Dimethyl Ether

H220: Extremely flammable gas [Danger Flammable gases]

P203, P210, P222, P280, P377, P381, and P403 (click each P-code to see the statement)

This chemical does not meet GHS hazard criteria for < 0.1% (1 of 1497) of reports.

H220 (99.7%): Extremely flammable gas [Danger Flammable gases]

H280 (51.5%): Contains gas under pressure; may explode if heated [Warning Gases under pressure]

P203, P210, P222, P280, P377, P381, P403, and P410+P403 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Aggregated GHS information provided per 1497 reports by companies from 24 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.

Reported as not meeting GHS hazard criteria per 1 of 1497 reports by companies.

There are 23 notifications provided by 1496 of 1497 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.

H280: Contains gas under pressure; may explode if heated [Warning Gases under pressure]

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

P203, P210, P222, P261, P271, P280, P304+P340, P319, P377, P381, P403, P403+P233, P405, P410+P403, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Fresh air, rest. Refer for medical attention.

ON FROSTBITE: rinse with plenty of water, do NOT remove 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.

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

SKIN: CAUTION: Exposure of skin to compressed gases may result in freezing of the skin. Treatment for frostbite may be necessary. Remove the victim from the source of contamination. IMMEDIATELY wash affected areas gently with COLD water (and soap, if necessary) while removing and isolating all contaminated clothing. Dry carefully with clean, soft towels. If symptoms such as inflammation or irritation develop, IMMEDIATELY call a physician or go to a hospital for treatment.

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

INGESTION: This compound is a gas, therefore inhalation is the first route of exposure. (NTP, 1992)

General First Aid:

· Call 911 or emergency medical service.

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

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

· Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult.

· If victim is not breathing:

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

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

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

· Remove and isolate contaminated clothing and shoes.

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

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

· For severe burns, immediate medical attention is required.

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

· Keep victim calm and warm.

· Keep victim under observation.

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

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

Specific First Aid:

· Clothing frozen to the skin should be thawed before being removed.

· In case of contact with liquefied gas, only medical personnel should attempt thawing frosted parts.

· 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 115 [Gases - Flammable (Including Refrigerated Liquids)]:

DO NOT EXTINGUISH A LEAKING GAS FIRE UNLESS LEAK CAN BE STOPPED. CAUTION: Hydrogen (UN1049), Deuterium (UN1957), Hydrogen, refrigerated liquid (UN1966) and Hydrogen and Methane mixture, compressed (UN2034) will burn with an invisible flame. Use an alternate method of detection (thermal camera, broom handle, etc.).

SMALL FIRE: Dry chemical or CO2.

LARGE FIRE: Water spray or fog. If it can be done safely, move undamaged containers away from the area around the fire. CAUTION: For LNG - Liquefied natural gas (UN1972) pool fires, DO NOT USE water. Use dry chemical or high-expansion foam.

FIRE INVOLVING 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. Do not direct water at source of leak or safety devices; icing may occur. 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)

Shut off supply; if not possible and no risk to surroundings, let the fire burn itself out. In other cases extinguish with dry powder, carbon dioxide. In case of fire: keep cylinder cool by spraying with water. Combat fire from a sheltered position.

In case of fire: keep cylinder cool by spraying with water. Combat fire from a sheltered position. Shut off supply; if not possible and no risk to surroundings, let the fire burn itself out; in other cases extinguish with dry powder, carbon dioxide.

Stop flow of gas before extinguishing fire. Use water spray to keep fire-exposed containers cool. Use dry chemical, carbon dioxide, water spray, or "alcohol resistant" foam.

If material on fire or involved in fire: Do not extinguish fire unless flow can be stopped. Use water in flooding quantities as fog. Cool all affected containers with flooding quantities of water. Apply water from as far a distance as possible.

Water, foam, carbon dioxide, and dry chemical powders can be employed to control dimethyl ether fires. Fire extinguishers suitable for class C (Europe) or class B (United States) can be used. Endangered vessels must be cooled.

· 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.

· Many gases are heavier than air and will spread along the ground and collect in low or confined areas (sewers, basements, tanks, etc.).

· 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.

· If possible, turn leaking containers so that gas escapes rather than liquid.

· Use water spray to reduce vapors or divert vapor cloud drift. Avoid allowing water runoff to contact spilled material.

· Do not direct water at spill or source of leak.

CAUTION: For LNG - Liquefied natural gas (UN1972), DO NOT apply water, regular or alcohol-resistant foam directly on spill. Use a high-expansion foam if available to reduce vapors.

· Prevent spreading of vapors through sewers, ventilation systems and confined areas.

· Isolate area until gas has dispersed.

CAUTION: When in contact with refrigerated/cryogenic liquids, many materials become brittle and are likely to break without warning.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 115 [Gases - Flammable (Including Refrigerated Liquids)]:

IMMEDIATE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURE: Isolate spill or leak area for at least 100 meters (330 feet) in all directions.

LARGE SPILL: Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 800 meters (1/2 mile).

FIRE: If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 1600 meters (1 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 1600 meters (1 mile) in all directions. In fires involving Liquefied Petroleum Gases (LPG) (UN1075), Butane (UN1011), Butylene (UN1012), Isobutylene (UN1055), Propylene (UN1077), Isobutane (UN1969), and Propane (UN1978), also refer to the "BLEVE - Safety Precautions" section. (ERG, 2024)

Immediate precautionary measure

· Isolate spill or leak area for at least 100 meters (330 feet) in all directions.

Large Spill

· Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 800 meters (1/2 mile).

· If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 1600 meters (1 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 1600 meters (1 mile) in all directions.

· In fires involving Liquefied Petroleum Gases (LPG) (UN1075), Butane (UN1011), Butylene (UN1012), Isobutylene (UN1055), Propylene (UN1077), Isobutane (UN1969), and Propane (UN1978), also refer to the "BLEVE - Safety Precautions" section.

Evacuate danger area! Consult an expert! Personal protection: filter respirator for organic gases and vapours adapted to the airborne concentration of the substance. Remove all ignition sources.

Eliminate all ignition sources. Stop or control the leak, if this can be done without undue risk. Use water spray to cool & disperse vapors, protect personnel, & dilute spills to form nonflammable mixtures. Control runoff & isolate discharged material for proper disposal.

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

This compound should be susceptible to removal from waste water by air stripping. /Bis(2-chloroethyl)ether/

ALL MEANS OF IGNITION SHOULD BE ELIMINATED WHERE METHYL ETHER IS PRODUCED OR USED. ENCLOSED AREAS INTO WHICH ... /IT/ MAY DISSEMINATE EITHER AS PART OF OPERATION OR BY ACCIDENT SHOULD BE PROVIDED WITH EXHAUST VENTILATION.

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

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. Attempt to stop leak if without undue personnel hazard. Use water spray to knock-down vapors.

Personnel protection: Avoid breathing vapors. Keep upwind. ... Do not handle broken packages unless wearing appropriate personal protective equipment. Approach fire with caution.

Evacuation: If fire becomes uncontrollable or container is exposed to direct flame-consider evacuation of one-half (1/2) mile radius. 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 115 [Gases - Flammable (Including Refrigerated Liquids)]:

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. If possible, turn leaking containers so that gas escapes rather than liquid. Use water spray to reduce vapors or divert vapor cloud drift. Avoid allowing water runoff to contact spilled material. Do not direct water at spill or source of leak. CAUTION: For LNG - Liquefied natural gas (UN1972), DO NOT apply water, regular or alcohol-resistant foam directly on spill. Use a high-expansion foam if available to reduce vapors. Prevent spreading of vapors through sewers, ventilation systems and confined areas. Isolate area until gas has dispersed. CAUTION: When in contact with refrigerated/cryogenic liquids, many materials become brittle and are likely to break without warning. (ERG, 2024)

Fireproof. Cool.

Seperate from oxidizing materials. Store in cool, dry, well-ventilated area. Avoid sunlight.

KEEP IN CLOSED CONTAINER AWAY FROM HEAT & OPEN FLAME.

Dimethyl ether is usually stored as a liquid under pressure.

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

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

· Always wear thermal protective clothing when handling refrigerated/cryogenic liquids.

1000.0 [ppm]

500 [ppm]

1200 [ppm]

7200 [ppm]

1920 mg/m

1900 mg/m

· DO NOT EXTINGUISH A LEAKING GAS FIRE UNLESS LEAK CAN BE STOPPED.

CAUTION: Hydrogen (UN1049), Deuterium (UN1957), Hydrogen, refrigerated liquid (UN1966) and Hydrogen and Methane mixture, compressed (UN2034) will burn with an invisible flame. Use an alternate method of detection (thermal camera, broom handle, etc.)

Small Fire

· Dry chemical or CO2.

Large Fire

· Water spray or fog.

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

CAUTION: For LNG - Liquefied natural gas (UN1972) pool fires, DO NOT USE water. Use dry chemical or high-expansion foam.

Fire Involving 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.

· Do not direct water at source of leak or safety devices; icing may occur.

· 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.

Workplace Environmental Exposure Level (WEEL): 8-hr Time-weighted Average (TWA) 1000 ppm.

The WEEL guide for dimethyl ether (DME) was originally established in 1996 and it was updated in 2010. Literature searches to identify possible new toxicity information were performed in November 2020 and evaluated by the WEEL Revisions Subcommittee; however, no new studies or data relevant to the WEEL guide were identified. Based on a clear NOAEC of 2000 ppm for all effects in a lifetime inhalation study in rats, and the general low level of toxicity in acute and subchronic toxicity studies, a WEEL of 1000 ppm (v/v; 8-h time-weighted average) was reaffirmed in 2021 and should provide an adequate margin of safety.

On loss of containment, a harmful concentration of this gas in the air will be reached very quickly, especially in confined spaces.

The substance is irritating to the eyes and respiratory tract. Rapid evaporation of the liquid may cause frostbite. The substance may cause effects on the central nervous system. Exposure could cause lowering of consciousness.

Residues of dimethyl ether are exempted from the requirement of a tolerance when used as a propellant in accordance with good agricultural practice as inert (or occasionally active) ingredients in pesticide formulations applied to growing crops or to raw agricultural commodities after harvest.

Residues of dimethyl ether are exempted from the requirement of a tolerance when used as a propellant in accordance with good agricultural practice as inert (or occasionally active) ingredients in pesticide formulations applied to animals.

Mask for organic vapors; plastic or rubber gloves; safety glasses. (USCG, 1999)

Ventilation, local exhaust, or breathing protection. Cold-insulating gloves. Safety goggles, or eye protection in combination with breathing protection.

Wear protective gloves and clothing to prevent any reasonable probability of skin contact. Safety equipment suppliers/manufacturers recommend butyl and neoprene as protective materials. All protective clothing (suits, gloves, footwear, headgear) should be clean, available each day, and put on before work. Contact lenses should not be worn when working with this chemical. For gas wear gas-proof chemical goggles and face shield, for liquid wear splash-proof chemical goggles and face shield unless full-piece respiratory protection is worn. Employees should wash immediately with soap when skin is wet or contaminated. Provide emergency showers and eyewash. Where exposure to the liquefied compressed gas may occur, employees should be provided with special clothing designed to prevent frostbite.

Wear full protective clothing and positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus.

NO open flames, NO sparks and NO smoking. NO contact with hot surfaces. Closed system, ventilation, explosion-proof electrical equipment and lighting.

Use ventilation, local exhaust or breathing protection.

Cold-insulating gloves.

Wear safety goggles or eye protection in combination with breathing protection.

Do not eat, drink, or smoke during work.

Dimethyl ether is a colorless gas with a faint ethereal odor. It is shipped as a liquefied gas under its vapor pressure. Contact with the liquid can cause frostbite. It is easily ignited. Its vapors are heavier than air. Any leak can be either liquid or vapor. It can asphyxiate by the displacement of air. Under prolonged exposure to fire or intense heat the containers may rupture violently and rocket.

Liquid; Gas Vapor

Colorless compressed gas or liquid with a slight ether-like odor; [HSDB]

COLOURLESS GAS WITH CHARACTERISTIC ODOUR.

COLORLESS GAS @ USUAL TEMP, BUT EASILY CONDENSIBLE

Colorless gas

Colorless compressed gas or liquid

Slight ethereal odor

Ether-like odor

-8 °F at 760 mmHg (NTP, 1992)

-24.82 °C

-23.6 °C

-24.8 °C @760 [mm Hg]

-217.3 °F (NTP, 1992)

-141.5 °C

25 °F (NTP, 1992)

-42 °F (closed cup)

Flammable gas

1 vol water takes up 37 vol gas

Sol in ether, acetone, chloroform; ethyl alcohol

SOL IN ORG SOLVENTS EXCEPT FOR POLYALCOHOLS

Soluble in oxygenated solvents

In water, 4.6X10+4 mg/L at 25 °C

Solubility in water, g/100ml: 2.4

0.724 at -12.46 °F (USCG, 1999) - Less dense than water; will float

1.91855 g/L at 1 atm and 25 °C

Relative density (water = 1): 0.61

1.92 g/L

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

1.6 (Air = 1)

Relative vapor density (air = 1): 1.6

2.128 mmHg (NTP, 1992)

4450.0 [mmHg]

4450 mm Hg at 25 °C

4450 [mm Hg] @25 °C

log Kow = 0.10

662 °F (USCG, 1999)

662 °F (350 °C)

When heated to decomposition it emits acrid smoke and irritating fumes.

825 at 0 °C

Highly flammable. Upon standing and exposure to air (oxygen) tendency to form explosive peroxides. When ethers containing peroxides are heated (distilled) they can detonate [Lewis, 3rd ed., 1993, p. 854].

Highly Flammable

Peroxidizable Compound

DIMETHYL ETHER is a colorless, highly flammable gas (b. p. -24 °C), slightly toxic. Very dangerous fire and explosion hazard when exposed to flame, sparks, heat or strong oxidizers. Violent reaction with aluminum hydride, lithium aluminum hydride. Upon standing and exposure to air (oxygen) tendency to form explosive peroxides. When ethers containing peroxides are heated (distilled) they can detonate [Lewis, 3rd ed., 1993, p. 854].

Forms explosive mixture with air. Forms unstable peroxides in containers that been opened or remain in storage for more than 6 months. Peroxides can be detonated by friction, impact or heating. Violent reaction with strong oxidizers, aluminum hydride, lithium aluminum hydride. Keep away from heat, air, sunlight.

/Diethyl ether/ with aluminum chloride as a catalyst, occasional explosions involving these materials have been traced to carbon dioxide as an impurity in the ether.

Peroxide formation may occur in ether containers that have been opened and remain in storage for more than six months. Peroxides can be detonated by friction, impact, or heating.

Occasional explosions involving /dimethyl ether and aluminum hydride/ materials have been traced to carbon dioxide impurity in the ether.

Dimethyl ether

D*: Other compounds that may form peroxides

Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 13 ed. Quincy, MA: National Fire Protection Association, 2002., p. 49-66"

https://www.chemours.com/Propellants/en_US/assets/downloads/hp-dme-technical-information.pdf

DME has very low acute inhalation toxicity. The 4-hour LC50 in rats is 164,000 ppm, and the cardiac sensitization threshold in dogs was greater than 200,000 ppm. In repeated inhalation rat studies of up to two years, DME was not carcinogenic and produced minimal toxicity at 25,000 and 10,000 ppm, and the NOAEC was 2000 ppm. DME was not teratogenic in pregnant rats up to 40,000 ppm; however, slight maternal and fetal toxicity were observed at greater than 5000 ppm. DME was not mutagenic in vitro or in vivo. The primary inhalation exposure finding was reversible CNS depression.

Cancer Classification: Group D Not Classifiable as to Human Carcinogenicity

The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation.

Cough. Sore throat. Confusion. Drowsiness. Unconsciousness.

ON CONTACT WITH LIQUID: FROSTBITE.

Redness. Pain.

Neurotoxin - Acute solvent syndrome

LC50 (rat) = 164,000 ppm/4-hr

LC50 Mouse inhalation 385.94 ppm (30 min)

LC50 Mouse inhalation 494.36 ppm (15 min)

LC50 Rat inhalation 308.5 mg/L (4 hr)

LC50 Rat inhalation 164,000 ppm for 4 hr

Sometimes encountered as mole-per-mole complex with boron trifluoride which is said to be severe pulmonary irritant.

INHALATION: Symptoms: Cough. Sore throat. Confusion. Drowsiness. Unconsciousness. First aid: Fresh air, rest. Refer for medical attention. SKIN: Symptoms: ON CONTACT WITH LIQUID: FROSTBITE. First aid: ON FROSTBITE: rinse with plenty of water, do NOT remove clothes. Rinse skin with plenty of water or shower. EYES: Symptoms: Redness. Pain. First aid: First rinse with plenty of water for several minutes (remove contact lenses if easily possible), then take to a doctor.

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

Basic treatment: Establish a patent airway (oropharyngeal or nasopharyngeal airway, if needed). Suction if necessary. Watch for signs of respiratory insufficiency and assist ventilations if necessary. Administer oxygen by nonrebreather mask at 10 to 15 L/min. Provide a low-stimulus environment. Monitor for shock and treat if necessary ... . Anticipate seizures and treat if necessary ... . For eye contamination, flush eyes immediately with water. Irrigate each eye continuously with 0.9% saline (NS) during transport ... . Do not use emetics. For ingestion, rinse mouth and administer 5 ml/kg up to 200 ml of water for dilution if the patient can swallow, has a strong gag reflex, and does not drool ... . Treat frostbite by rapid rewarming ... . /Ethers 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. Monitor cardiac rhythm and treat arrhythmias if necessary ... . Start IV administration of D5W /SRP: "To keep open", minimal flow rate/. Use 0.9% saline (NS) or lactated Ringer's (LR) if signs of hypovolemia are present. For hypotension with signs of hypovolemia, administer fluid cautiously. Consider vasopressors if patient is hypotensive with a normal fluid volume. Watch for signs of fluid overload ... . Treat seizures with diazepam or lorazepam ... . Use proparacaine hydrochloride to assist eye irrigation ... . /Ethers and related compounds/

... Persons repeatedly exposed to appreciable concentrations should undergo periodic medical examinations.

/HUMAN EXPOSURE STUDIES/ Human subjects were exposed to 50,000,75,000, 82,000, 100,000, 144,000, or 200,000 ppm for approximately 60 minutes. Exposures were terminated if unconsciousness occurred in the subjects. The number of subjects tested in each group was not reported. ...Clinical symptoms were noted for all concentrations. Effects on reaction times were tested at all dose levels, memory (writing of the Lord's Prayer) was tested at 82,000 and 100,000 ppm, muscular coordination (as exemplified by the act of writing) was observed at 82,000, 100,000, and 144,000 ppm, and typewriting was tested at 100,000 ppm. In human subjects, 50,000 and 75,000 ppm of DME caused feelings of mild intoxication but no objective symptoms beyond slight lack of attention after 12-minutes exposure to the higher concentration. At 82,000 ppm, some incoordination developed after 21.5 minutes, and a complaint was made of indistinct vision. At 100,000 ppm, no objective symptoms occurred during the first 15 minutes. Distinct signs of incoordination developed after 21 minutes of exposure. The experiment continued for 64 minutes, with the subject unable to do simple tasks (i.e., balancing of the head required special effort, estimation of time was lost, simple multiplication and memory were affected). At 144,000 ppm, symptoms first occurred after 7 minutes with the subject losing consciousness after 26 minutes. Inhalation of 200,000 ppm caused unconsciousness in 17 minutes.

/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ ... Dimethyl ether concn of 50% were inhaled by humans in the lab, with the observations that the gas is most unpleasant to inhale, being distinctly suffocating, even when taken with a high percentage of oxygen. ... it appears that the acute toxicity ... Is very low. ... Its principal physiological effect is that of anesthesia.

/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ Liquid material will cause severe frostbite if spilled on skin. .../CNS depression/ effects in man may be seen at concentrations of 5 to 10% in air.

/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ Slight health hazard. Inhalation may cause confusion, dizziness, lack of coordination, and unconsciousness.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ Beagle dogs were exposed to 100,000, 200,000, or 300,000 ppm dimethyl ether, purity 99.8%, for 5 minutes. There were 6 dogs in the 100,000 and 300,000 ppm groups and 12 dogs in the 200,000 ppm group. The dogs received a control injection of epinephrine (0.008 mg/kg) intravenously, prior to exposure and a challenge injection (same dosage) after breathing the test material for 5 minutes. The desired concentrations (calculated) were achieved by delivering a metered volume of the vapor or gas from the pressured cylinder containing the test substance and diluting it with a known volume of air. The flow meter used for monitoring the test compound had been previously calibrated with the compound by a dry gas test meter. Marked responses were observed in 0/6 (0%) 202 (16.7%) and 216 (33.3%) dogs administered 100,000, 200,000, or 300,000 ppm DME, respectively. A marked response indicated the development, after the challenge injection of epinephrine, of a cardiac arrhythmia which was considered to pose a serious threat to life. ...

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ Groups of 10 male, ChR-CD, rats, 7-8 weeks old, were exposed to DME, purity 99.9%, gas by whole-body method for single 4-hour periods. Exposure concentrations tested were 84,000, 121,000, 152,000, 169,000, and 205,000 ppm. ... The air/DME flow was maintained at 10 L/minute. ... During exposure, observations of clinical signs of toxicity were made. After exposure, the surviving rats were returned to their respective cages and were observed daily (weekends excluded) for 14 days. ... Surviving rats were sacrificed after a 14-day recovery period. ... Mortality of 0/10,3/10,2/10,7/10, and 7/10 occurred in the 84,000, 121,000, 152,000, 169,000, and 205,000 ppm groups, respectively. All but one death (205,000 ppm) occurred during the exposures. During exposure, the rats demonstrated ataxia (84,000 ppm and above), unresponsiveness to noise (121,000 ppm and above), anesthesia (84,000 ppm and above), paw waving (84,000 ppm), roving eyeballs (84,000 ppm), and coma (121,000 ppm and above). Ataxia was defined as uncoordinated. Anesthesia was considered unconsciousness with steady respirations (>50/min) and coma was considered unconsciousness with irregular, periodic or slow (<50/min) and shallow respirations. Post-exposure, survivors rapidly awoke and showed no clinical signs, other than transient weight loss for 1-2 days and sporadic lung noise. LC50 164, 000 (95% confidence limits, 142,000 and 203,000 ppm).

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ ... /In studies on/ anesthetic effect ... On cat ... Mixture of 85% methyl ether-15% air caused profound anesthesia with gradual cessation of respirations. Approx 20 min were necessary for complete recovery after 50 min of anesthesia

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ At 200,000 ppm dimethyl ether causes weak cardiac sensitization in dogs. At 10,000 ppm rats show slight evidence of sedation, and at 50,000 ppm rats are asleep most of the time for exposures longer than 30 min.

For more Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for DIMETHYL ETHER (15 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ Poecilia reticulata (Guppy) /NOEC/ value: >4000 mg/L. Method: NEN 6504; semistatic. With respect to rapid volatilization of DME, sealed flasks were used for the testing. Renewal of test solutions occurred after 48 hours. A total of 14 animals per concentration were tested in 2 replicates (7 animals/bottle x 2 bottles). ...All fish survived the dosages studied (nominal concentrations of 1900 and 3200 mg/L). pH: 7.3-7.5 at the end of the test; dissolved oxygen: saturated at study start 4.5-6.9 at the end of the test; temperature 23 °C.

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ Daphnia magna /NOEC/ value: >4000 mg/L. Method: NEN 6501. With respect to rapid volatilization of DME, sealed flasks were used for the testing. A total of 12-14 animals per concentration were tested in 2 replicates (6-7 animals/bottle x 2 bottles). ...All animals survived the dosages studied (nominal concentrations of 1000 and 3200 mg/L). pH: 7.3-8.1 at the end of the test; dissolved oxygen: saturated at study start >8 at the end of the test; temperature 20 °C.

Dimethyl ether's production and use as a refrigerant, an aerosol propellant, extraction agent, and as a catalyst and stabilizer in polymerization may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. If released to air, a vapor pressure of 4450 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates dimethyl ether will exist solely as a gas in the ambient atmosphere. Gas-phase dimethyl ether will be degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals and nitrate radicals; half-lives for these reactions in air are estimated to be 5.4 and 123 days, respectively. Aliphatic ethers do not absorb light in the environmental spectrum; therefore dimethyl ether is not expected to be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight. If released to soil, dimethyl ether is expected to have very high mobility based upon an estimated Koc of 27. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 5.9X10-3 atm-cu m/mole. Dimethyl ether is expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces based upon its vapor pressure. Biodegradation of dimethyl ether in soil and water is expected to be a slow process based upon its slow biodegradation in an aqueous screening study. If released into water, dimethyl ether is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment in water based upon its estimated Koc. Volatilization from water surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon dimethyl ether's estimated Henry's Law constant. Estimated volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 2.4 hours and 2.8 days, respectively. An estimated BCF of 3 suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low. Hydrolysis is not expected to be an important environmental fate process since this compound lacks functional groups that hydrolyze under environmental conditions. Occupational exposure to dimethyl ether may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where dimethyl ether is produced or used. The general population may be exposed to dimethyl ether via inhalation of consumer aerosol products containing this compound. (SRC)

Dimethyl ether's production and use as a refrigerant, an aerosol propellant, extraction agent(1), and as a catalyst and stabilizer in polymerization(2) 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 27(SRC), determined from a log Kow of 0.10(2) and a regression-derived equation(3), indicates that dimethyl ether is expected to have very high mobility in soil(SRC). Volatilization of dimethyl ether from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process(SRC) given an estimated Henry's Law constant of 5.9X10-3 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), derived from its vapor pressure, 4450 mm Hg(4), and water solubility, 4.6X10+4 mg/L(5). Volatilization of dimethyl ether from dry soil surfaces is expected(SRC) based upon this compound's vapor pressure(4). Biodegradation of dimethyl ether in soil is expected to be a slow process(SRC), based upon its slow biodegradation in an aqueous screening study(6).

AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 27(SRC), determined from a log Kow of 0.10(2) and a regression-derived equation(3), indicates that dimethyl ether is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment in the water column(SRC). Dimethyl ether is expected to volatilize from water surfaces(3) based on an estimated Henry's Law constant of 5.9X10-3 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), derived from its vapor pressure, 4450 mm Hg(4), and water solubility, 4.6X10+4 mg/L(5). Using this Henry's Law constant and an estimation method(3), volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 2.4 hours and 2.8 days, respectively(SRC). According to a classification scheme(6), an estimated BCF of 3(SRC), from the log Kow(2) and a regression derived equation(7), suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC). Biodegradation of dimethyl ether in water is expected to be a slow process(SRC), based upon its slow biodegradation in an aqueous screening study(8).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), dimethyl ether, which has a vapor pressure of 4450 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), will exist solely as a gas in the ambient atmosphere. Gas-phase dimethyl ether is degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals and nitrate radicals(SRC); half-lives for these reactions in air are estimated to be 5.4 and 123 days, respectively(3,4). Direct photolysis is not expected to be an important removal process since aliphatic ethers do not absorb light in the environmental spectrum(5).

AEROBIC: Dimethyl ether, at 100 mg/L reached 0 to 1% of its theoretical BOD in 4 weeks using an activated sludge inoculum at 30 mg/L and the Japanese MITI test(1).

The rate constant for the gas-phase reaction of dimethyl ether with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals is 2.98X10-12 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(1). This rate constant corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 5.4 days at an atmospheric concentration of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(SRC). Direct photolysis is not expected to be an important removal process since aliphatic ethers do not absorb light in the environmental spectrum(2). The rate constant for the reaction of dimethyl ether with hydroxyl radicals in aqueous solution is 1.0X10+9 L/mol sec(3). This rate constant corresponds to a half-life of about 2.2 years(SRC) at an average aqueous hydroxyl radical concentration of 1X10-17 mol/L(4). The rate constant for the reaction of dimethyl ether with nitrate radicals is 2.6X10-16 cu cm/molecule-sec at 22 °C(5). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 123 days at an average atmospheric concentration of 5X10+8 nitrate radicals per cu cm(6). Dimethyl ether is not expected to undergo hydrolysis in the environment due to the lack of hydrolyzable functional groups(7).

An estimated BCF of 3 was calculated for dimethyl ether(SRC), using a log Kow of 0.10(1) and a regression-derived equation(2). According to a classification scheme(3), this BCF suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC).

The Koc of dimethyl ether is estimated as approximately 27(SRC), using a log Kow of 0.10(1) and a regression-derived equation(2). According to a classification scheme(3), this estimated Koc value suggests that dimethyl ether is expected to have very high mobility in soil(SRC).

The Henry's Law constant for dimethyl ether is estimated as 5.9X10-3 atm-cu m/mole(SRC) from its vapor pressure, 4450 mm Hg(1), and water solubility, 4.6X10+4 mg/l(2). This Henry's Law constant indicates that dimethyl ether is expected to volatilize rapidly from water surfaces(3). Based on this Henry's Law constant, the estimated volatilization half-life from a model river (1 m deep, flowing 1 m/sec, wind velocity of 3 m/sec)(3) is approximately 2.4 hours(SRC). The estimated volatilization half-life from a model lake (1 m deep, flowing 0.05 m/sec, wind velocity of 0.5 m/sec)(3) is approximately 2.8 days(SRC). Dimethyl ether's Henry's Law constant(1,2) indicates that volatilization from moist soil surfaces may occur(SRC). Volatilization of dimethyl ether from dry soil surfaces is expected(SRC) based upon this compound's vapor pressure(1).

DRINKING WATER: It has been detected, not quantified, in drinking water for 3 of 10 U.S. cities (Seattle, WA, Philadelphia, PA, and Cincinnati, OH, were positive) in the National Organics Reconnaissance Survey that was initiated in 1974(1).

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ Poecilia reticulata (Guppy) /NOEC/ value: >4000 mg/L. Method: NEN 6504; semistatic. With respect to rapid volatilization of DME, sealed flasks were used for the testing. Renewal of test solutions occurred after 48 hours. A total of 14 animals per concentration were tested in 2 replicates (7 animals/bottle x 2 bottles). ...All fish survived the dosages studied (nominal concentrations of 1900 and 3200 mg/L). pH: 7.3-7.5 at the end of the test; dissolved oxygen: saturated at study start 4.5-6.9 at the end of the test; temperature 23 °C.

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ Daphnia magna /NOEC/ value: >4000 mg/L. Method: NEN 6501. With respect to rapid volatilization of DME, sealed flasks were used for the testing. A total of 12-14 animals per concentration were tested in 2 replicates (6-7 animals/bottle x 2 bottles). ...All animals survived the dosages studied (nominal concentrations of 1000 and 3200 mg/L). pH: 7.3-8.1 at the end of the test; dissolved oxygen: saturated at study start >8 at the end of the test; temperature 20 °C.

Dimethyl ether's production and use as a refrigerant, an aerosol propellant, extraction agent, and as a catalyst and stabilizer in polymerization may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. If released to air, a vapor pressure of 4450 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates dimethyl ether will exist solely as a gas in the ambient atmosphere. Gas-phase dimethyl ether will be degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals and nitrate radicals; half-lives for these reactions in air are estimated to be 5.4 and 123 days, respectively. Aliphatic ethers do not absorb light in the environmental spectrum; therefore dimethyl ether is not expected to be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight. If released to soil, dimethyl ether is expected to have very high mobility based upon an estimated Koc of 27. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 5.9X10-3 atm-cu m/mole. Dimethyl ether is expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces based upon its vapor pressure. Biodegradation of dimethyl ether in soil and water is expected to be a slow process based upon its slow biodegradation in an aqueous screening study. If released into water, dimethyl ether is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment in water based upon its estimated Koc. Volatilization from water surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon dimethyl ether's estimated Henry's Law constant. Estimated volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 2.4 hours and 2.8 days, respectively. An estimated BCF of 3 suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low. Hydrolysis is not expected to be an important environmental fate process since this compound lacks functional groups that hydrolyze under environmental conditions. Occupational exposure to dimethyl ether may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where dimethyl ether is produced or used. The general population may be exposed to dimethyl ether via inhalation of consumer aerosol products containing this compound. (SRC)

Dimethyl ether's production and use as a refrigerant, an aerosol propellant, extraction agent(1), and as a catalyst and stabilizer in polymerization(2) 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 27(SRC), determined from a log Kow of 0.10(2) and a regression-derived equation(3), indicates that dimethyl ether is expected to have very high mobility in soil(SRC). Volatilization of dimethyl ether from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process(SRC) given an estimated Henry's Law constant of 5.9X10-3 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), derived from its vapor pressure, 4450 mm Hg(4), and water solubility, 4.6X10+4 mg/L(5). Volatilization of dimethyl ether from dry soil surfaces is expected(SRC) based upon this compound's vapor pressure(4). Biodegradation of dimethyl ether in soil is expected to be a slow process(SRC), based upon its slow biodegradation in an aqueous screening study(6).

AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 27(SRC), determined from a log Kow of 0.10(2) and a regression-derived equation(3), indicates that dimethyl ether is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment in the water column(SRC). Dimethyl ether is expected to volatilize from water surfaces(3) based on an estimated Henry's Law constant of 5.9X10-3 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), derived from its vapor pressure, 4450 mm Hg(4), and water solubility, 4.6X10+4 mg/L(5). Using this Henry's Law constant and an estimation method(3), volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 2.4 hours and 2.8 days, respectively(SRC). According to a classification scheme(6), an estimated BCF of 3(SRC), from the log Kow(2) and a regression derived equation(7), suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC). Biodegradation of dimethyl ether in water is expected to be a slow process(SRC), based upon its slow biodegradation in an aqueous screening study(8).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), dimethyl ether, which has a vapor pressure of 4450 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), will exist solely as a gas in the ambient atmosphere. Gas-phase dimethyl ether is degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals and nitrate radicals(SRC); half-lives for these reactions in air are estimated to be 5.4 and 123 days, respectively(3,4). Direct photolysis is not expected to be an important removal process since aliphatic ethers do not absorb light in the environmental spectrum(5).

AEROBIC: Dimethyl ether, at 100 mg/L reached 0 to 1% of its theoretical BOD in 4 weeks using an activated sludge inoculum at 30 mg/L and the Japanese MITI test(1).

The rate constant for the gas-phase reaction of dimethyl ether with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals is 2.98X10-12 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(1). This rate constant corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 5.4 days at an atmospheric concentration of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(SRC). Direct photolysis is not expected to be an important removal process since aliphatic ethers do not absorb light in the environmental spectrum(2). The rate constant for the reaction of dimethyl ether with hydroxyl radicals in aqueous solution is 1.0X10+9 L/mol sec(3). This rate constant corresponds to a half-life of about 2.2 years(SRC) at an average aqueous hydroxyl radical concentration of 1X10-17 mol/L(4). The rate constant for the reaction of dimethyl ether with nitrate radicals is 2.6X10-16 cu cm/molecule-sec at 22 °C(5). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 123 days at an average atmospheric concentration of 5X10+8 nitrate radicals per cu cm(6). Dimethyl ether is not expected to undergo hydrolysis in the environment due to the lack of hydrolyzable functional groups(7).

An estimated BCF of 3 was calculated for dimethyl ether(SRC), using a log Kow of 0.10(1) and a regression-derived equation(2). According to a classification scheme(3), this BCF suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC).

The Koc of dimethyl ether is estimated as approximately 27(SRC), using a log Kow of 0.10(1) and a regression-derived equation(2). According to a classification scheme(3), this estimated Koc value suggests that dimethyl ether is expected to have very high mobility in soil(SRC).

The Henry's Law constant for dimethyl ether is estimated as 5.9X10-3 atm-cu m/mole(SRC) from its vapor pressure, 4450 mm Hg(1), and water solubility, 4.6X10+4 mg/l(2). This Henry's Law constant indicates that dimethyl ether is expected to volatilize rapidly from water surfaces(3). Based on this Henry's Law constant, the estimated volatilization half-life from a model river (1 m deep, flowing 1 m/sec, wind velocity of 3 m/sec)(3) is approximately 2.4 hours(SRC). The estimated volatilization half-life from a model lake (1 m deep, flowing 0.05 m/sec, wind velocity of 0.5 m/sec)(3) is approximately 2.8 days(SRC). Dimethyl ether's Henry's Law constant(1,2) indicates that volatilization from moist soil surfaces may occur(SRC). Volatilization of dimethyl ether from dry soil surfaces is expected(SRC) based upon this compound's vapor pressure(1).

DRINKING WATER: It has been detected, not quantified, in drinking water for 3 of 10 U.S. cities (Seattle, WA, Philadelphia, PA, and Cincinnati, OH, were positive) in the National Organics Reconnaissance Survey that was initiated in 1974(1).

Dimethyl ether has been detected in 2 out of 63 samples of industrial effluents collected from a wide variety of industries across the U.S. at concn >100 ug/L (dates not reported)(1). It was qualitatively detected in primary treated municipal wastewater and sludge collected in 1983 from the Iona Island treatment plant in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada(2). Dimethyl ether was identified, not quantified, as a frequently emitted VOC in the UK in 1990(3).

Dimethyl ether was identified, but not quantified, at 3 of 7 sites in the Kanawha Valley, WV, sampled in Sept 1977; it was tentatively identified at another site(1).

Dimethyl ether was identified, but not quantified, as a volatile flavor component of baked Idaho Russet Burbank potatoes by one of two analytical techniques(1).

Dimethyl ether was detected in 1 of 12 samples of human mothers breast milk from the cities of Bayonne NJ, Jersey City NJ, Bridgeville PA and Baton Rouge LA(1).

NIOSH (NOES Survey 1981-1983) has statistically estimated that 2282 workers (75 of these are female) are potentially exposed to dimethyl ether in the US(1). Occupational exposure to dimethyl ether may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where dimethyl ether is produced or used(SRC). The general population may be exposed to dimethyl ether via inhalation of consumer aerosol products containing this compound(SRC).

INDUSTRIAL EXPOSURE IS MOST LIKELY TO OCCUR FROM INHALATION OF GAS.

The potential human exposures from use of dimethyl ether (DME) and 'liquefied petroleum gas' (LPG) arising from use in hairsprays have been assessed. Dimethyl ether and liquefied petroleum gas concentrations were measured in the 'breathing zone' of an experimental manikin and an 'accompanying child' designed to simulate human use of hairsprays in a domestic situation and in the breathing zone of a 'stylist' and 'customer' under salon conditions. Results were expressed as the 10 min time weighted average in the air (TWA10) and as the peak concentration in the breathing zone of the 'user'. Following a 10 s use of hairspray containing 50% dimethyl ether or 26% liquefied petroleum gas, time weighted average in the air values for an adult user in a closed room (volume 21 cu m) were on average 114 ppm and 73 ppm respectively. The child time weighted average in the air values were 89 ppm (dimethyl ether) and 80 ppm (liquefied petroleum gas). Leaving the door open during spraying did not significantly alter these values. The peak concentrations measured in the user breathing zone were 1577 ppm of dimethyl ether and 671 ppm of liquefied petroleum gas. Simulated salon use of a hairspray gave a calculated value of 55 ppm dimethyl ether and 88 ppm liquefied petroleum gas for the stylist over an 8 h working period.

Dimethyl ether was detected in 1 of 12 samples of mothers breast milk from the cities of Bayonne NJ, Jersey City NJ, Bridgeville PA and Baton Rouge LA(1).

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

This compound should be susceptible to removal from waste water by air stripping. /Bis(2-chloroethyl)ether/

/GUIDE 115: GASES - FLAMMABLE (Including Refrigerated Liquids)/ Fire or Explosion: EXTREMELY FLAMMABLE. Will be easily ignited by heat, sparks or flames. Will form explosive mixtures with air. Vapors from liquefied gas are initially heavier than air and spread along ground. CAUTION: Hydrogen (UN1049), Deuterium (UN1957), Hydrogen, refrigerated liquid (UN1966) and Methane (UN1971) are lighter than air and will rise. Hydrogen and Deuterium fires are difficult to detect since they burn with an invisible flame. Use an alternate method of detection (thermal camera, broom handle, etc.) Vapors may travel to source of ignition and flash back. Cylinders exposed to fire may vent and release flammable gas through pressure relief devices. Containers may explode when heated. Ruptured cylinders may rocket.

/GUIDE 115: GASES - FLAMMABLE (Including Refrigerated Liquids)/ Health: Vapors may cause dizziness or asphyxiation without warning. Some may be irritating if inhaled at high concentrations. Contact with gas or liquefied gas may cause burns, severe injury and/or frostbite. Fire may produce irritating and/or toxic gases.

/GUIDE 115: GASES - FLAMMABLE (Including Refrigerated Liquids)/ Public Safety: CALL Emergency Response Telephone Number on Shipping Paper first. If Shipping Paper not available or no answer, refer to appropriate telephone number listed on the inside back cover. As an immediate precautionary measure, isolate spill or leak area for at least 100 meters (330 feet) in all directions. Keep unauthorized personnel away. Stay upwind. Many gases are heavier than air and will spread along ground and collect in low or confined areas (sewers, basements, tanks). Keep out of low areas.

/GUIDE 115: GASES - FLAMMABLE (Including Refrigerated Liquids)/ Protective Clothing: Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Structural firefighters' protective clothing will only provide limited protection. Always wear thermal protective clothing when handling refrigerated/cryogenic liquids.

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

UN 1033; Dimethyl ether

IMO 2; Dimethyl ether

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 Gas

Symbol: F+; R: 12; S: (2)-9-16-33

UN Hazard Class: 2.1