Ethyl Nitrite

H220: Extremely flammable gas [Danger Flammable gases]

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

H312: Harmful in contact with skin [Warning Acute toxicity, dermal]

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

P203, P210, P222, P261, P264, P270, P271, P280, P301+P317, P302+P352, P304+P340, P317, P321, P330, P362+P364, P377, P381, P403, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

This chemical does not meet GHS hazard criteria for 13.2% (36 of 272) of reports.

H220 (86.8%): Extremely flammable gas [Danger Flammable gases]

H280 (85.3%): Contains gas under pressure; may explode if heated [Warning Gases under pressure]

H302 (86.8%): Harmful if swallowed [Warning Acute toxicity, oral]

H312 (86.8%): Harmful in contact with skin [Warning Acute toxicity, dermal]

H332 (86.8%): Harmful if inhaled [Warning Acute toxicity, inhalation]

P203, P210, P222, P261, P264, P270, P271, P280, P301+P317, P302+P352, P304+P340, P317, P321, P330, P362+P364, P377, P381, P403, P410+P403, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Aggregated GHS information provided per 272 reports by companies from 4 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.

Reported as not meeting GHS hazard criteria per 36 of 272 reports by companies.

There are 3 notifications provided by 236 of 272 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.

INHALATION: remove victim from exposure; if breathing has stopped, give artificial respiration; call physician.

EYES: flush with water for at least 15 min.; get medical attention if irritation persists.

SKIN: flush with water, wash with soap and water.

INGESTION: do NOT induce vomiting; call physician. (USCG, 1999)

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 131 [Flammable Liquids - Toxic]:

CAUTION: The majority of these products have a very low flash point. Use of water spray when fighting fire may be inefficient. CAUTION: Methanol (UN1230) will burn with an invisible flame. Use an alternate method of detection (thermal camera, broom handle, etc.).

SMALL FIRE: Dry chemical, CO2, water spray or alcohol-resistant foam.

LARGE FIRE: Water spray, fog or alcohol-resistant 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. 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 water spray, dry chemical, foam, or carbon dioxide. Use water spry to keep fire-exposed containers cool. Fight fire from protected location or maximum possible distance.

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.

Evacuation: If fire becomes uncontrollable or container is exposed to direct flame - consider evacuation of one-half (1/2) mile radius.

Closed containers may rupture violently when heated.

· 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.

Small Spill

· Absorb with earth, sand or other non-combustible material and transfer to containers for later disposal.

· 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 131 [Flammable Liquids - Toxic]:

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

SPILL: Increase the immediate precautionary measure distance, in the downwind direction, as necessary.

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.

· For highlighted materials: see Table 1 - Initial Isolation and Protective Action Distances.

· For non-highlighted materials: increase the immediate precautionary measure distance, in the downwind direction, as necessary.

· 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.

Eliminate all ignition sources. Stop or control the leak, if this can be done without undue risk. Use appropriate foam to blanket release and suppress vapors. Absorb in noncombustible material for proper disposal.

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. ... Avoid bodily contact with the material. ... 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.

If material leaking (not on fire) consider evacuation from downwind area based on amount of material spilled, location and weather conditions.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 131 [Flammable Liquids - Toxic]:

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.

SMALL SPILL: Absorb with earth, sand or other non-combustible material and transfer to containers for later disposal. 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)

KEEP TIGHTLY CLOSED, IN A COOL PLACE, PROTECTED FROM LIGHT.

Store away from heat, oxidizers, and sunlight. Must be stored in a dry location. Outside or detached storage is preferred.

· 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.

Biological Exposure Indices (BEI) [ACGIH] - Methemoglobin in blood = 1.5% of hemoglobin during or at end of shift. [ACGIH]

0.11 [ppm]

1.2 [ppm]

7.1 [ppm]

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

CAUTION: Methanol (UN1230) will burn with an invisible flame. Use an alternate method of detection (thermal camera, broom handle, etc.)

Small Fire

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

Large Fire

· Water spray, fog or alcohol-resistant 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.

· 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.

Self-contained breathing apparatus; goggles or face shield; rubber gloves. (USCG, 1999)

SELF-CONTAINED BREATHING APPARATUS; GOGGLES, OR FACE SHIELD; RUBBER GLOVES.

Ethyl nitrite, solution appears as a clear colorless to yellow liquid with a pleasant odor. Flammable over a wide range of vapor-air concentrations. Flash point -31 °F. Less dense than water and insoluble in water. Vapors are heavier than air and narcotic in high concentrations. Produces toxic oxides of nitrogen during combustion.

Colorless to yellowish liquid with a rum-like odor; [HSDB]

Colorless or yellowish, clear liquid

SWEET, RUM-LIKE ODOR

FRUITY TASTE

Burning, sweetish taste

63 °F at 760 mmHg (USCG, 1999)

17 °C @760 [mm Hg]

-58 °F (USCG, 1999)

FP: -58 °F= -50 °C= 233 deg K

-31 °F (USCG, 1999)

-31 °F (-35 °C) (CLOSED CUP)

Slightly soluble in water; decomposes in water; miscible with alcohol, ether

0.9 at 59 °F (USCG, 1999) - Less dense than water; will float

0.90 @ 15 °C/15 °C

0.900 @ 15.5°C

620.0 [mmHg]

ON KEEPING, IT GRADUALLY DECOMPOSES, BECOMING ACID & OXIDES OF NITROGEN FORM. DECOMP IS HASTENED BY AIR, LIGHT, & MOISTURE.

194 °F (USCG, 1999)

194 °F (DECOMPOSES).

-7,800 BTU/LB= -4,300 CAL/G= -180X10+5 J/KG

229 BTU/LB= 127 CAL/G= 5.32X10+5 J/KG

30 DYNES/CM= 0.030 N/M @ 20 °C

Index of refraction: 1.3418 @ 10 °C/D

Decomp in water; decomp spontaneously at 194 °F (90 °C)

VERY MOBILE; FORMS AZEOTROPIC MIXTURE WITH ISOPENTANE (85%), AMYL BROMIDE (40%) & CARBON DISULFIDE (96%)

FLOATS ON WATER; MAY BOIL ON WATER; LIQ-WATER INTERFACIAL TENSION: 35 DYNES/CM= 0.035 N/M @ 20 °C

Hydroxyl radical rate constant = 1.75X10-12 cu-cm/molc sec @ 25 °C

Decomposes readily to form oxides of nitrogen.

Nitrogen Compounds -> Nitrates and Nitrites

Flammable agents - 4th degree

Reactive agents - 4th degree

FLAVORING AGENT OR ADJUVANT -> FDA Substance added to food

Highly flammable. Vapors may ignite spontaneously and the reaction may reach explosive violence. Insoluble in water. Decomposes in water.

Nitro, Nitroso, Nitrate, and Nitrite Compounds, Organic

Water and Aqueous Solutions

Explosive

Strong Oxidizing Agent

Pyrophoric

ETHYL NITRITE is a powerful oxidizing agent. Highly dangerous in contact with acid or acid fumes. Dangerous when heated. Decomposes spontaneously at 194 °F. Decomposed by light.

DISASTER HAZARD: HIGHLY DANGEROUS; WHEN HEATED TO DECOMPOSITION OR ON CONTACT WITH ACID OR ACID FUMES, EMITS HIGHLY TOXIC FUMES OF NO(X)...

Neurotoxin - Other CNS neurotoxin

Occupational hepatotoxin - Secondary hepatotoxins: the potential for toxic effect in the occupational setting is based on cases of poisoning by human ingestion or animal experimentation.

Methemoglobinemia - The presence of increased methemoglobin in the blood; the compound is classified as primary toxic effect.

LC50 (rat) = 160 ppm/4H

LD50 Rat inhalation 160 ppm/4 hr

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 shock and treat if necessary ... . Anticipate seizures and treat as 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 drool. Administer activated charcoal ... . /Nitrates, nitrites, and related compounds/

Advanced treatment: Consider orotracheal or nasotracheal intubation for airway control in the patient is unconscious or in respiratory arrest. 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. For hypotension with signs of hypovolemia, administer fluid cautiously. If unresponsive to these measures, vasopressors may be helpful. Watch for signs of fluid overload ... . Treat seizures with diazepam (Valium) ... . Administer 1% solution methylene blue if patient is symptomatic with severe hypoxia, cyanosis, and cardiac compromise not responding to oxygen. ... . Use proparacaine hydrochloride to assist eye irrigation ... . /Nitrates, nitrites, and related compounds/

MAY CAUSE METHEMOGLOBINEMIA & HYPOTENSION, &, IN HIGH CONCN.../SRP: CNS DEPRESSION/.

Industrial intoxications characterized by headache, tachycardia, and methemoglobinemia have occurred. A fatality has been described following the inhalation of ethyl nitrite after accidental breakage of a 4 liter bottle containing 24% ethyl nitrite in alcohol.

Three cases of ethyl nitrite intoxication have been reported from Czechoslovakia during a synthesis of hydantoin (glycolylurea). Symptoms of both "nitrite" effect and methemoglobinemia were noted. In addition, there was a vasodilator effect upon the blood vessels of the sclerae, producing a peculiar redness of the eyes, ... No Heinz bodies were seen.

ADMIN OF SWEET SPIRITS OF NITRE (4% ETHYL NITRITE IN 70% ETHANOL) WAS FOLLOWED BY ACUTE METHEMOGLOBINEMIA & SEVERE ANOXIC METABOLIC ACIDOSIS IN INFANT TWINS, METHYLENE BLUE ADMIN REVERSED METHEMOGLOBINEMIA IN BOTH, BUT ONE TWIN DIED FROM THE CONSEQUENCES OF HYPOXEMIA.

For more Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for ETHYL NITRITE (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Mice and cats exposed for 15 min to 15 ppm did not show recognizable effects.

Inhalation of ethyl nitrite by dogs results in as much as 70 mm Hg depression in the blood pressure. This lasts approx 2 min after a single inhalation. Methemoglobin is formed but Heinz bodies have not been found.

Ethyl nitrite's production and use for preparing spirit nitrous ether and also for use in organic reactions may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. If released to air, an estimated vapor pressure of 620 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates ethyl nitrite will exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase ethyl nitrite 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 34 days. If released to soil, ethyl nitrite is expected to have high mobility based upon an estimated Koc of 81. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 8.7X10-5 atm-cu m/mole. Ethyl nitrite may volatilize from dry soil surfaces based upon its vapor pressure. If released into water, ethyl nitrite 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 7 hours and 146 hours, respectively. A decomposition rate has not been published, however it is known that ethyl nitrite is slighlty soluable in water and is decomposed by it. In addition, decomposition of ethyl nitrite is hastened by air, light,and moisture. An estimated BCF of 2 suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low. Occupational exposure to ethyl nitrite may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where ethyl nitrite is produced or used. The general population may be exposed to ethyl nitrite via inhalation of auto exhaust from alcohol-fueled vehicles and ingestion of food in which ethyl nitrite has been used as a synthetic flavoring. (SRC)

Ethyl nitrite's production and use for preparing spirit nitrous ether(1), in exhaust from alcohol-fueled vehicles(2), and also for use in organic reactions(3) 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 81(SRC), determined from a structure estimation method(2), indicates that ethyl nitrite is expected to have very high mobility in soil(SRC). Volatilization of ethyl nitrite from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process(SRC) given an estimated Henry's Law constant of 8.7X10-5 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), using a fragment constant estimation method(3). The potential for volatilization of ethyl nitrite from dry soil surfaces may exist(SRC) based upon an estimated vapor pressure of 620 mm Hg(SRC), determined from a fragment constant method(4). A decomposition rate has not been published, however it is known that ethyl nitrite is slightly soluble(5) and decomposes in water(5). In addition, decomposition of ethyl nitrite is hastened by air, light, and moisture(5).

AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 81(SRC), determined from a structure estimation method(2), indicates that ethyl nitrite is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment in water(SRC). Volatilization from water surfaces is expected(3) based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 8.7X10-5 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), developed using a fragment constant estimation method(4). Using this Henry's Law constant and an estimation method(3), volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 7 and 146, respectively(SRC). A decomposition rate has not been published, however it is known that ethyl nitrite is slighlty soluable in water and is decomposed by it(7). In addition, decomposition of ethyl nitrite is hastened by air, light, and moisture(7). According to a classification scheme(5), an estimated BCF of 2(SRC), from an estimated log Kow(8) and a regression-derived equation(6), suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low.

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: A decomposition rate has not been published, however it is known that decomposition of ethyl nitrite is hastened by air, light,and moisture(4). According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), ethyl nitrite, which has an estimated vapor pressure of 620 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), is expected to exist solely in the particulate phase in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase ethyl nitrite 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 34.5 days(SRC), calculated from its rate constant of 1.75X10-12 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(3).

A decomposition rate has not been published, however it is known that ethyl nitrite is slighlty soluable in water and is decomposed by it(2). In addition, decomposition of ethyl nitrite is hastened by air, light,and moisture(2). The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of ethyl nitrite with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals is 1.75X10-12 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(1). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 34 days at an atmospheric concentration of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(1).

An estimated BCF of 2 was calculated for ethyl nitrite(SRC), using an estimated log Kow of 1.4(1,SRC) and a regression-derived equation(2). According to a classification scheme(3), this BCF suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low.

Using a structure estimation method based on molecular connectivity indices(1), the Koc for ethyl nitrite can be estimated to be 81(SRC). According to a classification scheme(2), this estimated Koc value suggests that ethyl nitrite is expected to have high mobility in soil.

The Henry's Law constant for ethyl nitrite is estimated as 8.7X10-5 atm-cu m/mole(SRC) using a fragment constant estimation method(1). This Henry's Law constant indicates that ethyl nitrite is expected to volatilize from water surfaces(2). 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)(2) is estimated as 7 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)(2) is estimated as 6 days(SRC). Ethyl nitrite's Henry's Law constant(1) indicates that volatilization from moist soil surfaces may occur(SRC). The potential for volatilization of ethyl nitrite from dry soil surfaces may exist(SRC) based upon an estimated vapor pressure of 620 mm Hg(SRC), determined from a fragment constant method(3).

ETHYL NITRITE IS DETECTED IN EXHAUSTS WHEN METHANOL & ETHANOL ARE USED AS FUELS. ETHYL NITRITE CONTENT OF EXHAUST FROM A VEHICLE FUELED WITH ETHANOL & OPERATED AT HIGHWAY CONDITIONS IS 1.0-9.0 & 16.5-27.0 PPM, RESPECTIVELY, IN INITIAL 1/2 HR & IN 17 HR.

Occupational exposure to ethyl nitrite may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where ethyl nitrite is produced or used. The general population may be exposed to ethyl nitrite via inhalation of auto exhaust from alcohol-fueled vehicles and ingestion of food in which ethyl nitrite has been used as a synthetic flavoring. (SRC)

Ethyl nitrite's production and use for preparing spirit nitrous ether and also for use in organic reactions may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. If released to air, an estimated vapor pressure of 620 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates ethyl nitrite will exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase ethyl nitrite 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 34 days. If released to soil, ethyl nitrite is expected to have high mobility based upon an estimated Koc of 81. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 8.7X10-5 atm-cu m/mole. Ethyl nitrite may volatilize from dry soil surfaces based upon its vapor pressure. If released into water, ethyl nitrite 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 7 hours and 146 hours, respectively. A decomposition rate has not been published, however it is known that ethyl nitrite is slighlty soluable in water and is decomposed by it. In addition, decomposition of ethyl nitrite is hastened by air, light,and moisture. An estimated BCF of 2 suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low. Occupational exposure to ethyl nitrite may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where ethyl nitrite is produced or used. The general population may be exposed to ethyl nitrite via inhalation of auto exhaust from alcohol-fueled vehicles and ingestion of food in which ethyl nitrite has been used as a synthetic flavoring. (SRC)

Ethyl nitrite's production and use for preparing spirit nitrous ether(1), in exhaust from alcohol-fueled vehicles(2), and also for use in organic reactions(3) 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 81(SRC), determined from a structure estimation method(2), indicates that ethyl nitrite is expected to have very high mobility in soil(SRC). Volatilization of ethyl nitrite from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process(SRC) given an estimated Henry's Law constant of 8.7X10-5 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), using a fragment constant estimation method(3). The potential for volatilization of ethyl nitrite from dry soil surfaces may exist(SRC) based upon an estimated vapor pressure of 620 mm Hg(SRC), determined from a fragment constant method(4). A decomposition rate has not been published, however it is known that ethyl nitrite is slightly soluble(5) and decomposes in water(5). In addition, decomposition of ethyl nitrite is hastened by air, light, and moisture(5).

AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 81(SRC), determined from a structure estimation method(2), indicates that ethyl nitrite is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment in water(SRC). Volatilization from water surfaces is expected(3) based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 8.7X10-5 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), developed using a fragment constant estimation method(4). Using this Henry's Law constant and an estimation method(3), volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 7 and 146, respectively(SRC). A decomposition rate has not been published, however it is known that ethyl nitrite is slighlty soluable in water and is decomposed by it(7). In addition, decomposition of ethyl nitrite is hastened by air, light, and moisture(7). According to a classification scheme(5), an estimated BCF of 2(SRC), from an estimated log Kow(8) and a regression-derived equation(6), suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low.

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: A decomposition rate has not been published, however it is known that decomposition of ethyl nitrite is hastened by air, light,and moisture(4). According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), ethyl nitrite, which has an estimated vapor pressure of 620 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), is expected to exist solely in the particulate phase in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase ethyl nitrite 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 34.5 days(SRC), calculated from its rate constant of 1.75X10-12 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(3).

A decomposition rate has not been published, however it is known that ethyl nitrite is slighlty soluable in water and is decomposed by it(2). In addition, decomposition of ethyl nitrite is hastened by air, light,and moisture(2). The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of ethyl nitrite with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals is 1.75X10-12 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(1). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 34 days at an atmospheric concentration of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(1).

An estimated BCF of 2 was calculated for ethyl nitrite(SRC), using an estimated log Kow of 1.4(1,SRC) and a regression-derived equation(2). According to a classification scheme(3), this BCF suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low.

Using a structure estimation method based on molecular connectivity indices(1), the Koc for ethyl nitrite can be estimated to be 81(SRC). According to a classification scheme(2), this estimated Koc value suggests that ethyl nitrite is expected to have high mobility in soil.

The Henry's Law constant for ethyl nitrite is estimated as 8.7X10-5 atm-cu m/mole(SRC) using a fragment constant estimation method(1). This Henry's Law constant indicates that ethyl nitrite is expected to volatilize from water surfaces(2). 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)(2) is estimated as 7 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)(2) is estimated as 6 days(SRC). Ethyl nitrite's Henry's Law constant(1) indicates that volatilization from moist soil surfaces may occur(SRC). The potential for volatilization of ethyl nitrite from dry soil surfaces may exist(SRC) based upon an estimated vapor pressure of 620 mm Hg(SRC), determined from a fragment constant method(3).

ETHYL NITRITE IS DETECTED IN EXHAUSTS WHEN METHANOL & ETHANOL ARE USED AS FUELS. ETHYL NITRITE CONTENT OF EXHAUST FROM A VEHICLE FUELED WITH ETHANOL & OPERATED AT HIGHWAY CONDITIONS IS 1.0-9.0 & 16.5-27.0 PPM, RESPECTIVELY, IN INITIAL 1/2 HR & IN 17 HR.

Occupational exposure to ethyl nitrite may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where ethyl nitrite is produced or used. The general population may be exposed to ethyl nitrite via inhalation of auto exhaust from alcohol-fueled vehicles and ingestion of food in which ethyl nitrite has been used as a synthetic flavoring. (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 131: FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS-TOXIC/ Health: TOXIC; may be fatal if inhaled, ingested or absorbed through skin. Inhalation or contact with some of these materials will 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. /Ethyl nitrite, solution/

/GUIDE 131: FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS-TOXIC/ 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 and poison 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. /Ethyl nitrite, solution/

/GUIDE 131: FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS-TOXIC/ 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. /Ethyl nitrite, solution/

/GUIDE 131: FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS-TOXIC/ 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. /Ethyl nitrite, solution/

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

UN 1194; Ethyl nitrite solution

IMO 3.1; Ethyl nitrite solution

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 Poison