese MITI test(1,2).

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of ethyl cyanoacetate with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals has been estimated as 1.7X10-12 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(SRC) using a structure estimation method(1). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 6 days at an atmospheric concentration of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(1). Ethyl cyanoacetate is expected to undergo hydrolysis in the environment due to the presence of functional groups that hydrolyze under environmental conditions(2). A base-catalyzed second-order hydrolysis rate constant of 11.8 L/mole-sec(SRC) was estimated using a structure estimation method(3); this corresponds to half-lives of 7 days and 16 hours at pH values of 7 and 8, respectively(3). Ethyl cyanoacetate does not contains chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm(2), and therefore is not expected to be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight(SRC).

An estimated BCF of 3 was calculated in fish for ethyl cyanoacetate(SRC), using an estimated log Kow of 0.02(1) and a regression-derived equation(2). According to a classification scheme(3), this BCF suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC).

Using a structure estimation method based on molecular connectivity indices(1), the Koc of ethyl cyanoacetate can be estimated to be 4(SRC). According to a classification scheme(2), this estimated Koc value suggests that ethyl cyanoacetate is expected to have very high mobility in soil.

The Henry's Law constant for ethyl cyanoacetate is estimated as 2.9X10-7 atm-cu m/mole(SRC) derived from its vapor pressure, 3.88X10-2 mm Hg(1), and water solubility, 2.0X10+4 mg/L(2). This Henry's Law constant indicates that ethyl cyanoacetate is expected to volatilize slowly from water surfaces(3). Based on this Henry's Law constant, the volatilization half-life from a model river (1 m deep, flowing 1 m/sec, wind velocity of 3 m/sec)(3) is estimated as 4 months(SRC). The volatilization half-life from a model lake (1 m deep, flowing 0.05 m/sec, wind velocity of 0.5 m/sec)(3) is estimated as 2.7 years(SRC). Ethyl cyanoacetate's estimated Henry's Law constant indicates that volatilization from moist soil surfaces may occur(SRC). Ethyl cyanoacetate is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon its vapor pressure(1).

According to the 2006 TSCA Inventory Update Reporting data, the number of persons reasonably likely to be exposed in the industrial manufacturing, processing, and use of ethyl cyanoacetate is 1 to 99; the data may be greatly underestimated(1).

Occupational exposure to ethyl cyanoacetate may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where ethyl cyanoacetate is produced or used. (SRC)

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ Acute toxicity data for 3 trophic levels of the aquatic environment are available for ethyl cyanoacetate ... . A 96 h LC50 of 59 mg/L was derived (Danio rerio). This test was conducted under flow-through conditions to ensure stability of the test concentration. The 48 hr EC50 for Daphnia magna was ... 471 mg/L for ethyl cyanoacetate (nominal concentration). The 72 hr ErC50 /median effective concentration for growth rate/ for algae (Scenedesmus subspicatus) was 142 mg/L (72 hr EbC50 /median effective concentration for biomass/ 72.4 mg/L) and the NOEC based on growth rate was 17 mg/L for ethyl cyanoacetate. It can reasonably be assumed that hydrolysis of the ester occurred in this study and the acid and the lowered pH have contributed considerably to the toxicity. Therefore the data of the ester are relevant for cyanoacetic acid as well.

/PLANTS/ No growth inhibition of ethyl cyanoacetate to terrestrial plants in soil was observed up to concentrations of >100 mg/kg soil (dry weight) and no toxicity to Eisenia fetida /(earthworm)/ was observed at concentrations of 1000 mg ethyl cyanoacetate /kg soil (dry weight) after 14 days of exposure.

Ethyl cyanoacetate's production and use in organic synthesis, pharmaceuticals, and dyes may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. If released to air, a vapor pressure of 3.88X10-2 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates ethyl cyanoacetate will exist solely as a vapor in the atmosphere. Vapor-phase ethyl cyanoacetate will be degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals; the half-life for this reaction in air is estimated to be 6 days. Ethyl cyanoacetate does not contains chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm, and therefore is not expected to be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight. If released to soil, ethyl cyanoacetate is expected to have very high mobility based upon an estimated Koc of 4. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces is expected to be a moderate fate process based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 2.9X10-7 atm-cu m/mole. Ethyl cyanoacetate may not volatilize from dry soil surfaces based upon its vapor pressure. Utilizing the Japanese MITI test, 68% of the Theoretical BOD was reached in 4 weeks indicating that biodegradation is an important environmental fate process. If released into water, ethyl cyanoacetate is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment based upon the estimated Koc. Volatilization from water surfaces is expected to be a moderate fate process based upon this compound's estimated Henry's Law constant. Estimated volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 4 months and 2.7 years, respectively. An estimated BCF of 3 suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low. Hydrolysis is expected to be an important environmental fate process since this compound contains functional groups that hydrolyze under environmental conditions. Occupational exposure to ethyl cyanoacetate may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where ethyl cyanoacetate is produced or used. (SRC)

Ethyl cyanoacetate's production and use in organic synthesis, pharmaceuticals, and dyes(1) may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams(SRC).

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 4(SRC), determined from a structure estimation method(2), indicates that ethyl cyanoacetate is expected to have very high mobility in soil(SRC). Volatilization of ethyl cyanoacetate from moist soil surfaces is expected to be a moderate fate process(SRC) given an estimated Henry's Law constant of 2.9X10-7 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), based upon its vapor pressure, 3.88X10-2 mm Hg(3), and water solubility, 2.0X10+4 mg/L(4). Ethyl cyanoacetate is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon its vapor pressure(4). A 68% of its theoretical BOD in 28 days in the Japanese MITI test(5) indicates that biodegradation may be an important environmental fate process in soil(SRC).

AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 4(SRC), determined from a structure estimation method(2), indicates that ethyl cyanoacetate is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment(SRC). Volatilization from water surfaces is expected(3) based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 2.9X10-9 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), derived from its vapor pressure, 3.9X10-2 mm Hg(4), and water solubility, 2.0X10+4 mg/L(5). Using this Henry's Law constant and an estimation method(3), volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 4 months and 2.7 years, respectively(SRC). According to a classification scheme(6), an estimated BCF of 3(SRC), from an estimated log Kow of 0.02(7) and a regression-derived equation(8), suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC). A 68% of its theoretical BOD in 28 days in the Japanese MITI test(9) indicates that biodegradation may be an important environmental fate process in water(SRC).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), ethyl cyanoacetate, which has a vapor pressure of 3.88X10-2 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), is expected to exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase ethyl cyanoacetate is degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals(SRC); the half-life for this reaction in air is estimated to be 6 days(SRC), calculated from its rate constant of 1.7X10-12 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(SRC) that was derived using a structure estimation method(3). Ethyl cyanoacetate does not contain chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm(4), and therefore is not expected to be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight(SRC).

AEROBIC: Ethyl cyanoacetate, present at 30 mg/L, reached 68% of its theoretical BOD in 4 weeks using an activated sludge inoculum at 100 mg/L in the Japanese MITI test(1,2).

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of ethyl cyanoacetate with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals has been estimated as 1.7X10-12 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(SRC) using a structure estimation method(1). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 6 days at an atmospheric concentration of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(1). Ethyl cyanoacetate is expected to undergo hydrolysis in the environment due to the presence of functional groups that hydrolyze under environmental conditions(2). A base-catalyzed second-order hydrolysis rate constant of 11.8 L/mole-sec(SRC) was estimated using a structure estimation method(3); this corresponds to half-lives of 7 days and 16 hours at pH values of 7 and 8, respectively(3). Ethyl cyanoacetate does not contains chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm(2), and therefore is not expected to be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight(SRC).

An estimated BCF of 3 was calculated in fish for ethyl cyanoacetate(SRC), using an estimated log Kow of 0.02(1) and a regression-derived equation(2). According to a classification scheme(3), this BCF suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC).

Using a structure estimation method based on molecular connectivity indices(1), the Koc of ethyl cyanoacetate can be estimated to be 4(SRC). According to a classification scheme(2), this estimated Koc value suggests that ethyl cyanoacetate is expected to have very high mobility in soil.

The Henry's Law constant for ethyl cyanoacetate is estimated as 2.9X10-7 atm-cu m/mole(SRC) derived from its vapor pressure, 3.88X10-2 mm Hg(1), and water solubility, 2.0X10+4 mg/L(2). This Henry's Law constant indicates that ethyl cyanoacetate is expected to volatilize slowly from water surfaces(3). Based on this Henry's Law constant, the volatilization half-life from a model river (1 m deep, flowing 1 m/sec, wind velocity of 3 m/sec)(3) is estimated as 4 months(SRC). The volatilization half-life from a model lake (1 m deep, flowing 0.05 m/sec, wind velocity of 0.5 m/sec)(3) is estimated as 2.7 years(SRC). Ethyl cyanoacetate's estimated Henry's Law constant indicates that volatilization from moist soil surfaces may occur(SRC). Ethyl cyanoacetate is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon its vapor pressure(1).

According to the 2006 TSCA Inventory Update Reporting data, the number of persons reasonably likely to be exposed in the industrial manufacturing, processing, and use of ethyl cyanoacetate is 1 to 99; the data may be greatly underestimated(1).

Occupational exposure to ethyl cyanoacetate may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where ethyl cyanoacetate is produced or used. (SRC)

SRP: The most favorable course of action is to use an alternative chemical product with less inherent propensity for occupational harm/injury/toxicity or environmental contamination. Recycle any unused portion of the material for its approved use or return it to the manufacturer or supplier. Ultimate disposal of the chemical must consider: the material's impact on air quality; potential migration in soil or water; effects on animal and plant life; and conformance with environmental and public health regulations.

/GUIDE 156: SUBSTANCES - TOXIC AND/OR CORROSIVE (COMBUSTIBLE/WATER-SENSITIVE)/ Fire or Explosion: Combustible material: may burn but does not ignite readily. Substance will react with water (some violently) releasing flammable, toxic or corrosive gases and runoff. When heated, vapors may form explosive mixtures with air: indoors, outdoors and sewers explosion hazards. Most vapors are heavier than air. They will spread along ground and collect in low or confined areas (sewers, basements, tanks). Vapors may travel to source of ignition and flash back. Contact with metals may evolve flammable hydrogen gas. Containers may explode when heated or if contaminated with water.

/GUIDE 156: SUBSTANCES - TOXIC AND/OR CORROSIVE (COMBUSTIBLE/WATER-SENSITIVE)/ Health: TOXIC; inhalation, ingestion or contact (skin, eyes) with vapors, dusts or substance may cause severe injury, burns or death. Contact with molten substance may cause severe burns to skin and eyes. Reaction with water or moist air will release toxic, corrosive or flammable gases. Reaction with water may generate much heat which will increase the concentration of fumes in the air. Fire will produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Runoff from fire control or dilution water may be corrosive and/or toxic and cause pollution.

/GUIDE 156: SUBSTANCES - TOXIC AND/OR CORROSIVE (COMBUSTIBLE/WATER-SENSITIVE)/ Public Safety: CALL Emergency Response Telephone Number ... As an immediate precautionary measure, isolate spill or leak area in all directions for at least 50 meters (150 feet) for liquids and at least 25 meters (75 feet) for solids. Keep unauthorized personnel away. Stay upwind. Keep out of low areas. Ventilate enclosed areas.

/GUIDE 156: SUBSTANCES - TOXIC AND/OR CORROSIVE (COMBUSTIBLE/WATER-SENSITIVE)/ Protective Clothing: Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Wear chemical protective clothing that is specifically recommended by the manufacturer. It may provide little or no thermal protection. Structural firefighters' protective clothing provides limited protection in fire situations ONLY; it is not effective in spill situations where direct contact with the substance is possible.

For more DOT Emergency Guidelines (Complete) data for ETHYL CYANOACETATE (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

No person may /transport,/ offer or accept a hazardous material for transportation in commerce unless that person is registered in conformance ... and the hazardous material is properly classed, described, packaged, marked, labeled, and in condition for shipment as required or authorized by ... /the hazardous materials regulations (49 CFR 171-177)./

The International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code lays down basic principles for transporting hazardous chemicals. Detailed recommendations for individual substances and a number of recommendations for good practice are included in the classes dealing with such substances. A general index of technical names has also been compiled. This index should always be consulted when attempting to locate the appropriate procedures to be used when shipping any substance or article.