Dimethyl Carbonate

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

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

This chemical does not meet GHS hazard criteria for 1.3% (11 of 868) of reports.

H225 (98.7%): Highly Flammable liquid and vapor [Danger Flammable liquids]

Aggregated GHS information provided per 868 reports by companies from 10 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory.

Reported as not meeting GHS hazard criteria per 11 of 868 reports by companies.

There are 9 notifications provided by 857 of 868 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.

H361: Suspected of damaging fertility or the unborn child [Warning Reproductive toxicity]

P203, P280, P318, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

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

P203, P210, P233, P240, P241, P242, P243, P261, P271, P280, P303+P361+P353, P304+P340, P318, P319, P370+P378, P403+P233, P403+P235, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Fresh air, rest.

Rinse and then wash skin with water and soap.

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

Rinse mouth.

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

Refer to the "General First Aid" section. Specific First Aid: Wash skin with soap and water. In case of burns, immediately cool affected skin for as long as possible with cold water. Do not remove clothing if adhering to skin. (ERG, 2024)

General First Aid:

· Call 911 or emergency medical service.

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

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

· Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult.

· If victim is not breathing:

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

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

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

· Remove and isolate contaminated clothing and shoes.

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

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

· For severe burns, immediate medical attention is required.

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

· Keep victim calm and warm.

· Keep victim under observation.

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

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

Specific First Aid:

· Wash skin with soap and water.

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

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

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

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

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

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

FIRE INVOLVING TANKS, RAIL TANK CARS OR HIGHWAY TANKS: Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles. Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out. Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of tank. ALWAYS stay away from tanks in direct contact with flames. For massive fire, use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles; if this is impossible, withdraw from area and let fire burn. (ERG, 2024)

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

Explosion: In case of fire: keep drums, etc., cool by spraying with water.

Use water spray, dry chemical, foam, or carbon dioxide. Water may be ineffective. Use water spray to keep fire-exposed containers cool.

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

· Keep unauthorized personnel away.

· Stay upwind, uphill and/or upstream.

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

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

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

· Do not touch or walk through spilled material.

· Stop leak if you can do it without risk.

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

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

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

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

Large Spill

· Dike far ahead of liquid spill for later disposal.

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

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

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

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

FIRE: If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions. (ERG, 2024)

Immediate precautionary measure

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

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

· If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions.

Personal protection: filter respirator for organic gases and vapours adapted to the airborne concentration of the substance. Remove all ignition sources. 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.

Use water spray to cool and disperse vapors and protect personnel. Control runoff and isolate discharged material for proper disposal.

Personal protection: filter respirator for organic gases and vapors adapted to the airborne concentration of the substance. Remove all ignition sources. 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.

SRP: The most favorable course of action is to use an alternative chemical product with less inherent propensity for occupational harm/injury/toxicity 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 and plant life; and conformance with environmental and public health regulations.

Where risk assessment shows air-purifying respirators are appropriate use a full-face respirator with multi-purpose combination (US) or type ABEK (EN 14387) respirator cartridges as a backup to engineering controls. If the respirator is the sole means of protection, use a full-face supplied air respirator. Use respirators and components tested and approved under appropriate government standards such as NIOSH (US) or CEN (EU).

Face shield and safety glasses Use equipment for eye protection tested and approved under appropriate government standards such as NIOSH (US) or EN 166(EU).

Impervious clothing., Flame retardant antistatic protective clothing, The type of protective equipment must be selected according to the concentration and amount of the dangerous substance at the specific workplace.

NO open flames, NO sparks and NO smoking. NO contact with oxidizing agents.

For more Preventive Measures (Complete) data for DIMETHYL CARBONATE (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

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

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

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

Fireproof. Separated from strong oxidants. Well closed. Store in an area without drain or sewer access.

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. Air sensitive.

Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated location. Outside or detached storage is preferred.

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

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

39 [mg/m3]

430 [mg/m3]

2600 [mg/m3]

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

Small Fire

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

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

Large Fire

· Water spray, fog or alcohol-resistant foam.

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

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

Fire Involving Tanks, Rail Tank Cars or Highway Tanks

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

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

· Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of tank.

· ALWAYS stay away from tanks in direct contact with flames.

· For massive fire, use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles; if this is impossible, withdraw from area and let fire burn.

The vapour is mildly irritating to the eyes.

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

Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Structural firefighters' protective clothing provides thermal protection but only limited chemical protection. (ERG, 2024)

Protective gloves. Wear safety goggles.

NO open flames, NO sparks and NO smoking. NO contact with oxidizing agents. Closed system, ventilation, explosion-proof electrical equipment and lighting. Do NOT use compressed air for filling, discharging, or handling. Use non-sparking handtools.

Use ventilation.

Protective gloves.

Wear safety goggles.

Do not eat, drink, or smoke during work.

Dimethyl carbonate appears as a clear, colorless liquid with a pleasant odor. Denser than water and slightly soluble in water. Vapors are heavier than air. Used to make other chemicals and as a special purpose solvent.

CBI; Liquid

Colorless liquid; Not miscible or difficult to mix in water; [MSDSonline] Pleasant odor; [Hawley]

COLOURLESS LIQUID WITH CHARACTERISTIC ODOUR.

Colorless liquid

Pleasant odor

90.00 to 91.00 °C. @ 760.00 mm Hg

90.91 °C @760 [mm Hg]

31 °F (NFPA, 2010)

14 °C (Closed cup)

18 °C (Open cup)

18 °C o.c.

Miscible with alcohol and ether

Miscible with acids and alkalies; stable in the presence of water; soluble in most organic solvents

Soluble in oxygenated solvents

Solubility in water: none

1.0636 g/cu cm at 25 °C

Relative density (water = 1): 1.07

1.065 @ 17°C

Relative vapor density (air = 1): 3.1

55.36 [mmHg]

55.364 mm Hg at 25 °C

Vapor pressure, kPa at 25 °C: 7.4

55.364 [mm Hg] @25 °C

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

0.664 mPa.s at 20 °C

3.8363X10+7 J/Kmol at 273.15 K

3.1925X10-2 N/m at 273.15 K

Index of refraction: 1.3687

MP also listed as 4 °C

BP also stated as 89.7 °C

Schoenflies notation

Chemical bond

Chemical shift

Dielectric constant

Excess enthalpy

Heat of solution

Internuclear distance

Lineshape

Mixing enthalpy

Highly flammable. Slightly soluble in water.

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

Highly Flammable

CSL00166

2-Chloro-5-(chloromethyl)thiazole + Dimethyl carbonate

Reaction caused a pressure buildup leading to a failure of the vessel and release of contents

Not Available

User Reported

04/21/2022

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

Vapor/air mixtures are explosive.

Violent reaction or ignition on contact with potassium tert-butoxide.

The CIR Expert Panel concluded that the following 6 dialkyl carbonates are safe in the present practices of use and concentration, as described in this safety assessment, when formulated to be non-irritating...Dimethyl Carbonate...

Safe for use in cosmetics, with qualifications

Redness.

LD50 Mouse ip 800 mg/kg

LD50 Mouse oral 6 g/kg

LD50 Rat oral 13 g/kg

LD50 Rat inhalation > or = 140 mg/L/4 hours

For more Non-Human Toxicity Values (Complete) data for DIMETHYL CARBONATE (7 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

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. /Esters 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 ... . /Esters 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 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 ... . Use proparacaine hydrochloride to assist eye irrigation ... . /Esters and related compounds/

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ Exposure by inhalation appeared relatively hazardous, since 8000 ppm caused rapid onset of gasping, loss of coordination, frothing from the mouth and nose, and pulmonary edema with death of all rats in a period of 2 hours.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ The undiluted dimethyl carbonate liquid has an oral LD50 in the rat and the mouse between 6.4 and 12.8 g/kg and an intraperitoneal LD50 in the range of 800 to 1600 mg/kg. Symptoms were weakness, ataxia with gasping, and unconsciousness. A dermal LD50 in the guinea pig was found to be greater than 10 mL/kg. Some weight loss was noted, and minimal skin absorption was suspected. However, the degree of irritation was relatively slight.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Subchronic or Prechronic Exposure/ Groups of 20 male and 20 female Wistar (SPF) rats (4-5 weeks of age at the start of the experiment) received dimethylcarbonate (DMC) in their drinking water at doses of 0 (control group), 0.1, 0.3, or 1.0% for 3 months. Doses up to and including 1.0% DMC had no effect on behavior or mortality of male or female rats. Body weight gain was also not influenced by DMC. Clinical laboratory investigations were carried out 1 and 3 months after the start of the experiment in 5 male and 5 female rats of each group. Hematological investigations revealed no adverse effects of DMC at any dose levels. Clinical historical chemical determinations revealed no marked deviations from the values found in control groups and were all within the biological range. Urinalyses carried out on urines from 5 male and 5 female rats of each group at 1 and 3 months revealed no differences between control animals and dosed groups. Autopsies were performed on all animals which died during the study, as well as those which survived the 3 month treatment period. The following organs were weighed: heart, lungs, thymus, liver, spleen, kidneys, adrenals, testes, and ovaries. Treatment with DMC had no consistent effect on absolute or relative weights of these organs. Samples of 29 tissues and organs were fixed in Bouin's solution for histological examination. In addition, the left lobe of each liver was fixed in formol-calcium for fat detection. Histopathological investigations revealed that neither the males nor the females treated with doses up to and including 1.0% DMC showed any increased incidence of organ changes Also, no substance-related increase in hepatic fat content was observed. It was concluded that DMC was tolerated by rats for 3 months without damage up to and including a dosage of 1.0% in drinking water

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Developmental or Reproductive Toxicity/ Pregnant female CD-1 mice were exposed by inhalation to 0, 300, 1000, or 3000 ppm dimethylcarbonate during gestational days (GD) 6-15. Maternal body weights, clinical observations, & food consumption were recorded throughout gestation. At scheduled euthanization on GD 18, fetuses were weighed, sexed, & examined for external, visceral, & skeletal alterations. There were no treatment-related deaths or clinical findings. Maternal body weights & body weight gains were significantly reduced at 3000 ppm. Food consumption was also significantly reduced in the 1000 & 3000 ppm groups. Gestational parameters affected at 3000 ppm included postimplantation loss due to increased resorptions, & altered sex ratio (decreased males). Fetal body weights/litter were reduced at 3000 ppm, with increased number of stunted fetuses (<1 g). Total incidences of fetal malformations (external, visceral, & skeletal) were significantly increased at 3000 ppm & included cleft palate, microtia, low set ears, multiple skull bone malformations, & fused vertebral arches. There was also a treatment-related incr in skeletal variations at 3000 ppm. The NOEL for maternal & developmental toxicity was 1000 ppm.

For more Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for DIMETHYL CARBONATE (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Dimethyl carbonate's production and use as an environmentally benign methylating agent may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. If released to air, a vapor pressure of 55 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates dimethyl carbonate will exist solely as a vapor. Vapor-phase dimethyl carbonate will be degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals; the half-life for this reaction in air is estimated to be 24.6 days. Dimethyl carbonate 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, dimethyl carbonate is expected to have very high mobility based upon an estimated Koc of 2.9. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces may be an important fate process based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 6.2X10-4 atm-cu m/mole. Dimethyl carbonate may volatilize from dry soil surfaces based upon its vapor pressure. A >90% biodegradation using activated sludge in the OECD Modified MITI test indicates that biodegradation may be an important environmental fate process in soil or water. If released into water, dimethyl carbonate is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment based upon the estimated Koc. Volatilization from water surfaces may be an important fate process based upon this compound's estimated Henry's Law constant. An estimated BCF of 3.2 suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low. Dimethyl carbonate may hydrolyze under alkaline conditions however no rate information was available. Occupational exposure to dimethyl carbonate may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where dimethyl carbonate is produced or used. (SRC)

Dimethyl carbonate's production and use as an environmentally benign methylating agent(1,2) 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 2.9 (SRC), determined from a structure estimation method(2), indicates that dimethyl carbonate is expected to have very high mobility in soil(SRC). Volatilization of dimethyl carbonate from moist soil surfaces may be expected to be an important fate process(SRC) given an estimated Henry's Law constant of 6.2X10-4 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), using a fragment constant estimation method(3). Dimethyl carbonate is expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon a vapor pressure of 55.364 mm Hg at 25 °C(4). A >90% biodegradation using activated sludge in the OECD Modified MITI test(5) indicates 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 2.9(SRC), determined from a structure estimation method(2), indicates that dimethyl carbonate is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment(SRC). Volatilization from water surfaces may be expected(3) based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 6.2X10-4 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), developed using a fragment constant estimation method(4). Using this Henry's Law constant and an estimation method(3), volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 1.9 hours and 4.2 days, respectively(SRC). According to a classification scheme(5), an estimated BCF of 3.2(SRC), from an estimated log Kow of 0.23(6) and a regression-derived equation(2), suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC). A >90% biodegradation using activated sludge in the OECD Modified MITI test(7) indicates that biodegradation may be an important environmental fate process in water(SRC).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), dimethyl carbonate, which has a vapor pressure of 55 mm Hg at 25 °C (2), is expected to exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase dimethyl carbonate is degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals(SRC); the half-life for this reaction in air is estimated to be 24.6 days(SRC), calculated from its rate constant of 0.44X10-12 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(SRC) that was derived using a structure estimation method(3). Dimethyl carbonate does not contain chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm(4) and, therefore, is not expected to be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight(SRC).

AEROBIC: Dimethyl carbonate was >90% biodegraded in 28 days using an activated sludge inoculum in the OECD 301C test (Modified MITI)(1).

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of dimethyl carbonate with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals has been estimated as 0.44X10-12 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(SRC) using a structure estimation method(1). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 24.6 days at an atmospheric concentration of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(1). The alkyl carbonate esters hydrolyze very slowly in water when compared to the chloroformates. Under alkaline conditions, the rates of hydrolysis are similar to those of the corresponding acetic acid esters. The net result is the formation of hydroxy compounds and carbon dioxide(2). Dimethyl carbonate does not contain chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm(3) and, therefore, is not expected to be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight(SRC).

An estimated BCF of 3.2 was calculated in fish for dimethyl carbonate(SRC), using an estimated log Kow of 0.23(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).

Using a structure estimation method based on molecular connectivity indices(1), the Koc of dimethyl carbonate can be estimated to be 2.9 (SRC). According to a classification scheme(2), this estimated Koc value suggests that dimethyl carbonate is expected to have very high mobility in soil.

The Henry's Law constant for dimethyl carbonate is estimated as 6.2X10-4 atm-cu m/mole(SRC) using a fragment constant estimation method(1). This Henry's Law constant indicates that dimethyl carbonate is expected to volatilize from water surfaces(2). Based on this Henry's Law constant, the volatilization half-life from a model river (1 m deep, flowing 1 m/sec, wind velocity of 3 m/sec)(2) is estimated as 1.9 hours(SRC). The volatilization half-life from a model lake (1 m deep, flowing 0.05 m/sec, wind velocity of 0.5 m/sec)(2) is estimated as 4.2 days(SRC). Dimethyl carbonate's Henry's Law constant indicates that volatilization from moist soil surfaces may occur(SRC). Dimethyl carbonate is expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon a vapor pressure of 55.364 mm Hg at 25 °C(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 dimethyl carbonate is 100 to 999; the data may be greatly underestimated(1).

NIOSH (NOES Survey 1981-1983) has statistically estimated that 1,725 workers (0 of these were female) were potentially exposed to dimethyl carbonate in the US(1). Occupational exposure to dimethyl carbonate may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where dimethyl carbonate is produced or used.

Dimethyl carbonate's production and use as an environmentally benign methylating agent may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. If released to air, a vapor pressure of 55 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates dimethyl carbonate will exist solely as a vapor. Vapor-phase dimethyl carbonate will be degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals; the half-life for this reaction in air is estimated to be 24.6 days. Dimethyl carbonate 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, dimethyl carbonate is expected to have very high mobility based upon an estimated Koc of 2.9. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces may be an important fate process based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 6.2X10-4 atm-cu m/mole. Dimethyl carbonate may volatilize from dry soil surfaces based upon its vapor pressure. A >90% biodegradation using activated sludge in the OECD Modified MITI test indicates that biodegradation may be an important environmental fate process in soil or water. If released into water, dimethyl carbonate is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment based upon the estimated Koc. Volatilization from water surfaces may be an important fate process based upon this compound's estimated Henry's Law constant. An estimated BCF of 3.2 suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low. Dimethyl carbonate may hydrolyze under alkaline conditions however no rate information was available. Occupational exposure to dimethyl carbonate may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where dimethyl carbonate is produced or used. (SRC)

Dimethyl carbonate's production and use as an environmentally benign methylating agent(1,2) 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 2.9 (SRC), determined from a structure estimation method(2), indicates that dimethyl carbonate is expected to have very high mobility in soil(SRC). Volatilization of dimethyl carbonate from moist soil surfaces may be expected to be an important fate process(SRC) given an estimated Henry's Law constant of 6.2X10-4 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), using a fragment constant estimation method(3). Dimethyl carbonate is expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon a vapor pressure of 55.364 mm Hg at 25 °C(4). A >90% biodegradation using activated sludge in the OECD Modified MITI test(5) indicates 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 2.9(SRC), determined from a structure estimation method(2), indicates that dimethyl carbonate is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment(SRC). Volatilization from water surfaces may be expected(3) based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 6.2X10-4 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), developed using a fragment constant estimation method(4). Using this Henry's Law constant and an estimation method(3), volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 1.9 hours and 4.2 days, respectively(SRC). According to a classification scheme(5), an estimated BCF of 3.2(SRC), from an estimated log Kow of 0.23(6) and a regression-derived equation(2), suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC). A >90% biodegradation using activated sludge in the OECD Modified MITI test(7) indicates that biodegradation may be an important environmental fate process in water(SRC).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), dimethyl carbonate, which has a vapor pressure of 55 mm Hg at 25 °C (2), is expected to exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase dimethyl carbonate is degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals(SRC); the half-life for this reaction in air is estimated to be 24.6 days(SRC), calculated from its rate constant of 0.44X10-12 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(SRC) that was derived using a structure estimation method(3). Dimethyl carbonate does not contain chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm(4) and, therefore, is not expected to be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight(SRC).

AEROBIC: Dimethyl carbonate was >90% biodegraded in 28 days using an activated sludge inoculum in the OECD 301C test (Modified MITI)(1).

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of dimethyl carbonate with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals has been estimated as 0.44X10-12 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(SRC) using a structure estimation method(1). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 24.6 days at an atmospheric concentration of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(1). The alkyl carbonate esters hydrolyze very slowly in water when compared to the chloroformates. Under alkaline conditions, the rates of hydrolysis are similar to those of the corresponding acetic acid esters. The net result is the formation of hydroxy compounds and carbon dioxide(2). Dimethyl carbonate does not contain chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm(3) and, therefore, is not expected to be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight(SRC).

An estimated BCF of 3.2 was calculated in fish for dimethyl carbonate(SRC), using an estimated log Kow of 0.23(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).

Using a structure estimation method based on molecular connectivity indices(1), the Koc of dimethyl carbonate can be estimated to be 2.9 (SRC). According to a classification scheme(2), this estimated Koc value suggests that dimethyl carbonate is expected to have very high mobility in soil.

The Henry's Law constant for dimethyl carbonate is estimated as 6.2X10-4 atm-cu m/mole(SRC) using a fragment constant estimation method(1). This Henry's Law constant indicates that dimethyl carbonate is expected to volatilize from water surfaces(2). Based on this Henry's Law constant, the volatilization half-life from a model river (1 m deep, flowing 1 m/sec, wind velocity of 3 m/sec)(2) is estimated as 1.9 hours(SRC). The volatilization half-life from a model lake (1 m deep, flowing 0.05 m/sec, wind velocity of 0.5 m/sec)(2) is estimated as 4.2 days(SRC). Dimethyl carbonate's Henry's Law constant indicates that volatilization from moist soil surfaces may occur(SRC). Dimethyl carbonate is expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon a vapor pressure of 55.364 mm Hg at 25 °C(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 dimethyl carbonate is 100 to 999; the data may be greatly underestimated(1).

NIOSH (NOES Survey 1981-1983) has statistically estimated that 1,725 workers (0 of these were female) were potentially exposed to dimethyl carbonate in the US(1). Occupational exposure to dimethyl carbonate may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where dimethyl carbonate is produced or used.

SRP: The most favorable course of action is to use an alternative chemical product with less inherent propensity for occupational harm/injury/toxicity 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 and plant life; and conformance with environmental and public health regulations.

/GUIDE 129: FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS (Polar/Water-Miscible/Noxious)/ Fire or Explosion: HIGHLY FLAMMABLE: Will be easily ignited by heat, sparks or flames. Vapors may form explosive mixtures with air. Vapors may travel to source of ignition and flash back. Most vapors are heavier than air. They will spread along ground and collect in low or confined areas (sewers, basements, tanks). Vapor explosion hazard indoors, outdoors or in sewers. Those substances designated with a (P) may polymerize explosively when heated or involved in a fire. Runoff to sewer may create fire or explosion hazard. Containers may explode when heated. Many liquids are lighter than water.

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

/GUIDE 129: FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS (Polar/Water-Miscible/Noxious)/ Public Safety: CALL Emergency Response Telephone Number on Shipping Paper first. If Shipping Paper not available or no answer, refer to appropriate telephone number listed on the inside back cover. As an immediate precautionary measure, isolate spill or leak area for at least 50 meters (150 feet) in all directions. Keep unauthorized personnel away. Stay upwind. Keep out of low areas. Ventilate closed spaces before entering.

/GUIDE 129: FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS (Polar/Water-Miscible/Noxious)/ Protective Clothing: Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Structural firefighters' protective clothing will only provide limited protection.

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

UN 1161; Dimethyl carbonate

IMO 3.0; Dimethyl carbonate

No person may /transport,/ offer or accept a hazardous material for transportation in commerce unless that person is registered in conformance ... and the hazardous material is properly classed, described, packaged, marked, labeled, and in condition for shipment as required or authorized by ... /the hazardous materials regulations (49 CFR 171-177)./

The International 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; R: 11; S: (2)-9-16

UN Hazard Class: 3; UN Pack Group: II