Ethyl formate

H225: Highly Flammable liquid and vapor [Danger Flammable liquids]

H302: Harmful if swallowed [Warning Acute toxicity, oral]

H319: Causes serious eye irritation [Warning Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

H332: Harmful if inhaled [Warning Acute toxicity, inhalation]

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

P210, P233, P240, P241, P242, P243, P261, P264, P264+P265, P270, P271, P280, P301+P317, P303+P361+P353, P304+P340, P305+P351+P338, P317, P319, P330, P337+P317, P370+P378, P403+P233, P403+P235, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

This chemical does not meet GHS hazard criteria for 0.6% (11 of 1923) of reports.

H225 (99.4%): Highly Flammable liquid and vapor [Danger Flammable liquids]

H302 (99.3%): Harmful if swallowed [Warning Acute toxicity, oral]

H319 (99.4%): Causes serious eye irritation [Warning Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

H332 (99.3%): Harmful if inhaled [Warning Acute toxicity, inhalation]

H335 (99.4%): May cause respiratory irritation [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure; Respiratory tract irritation]

Aggregated GHS information provided per 1923 reports by companies from 21 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.

Reported as not meeting GHS hazard criteria per 11 of 1923 reports by companies.

There are 20 notifications provided by 1912 of 1923 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.

H336: May cause drowsiness or dizziness [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure; Narcotic effects]

H370: Causes damage to organs [Danger Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure]

P210, P233, P240, P241, P242, P243, P260, P261, P264, P264+P265, P270, P271, P280, P301+P317, P303+P361+P353, P304+P340, P305+P351+P338, P308+P316, P317, P319, P321, P330, P337+P317, P370+P378, P403+P233, P403+P235, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

H333: May be harmful if inhaled [Warning Acute toxicity, inhalation]

P210, P233, P240, P241, P242, P243, P261, P264, P264+P265, P270, P271, P280, P301+P317, P303+P361+P353, P304+P317, P304+P340, P305+P351+P338, P319, P330, P337+P317, P370+P378, P403+P233, P403+P235, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Fresh air, rest. Refer for medical attention.

Remove contaminated clothes. Rinse skin with plenty of water or shower.

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

Rinse mouth. Do NOT induce vomiting. Refer for medical attention .

Excerpt from NIOSH Pocket Guide for Ethyl formate:

Eye: IRRIGATE IMMEDIATELY - If this chemical contacts the eyes, immediately wash (irrigate) the eyes with large amounts of water, occasionally lifting the lower and upper lids. Get medical attention immediately.

Skin: WATER FLUSH IMMEDIATELY - If this chemical contacts the skin, immediately flush the contaminated skin with water. If this chemical penetrates the clothing, immediately remove the clothing and flush the skin with water. Get medical attention promptly.

Breathing: RESPIRATORY SUPPORT - If a person breathes large amounts of this chemical, move the exposed person to fresh air at once. If breathing has stopped, perform artificial respiration. Keep the affected person warm and at rest. Get medical attention as soon as possible.

Swallow: MEDICAL ATTENTION IMMEDIATELY - If this chemical has been swallowed, get medical attention immediately. (NIOSH, 2024)

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.

(General first aid procedures)

Eye: Irrigate immediately - If this chemical contacts the eyes, immediately wash (irrigate) the eyes with large amounts of water, occasionally lifting the lower and upper lids. Get medical attention immediately.

Skin: Water flush immediately - If this chemical contacts the skin, immediately flush the contaminated skin with water. If this chemical penetrates the clothing, immediately remove the clothing and flush the skin with water. Get medical attention promptly.

Breathing: Respiratory support

Swallow: Medical attention immediately - If this chemical has been swallowed, get medical attention immediately.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 129 [Flammable Liquids (Water-Miscible / Noxious)]:

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

SMALL FIRE: Dry chemical, CO2, water spray or alcohol-resistant foam. Do not use dry chemical extinguishers to control fires involving nitromethane (UN1261) or nitroethane (UN2842).

LARGE FIRE: Water spray, fog or 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. 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 powder, alcohol-resistant foam, water spray, carbon dioxide. In case of fire: keep drums, etc., cool by spraying with water.

Dry chemical, ... carbon dioxide.

Vapor is heavier than air and may travel long distance to a source of ignition and flash back.

· 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 129 [Flammable Liquids (Water-Miscible / Noxious)]:

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.

Remove all ignition sources. Evacuate danger area! Consult an expert! Personal protection: filter respirator for organic gases and vapours of low boiling point adapted to the airborne concentration of the substance. Ventilation. Collect leaking liquid in sealable containers. Absorb remaining liquid in sand or inert absorbent. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations.

1. REMOVE ALL IGNITION SOURCES. 2. VENTILATE AREA OF SPILL OR LEAK. 3. FOR SMALL QUANTITIES, ABSORB ON PAPER TOWELS. EVAPORATE IN A SAFE PLACE (SUCH AS A FUME HOOD). ALLOW SUFFICIENT TIME FOR EVAPORATING VAPORS TO COMPLETELY CLEAR THE HOOD DUCTWORK. BURN THE PAPER IN A SUITABLE LOCATION AWAY FROM COMBUSTIBLE MATERIALS. LARGE QUANTITIES CAN BE COLLECTED AND ATOMIZED IN A SUITABLE COMBUSTION CHAMBER. ETHYL FORMATE SHOULD NOT BE ALLOWED TO ENTER A CONFINED SPACE, SUCH AS A SEWER, BECAUSE OF THE POSSIBILITY OF AN EXPLOSION.

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.

1. BY ABSORBING IT IN VERMICULITE, DRY SAND, EARTH OR A SIMILAR MATERIAL AND DISPOSING IN A SECURED SANITARY LANDFILL. 2. BY ATOMIZING IN A SUITABLE COMBUSTION CHAMBER.

SRP: Local exhaust ventilation should be applied wherever there is an incidence of point source emissions or dispersion of regulated contaminants in the work area. Ventilation control of the contaminant as close to its point of generation is both the most economical and safest method to minimize personnel exposure to airborne contaminants.

Any clothing which becomes wet with liquid ethyl formate should be removed immediately and not reworn until the ethyl formate is removed from the clothing.

SRP: The scientific literature for the use of contact lenses in industry is conflicting. The benefit 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.

The worker should immediately wash the skin when it becomes contaminated.

For more Preventive Measures (Complete) data for ETHYL FORMATE (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 129 [Flammable Liquids (Water-Miscible / Noxious)]:

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.

KEEP TIGHTLY CLOSED & PREFERABLY IN CONTACT WITH CALCIUM CHLORIDE.

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

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

100.0 [ppm]

100 [ppm]

250 [ppm]

1500 [ppm]

100 ppm (300 mg/m³)

TWA 100 ppm (300 mg/m3)

1500 ppm (NIOSH, 2024)

1500.0 [ppm]

Excerpts from Documentation for IDLHs: It has been reported that 330 ppm produced slight eye irritation and rapidly increasing nasal irritation [Flury and Zernik 1931].

1500 ppm

See: 109944

8 hr Time Weighted Avg (TWA): 100 ppm.

Excursion Limit Recommendation: Excursions in worker exposure levels may exceed 3 times the TLV-TWA for no more than a total of 30 minutes during a work day, and under no circumstances should they exceed 5 times the TLV-TWA, provided that the TLV-TWA is not exceeded.

100 ppm as STEL; A4 (not classifiable as a human carcinogen).

100 ppm [2011]

310 mg/m

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

Small Fire

· Dry chemical, CO2, water spray or alcohol-resistant foam.

· Do not use dry chemical extinguishers to control fires involving nitromethane (UN1261) or nitroethane (UN2842).

Large Fire

· Water spray, fog or 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.

· 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.

Australia: 100 ppm (1990); Federal Republic of Germany: 100 ppm, short-term level 200 ppm, 5 min, 8 times per shift, (Pregnancy group D, data insufficient for a final evalution) (1990); United Kingdom: 100 ppm, 10-min STEL 150 ppm (1991).

A harmful contamination of the air can be reached rather quickly on evaporation of this substance at 20 °C.

The substance is irritating to the eyes and respiratory tract. The substance may cause effects on the central nervous system. Exposure far above the OEL could cause lowering of consciousness.

The substance defats the skin, which may cause dryness or cracking.

The food additive ethyl formate may be safely used in or on specified dried fruits in accordance with the following conditions: it is used or intended for use in or on raisins and dried Zante currants as a bulk and package fumigant.

The food additive ethyl formate may be safely used in or on specified dried fruits in accordance with the following conditions: it is used in accordance with directions registered with the U.S. EPA, and so used that the total formic acid present free and combined, in the finished product shall not exceed 250 ppm.

The food additive ethyl formate may be safely used in or on specified dried fruits in accordance with the following conditions: to assure safe use of the additive, its label and labeling shall conform to that

Excerpt from NIOSH Pocket Guide for Ethyl formate:

Ethyl formate appears as a clear colorless liquid with a pleasant odor. Flash point -4 °F. Less dense than water. Vapors heavier than air.

Colorless liquid with a fruity odor; [NIOSH]

COLOURLESS LIQUID WITH CHARACTERISTIC ODOUR.

Colourless liquid with a sharp, rum-like odour

Colorless liquid with a fruity odor.

MOBILE LIQUID

WATER-WHITE LIQ

Colorless liquid.

Fruity odor.

SLIGHTLY BITTER TASTE

129.6 °F at 760 mmHg (USCG, 1999)

54.5 °C @ 760 MM HG

52.00 to 54.00 °C. @ 760.00 mm Hg

52-54 °C

54.3 °C @760 [mm Hg]

-110 °F (USCG, 1999)

-80.5 °C

-4 °F (USCG, 1999)

-20 °C (-4 °F) (CLOSED CUP)

-20 °C c.c.

9 % at 64 °F (NIOSH, 2024)

SOLUBILITY IN WATER: 9 PARTS/100 @ 18 °C; MISCIBLE WITH BENZENE

SOL IN ALL PROPORTIONS IN ALCOHOL, ETHER; VERY SOL IN ACETONE

SOL IN MOST ORGANIC SOLVENTS

88,250 mg/L at 25 °C

88.2 mg/mL at 25 °C

Solubility in water, g/100ml at 20 °C: 10.5

Soluble in most fixed oils, propylene glycol, water (with gradual decomposition), slightly soluble in mineral oil. Insoluble in glycerol

1ml in 5ml 50% ethanol (in ethanol)

(64 °F): 9%

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

0.9168 @ 20 °C

CONVERSION FACTORS: 1 MG/L EQUIV TO 330 PPM; 1 PPM EQUIV TO 3.03 MG/CU M; DENSITY OF SATURATED AIR: 1.25 (AIR= 1)

Relative density (water = 1): 0.92

0.917-0.922

0.9236 @ 20°C

2.56 (AIR= 1)

Relative vapor density (air = 1): 2.6

200 mmHg (NIOSH, 2024)

245.0 [mmHg]

Highly flammable. Soluble in water. Slowly decomposed by water to formic acid, a corrosive material and ethyl alcohol, another flammable liquid.

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

Highly Flammable

ETHYL FORMATE is 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. This compound is incompatible with the following: Nitrates; strong oxidizers, alkalis & acids [Note: Decomposes slowly in water to form ethyl alcohol and formic acid.] (NIOSH, 2024).

Nitrates; strong oxidizers, alkalis & acids [Note: Decomposes slowly in water to form ethyl alcohol & formic acid].

The crude product of reaction of methanol and carbon monoxide at 100 °C/70 bar in presence of 0.5% of sodium methoxide was discharged after cooling into a storage bottle, which burst 4 hr later. This was attributed to extreme instability of the ester in presence of the base, leading to the reverse reaction with vigorous evolution of carbon monoxide. Immediate neutralization of the reaction mixture would prevent the decomposition, which also occurs with ethyl formate and base.

Nitrates; strong oxidizers, alkalis & acids [Note: Decomposes slowly in water to form ethyl alcohol and formic acid.]

The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation of its vapour and by ingestion.

inhalation, ingestion, skin and/or eye contact

Cough. Shortness of breath. Headache. Drowsiness.

Redness.

Redness. Pain.

Sore throat. Further see Inhalation.

irritation eyes, upper respiratory system; In Animals: narcosis

Eyes, respiratory system, central nervous system

Neurotoxin - Acute solvent syndrome

Dermatotoxin - Skin burns.

ACGIH Carcinogen - Not Classifiable.

LCLo (rat) = 8,000 ppm/4H

LD50 Rat oral 4.29 g/kg

FORMATES CAN BE METABOLIZED TO FORMIC ACID. HENCE TREATMENT AS FOR METHANOL SHOULD BE CONSIDERED.

Employees should be screened for history of certain medical conditions which might place the employee at increased risk from ethyl formate exposure. /These include/ chronic respiratory disease ... skin disease ... liver disease ... kidney disease. ... Any employee developing the above-listed conditions should be referred for further medical examination.

/IT IS/ IRRITATING TO SKIN, MUCOUS MEMBRANES, & IN HIGH CONCENTRATIONS.../A CNS DEPRESSANT/.

No irritation was noted after a 48 hr closed-patch test of 4% ethyl formate on human subjects.

Slight eye irritation in human subjects and strong persistent nasal irritation were noted on exposure to 330 ppm in the air. ... The irritating effects on the eyes and respiratory tract are probably due to rapid hydrolysis of the ester on contact with water, with the formation of alcohol and formic acid.

THERE ARE NO REPORTS OF TOXIC EFFECTS ON HUMANS EXCEPT SLIGHT IRRITATION OF THE EYES AND NOSE...10,500 PPM CAUSES MODERATE BUT PROGRESSIVE IRRITATION OF EYES AND NOSE, REMAINING 4 HR AFTER EXPOSURE.

THE ANESTHETIC POTENCY /IS/ ... LESS THAN THAT OF CHLORINATED HYDROCARBONS & ETHYL ETHER, BUT IT /IS/ ... MORE ACTIVE ... THAN ETHANOL, ACETONE AND ALIPHATIC HYDROCARBONS ... .

...ETHYL FORMATE...HAS BEEN CONSIDERED...LESS IRRITATING & LESS APT TO CAUSE RESPIRATORY DISTURBANCE THAN METHYL FORMATE.

IT CAUSES ... DEPRESSION OF CNS LEADING TO DEATH FROM CIRCULATORY & RESPIRATORY FAILURE...

EXPOSURE OF RATS TO CONCN VAPORS FOR 5 MIN DID NOT RESULT IN ANY DEATHS. EXPOSURE OF RATS TO 8000 PPM FOR 4 HR RESULTED IN 5 DEATHS OF 6 EXPOSED. EXPOSURE OF RATS TO 4000 PPM FOR 4 HR DID NOT RESULT IN ANY DEATHS. /FROM TABLE/

EXPOSURE OF MICE TO 10,000 PPM FOR 20 MIN, OR 5000 PPM FOR 20 MINUTES RESULTED IN EYE IRRITATION & DYSPNEA. EXPOSURE OF CATS TO 10,000 PPM AND 5,000 PPM FOR 80 MIN AND 20 MIN RESULTED IN EYE IRRITATION AND DYSPNEA. /FROM TABLE/

For more Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for ETHYL FORMATE (13 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

In persons with impaired pulmonary function, especially those with obstructive airway diseases, the breathing of ethyl formate might cause exacerbation of symptoms due to its irritant properties. ... Persons with pre-existing skin disorders may be more susceptible to the effects of this agent. ... Although ethyl formate is not known as a liver toxin in humans, the importance of this organ in the biotransformation and detoxification of foreign substances should be considered before exposing persons with impaired liver function. ... Although ethyl formate is not known as a kidney toxin in humans, the importance of this organ in the elimination of toxic substances justifies special consideration in those with possible impairment of renal function.

Release of ethyl formate to the environment will result from its manufacture, transport, disposal, and use in synthetic flavors for lemonades, essences, artificial rum and arrac; and as a fungicide and larvicide for tobacco, cereals, dried fruit, and other crops. It also occurs naturally in fruit and other natural products. It is also used as a solvent for cellulose nitrate and acetate, as an acetone substitute, fumigant, and in organic synthesis. If released to soil, it would be expected to volatilize from the soil surface and readily leach. It would be expected to readily biodegrade and chemically hydrolyze, especially in alkaline soil. Ethyl formate has a relatively high Henry's Law constant and therfore, will readily volatilize. A volatilization half-life of 4.5 hrs was predicted for ethyl formate from a model river. It would not be expected to sorb to sediment or bioconcentrate in aquatic organisms. Hydrolysis will be an important fate process, especially in alkaline waters (half-life is 3.1 days and 7.5 hr at pH 7 and 8, respectively). Based on limited data from screening tests supplemented by predictions of mathematical models and data on similar chemicals, ethyl formate will rapidly biodegrade. In the atmosphere, ethyl formate will react with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals, with an estimated half-life of 11 days. It is fairly soluble in water and should be readily washed out of the air by rain. Exposure will occur as a result of ingestion of foods containing ethyl formate and occupationally via inhalation and dermal contact. (SRC)

/IT IS/ REPORTED IN OIL OF BORONIA DENTIGEROIDES. IT HAS BEEN IDENTIFIED IN FLORIDA ORANGE JUICE, SEVERAL VARIETIES OF HONEY, APPLES AND PEARS, & DISTILLED LIQUORS, SUCH AS RUM.

Ethyl formate occurs widely in fruit(1).

Ethyl formate maybe released to the environment as a result of its production, transport, disposal and use as a synthetic flavoring agent in lemonades, chewing gum, ice cream, essences (apple, pineapple, banana, and peach flavors), artificial rum and arrac; as a fungicide and larvicide for tobacco, cereals, dried fruit, and other crops(1,3) and as a solvent for cellulose nitrate and acetate, as an acetone substitute and fumigant in packaged food, and in organic synthesis(2-4).

TERRESTRIAL FATE: If released to soil, ethyl formate would readily volatilize from the surface layers of soil as well as leach. While no data were located concerning the degradation in soil, it would be expected to readily degrade by chemical hydrolysis, especially in alkaline soil, and biodegrade. (SRC)

AQUATIC FATE: Ethyl formate has a relatively high Henry's Law constant of 3.85X10-4 atm-cu m/mol(1) and if released to water, it will be lost due to evaporation. A volatilization half-life of 4.5 hrs was predicted for ethyl formate from a model river 1 m deep, flowing at 1 m/sec with a wind velocity of 3 m/sec(2,SRC). It would not be expected to sorb to sediment or bioconcentrate in aquatic organisms. Chemical hydrolysis will be an important fate process, especially in alkaline waters. The hydrolytic half-life is 3.1 days and 7.5 hr at pH 7 and 8, respectively(3,SRC). Based on limited data from screening tests supplemented by predictions of mathematical models and data on similar chemicals, ethyl formate should rapidly biodegrade(SRC).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: The half-life of ethyl formate in the atmosphere is estimated to be 11 days as a result of reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals(1). Being fairly soluble in water, it should be readily washed out of the air by rain(SRC).

No information was found about biodegradation of ethyl formate in natural media and ethyl formate's chemical hydrolysis and volatility would complicate biodegradability testing. 33% of its theoretical BOD was realized after 10 days in a laboratory screening test using a culture originally derived from settled sewage that was >1 yr old(1). Ethyl formate is predicted to biodegrade rapidly according to a mathematical model based on group contributions(2) and the structurally similar chemical, ethyl acetate, is readily degradable on the basis of screening tests(3-7) as are other low molecular weight aliphatic esters(8).

Ethyl formate hydrolyzes by an acid- or base-catalyzed reaction, although the base- catalyzed reaction is faster(4). The alkaline hydrolysis rate constant for ethyl formate is 25.7 L/mol-sec at 25 degC(3). The corresponding hydrolysis half-lives are 3.1 days and 7.5 hr at pH 7 and pH 8, respectively(SRC). The hydrolysis products are formic acid and ethanol(1). In the atmosphere, ethyl formate reacts with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals with a rate constant of 1.02X10-12 cu cm/molecule-s(1). Assuming a hydroxyl radical concn of 5X10+5 radicals/cu cm, the half-life of ethyl formate in the atmosphere would be 11 days(SRC).

Ethyl formate did not bioconcentrate in rainbow trout(1). Using a reported log octanol/water partition coefficient of 0.23(2), a BCF of 0.88 is estimated using a regression equation giving additional indication that ethyl formate should not bioconcentrate in aquatic organisms.

Using a reported water solubility of 88.25 g/L(1) for ethyl formate, an estimated Koc of 8 was calculated using a regression equation(2,SRC). A Koc of 4 was estimated from molecular structure(3). According to a suggested classification scheme(3), this estimated Koc suggests that ethyl formate will be highly mobil in soil (SRC).

Using a reported Henry's Law constant of 3.85X10-4 atm-cu m/mol(1) a volatilization half-life of 4.5 hrs was predicted for ethyl formate from a river 1 m deep, flowing at 1 m/sec with a wind velocity of 3 m/sec(2,SRC). Similarly, its volatilization half-life from a model lake 1 m deep, with a 0.05 m/s current and a 0.5 m/s wind is estimated to be 4.0 days(2). Ethyl formate has a high vapor pressure, 244.6 mm Hg at 25 °C(3) and therefore would readily volatilize from dry soil and other surfaces(SRC). Its moderately high Henry's Law Constant coupled with it low adsorptivity to soil indicates that ethyl formate would also readily volatilize from moist soil(SRC).

Ethyl formate was identified, but not quantified, in roasted filberts(1), beer(2), wine(6,7), Korean chamchwi(3), blue cheese(4), and apples and pears(5).

Ethyl formate was found in mussels at 4.08 ppm(1).

Release of ethyl formate to the environment will result from its manufacture, transport, disposal, and use in synthetic flavors for lemonades, essences, artificial rum and arrac; and as a fungicide and larvicide for tobacco, cereals, dried fruit, and other crops. It also occurs naturally in fruit and other natural products. It is also used as a solvent for cellulose nitrate and acetate, as an acetone substitute, fumigant, and in organic synthesis. If released to soil, it would be expected to volatilize from the soil surface and readily leach. It would be expected to readily biodegrade and chemically hydrolyze, especially in alkaline soil. Ethyl formate has a relatively high Henry's Law constant and therfore, will readily volatilize. A volatilization half-life of 4.5 hrs was predicted for ethyl formate from a model river. It would not be expected to sorb to sediment or bioconcentrate in aquatic organisms. Hydrolysis will be an important fate process, especially in alkaline waters (half-life is 3.1 days and 7.5 hr at pH 7 and 8, respectively). Based on limited data from screening tests supplemented by predictions of mathematical models and data on similar chemicals, ethyl formate will rapidly biodegrade. In the atmosphere, ethyl formate will react with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals, with an estimated half-life of 11 days. It is fairly soluble in water and should be readily washed out of the air by rain. Exposure will occur as a result of ingestion of foods containing ethyl formate and occupationally via inhalation and dermal contact. (SRC)

/IT IS/ REPORTED IN OIL OF BORONIA DENTIGEROIDES. IT HAS BEEN IDENTIFIED IN FLORIDA ORANGE JUICE, SEVERAL VARIETIES OF HONEY, APPLES AND PEARS, & DISTILLED LIQUORS, SUCH AS RUM.

Ethyl formate occurs widely in fruit(1).

Ethyl formate maybe released to the environment as a result of its production, transport, disposal and use as a synthetic flavoring agent in lemonades, chewing gum, ice cream, essences (apple, pineapple, banana, and peach flavors), artificial rum and arrac; as a fungicide and larvicide for tobacco, cereals, dried fruit, and other crops(1,3) and as a solvent for cellulose nitrate and acetate, as an acetone substitute and fumigant in packaged food, and in organic synthesis(2-4).

TERRESTRIAL FATE: If released to soil, ethyl formate would readily volatilize from the surface layers of soil as well as leach. While no data were located concerning the degradation in soil, it would be expected to readily degrade by chemical hydrolysis, especially in alkaline soil, and biodegrade. (SRC)

AQUATIC FATE: Ethyl formate has a relatively high Henry's Law constant of 3.85X10-4 atm-cu m/mol(1) and if released to water, it will be lost due to evaporation. A volatilization half-life of 4.5 hrs was predicted for ethyl formate from a model river 1 m deep, flowing at 1 m/sec with a wind velocity of 3 m/sec(2,SRC). It would not be expected to sorb to sediment or bioconcentrate in aquatic organisms. Chemical hydrolysis will be an important fate process, especially in alkaline waters. The hydrolytic half-life is 3.1 days and 7.5 hr at pH 7 and 8, respectively(3,SRC). Based on limited data from screening tests supplemented by predictions of mathematical models and data on similar chemicals, ethyl formate should rapidly biodegrade(SRC).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: The half-life of ethyl formate in the atmosphere is estimated to be 11 days as a result of reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals(1). Being fairly soluble in water, it should be readily washed out of the air by rain(SRC).

No information was found about biodegradation of ethyl formate in natural media and ethyl formate's chemical hydrolysis and volatility would complicate biodegradability testing. 33% of its theoretical BOD was realized after 10 days in a laboratory screening test using a culture originally derived from settled sewage that was >1 yr old(1). Ethyl formate is predicted to biodegrade rapidly according to a mathematical model based on group contributions(2) and the structurally similar chemical, ethyl acetate, is readily degradable on the basis of screening tests(3-7) as are other low molecular weight aliphatic esters(8).

Ethyl formate hydrolyzes by an acid- or base-catalyzed reaction, although the base- catalyzed reaction is faster(4). The alkaline hydrolysis rate constant for ethyl formate is 25.7 L/mol-sec at 25 degC(3). The corresponding hydrolysis half-lives are 3.1 days and 7.5 hr at pH 7 and pH 8, respectively(SRC). The hydrolysis products are formic acid and ethanol(1). In the atmosphere, ethyl formate reacts with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals with a rate constant of 1.02X10-12 cu cm/molecule-s(1). Assuming a hydroxyl radical concn of 5X10+5 radicals/cu cm, the half-life of ethyl formate in the atmosphere would be 11 days(SRC).

Ethyl formate did not bioconcentrate in rainbow trout(1). Using a reported log octanol/water partition coefficient of 0.23(2), a BCF of 0.88 is estimated using a regression equation giving additional indication that ethyl formate should not bioconcentrate in aquatic organisms.

Using a reported water solubility of 88.25 g/L(1) for ethyl formate, an estimated Koc of 8 was calculated using a regression equation(2,SRC). A Koc of 4 was estimated from molecular structure(3). According to a suggested classification scheme(3), this estimated Koc suggests that ethyl formate will be highly mobil in soil (SRC).

Using a reported Henry's Law constant of 3.85X10-4 atm-cu m/mol(1) a volatilization half-life of 4.5 hrs was predicted for ethyl formate from a river 1 m deep, flowing at 1 m/sec with a wind velocity of 3 m/sec(2,SRC). Similarly, its volatilization half-life from a model lake 1 m deep, with a 0.05 m/s current and a 0.5 m/s wind is estimated to be 4.0 days(2). Ethyl formate has a high vapor pressure, 244.6 mm Hg at 25 °C(3) and therefore would readily volatilize from dry soil and other surfaces(SRC). Its moderately high Henry's Law Constant coupled with it low adsorptivity to soil indicates that ethyl formate would also readily volatilize from moist soil(SRC).

Ethyl formate was identified, but not quantified, in roasted filberts(1), beer(2), wine(6,7), Korean chamchwi(3), blue cheese(4), and apples and pears(5).

Ethyl formate was found in mussels at 4.08 ppm(1).

Ethyl formate has been identified in poultry manure(1). It is not known whether it is a poultry metabolite or a product of microbial degradation()1).

Ethyl formate is used in flavorings for lemonades and essences, in artificial rum and arrac, and as a fungicide and larvicide for tobacco, cereals, dried fruits, and other crops(1). It is also naturally found in fruits. Oral ingestion may occur as a result of the above reported uses of ethyl formate(SRC). Occupational exposure will be via inhalation and dermal contact(SRC).

NIOSH (NOES Survey 1981-1983) has statistically estimated that 8,149 workers are exposed to ethyl formate in the USA(1).

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.

1. BY ABSORBING IT IN VERMICULITE, DRY SAND, EARTH OR A SIMILAR MATERIAL AND DISPOSING IN A SECURED SANITARY LANDFILL. 2. BY ATOMIZING IN A SUITABLE COMBUSTION CHAMBER.

/GUIDE 129: FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS (Polar/Water-Miscible/Noxious)/ 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.

/GUIDE 129: FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS (Polar/Water-Miscible/Noxious)/ Health: May cause toxic effects if inhaled or absorbed through skin. Inhalation or contact with material may irritate or burn skin and eyes. Fire will produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Vapors may cause dizziness or suffocation. Runoff from fire control or dilution water may cause pollution.

/GUIDE 129: FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS (Polar/Water-Miscible/Noxious)/ Public Safety: CALL Emergency Response Telephone Number on Shipping Paper first. If Shipping Paper not available or no answer, refer to appropriate telephone number listed on the inside back cover. 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 129: FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS (Polar/Water-Miscible/Noxious)/ 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 ETHYL FORMATE (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

UN 1190; Ethyl formate

IMO 3.1; Ethyl formate

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 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.

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.

Flammable Liquid

Symbol: F, Xn; R: 11-20/22-36/37; S: (2)-9-16-24-26-33

UN Hazard Class: 3; UN Pack Group: II