Diethyl Carbonate

This chemical does not meet GHS hazard criteria for 2.9% (12 of 412) of reports.

H226 (97.1%): Flammable liquid and vapor [Warning Flammable liquids]

H315 (13.8%): Causes skin irritation [Warning Skin corrosion/irritation]

H319 (14.3%): Causes serious eye irritation [Warning Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

H335 (13.8%): May cause respiratory irritation [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure; Respiratory tract irritation]

P210, P233, P240, P241, P242, P243, P261, P264, P264+P265, P271, P280, P302+P352, P303+P361+P353, P304+P340, P305+P351+P338, P319, P321, P332+P317, P337+P317, P362+P364, P370+P378, P403+P233, P403+P235, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Aggregated GHS information provided per 412 reports by companies from 13 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.

Reported as not meeting GHS hazard criteria per 12 of 412 reports by companies.

There are 12 notifications provided by 400 of 412 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.

H226 (100%): Flammable liquid and vapor [Warning Flammable liquids]

H315 (97.4%): Causes skin irritation [Warning Skin corrosion/irritation]

H319 (97.4%): Causes serious eye irritation [Warning Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

H335 (97.4%): May cause respiratory irritation [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure; Respiratory tract irritation]

Aggregated GHS information provided per 39 reports by companies from 2 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.

H226: Flammable liquid and vapor [Warning Flammable liquids]

H335: May cause respiratory irritation [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure; Respiratory tract irritation]

P210, P233, P240, P241, P242, P243, P261, P271, P280, P303+P361+P353, P304+P340, P319, P370+P378, P403+P233, P403+P235, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Fresh air, rest.

Rinse and then wash skin with water and soap.

First rinse with plenty of water for several minutes (remove contact lenses if easily possible), then refer for medical attention.

Rinse mouth. Rest.

EYES: First check the victim for contact lenses and remove if present. Flush victim's eyes with water or normal saline solution for 20 to 30 minutes while simultaneously calling a hospital or poison control center. Do not put any ointments, oils, or medication in the victim's eyes without specific instructions from a physician. IMMEDIATELY transport the victim after flushing eyes to a hospital even if no symptoms (such as redness or irritation) develop.

SKIN: IMMEDIATELY flood affected skin with water while removing and isolating all contaminated clothing. Gently wash all affected skin areas thoroughly with soap and water. If symptoms such as redness or irritation develop, IMMEDIATELY call a physician and be prepared to transport the victim to a hospital for treatment.

INHALATION: IMMEDIATELY leave the contaminated area; take deep breaths of fresh air. If symptoms (such as wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, or burning in the mouth, throat, or chest) develop, call a physician and be prepared to transport the victim to a hospital. Provide proper respiratory protection to rescuers entering an unknown atmosphere. Whenever possible, Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) should be used; if not available, use a level of protection greater than or equal to that advised under Protective Clothing.

INGESTION: DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING. If the victim is conscious and not convulsing, give 1 or 2 glasses of water to dilute the chemical and IMMEDIATELY call a hospital or poison control center. Be prepared to transport the victim to a hospital if advised by a physician. If the victim is convulsing or unconscious, do not give anything by mouth, ensure that the victim's airway is open and lay the victim on his/her side with the head lower than the body. DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING. IMMEDIATELY transport the victim to a hospital. (NTP, 1992)

General First Aid:

· Call 911 or emergency medical service.

· Ensure that medical personnel are aware of the material(s) involved, take precautions to protect themselves and avoid contamination.

· Move victim to fresh air if it can be done safely.

· Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult.

· If victim is not breathing:

-- DO NOT perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation; the victim may have ingested or inhaled the substance.

-- If equipped and pulse detected, wash face and mouth, then give artificial respiration using a proper respiratory medical device (bag-valve mask, pocket mask equipped with a one-way valve or other device).

-- If no pulse detected or no respiratory medical device available, provide continuous compressions. Conduct a pulse check every two minutes or monitor for any signs of spontaneous respirations.

· Remove and isolate contaminated clothing and shoes.

· For minor skin contact, avoid spreading material on unaffected skin.

· In case of contact with substance, remove immediately by flushing skin or eyes with running water for at least 20 minutes.

· For severe burns, immediate medical attention is required.

· Effects of exposure (inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact) to substance may be delayed.

· Keep victim calm and warm.

· Keep victim under observation.

· For further assistance, contact your local Poison Control Center.

· Note: Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Life Support (ALS) should be done by trained professionals.

Specific First Aid:

· Wash skin with soap and water.

· In case of burns, immediately cool affected skin for as long as possible with cold water. Do not remove clothing if adhering to skin.

In Canada, an Emergency Response Assistance Plan (ERAP) may be required for this product. Please consult the shipping paper and/or the "ERAP" section.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 128 [Flammable Liquids (Water-Immiscible)]:

CAUTION: The majority of these products have a very low flash point. Use of water spray when fighting fire may be inefficient. CAUTION: For mixtures containing alcohol or polar solvent, alcohol-resistant foam may be more effective.

SMALL FIRE: Dry chemical, CO2, water spray or regular foam. If regular foam is ineffective or unavailable, use alcohol-resistant foam.

LARGE FIRE: Water spray, fog or regular foam. If regular foam is ineffective or unavailable, use alcohol-resistant foam. Avoid aiming straight or solid streams directly onto the product. If it can be done safely, move undamaged containers away from the area around the fire.

FIRE INVOLVING TANKS, RAIL TANK CARS OR HIGHWAY TANKS: Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles. Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out. For petroleum crude oil, do not spray water directly into a breached tank car. This can lead to a dangerous boil over. 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)

Use AFFF, alcohol-resistant foam, powder, carbon dioxide. In case of fire: keep drums, etc., cool by spraying with water.

... FOAM, CARBON DIOXIDE, DRY CHEMICAL

If material on fire or involved in fire: Do not extinguish fire unless flow can be stopped or safely confined. Use water in flooding quantities as fog. Solid streams of water may spread fire. Cool all affected containers with flooding quantities of water. Apply water from as far a distance as possible. Use foam, dry chemical, or carbon dioxide.

· CALL 911. Then call emergency response telephone number on shipping paper. If shipping paper not available or no answer, refer to appropriate telephone number listed on the inside back cover.

· Keep unauthorized personnel away.

· Stay upwind, uphill and/or upstream.

· Ventilate closed spaces before entering, but only if properly trained and equipped.

· ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames) from immediate area.

· All equipment used when handling the product must be grounded.

· Do not touch or walk through spilled material.

· Stop leak if you can do it without risk.

· Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas.

· A vapor-suppressing foam may be used to reduce vapors.

· Absorb or cover with dry earth, sand or other non-combustible material and transfer to containers.

· Use clean, non-sparking tools to collect absorbed material.

Large Spill

· Dike far ahead of liquid spill for later disposal.

· Water spray may reduce vapor, but may not prevent ignition in closed spaces.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 128 [Flammable Liquids (Water-Immiscible)]:

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

LARGE SPILL: Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 300 meters (1000 feet).

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)

Immediate precautionary measure

· Isolate spill or leak area for at least 50 meters (150 feet) in all directions.

· Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 300 meters (1000 feet).

· 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.

Personal protection: filter respirator for organic gases and vapours adapted to the airborne concentration of the substance. Collect leaking and spilled liquid in sealable containers as far as possible. Absorb remaining liquid in sand or inert absorbent. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations.

SRP: At the time of review, criteria for land treatment or burial (sanitary landfill) disposal practices are subject to significant revision. Prior to implementing land disposal of waste residue (including waste sludge), consult with environmental regulatory agencies for guidance on acceptable disposal practices.

If material not on fire and not involved in fire: Keep sparks, flames, and other sources of ignition away. Keep material out of water sources and sewers. Build dikes to contain flow as necessary. Attempt to stop leak if without undue personnel hazard. Use water spray to knock-down vapors.

Personnel protection: Avoid breathing vapors. Keep upwind. ... Do not handle broken packages unless wearing appropriate personal protective equipment. Wash away any material which may have contacted the body with copious amounts of water or soap and water.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 128 [Flammable Liquids (Water-Immiscible)]:

ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames) from immediate area. All equipment used when handling the product must be grounded. Do not touch or walk through spilled material. Stop leak if you can do it without risk. Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas. A vapor-suppressing foam may be used to reduce vapors. Absorb or cover with dry earth, sand or other non-combustible material and transfer to containers. Use clean, non-sparking tools to collect absorbed material.

LARGE SPILL: Dike far ahead of liquid spill for later disposal. Water spray may reduce vapor, but may not prevent ignition in closed spaces. (ERG, 2024)

Fireproof. Separated from strong oxidants. Cool. Well closed.

· Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).

· Structural firefighters' protective clothing provides thermal protection but only limited chemical protection.

59 [mg/m3]

650 [mg/m3]

3900 [mg/m3]

CAUTION: The majority of these products have a very low flash point. Use of water spray when fighting fire may be inefficient.

CAUTION: For mixtures containing alcohol or polar solvent, alcohol-resistant foam may be more effective.

Small Fire

· Dry chemical, CO2, water spray or regular foam. If regular foam is ineffective or unavailable, use alcohol-resistant foam.

Large Fire

· Water spray, fog or regular foam. If regular foam is ineffective or unavailable, use alcohol-resistant foam.

· Avoid aiming straight or solid streams directly onto the product.

· If it can be done safely, move undamaged containers away from the area around the fire.

Fire Involving Tanks, Rail Tank Cars or Highway Tanks

· Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles.

· Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out.

· For petroleum crude oil, do not spray water directly into a breached tank car. This can lead to a dangerous boil over.

· 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.

Evaporation at 20 °C is negligible; a harmful concentration of airborne particles can, however, be reached quickly on spraying.

The substance is irritating to the eyes and respiratory tract.

Protective clothing; rubber gloves and goggles, organic vapor canister or air mask. (USCG, 1999)

NO open flames, NO sparks and NO smoking. NO contact with strong oxidizing agents. Above 25 °C use a closed system, ventilation and explosion-proof electrical equipment.

PREVENT GENERATION OF MISTS!

Use ventilation.

Protective gloves.

Wear safety goggles.

Do not eat, drink, or smoke during work.

Diethyl carbonate appears as a colorless liquid with a mild pleasant odor. It is slightly less dense than water and insoluble in water. Hence floats on water. Flash point 77 °F. Vapors are heavier than air. When heated to high temperatures it may emit acrid smoke. Used as a solvent.

Colorless liquid; [Hawley]

COLOURLESS LIQUID WITH CHARACTERISTIC ODOUR.

Colorless liquid

Pleasant ethereal odor

Mild odor

259 °F at 760 mmHg (NTP, 1992)

126 °C @760 [mm Hg]

-45 °F (NTP, 1992)

77 °F (NTP, 1992)

25 °C (CLOSED CUP)

25 °C c.c.

Insoluble (NTP, 1992)

Soluble in ehtyl ether, ethanol, and chloroform

Miscible with ketones, esters, aromatic hydrocarbons, some aliphatic solvents

In water, 1.88X10+4 mg/l @ 20 °C

Solubility in water: none

0.975 at 68 °F (USCG, 1999) - Less dense than water; will float

0.9752 @ 20 °C/4 °C

Relative density (water = 1): 0.98

0.9752 @ 20°C

4.07 (NTP, 1992) - Heavier than air; will sink (Relative to Air)

4.07 (Air= 1)

Relative vapor density (air = 1): 4.07

10 mmHg at 74.8 °F (NTP, 1992)

10.8 [mmHg]

10.8 mm Hg @ 25 °C

Vapor pressure, kPa at 20 °C: 1.1

10.8 [mm Hg] @25 °C

log Kow= 1.21

When heated to decomposition it emits acrid smoke and fumes.

Index of refraction: 1.3845 @ 20 °C/D; Sadtler ref number: 8024 (IR, prism); 290 (NMR)

CAN REACT WITH OXIDIZING MATERIALS

Boiling point

Chemical shift

Corrosion

Diamagnetic susceptibility

Dielectric constant

Excess enthalpy

Heat of solution

Highly flammable. Insoluble in water.

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

Highly Flammable

DIETHYL CARBONATE reacts with acids to liberate heat along with ethanol and carbon dioxide. Strong oxidizing acids may cause a vigorous reaction that is sufficiently exothermic to ignite the reaction products. Heat is also generated by the interaction with caustic solutions. Flammable hydrogen is generated by mixing with alkali metals and hydrides.

A dangerous fire hazard when exposed to heat or flame; can react with oxidizing materials.

The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation.

Cough. Nausea. Sore throat.

Redness. Pain.

Neurotoxin - Acute solvent syndrome

LD50 Rat scu 8500 mg/kg

LDLo Rat oral 15 g/kg

Basic Treatment: Establish a patent airway. 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. Monitor for pulmonary edema and treat if necessary ... . Monitor for shock and treat if necessary ... . For eye contamination, flush eyes immediately with water. Irrigate each eye continuously with normal saline 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. Administer activated charcoal ... . /Esters and related compounds/

Advanced Treatment: Consider orotracheal or nasotracheal intubation for airway control in the patient who is unconscious. Positive pressure ventilation techniques with a bag valve mask device may be beneficial. Monitor cardiac rhythm and treat arrhythmias if necessary ... . Start an IV with D5W /SRP: "To keep open", minimal flow rate/. Use lactated Ringer's if signs of hypovolemia are present. Watch for signs of fluid overload. 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 ... . Consider drug therapy for pulmonary edema ... . Use propaparacaine hydrochloride to assist eye irrigation ... . /Esters and related compounds/

MODERATELY TOXIC BY INGESTION & INHALATION; STRONG IRRITANT.

Mildly toxic by subcutaneous route. Questionable carcinogen with experimental tumorigenic and teratogenic data.

"S" STRAIN ALBINO MICE RECEIVED 10X290 MG ON SKIN (GENERALLY TWICE WEEKLY) FOR 210 DAYS DEVELOPED 2/25 PAPILLOMAS, THE CONTROLS DEVELOPED 4/20 PAPILLOMAS. /FROM TABLE/

MICE WERE GIVEN DRINKING WATER CONTAINING 0, 50, 250 OR 1000 PPM FOR 38 WK. THERE WAS NO EFFECT ON MORTALITY, RATE OF BODY-WT GAIN OR INCIDENCE OF HISTOPATHOLOGICAL FINDINGS, INCLUDING TUMORS. NO-UNTOWARD-EFFECT LEVEL IS 1000 PPM (APPROX 140 MG/KG/DAY).

GIVEN TO RATS IN DRINKING WATER ... UP TO 100 WK, PRODUCED NO CHANGES IN WT GAIN, SUSCEPTIBILITY TO DISEASE, BLOOD COMPOSITION, FERTILITY, FETAL DEVELOPMENT, OR FETAL SURVIVAL. TO DOGS ORALLY FOR 6 WK DID NOT AFFECT GROWTH OR BLOOD OR URINE COMPOSITION.

Diethyl carbonate was tested for mutagenicity in the Salmonella/microsome preincubation assay using the standard protocol approved by the National Toxicology Program. Diethyl carbonate was tested at doses of 0.1, 0.33, 1.0, 3.3, and 6.6 mg/plate in as many as 5 Salmonella typhimurium strains (TA1535, TA1537, TA97, TA98, and TA100) in the presence and absence of rat or hamster liver S-9. Diethyl carbonate was negative in these tests and the highest ineffective dose tested in any S. typhimurium strain was 6.6 mg/plate.

Environmental effects from the substance have not been investigated adequately.

Diethyl carbonate's production and use as a solvent for nitrocellulose ethers and many synthetic and natural resins may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. If released to air, a vapor pressure of 10.8 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates diethyl carbonate will exist solely in the vapor phase in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase diethyl carbonate 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 5 days. Diethyl carbonate may undergo direct photolysis since this compound contains a functional group that can absorb light greater than 290 nm. If released to soil, diethyl carbonate is expected to have high mobility based upon an estimated Koc of 100. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 8.9X10-5 atm-cu m/mole. Volatilization from dry soil surfaces may be an important fate process based upon the vapor pressure. Although no biodegradation data for diethyl carbonate was located, chemically similar short alkyl chain esters have been shown to biodegrade. If released into water, diethyl carbonate is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment in water based upon the estimated Koc. Volatilization from water surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon this compound's estimated Henry's Law constant. Estimated volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 8 hours and 8 days, respectively. Diethyl carbonate may undergo hydrolysis in water since this compound contains hydrolyzable functional groups. An estimated BCF of 2 suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low. Occupational exposure to diethyl carbonate may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where diethyl carbonate is produced or used. (SRC)

Diethyl carbonate's production and use as a solvent for nitrocellulose ethers and many synthetic and natural resins(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 100(SRC), determined from a log Kow of 1.21(2) and a regression-derived equation(3), indicates that diethyl carbonate is expected to have high mobility in soil(SRC). Volatilization of diethyl carbonate from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process(SRC) given an estimated Henry's Law constant of 8.9X10-5 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), calculated from a vapor pressure of 10.8 mm Hg(4) and water solubility of 18,800 mg/l(5). Diethyl carbonate may volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon its vapor pressure(4). Although no biodegradation data for diethyl carbonate was located, chemically similar short alkyl chain esters have been shown to biodegrade(6).

AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 100(SRC), determined from a log Kow of 1.21(2) and a regression-derived equation(3), indicates that diethyl carbonate is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment in water(SRC). Volatilization from water surfaces is expected to be an important fate process(3) based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 8.9X10-5 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), calculated from a vapor pressure of 10.8 mm Hg(4) and water solubility of 18,800 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 8 hours and 8 days, respectively(SRC). Diethyl carbonate may undergo hydrolysis in water since esters are susceptible to hydrolysis(3). Although no biodegradation data for diethyl carbonate was located, chemically similar short alkyl chain esters have been shown to biodegrade(6). According to a classification scheme(7), an estimated BCF of 2(SRC), from its log Kow(2) and a regression-derived equation(8), suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), diethyl carbonate, which has a vapor pressure of 10.8 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), is expected to exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase diethyl carbonate 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 5 days(SRC), calculated from its estimated rate constant of 3.3X10-12 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(SRC) determined using a structure estimation method(3). Diethyl carbonate may also undergo direct photolysis in the environment since this compound contains a functional group that can absorb light greater than 290 nm(4).

Although no biodegradation data for diethyl carbonate were located, chemically similar short alkyl chain esters have been shown to biodegrade(1).

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of diethyl carbonate with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals has been estimated as 3.3X10-12 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(SRC) using a structure estimation method(1). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 5 days at an atmospheric concentration of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(1). Diethyl carbonate may undergo direct photolysis in the environment since this compound contains a functional group that can absorb light greater than 290 nm(2) and may also undergo hydrolysis since ester functional groups can be hydrolyzed(2).

An estimated BCF of 2 was calculated for diethyl carbonate(SRC), using a log Kow of 1.21(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).

The Koc of diethyl carbonate is estimated as 100(SRC), using a log Kow of 1.21(1) and a regression-derived equation(2). According to a classification scheme(3), this estimated Koc value suggests that diethyl carbonate is expected to have high mobility in soil(SRC).

The Henry's Law constant for diethyl carbonate is estimated as 8.9X10-5 atm-cu m/mole(SRC) from its vapor pressure, 10.8 mm Hg(1), and water solubility, 18,800 mg/l(2). This Henry's Law constant indicates that diethyl carbonate is expected to volatilize 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 8 hours(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 8 days(SRC). Diethyl carbonate's estimated Henry's Law constant(1,2) indicates that volatilization from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important environmental fate process(SRC). Volatilization from dry soil surfaces may be an important fate process(SRC) based on the vapor pressure of this compound(1).

Diethyl carbonate was identified, not quantified, in drinking water from the US(1,2).

Diethyl carbonate was identified, not quantified, in the emissions of different types of furniture coatings(1).

Diethyl carbonate was detected in wines from Napa Valley, CA at concns of 0.055-0.209 mg/l(1).

NIOSH (NOES Survey 1981-1983) has statistically estimated that 6,967 workers (83 of these are female) are potentially exposed to diethyl carbonate in the US(1). Occupational exposure to diethyl carbonate may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where diethyl carbonate is produced or used(SRC).

Environmental effects from the substance have not been investigated adequately.

Diethyl carbonate's production and use as a solvent for nitrocellulose ethers and many synthetic and natural resins may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. If released to air, a vapor pressure of 10.8 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates diethyl carbonate will exist solely in the vapor phase in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase diethyl carbonate 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 5 days. Diethyl carbonate may undergo direct photolysis since this compound contains a functional group that can absorb light greater than 290 nm. If released to soil, diethyl carbonate is expected to have high mobility based upon an estimated Koc of 100. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 8.9X10-5 atm-cu m/mole. Volatilization from dry soil surfaces may be an important fate process based upon the vapor pressure. Although no biodegradation data for diethyl carbonate was located, chemically similar short alkyl chain esters have been shown to biodegrade. If released into water, diethyl carbonate is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment in water based upon the estimated Koc. Volatilization from water surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon this compound's estimated Henry's Law constant. Estimated volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 8 hours and 8 days, respectively. Diethyl carbonate may undergo hydrolysis in water since this compound contains hydrolyzable functional groups. An estimated BCF of 2 suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low. Occupational exposure to diethyl carbonate may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where diethyl carbonate is produced or used. (SRC)

Diethyl carbonate's production and use as a solvent for nitrocellulose ethers and many synthetic and natural resins(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 100(SRC), determined from a log Kow of 1.21(2) and a regression-derived equation(3), indicates that diethyl carbonate is expected to have high mobility in soil(SRC). Volatilization of diethyl carbonate from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process(SRC) given an estimated Henry's Law constant of 8.9X10-5 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), calculated from a vapor pressure of 10.8 mm Hg(4) and water solubility of 18,800 mg/l(5). Diethyl carbonate may volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon its vapor pressure(4). Although no biodegradation data for diethyl carbonate was located, chemically similar short alkyl chain esters have been shown to biodegrade(6).

AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 100(SRC), determined from a log Kow of 1.21(2) and a regression-derived equation(3), indicates that diethyl carbonate is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment in water(SRC). Volatilization from water surfaces is expected to be an important fate process(3) based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 8.9X10-5 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), calculated from a vapor pressure of 10.8 mm Hg(4) and water solubility of 18,800 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 8 hours and 8 days, respectively(SRC). Diethyl carbonate may undergo hydrolysis in water since esters are susceptible to hydrolysis(3). Although no biodegradation data for diethyl carbonate was located, chemically similar short alkyl chain esters have been shown to biodegrade(6). According to a classification scheme(7), an estimated BCF of 2(SRC), from its log Kow(2) and a regression-derived equation(8), suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), diethyl carbonate, which has a vapor pressure of 10.8 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), is expected to exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase diethyl carbonate 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 5 days(SRC), calculated from its estimated rate constant of 3.3X10-12 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(SRC) determined using a structure estimation method(3). Diethyl carbonate may also undergo direct photolysis in the environment since this compound contains a functional group that can absorb light greater than 290 nm(4).

Although no biodegradation data for diethyl carbonate were located, chemically similar short alkyl chain esters have been shown to biodegrade(1).

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of diethyl carbonate with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals has been estimated as 3.3X10-12 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(SRC) using a structure estimation method(1). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 5 days at an atmospheric concentration of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(1). Diethyl carbonate may undergo direct photolysis in the environment since this compound contains a functional group that can absorb light greater than 290 nm(2) and may also undergo hydrolysis since ester functional groups can be hydrolyzed(2).

An estimated BCF of 2 was calculated for diethyl carbonate(SRC), using a log Kow of 1.21(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).

The Koc of diethyl carbonate is estimated as 100(SRC), using a log Kow of 1.21(1) and a regression-derived equation(2). According to a classification scheme(3), this estimated Koc value suggests that diethyl carbonate is expected to have high mobility in soil(SRC).

The Henry's Law constant for diethyl carbonate is estimated as 8.9X10-5 atm-cu m/mole(SRC) from its vapor pressure, 10.8 mm Hg(1), and water solubility, 18,800 mg/l(2). This Henry's Law constant indicates that diethyl carbonate is expected to volatilize 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 8 hours(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 8 days(SRC). Diethyl carbonate's estimated Henry's Law constant(1,2) indicates that volatilization from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important environmental fate process(SRC). Volatilization from dry soil surfaces may be an important fate process(SRC) based on the vapor pressure of this compound(1).

Diethyl carbonate was identified, not quantified, in drinking water from the US(1,2).

Diethyl carbonate was identified, not quantified, in the emissions of different types of furniture coatings(1).

Diethyl carbonate was detected in wines from Napa Valley, CA at concns of 0.055-0.209 mg/l(1).

NIOSH (NOES Survey 1981-1983) has statistically estimated that 6,967 workers (83 of these are female) are potentially exposed to diethyl carbonate in the US(1). Occupational exposure to diethyl carbonate may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where diethyl carbonate is produced or used(SRC).

SRP: At the time of review, criteria for land treatment or burial (sanitary landfill) disposal practices are subject to significant revision. Prior to implementing land disposal of waste residue (including waste sludge), consult with environmental regulatory agencies for guidance on acceptable disposal practices.

/GUIDE 128: FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS (NON-POLAR/WATER-IMMISCIBLE)/ Fire or Explosion: HIGHLY FLAMMABLE: Will be easily ignited by heat, sparks or flames. Vapors may form explosive mixtures with air. Vapors may travel to source of ignition and flash back. Most vapors are heavier than air. They will spread along ground and collect in low or confined areas (sewers, basements, tanks). Vapor explosion hazard indoors, outdoors or in sewers. Those substances designated with a "P" may polymerize explosively when heated or involved in a fire. Runoff to sewer may create fire or explosion hazard. Containers may explode when heated. Many liquids are lighter than water. Substances may be transported hot.

/GUIDE 128: FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS (NON-POLAR/WATER-IMMISCIBLE)/ Health: Inhalation or contact with material may irritate or burn skin and eyes. Fire may produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Vapors may cause dizziness or suffocation. Runoff from fire control or dilution water may cause pollution.

/GUIDE 128: FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS (NON-POLAR/WATER-IMMISCIBLE)/ Public Safety: CALL Emergency Response Telephone Number ... . As an immediate precautionary measure, isolate spill or leak area for at least 50 meters (150 feet) in all directions. Keep unauthorized personnel away. Stay upwind. Keep out of low areas. Ventilate closed spaces before entering.

/GUIDE 128: FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS (NON-POLAR/WATER-IMMISCIBLE)/ Protective Clothing: Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Structural firefighters' protective clothing will only provide limited protection.

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

UN 2366; Diethyl carbonate

IMO 3.3; Diethyl carbonate

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.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations are published by the IATA Dangerous Goods Board pursuant to IATA Resolutions 618 and 619 and constitute a manual of industry carrier regulations to be followed by all IATA Member airlines when transporting hazardous materials.

Flammable Liquid

UN Hazard Class: 3; UN Pack Group: III