Octane

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

H304: May be fatal if swallowed and enters airways [Danger Aspiration hazard]

H315: Causes skin irritation [Warning Skin corrosion/irritation]

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

H400: Very toxic to aquatic life [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, acute hazard]

H410: Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

P210, P233, P240, P241, P242, P243, P261, P264, P271, P273, P280, P301+P316, P302+P352, P303+P361+P353, P304+P340, P319, P321, P331, P332+P317, P362+P364, P370+P378, P391, P403+P233, P403+P235, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

H225 (100%): Highly Flammable liquid and vapor [Danger Flammable liquids]

H302 (28.3%): Harmful if swallowed [Warning Acute toxicity, oral]

H304 (100%): May be fatal if swallowed and enters airways [Danger Aspiration hazard]

H312 (28.3%): Harmful in contact with skin [Warning Acute toxicity, dermal]

H315 (100%): Causes skin irritation [Warning Skin corrosion/irritation]

H319 (31.6%): Causes serious eye irritation [Warning Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

H336 (99.9%): May cause drowsiness or dizziness [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure; Narcotic effects]

H400 (96.2%): Very toxic to aquatic life [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, acute hazard]

H410 (98.6%): Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

P210, P233, P240, P241, P242, P243, P261, P264, P264+P265, P270, P271, P273, P280, P301+P316, P301+P317, P302+P352, P303+P361+P353, P304+P340, P305+P351+P338, P317, P319, P321, P330, P331, P332+P317, P337+P317, P362+P364, P370+P378, P391, P403+P233, P403+P235, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Aggregated GHS information provided per 1560 reports by companies from 40 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.

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.

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

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

H411: Toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

P210, P233, P240, P241, P242, P243, P261, P264, P264+P265, P271, P273, P280, P301+P316, P302+P352, P303+P361+P353, P304+P340, P305+P351+P338, P319, P321, P331, P332+P317, P337+P317, P362+P364, P370+P378, P391, P403+P233, P403+P235, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

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+P316, P302+P352, P303+P361+P353, P304+P340, P305+P351+P338, P308+P316, P319, P321, P331, P332+P317, P337+P317, P362+P364, 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.

Do NOT induce vomiting. Give nothing to drink. Refer for medical attention .

Excerpt from NIOSH Pocket Guide for Octane:

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: SOAP WASH PROMPTLY - If this chemical contacts the skin, promptly wash the contaminated skin with soap and water. If this chemical penetrates the clothing, promptly remove the clothing and wash the skin with soap and 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 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: Soap wash promptly - If this chemical contacts the skin, promptly wash the contaminated skin with soap and water. If this chemical penetrates the clothing, promptly remove the clothing and wash the skin with soap and water. Get medical attention promptly.

Breathing: Respiratory support

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

Fire Extinguishing Agents Not to Be Used: Water may be ineffective.

Fire Extinguishing Agents: Dry chemical, foam, carbon dioxide (USCG, 1999)

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

For small (incipient) fires, use media such as "alcohol" foam, dry chemical, or carbon dioxide. For large fires, apply water from as far as possible. Use very large quantities (flooding) of water applied as a mist or spray; solid streams of water may be ineffective. Cool all affected containers with flooding quantities of water.

Water may be ineffective.

Wear self contained breathing apparatus for fire fighting if necessary.

Containers may explode in fire. Flashback along vapor trail may occur.

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)

Evacuate danger area! Ventilation. 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. Do NOT wash away into sewer. Do NOT let this chemical enter the environment. Personal protection: self-contained breathing apparatus.

Evacuate danger area! Ventilation. 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. Do NOT wash away into sewer. Do NOT let this chemical enter the environment. Personal protection: self-contained breathing apparatus.

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 & atomized in a suitable combustion chamber. Octane should not be allowed to enter a confined space, such as a sewer, because of the possibility of an explosion.

Burn in a chemical incinerator equipped with an afterburner and scrubber but exert extra care in igniting as this material is highly flammable. Offer surplus and non-recyclable solutions to a licensed disposal company. contact a licensed professional waste disposal service to dispose of this material.

SRP: Wastewater from contaminant suppression, cleaning of protective clothing/equipment, or contaminated sites should be contained and evaluated for subject chemical or decomposition product concentrations. Concentrations shall be lower than applicable environmental discharge or disposal criteria. Alternatively, pretreatment and/or discharge to a permitted wastewater treatment facility is acceptable only after review by the governing authority and assurance that "pass through" violations will not occur. Due consideration shall be given to remediation worker exposure (inhalation, dermal and ingestion) as well as fate during treatment, transfer and disposal. If it is not practicable to manage the chemical in this fashion, it must be evaluated in accordance with EPA 40 CFR Part 261, specifically Subpart B, in order to determine the appropriate local, state and federal requirements for disposal.

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

Avoid contact with skin and eyes. Avoid inhalation of vapor or mist. Use explosion-proof equipment. Keep away from sources of ignition - No smoking. Take measures to prevent the build up of electrostatic charge.

Clothing wet with liquid octane should be placed in closed containers for storage until it can be discarded or until provision is made for removal of octane from the clothing. If the clothing is to be laundered or otherwise cleaned to remove the octane, the person performing the operation should be informed of octane's hazardous properties.

Where there is any possibility that employees' eyes may be exposed to octane, an eye-wash fountain should be provided within the immediate work area for emergency use.

For more Preventive Measures (Complete) data for N-OCTANE (7 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

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. Ventilation along the floor.

Store in cool place. Keep container tightly closed in a dry and well-ventilated place. Containers which are opened must be carefully resealed and kept upright to prevent leakage.

500.0 [ppm]

230 [ppm]

385 [ppm]

5000 [ppm]

75 ppm (350 mg/m³)

385 ppm (1800 mg/m³) [15 minutes]

TWA 75 ppm (350 mg/m3) C 385 ppm (1800 mg/m3) [15-minute]

500 ppm (2350 mg/m³)

TWA 500 ppm (2350 mg/m3) See Appendix G

1000 ppm ; Based on 10% of the lower explosive limit. (NIOSH, 2024)

1000.0 [ppm]

Excerpts from Documentation for IDLHs: Human data: The narcotic concentration has been estimated to be either 8,000 ppm [Flury and Zernik 1931] or 10,000 ppm [Patty and Yant 1929]. The fatal concentration has been estimated to be 13,500 ppm [Flury and Zernik 1931].

1000 ppm (IDLH based on 10% of the lower explosion limit for safety considerations even though the relevant toxicological data indicated that irreversible health efects or impairment of escape existed only at higher concentrations.)

1000 ppm

1000 ppm [10%LEL]

See: 111659

300.0 [ppm]

8 hr Time Weighted Avg (TWA): 300 ppm. /Octane, all isomers/

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. /Octane, all isomers/

300 ppm as TWA.

300 ppm [1979]

2400 mg/m

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

The substance is irritating to the eyes, skin and respiratory tract. If this liquid is swallowed, aspiration into the lungs may result in chemical pneumonitis. Exposure to high concentrations of vapour could cause lowering of consciousness.

Repeated or prolonged contact with skin may cause dermatitis. The substance defats the skin, which may cause dryness or cracking.

Excerpt from NIOSH Pocket Guide for Octane:

Skin: PREVENT SKIN CONTACT - Wear appropriate personal protective clothing to prevent skin contact.

Eyes: PREVENT EYE CONTACT - Wear appropriate eye protection to prevent eye contact.

Wash skin: WHEN CONTAMINATED - The worker should immediately wash the skin when it becomes contaminated.

Remove: WHEN WET (FLAMMABLE) - Work clothing that becomes wet should be immediately removed due to its flammability hazard (i.e., for liquids with a flash point <100 °F).

Change: No recommendation is made specifying the need for the worker to change clothing after the workshift. (NIOSH, 2024)

... goggles or face shield; rubber gloves.

Wear appropriate personal protective clothing to prevent skin contact.

Wear appropriate eye protection to prevent eye contact.

Respirator Recommendations: Up to 750 ppm: [Table#335]

For more Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) (Complete) data for N-OCTANE (7 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Up to 750 ppm:

(APF = 10) Any supplied-air respirator*

Up to 1000 ppm:

(APF = 25) Any supplied-air respirator operated in a continuous-flow mode*

N-octane is a colorless liquid with an odor of gasoline. Less dense than water and insoluble in water. Hence floats on water. Produces irritating vapor.

Colorless liquid with a gasoline-like odor; [NIOSH]

COLOURLESS LIQUID WITH CHARACTERISTIC ODOUR.

Colorless liquid with a gasoline-like odor.

Colorless liquid

Clear liquid

Gasoline-like

258.1 °F at 760 mmHg (USCG, 1999)

125.62 °C

125.00 to 126.00 °C. @ 760.00 mm Hg

125.8 °C @760 [mm Hg]

-70.2 °F (USCG, 1999)

-56.73 °C

-56.8 °C

56 °F (USCG, 1999)

56 °F (13 °C) (Closed cup)

72 °F (22 °C) (Open cup)

13 °C c.c.

7e-05 % at 77 °F (NIOSH, 2024)

In water, 0.66 mg/L at 25 °C

Soluble in ethyl ether; miscible with ethanol, acetone, benzene

Miscible with benzene, petroleum ether, gasoline; soluble in ether; slightly soluble in alcohol

0.00066 mg/mL

Solubility in water: none

(77 °F): 0.00007%

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

0.6986 g/cu cm at 25 °C

Relative density (water = 1): 0.70

0.7036 @25 °C

3.86 (Air= 1)

Relative vapor density (air = 1): 3.94

10 mmHg (NIOSH, 2024)

14.1 [mmHg]

14.1 mm Hg at 25 °C

Vapor pressure, kPa at 20 °C: 1.33

10 [mm Hg] @19.2 °C

log Kow = 5.18

4.00/5.18

428 °F (USCG, 1999)

403 °F (206 °C)

Highly flammable. Insoluble in water.

Hydrocarbons, Aliphatic Saturated

Highly Flammable

May be incompatible with strong oxidizing agents like nitric acid. Charring may occur followed by ignition of unreacted material and other nearby combustibles. In other settings, mostly unreactive. Not affected by aqueous solutions of acids, alkalis, most oxidizing agents, and most reducing agents. When heated sufficiently or when ignited in the presence of air, oxygen or strong oxidizing agents, burns exothermically to produce mostly carbon dioxide and water.

Strong oxidizers.

Strong oxidizers

Petroleum distillates are central nervous system depressants and cause pulmonary damage. (A600)

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

Petroleum distillates are aspiration hazards and may cause pulmonary damage, central nervous system depression, and cardiac effects such as cardiac arrhythmias. They may also affect the blood, immune system, liver, and kidney. (A600, L1297)

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

inhalation, ingestion, skin and/or eye contact

Oral (L400) ; inhalation (L400) ; dermal (L400)

Confusion. Cough. Dizziness. Drowsiness. Headache. Laboured breathing. Nausea. Sore throat. Unconsciousness.

Dry skin. Redness.

Redness. Pain.

Vomiting. See Inhalation.

irritation eyes, nose; drowsiness; dermatitis; chemical pneumonitis (aspiration liquid); In Animals: narcosis

Petroleum distillate poisoning may cause nausea, vomiting, cough, pulmonary irritation progressing to pulmonary edema, bloody sputum, and bronchial pneumonia. At high amounts, central nervous system depression may also occur, with symptoms such as weakness, dizziness, slow and shallow respiration, unconsciousness, and convulsions. Petroleum distillates are also irritating to the skin. (A594)

Eyes, skin, respiratory system, central nervous system

Neurotoxin - Acute solvent syndrome

LC50 (rat) = 118,000 mg/m3/4hr

...fatal concentration at 13,500 ppm.

Researchers/ have investigated the toxic effects of the inhalation of ... acute levels of n-octane. The rats were exposed to n-octane of 0, 2.34, 11.68 and 23.36 mg/L /once for 4 hr/ (n = 5 rats/group/gender) in an acute inhalation test ... The LC50 for the acute inhalation toxicity of n-octane was determined to exceed 23.36 mg/L ... .

LC50 Rat inhalation 118 g/cu m/4 hr

Treatment is mainly symptomatic and supportive. Gastric lavage, emesis, and the administration of activated charcoal should be avoided, as vomiting increases the risk of aspiration. (A600)

Rabbits with acute intoxication by inhaling carbon monoxide alone or in association with octane at concentration of 5000 ppm were compared by the physiogram method. Hydrocarbons aggravated the cardiovascular phenomena caused by carbon monoxide and although they are central excitants they further degraded EEG activity.

Alkaline phosphatase activity in liver, spleen, and bone marrow were increased in female rats exposed to n-octane ... for 2 and 7 days. The increase in splenic alkaline phosphatase activity persisted for up to 42 days after a single dose ... Pretreatment with protein formation inhibitors, cycloheximide or ethionine, removed this observed increase of alkaline phosphatase activity in liver and spleen.

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

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

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

Consider the points of attack /skin, eyes, respiratory system/ in preplacement and periodic physical examinations.

/HUMAN EXPOSURE STUDIES/ ... The manifestations of exposure to vapors ... of ... octane ... /are/ giddiness, vertigo, headache, and anesthetic stupor. ... There may be convulsions indicative of brain irritation or apneic anoxia.

/HUMAN EXPOSURE STUDIES/... Epileptiform seizures /may occur/ months after acute episode. Pathological exam of tissues from fatal cases gives evidence for widespread microhemorrhagic phenomena. Irritation of upper and lower respiratory tract and visceral damage has also been described. /saturated aliphatic hydrocarbons/

/HUMAN EXPOSURE STUDIES/Direct aspiration into the lungs of paraffins with carbon numbers C6 to C16 May cause chemical pneumonitis, pulmonary edema, and hemorrhaging. /aliphatic hydrocarbons/

/HUMAN EXPOSURE STUDIES/ Octane has not been shown to cause the type of peripheral neuropathy associated with n-hexane. The health effects of octane should be similar to those of n-heptane except that n-octane is about 1.2 to 2 times more toxic... .

For more Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for N-OCTANE (7 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ Effects of n-octane ... (1 mL per kg body weight daily) on hepatic and serum enzymes, which reflect abnormal liver function and concentration of lipid and nucleic acid (serum and liver), were studied after 2 and 7 days intraperitoneal administration to albino rats. Decreased activities of serum acetylcholine esterase and carboxyl esterase were observed, together with an increase in /fructose 1,6-diphosphate/ (FDP) aldolase activity. Significant decrease in the concentration of albumin, total protein, and total and esterified cholesterol in serum have been noted after n-octane ... administration for 7 days. Also, free cholesterol content of liver was elevated significantly after solvents exposure.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ /CNS depression/ was produced in mice in 30-90 min when exposed at 6,600 to 13,700 ppm octane in air. Respiratory arrest occurred in 1 of 4 mice within 5 min at 16,000 ppm and in 4 of 4 mice within 3 min when exposed at 32,000 ppm.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ If /octane/ ... is aspirated into the lungs, it may cause rapid death due to cardiac arrest, respiratory paralysis, or asphyxiation. ... Orally, octane may be more toxic than its lower homologs.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ The CNS depressant potential of octane is approx that of heptane, but does not appear to exhibit other CNS effects seen in lower homologs. Octane does not cause axonopathy. A concn of 35 mg/l resulted in the loss of righting reflexes in mice and 50 mg/l caused a total loss of reflexes. A concn of 9.5% causes loss of reflexes in mice in 125 min; however, < or =1.9% is easily tolerated for 143 min, and the effects are reversible.

For more Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for N-OCTANE (12 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Rates of metabolism and excretion for n-octane were evaluated in F-344 male rats exposed by nose-only inhalation to 1 or 500 ppm 14C-octane for 2 hours. Exhalant during exposure was collected and analyzed for 14C-carbon dioxide. Immediately following exposure, rats were transferred to sealed metabolism cages through which a flow rate of 500 ml air/minute was established. Exhalant was drawn through a bubbler train which was sampled 1, 2, 3, 6, 9, 18, 24, 30, 42, 54, and 66 hours post-exposure. Urine and feces were collected at the same times beginning at 3 hours post-exposure. Animals were sacrificed after 66 hours and the amount of radiolabel remaining in the carcass was determined. In animals receiving 1 ppm n-14C-octane, over 15% was eliminated as exhaled 14C-carbon dioxide and 6.5% as parent compound, while the amount of carbon-14 recovered from the carcass after approximately 70 hours post-exposure was nearly 5% of the total inhaled. In high exposure animals, the fraction of inhaled carbon-14 eliminated as CO2 was about 5%, 4% in the urine, and approximately 2% residual was found in the carcass after 70 hours post-exposure. Uptake rates of n-octane were reported to be 6.1 nmole/kg/min/ppm for animals exposed to low octane concentrations (1 ppm), while the uptake for high exposure (500 ppm) animals was 3.4 nmole/kg/min/ppm.

Persons with pre-existing skin disorders may be more susceptible to the effects of this agent. ... In persons with impaired pulmonary function, especially those with obstructive airway diseases, the breathing of octane might cause exacerbation of symptoms due to its irritant properties.

LC50; Species: Artemia salina (Brine Shrimp) nauplii; Conditions: saltwater, static, 20 °C; Concentration: 3.5 mmol/cu m for 24 hr /> or =97% purity/

EC50; Species: Daphnia magna (Water Flea) age 4-6 days, length 1.5 mm; Conditions: freshwater, static, 23 °C, pH 6-7, dissolved oxygen 5-9 mg/L; Concentration: 3.3 mmol/cu m for 48 hr (95% confidence interval: 2.7-4 mmol/cu m); Effect: intoxication, immobilization /> or =97% purity/

LC50; Species: Daphnia magna; Concentration: 0.38 mg/L for 48 hr /Conditions of bioassay not specified/

LC50; Species: Artemia salina (Brine Shrimp) nauplii; Conditions: saltwater, static, 20 °C; Concentration: 3.5 mmol/cu m for 24 hr /> or =97% purity/

EC50; Species: Daphnia magna (Water Flea) age 4-6 days, length 1.5 mm; Conditions: freshwater, static, 23 °C, pH 6-7, dissolved oxygen 5-9 mg/L; Concentration: 3.3 mmol/cu m for 48 hr (95% confidence interval: 2.7-4 mmol/cu m); Effect: intoxication, immobilization /> or =97% purity/

LC50; Species: Daphnia magna; Concentration: 0.38 mg/L for 48 hr /Conditions of bioassay not specified/

EC50; Species: Mytilus edulis (Common Bay Mussel); Conditions: saltwater, static, 15 °C; Concentration: 120 ug/L for <1.67 hr (95% confidence interval: 100-130 ug/L); Effect: intoxication, immobilization /> or =98% purity/

This substance may be hazardous to the environment. Special attention should be given to aquatic organisms.

n-Octane's production and use as a solvent, a chemical raw material, and an important chemical agent in the petroleum industry may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. n-Octane is a constituent in the paraffin fraction of crude oil and natural gas. The compound has been identified in kiwi fruit (Actinidia deliciosa) flowers(2) and in the essential oil of ginger (Zingiber officinale). If released to air, a vapor pressure of 14.1 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates n-octane will exist solely as a vapor in the atmosphere. Vapor-phase n-octane 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 44 hrs. n-Octane does not contain chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm and, therefore, is not expected to be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight. If released to soil, n-octane is expected to have no mobility based upon an estimated Koc of 3.1X10+4. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 3.21 atm-cu m/mole. n-Octane may volatilize from dry soil surfaces based upon its vapor pressure. However, adsorption to soil is expected to attenuate volatilization. n-Octane, present at one mg/mL silt loam soil suspension, exhibited average theoretical biological oxygen demands of 13, 58, 70 and 69% after 2, 5, 10 and 20 days, respectively, suggesting that biodegradation may be an important environmental fate process in soil. If released into water, n-octane is expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment based upon the estimated Koc. When evaporation rates are low, biodegradation of n-octane in water may be important under aerobic conditions. For example, a 49% loss of n-octane occurred within 5 days and completely disappeared within 15 days when 1 mL of crude oil was added to a 100 mL simulated seawater solution inoculated with sediment samples at 20 °C. 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 3 hrs and 4 days, respectively. However, volatilization from water surfaces is expected to be attenuated by adsorption to suspended solids and sediment in the water column. An estimated BCF of 1200 suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is very high. Hydrolysis is not expected to be an important environmental fate process since this compound lacks functional groups that hydrolyze under environmental conditions (pH 5 to 9). Occupational exposure to n-octane may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where n-octane is produced or used. Monitoring data indicate that the general population may be exposed to n-octane via inhalation of ambient air, ingestion of food and drinking water, and dermal contact with this compound and consumer products containing n-octane. Extensive monitoring data indicate n-octane is a widely occurring atmospheric pollutant. Breath samples have demonstrated n-octane exposure among urban residents. (SRC)

n-Octane is a constituent in the paraffin fraction of crude oil and natural gas(1). The compound has also been identified in kiwi fruit (Actinidia deliciosa) flowers(2) and in the essential oil of ginger (Zingiber officinale)(3).

n-Octane's production and use as a solvent, a chemical raw material, and an important chemical agent in the petroleum industry(1) may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams(SRC). The combustion of gasoline has been shown to release n-octane into the atmosphere(2-4). Vulcanization and extrusion operations during rubber (e.g., making of shoes, tires and electrical insulation) also emits n-octane to the air(5). Other well documented materials responsible for the release of n-octane to the environment include printing pastes, paints, varnishes, adhesives, and other coatings(6-9). Hazardous waste sites(10), landfills(11,12) and waste incinerators(13) also release n-octane into the environment(SRC).

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 3.1X10+4(SRC), determined from a log Kow of 5.18(2) and a regression-derived equation(3), indicates that n-octane is expected to be immobile in soil(SRC). Volatilization of n-octane from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process(SRC) given an estimated Henry's Law constant of 3.21 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), derived from its vapor pressure, 14.1 mm Hg(4), and water solubility, 0.66 mg/L(5). However, adsorption to soil is expected to attenuate volatilization(SRC). n-Octane is expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon its vapor pressure(4). n-Octane, present at one mg/mL silt loam soil suspension, exhibited average Theoretical biological oxygen demands of 13, 58, 70 and 69% after 2, 5, 10 and 20 days, respectively(6), suggesting that biodegradation may be an important environmental fate process in soil(SRC).

AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 3.1X10+4(SRC), determined from a log Kow of 5.18(2) and a regression-derived equation(3), indicates that n-octane is expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment(SRC). Volatilization from water surfaces is expected(4) based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 3.2 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), derived from its vapor pressure, 41.1 mm Hg(5), and water solubility, 0.66 mg/L(6). Using this Henry's Law constant and an estimation method(4), volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 3 hrs and 4 days, respectively(SRC). However, volatilization from water surfaces is expected to be attenuated by adsorption to suspended solids and sediment in the water column(SRC). The estimated volatilization half-life from a model pond is 11 months if adsorption is considered(7). According to a classification scheme(8), an estimated BCF of 1200(SRC), from its log Kow(2) and a regression-derived equation(3), suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is very high(SRC). When evaporation rates are low, biodegradation of n-octane under aerobic conditions may be important in water(SRC). For example, a 49% loss of n-octane occurred within 5 days and completely disappeared within 15 days when 1 mL of crude oil was added to a 100 mL simulated seawater solution inoculated with sediment samples from Fukae of Kobe harbor, Japan and incubated at 20 °C(9). Although complete recovery was reported for the control samples, no account was made of volatilization losses(SRC). In a similar study using a jet fuel mixture and freshwater at 25 °C, a 99% loss of n-octane in sample controls was attributed to evaporation(10).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), n-octane, which has a vapor pressure of 14.1 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), is expected to exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase n-octane 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 44 hrs(SRC), calculated from its rate constant of 8.68X10-12 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(3). Experimental data also showed that 33.2% of the n-octane fraction in a dark chamber reacted with nitrate radicals to form the corresponding alkyl nitrate(4,5), suggesting nighttime reactions with nitrate radicals may contribute to the atmospheric transformation of n-octane, especially in urban environments(SRC). n-Octane does not contain chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm(6) and, therefore, is not expected to be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight(SRC).

The degradation of n-alkanes by microorganisms is similar to the degradation of fatty acids. The terminal methyl group is enzymatically oxidized by incorporation of molecular oxygen by a monooxygenase producing a primary alcohol with further oxidation to an acid group, although involvement of a dioxygenase is also postulated. Once the fatty acid is produced, it is degraded into 2-carbon units via the beta oxidation pathway. ... Another pathway for n-alkane degradation that is encountered less often is the oxidation of both terminal carbons to form a dioic acid with subsequent beta oxidation. Subterminal oxidation of the 2-carbon atom is seen mainly in C3-C6 alkanes, although it does occur in longer chain alkanes also. ... A dehydrogenation of the n-alkane may also occur yielding an alkene which is then converted to an alcohol, although there is little evidence for this theory. Some microorganisms have been shown to have both terminal and subterminal oxidation, each having very different rates of activity. The different chain lengths of n-alkanes are degraded to different extents ... At chain lengths greater than C6 the degradability generally increases until about C11-C12. /In a study comparing/ ... growth on long and short chain alkanes by some bacteria ... the initial oxygenase had a broad specificity and would oxidize C1-C8 alkanes ... /but/ cells grown on C4-C8 alkanes did not oxidize the shorter chain alkanes to a significant extent. ... /n-Alkanes/

AEROBIC: A 49% loss of n-octane occurred within 5 days and completely disappeared within 15 days from 1 mL of crude oil incubated in 100 mL marine sediment samples from Fukae of Kobe Harbor, Japan, and incubated at 20 °C(1). Loss of 19 and 67% of n-octane was observed within 5 and 15 days, respectively, from 1 mL of crude oil added to a 100 mL seawater solution collected at Fukae of Kobe Harbor, Japan and incubated at 20 °C(1). Although complete recovery was reported for the control samples, no account was made of volatilization losses(SRC). In a similar study using a jet fuel mixture and freshwater from the Escambia River FL at 25 °C, a 99% loss of n-octane in the controls was attributed to evaporation(2).

AEROBIC: Using 2,500 mg/l of activated sludge acclimated to benzene and the Warburg screening test (at 20 °C), the theoretical oxygen demand (ThOD) for n-octane (initial concn of 500 ppm) was 1.0, 4.6 and 28.4% after 6, 24, and 72 hrs, respectively(1). One mg of n-octane and 1 mL of a 1:10 suspension of Hudson-Collamer silt loam soil in mineral salts media was incubated in the dark at 25 °C(2). Controls without n-octane were used to determine the net oxygen consumed(2). The average ThOD of 2 trials for n-octane was 13, 58, 70 and 69% after 2, 5, 10 and 20 days, respectively(2). At intervals of 6, 12 and 24 hr endogenous respiration was greater than that of 3 preparations of n-octane and activated sludge from differing aeration units of sewage treatment facilities(3). Using activated sludge from a wastewater treatment plant, 100% of n-octane (as a component of gasoline) was removed from a nutrient solution in 33 minutes compared to control with 1.59 mg/L of n-octane(4).

AEROBIC: n-Octane, present at 525 umoles of carbon per microcosm, exhibited 34.2 and 41.4% of Theoretical Oxygen Demand in 100 hours, respectively, using two soil microcosms in a respirometric method based on oxygen consumption. The two soils used were a silt loam from northern Utah rangeland (pH 7.2; organic carbon 1.78%; cation exchange capacity 20.8 meq/100g; field capacity 20.16%) and a forest silt loam from an upland forested area of Logan Canyon, Utah (pH 6.6; organic carbon 2.88%; cation exchange capacity 20.9 meq/100g; field capacity 29.0%)(1). Biodiesel B20 (20% soybean fatty acid methyl esters and 80% petroleum diesel) exhibited a half-life of <30 days using an acclimated aquatic inocula from a rainwater detention pond; a half-life of 2.1 days was calculated for n-octane, a component of this fuel(2). n-Octane, present at 3.4 ug as a component in gasoline, was incubated in a New Jersey rainwater retention pond. The median half-life of total detectable gasoline hydrocarbons was 5.0 days(5).

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of n-octane with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals is 8.68X10-12 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(SRC) using a structure estimation method(1). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 44 hours at an atmospheric concentration of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(2). Experimental data showed that 33.2% of the n-octane fraction in a dark chamber reacted with nitrate radical to form the corresponding alkyl nitrate(4,5), suggesting nighttime reactions with nitrate radicals may contribute to the atmospheric transformation of n-octane, especially in urban environments(SRC). The half-life for reaction of n-octane with nitrate radicals was estimated to be 240 days using a 12-hr day and a NO3 radical concentration of 5X10+8 molecule/cu m(6). n-Octane is not expected to undergo hydrolysis in the environment due to the lack of functional groups that hydrolyze under environmental conditions(7). n-Octane does not contain chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm(7) and, therefore, is not expected to be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight(SRC).

An estimated BCF of 1200 was calculated in fish for n-octane(SRC), using a log Kow of 5.18(1) and a regression-derived equation(2). According to a classification scheme(3), this BCF suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is very high(SRC).

The Koc of n-octane is estimated as 3.1X10+4(SRC), using a log Kow of 5.18(1) and a regression-derived equation(2). According to a classification scheme(3), this estimated Koc value suggests that n-octane is expected to be immobile in soil. Freundlich absorption coefficients of log 4.04 and log 3.49 were measured in Oberlausitz lignite (11.1% moisture content; 53.5 wt% carbon content; 0.6 wt % nitrogen content) and Pahokee peat soil (10.2% moisture content; 46.1 wt% carbon content; 3.3 wt % nitrogen content), respectively(4). Gaseous transport of volatile n-octane in unsaturated porous media was shown to be influenced by air-water interfacial adsorption and water-partitioning(5). Sorption of n-octane from air to snow was measured, resulting in a sorption coefficient of log -4.41 cu m/sq m at -6.8 °C(6).

The Henry's Law constant for n-octane is estimated as 3.2 atm-cu m/mole(SRC) derived from its vapor pressure, 14.1 mm Hg(1), and water solubility, 0.66 mg/L(2). This Henry's Law constant indicates that n-octane is expected to volatilize rapidly 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 3 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 4.2 days(SRC). Volatilization from water surfaces may be attenuated by adsorption to suspended solids and sediment in the water column(SRC). The estimated volatilization half-life from a model pond is 11 months if adsorption is considered(4). However, in a study using a jet fuel mixture and sterile freshwater controls from the Escambia River (Florida), a 99% loss of n-octane was attributed to evaporation at 25 °C(5). n-Octane's estimated Henry's Law constant indicates that volatilization from moist soil surfaces may occur(SRC). The disappearance of n-octane was rapid in soil/water mixture (concentration of soil, 25 g/150 mL)(6); an initial concentration of 0.177 ug/mL n-octane disappeared completely in 5 days using a sterile sandy loam soil with an organic matter content of 5.1%(6). The potential for volatilization of n-octane from dry soil surfaces may exist(SRC) based upon its vapor pressure(1).

DRINKING WATER: n-Octane was identified in 4 of 14 treated water supplies in England(1). n-Octane was listed as one of the many organic chemicals identified in drinking water in the US as of 1974(2).

SURFACE WATER: The average n-octane concentration of 6 water samples from Little Britain Lake, England was 3.7 ppb(1). The average n-octane concentration of 6 water samples from Welsh Harp Lake, England was 10.8 ppb(1). The n-octane average concentration of weekly samples taken over an approximate period of 1 year for Luton Brook, England was 10.7 ppb(1). The average n-octane concentration for water samples taken from the River Pinn at Brunel University, England was 3.1 ppb(1). n-Octane was identified in Delaware River water at Philadelphia, PA(2). The mean concentrations of n-octane in the Besos and Llobregat Rivers near Barcelona, Spain were 1,100 and 530 ng/L, respectively(3).

SEAWATER: Only trace quantities to 3 ng/L of n-octane were detected in open surface waters of the north central Gulf of Mexico(1). The aveage n-octane concn of 3 surface water samples from an unpolluted coastal area of the north central Gulf of Mexico was 9 ng/L(1). The n-octane concentration ranged from 30 to 40 ng/L for 6 surface water samples collected at coastal areas of the north central Gulf of Mexico under anthropogenic influence(1). n-Octane was detected in 6 of 8 surface water samples in the Gulf of Mexico ranging in concentration from 0.3 to 3.2 ng/L with an average concentration of 1.5 ng/L(2). The mean concentrations of n-octane in coastal waters near Marine, Barcelona, and Sitges (all in Spain) were 1.3, 1.0, and 3.8 ng/L, respectively(3).

RAIN: The n-octane concn of rain water collected at Brunel University, England was 39.2 ppb(1).

At a distance of 1 mile from its source, n-octane was detected at a concentration of 46.0 ug/cu m in the plume emitted from a General Motors plant located in Janesville, Wisconsin(1). n-Octane was identified as a stack emission from waste incinerators(2). One of five hazardous waste sites listed on the National Priorities List emitted gaseous n-octane with a 25 to 50% frequency of occurrence(3). n-Octane was also identified as a vapor emitted from landfills(4). A clay pit landfill in England that received municipal, industrial and liquid wastes emitted n-octane gas at a concentration of 95 mg/L(5). n-Octane was detected in 1 of 63 industrial wastewater effluents at a concentration less than 10 ug/L(6). Underwater hydrocarbon vents and formation water discharges from offshore oil production platforms were found to contain n-octane concentration in the vapor phase at 6 umol/L and in the liquid state at 350 ng/L, respectively(7).

SEDIMENT: The average n-octane concentration of 5 sediment samples from Lake Pontchartrain (a shallow oligohaline estuary located in the deltaic plain of the Mississippi River near New Orleans) was 0.07 ppb(1).

SOIL: n-Octane was detected in the soil surrounding an earthen disposal pit for produced water at the Duncan Oil Field, New Mexico(1).

URBAN/SUBURBAN: From 1984 to 1986, the ambient air concentration of n-octane in 39 US cities was 2.6 ppb as carbon (N=799; range, 0.2-163 ppb as carbon)(1). The average atmospheric gas phase concentration of n-octane was 774 ng/cu m for 7 rain events in Portland Oregon from Feb to Apr 1984(2). In a 1979 study of 5 sites in NJ, n-octane was identified in the air over the cities of Rutherford and Elizabeth(3). At ground level the atmospheric concentration of n-octane was 5.0, 5.0, 4.5 and 3.5 ug/cu m at 4, 7, 9 and 11 miles, respectively, downwind of a General Motors plant in Janesville Wisconsin(4). The 1977 maximum and average concentration of 690 points for n-octane at a site in Houston, Texas was 19 and 1 ppb of carbon, respectively(5). The average n-octane concentration from 6 to 9 AM in Houston, Texas was 2 ppb of carbon(5).

URBAN/SUBURBAN: The average n-octane concentration of air samples taken at Brunel University, England was 13.5 ppb(1). n-Octane was also identified in the ambient air of Paris, France(2). The concentration of n-octane in the downtown air of Zurich, Switzerland was 3.4 ppb(3). Between October 1986 to February 1987, the average concentration of n-octane in air samples ranged from 0.5 to 4.8 ppb carbon for several sites around Vienna, Austria(4). At Deuselbach, Hunsruck in Germany the atmospheric n-octane concentration was 0.014 ppb for October 23 1983(5). The ambient concentrations of n-octane at traffic related sites in urban areas of North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany ranged from 0.18 to 2.1 ug/cu m in 1990(6). In Berlin, Germany, n-octane was detected at average concentrations of 0.17, 0.45, and 0.70 ug/cu m at background (Fruhnau), residential (Nansenstrasze), and street (Frankfurter Allee) locations, respectively(7). In Athens, Greece between June 1993 and July 1994, the average concentration of n-octane in air samples was 0.6 ppbV (range, 0.4 to 1.2 ppbV)(8). n-Octane was detected in the atmospheres of 6 industrialized cities of the USSR ranging in size of population from 0.4 to 4.5 million people(9-11). n-Octane was detected in the atmosphere over the British Columbia Research Council Laboratory at the University of British Columbia(12). n-Octane was identified in the ambient air of Sydney, Australia(13) ranging in concentration from 0.1 to 2.1 ppbV with an average concentration of 0.5 ppbV(14). The average n-octane concentration in the atmospheres of Pretoria, Johannesburg and Durban, South Africa were 1.4, 1.3, and 0.7 ppb, respectively(15). In Bangkok City, Thailand between 1985-1987, the concentration of n-octane ranged from 2 to 23 ug/cu m at 5 urban locations around the city(16). The average n-octane concentration (66 samples) in the air over Tokyo Japan for the year 1980 was 0.3 ppb(17). The ambient concentration of n-octane in Porto Alegre, Brazil was 3.5 mg/cu m between March 1996 and April 1997(18). [

URBAN/SUBURBAN: n-Octane was detected in thirteen US Urban monitoring stations - Baton Rouge, LA, Brownsvile, TX, Brattleboro, VT, Burlington, VT, Camden, NJ, El Paso, TX, Garyville, LA, Galveston, TX, Hahnville, LA, Port Neches, TX, Rutland, VT, Underhill, VT, and Winooski, VT. Concentrations were less than 1 ppbV in 12 of these sites and greater than 10 ppbV at the thirteenth site(1). The compound was detected, not quantified in air samples from Beijing City, China, in June prior to the Summer Olympic Games in July of 2008(2).

For more Atmospheric Concentrations (Complete) data for N-OCTANE (7 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

n-Octane was identified as a volatile component of fried bacon(1), roasted filberts(2), nectarines(3), and beaufort cheese(4). The concn of n-octane in duck meat, duck fat, Cantonese style roasted duck, and Cantonese style roasted duck gravy were 3.87, 18.23, 94.58, and 73.46 ppb on wet basis(5). n-Octane was emitted at a rate of 38 mg/kg of hamburger meat cooked over a natural gas fired grill(6).

n-Octane was identified as a component of kiwi fruit (Actinidia deliciosa) flowers(1). n-Octane was detected not quantified in the essential oil of ginger (Zingiber officinale)(2).

The average n-octane concentration for the oyster population of Lake Pontchartrain, a shallow oligohaline estuary located in the deltaic plain of the Mississippi River near New Orleans, was 22 ng/g of wet weight(1). The concentration of n-octane in anchovy, big eyed herring, hair tail viscera, and shrimp taken from a fish market in Korea were 531; 1,740; 1,640; and 1,230 ng/g, respectively(2).

n-Octane was detected in 7 of 12 samples of mothers breast milk from the cities of Bayonne, NJ; Jersey City, NJ; Bridgeville, PA; and Baton Rouge, LA(1).

n-Octane was emitted from 8 adhesives used in building materials at an average rate of 740 ug/g/hr for a two week drying period(1). An air sample taken near an oil fire was found to contain n-octane at a concentration of 0.21 mg/cu m(2). n-Octane was also emitted from a Swedish floor finish 49 mo after its application(3). Two sets of 6 air samples both resulted in an average n-octane concentration of 12 mg/cu m for a room applied with alkyl resin paint diluted with white spirits(4). The concentration of n-octane vapors averaged 4.1 ppm at excavation sites for removing gasoline storage tanks(5). The concentration of n-octane in liquid primer and alkylated paints were 15.6 and 0.6-0.62 mg/g, respectively(6). n-Octane was found in 14.0% (number of samples analyzed = 470) of common household products purchased in the United States(7); the average concentraion of n-octane in household products were as follows (all wt/wt%): automotive products, 0.2; household cleaners/polishes, 0.6; paint related products, 1.2; fabric and leather treatments, 2.1; cleaners for electronic equipment, 0.0; oils, greases, and lubricants, 0.1; adhesive-related products, 3.9; misc products, 0.0(7).

n-Octane was identified as a volatile released from dairy silage and other feedstuffs on dairy farms in California's San Joaquin Valley. Of the silage samples of corn, alfalfa, cereal, almond hulls, and almond shells collected from a typical (approximately 3000 cows) commercial dairy in Yolo County, n-octane was identified in corn, high mixture ground corn, total mixed ration corn, and almond shells at concentrations of 0.16, 0.25, 0.08, and 0.10 nL/L, respectively(1).

Analysis of six fine (foliar) fuels common to fire-prone US ecosystems revealed the presence of n-octane in the primarily carbonaceous PM2.5 particulate matter as follows (biomass type (mg/kg biomass burned): in Pinaceae - loblolly pine (11.3); Western hemlock (12.1); Ponderosa pine (28.1); in mixed ecosystems: Acereae/Fagaceae (5.2); Palmea/Pinaceae (34.6): Poceae/Pinaceae (8.1)(1). Cooking emissions of n-octane were measured in a variety of food preparation sites typical of Mexico City, Mexico. The average concentrations were as follows (ppbC%): restaurant, 0.24; tortilleria, 0.01; rotisserie, 0.58; fried food, 1.34. The LP gas profile was 0 ppbC%(2). n-Octane emission factors from various cookstoves used in China were as follows (mg/kg dry fuel (stove type; "v" indicates flue))): 0.104 Honey metal-v); 0.688 (Honey-metal): 0.390 (Honey-imp); 0.384 (coal briquette-metal); 9.70 (wash coal-metal-v; 3.75 (coal-metal-v); 0.376 (coal-brick-v); 0.004 (wheat-brick-v); 0.411 (maize-brick-v); 1.22 (Kero-wick); 0.025 (coal gas-traditional); 0.230 (natural gas-traditional. It was not detected in emissions from wood-brick-v, wood-imp-v, maize-imp-v, nor LPG traditional stoves(3).

According to the 2006 TSCA Inventory Update Reporting data, the number of persons reasonably likely to be exposed in the industrial manufacturing, processing, and use of n-octane is 1000 or greater; the data may be greatly underestimated(1).

NIOSH (NOES Survey 1981-1983) has statistically estimated that 9,186 workers (612 of these are female) are potentially exposed to n-octane in the US(1). Occupational exposure to n-octane may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where n-octane is produced or used(SRC). Monitoring data indicate that the general population may be exposed to n-octane via inhalation of ambient air, ingestion of food and drinking water, and dermal contact with this compound and consumer products containing n-octane(SRC). Extensive monitoring data indicates n-octane is a widely occurring atmospheric pollutant and breath samples have demonstrated n-octane exposure among urban residents(2).

Atmospheric workplace exposures have been documented(1-7). The atmospheric concentration of n-octane ranged from 0 to 300 ug/cu m for the vulcanization area of a shoe sole manufacturing plant; from 6 to 90 ug/cu m for the vulcanization area and 0 to 10 ug/cu m for the extrusion area of a tire retreading factory; and from 0 to 1 ug/cu m for the extrusion area of electrical insulation manufacturing plant(1). A 1984 study showed n-octane was emitted from gasoline exposing outside operators at the refineries to an avg air concentration of 0.118 mg/cu m; n-octane was detected in 26 of 56 samples(6). Transport drivers were exposed to n-octane at atmospheric concentration of 0.086 mg/cu m and n-octane was detected in 39 of 49 samples(6). Gas station attendants were exposed to n-octane at atmospheric concentration of 0.023 mg/cu m and n-octane was detected in 26 of 49 samples(6). n-Octane was detected in the workplace atmospheres of 336 businesses in Belgium with a frequency of occurrence of 3% for those that utilize printing pastes; 11% where painting took place; 55% of the automobile repair shops and 2% for sites where various materials such as varnishes are employed(2). Painters were exposed to atmospheric concentration of n-octane of 12 mg/cu m when applying an alkyl resin paint diluted with white spirits(5). Tank contractors were exposed to vapors containing n-octane at concentration of 0.7 ppm at gasoline tank removal sites(7).

Burn in a chemical incinerator equipped with an afterburner and scrubber but exert extra care in igniting as this material is highly flammable. Offer surplus and non-recyclable solutions to a licensed disposal company. contact a licensed professional waste disposal service to dispose of this material.

SRP: Wastewater from contaminant suppression, cleaning of protective clothing/equipment, or contaminated sites should be contained and evaluated for subject chemical or decomposition product concentrations. Concentrations shall be lower than applicable environmental discharge or disposal criteria. Alternatively, pretreatment and/or discharge to a permitted wastewater treatment facility is acceptable only after review by the governing authority and assurance that "pass through" violations will not occur. Due consideration shall be given to remediation worker exposure (inhalation, dermal and ingestion) as well as fate during treatment, transfer and disposal. If it is not practicable to manage the chemical in this fashion, it must be evaluated in accordance with EPA 40 CFR Part 261, specifically Subpart B, in order to determine the appropriate local, state and federal requirements for disposal.

/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. /Octanes/

/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. /Octanes/

/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. /Octanes/

/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. /Octanes/

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

UN 1262; Octanes

IMO 3.2; Octanes

49 092 50; Octane

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, N; R: 11-38-50/53-65-67; S: (2)-9-16-29-33-60-61-62; Note: C

UN Hazard Class: 3; UN Pack Group: II