Ethanol

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 < 0.1% (5 of 13886) of reports.

H225 (> 99.9%): Highly Flammable liquid and vapor [Danger Flammable liquids]

H319 (37.7%): Causes serious eye irritation [Warning Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

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

Aggregated GHS information provided per 13886 reports by companies from 79 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.

Reported as not meeting GHS hazard criteria per 5 of 13886 reports by companies.

There are 76 notifications provided by 13881 of 13886 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.

H319 (100%): Causes serious eye irritation [Warning Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

H412 (100%): Harmful to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

P264+P265, P273, P280, P305+P351+P338, P337+P317, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

The GHS information provided by 1 company from 1 notification to the ECHA C&L Inventory.

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

P264, P264+P265, P273, P280, P302+P352, P305+P351+P338, P321, P332+P317, P337+P317, P362+P364, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

H320: Causes eye irritation [Warning Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

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

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

H350: May cause cancer [Danger Carcinogenicity]

H360: May damage fertility or the unborn child [Danger Reproductive toxicity]

H372: Causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure [Danger Specific target organ toxicity, repeated exposure]

H373: May causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, repeated exposure]

P203, P210, P233, P240, P241, P242, P243, P260, P261, P264, P264+P265, P270, P271, P280, P303+P361+P353, P304+P340, P305+P351+P338, P318, P319, P337+P317, P370+P378, P403+P233, P403+P235, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

H340: May cause genetic defects [Danger Germ cell mutagenicity]

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

Fresh air, rest.

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

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

Rinse mouth. Give one or two glasses of water to drink. Refer immediately for medical attention.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 127 [Flammable Liquids (Water-Miscible)]:

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)

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: IMMEDIATELY flood affected skin with water while removing and isolating all contaminated clothing. Gently wash all affected skin areas thoroughly with soap and water. If symptoms such as redness or irritation develop, IMMEDIATELY call a physician and be prepared to transport the victim 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: DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING. Volatile chemicals have a high risk of being aspirated into the victim's lungs during vomiting which increases the medical problems. If the victim is conscious and not convulsing, give 1 or 2 glasses of water to dilute the chemical and IMMEDIATELY call a hospital or poison control center. IMMEDIATELY transport the victim to a hospital. If the victim is convulsing or unconscious, do not give anything by mouth, ensure that the victim's airway is open and lay the victim on his/her side with the head lower than the body. DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING. IMMEDIATELY transport the victim to a hospital. (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:

· Wash skin with soap and water.

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

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

(General first aid procedures)

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

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

Breathing: Fresh air

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

Excerpt from ERG Guide 127 [Flammable Liquids (Water-Miscible)]:

CAUTION: The majority of these products have a very low flash point. Use of water spray when fighting fire may be inefficient. CAUTION: For fire involving UN1170, UN1987 or UN3475, alcohol-resistant foam should be used. CAUTION: Ethanol (UN1170) can burn with an invisible flame. Use an alternate method of detection (thermal camera, broom handle, etc.).

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

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

Suitable extinguishing media: Use water spray, alcohol-resistant foam, dry chemical or carbon dioxide.

Advice for firefighters: Wear self-contained breathing apparatus for firefighting if necessary.

If material on fire or involved in fire: Do not extinguish fire unless flow can be stopped. Use water in flooding quantities as fog. Solid streams of water may be ineffective. Cool all affected containers with flooding quantities of water. Apply water from as far a distance as possible. Use "alcohol" foam, dry chemical or carbon dioxide.

· 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 127 [Flammable Liquids (Water-Miscible)]:

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

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

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

Immediate precautionary measure

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

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

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

Remove all ignition sources. Ventilation. Do NOT wash away into sewer. Collect leaking and spilled liquid in covered containers as far as possible. Absorb remaining liquid in inert absorbent. Wash away remainder with plenty of water. Store and dispose of according to local regulations.

ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES: Personal precautions, protective equipment and emergency procedures: Use personal protective equipment. Avoid breathing vapors, mist or gas. Ensure adequate ventilation. Remove all sources of ignition. Evacuate personnel to safe areas. Beware of vapors accumulating to form explosive concentrations. Vapors can accumulate in low areas. Environmental precautions: Prevent further leakage or spillage if safe to do so. Do not let product enter drains. Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up: Contain spillage, and then collect with an electrically protected vacuum cleaner or by wet-brushing and place in container for disposal according to local regulations.

Land spill: Apply appropriate foam to diminish vapor and fire hazard.

Water spill: Use natural barriers or oil spill control booms to limit spill travel. Allow to aerate.

Air spill: Apply water spray or mist to knock down vapors.

SRP: 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 air, soil or water; effects on animal, aquatic and plant life; and conformance with environmental and public health regulations. If it is possible or reasonable use an alternative chemical product with less inherent propensity for occupational harm/injury/toxicity or environmental contamination.

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

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

The following wastewater treatment technologies have been investigated for ethanol: Biological Treatment.

ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES: Personal precautions, protective equipment and emergency procedures: Use personal protective equipment. Avoid breathing vapors, mist or gas. Ensure adequate ventilation. Remove all sources of ignition. Evacuate personnel to safe areas. Beware of vapors accumulating to form explosive concentrations. Vapors can accumulate in low areas. Environmental precautions: Prevent further leakage or spillage if safe to do so. Do not let product enter drains.

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

Appropriate engineering controls: Handle in accordance with good industrial hygiene and safety practice. Wash hands before breaks and at the end of workday.

Gloves must be inspected prior to use. Use proper glove removal technique (without touching glove's outer surface) to avoid skin contact with this product. Dispose of contaminated gloves after use in accordance with applicable laws and good laboratory practices. Wash and dry hands.

For more Preventive Measures (Complete) data for Ethanol (10 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 127 [Flammable Liquids (Water-Miscible)]:

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 : see Chemical Dangers.

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. Hygroscopic. Storage class (TRGS 510): Flammable liquids

Keep tightly closed, cool and away from flame.

Storage temp: ambient. Venting: open (flame arrester) or pressure vacuum.

Protect containers against physical damage. Underground storage tanks outside the building is preferred for use of large quantities. Small amt may be stored outside the building in the original shipping containers. ... Should not be stored with perchlorates, peroxides, chromic acid and nitric acid.

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

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

27314.0 [ppm]

200.0 [ppm]

1800 [ppm]

3300 [ppm]

15000 [ppm]

1000 ppm (1900 mg/m³)

TWA 1000 ppm (1900 mg/m3)

1000.0 [ppm]

3300 ppm ; Based on 10% of the lower explosive limit. [From NPG: Ethyl alcohol] (NIOSH, 2024)

3300 ppm ; Based on 10% of the lower explosive limit. (NIOSH, 2024)

3300.0 [ppm]

Excerpts from Documentation for IDLHs: Human data: It was reported in a clinical study that concentrations greater than 20,900 ppm were intolerably irritating and 15,000 ppm caused continuous lacrimation and coughing while concentrations between 5,200 and 10,400 ppm allowed work to be carried on, but with a certain amount of discomfort [Lester and Greenberg 1951]. In this same study, it was determined that 62% of the ethyl alcohol inhaled was absorbed [Lester and Greenberg 1951].

3300 ppm [Based on 10% of the lower explosive limit for safety considerations even though the relevant toxicological data indicated that irreversible health effects or impairment of escape existed only at higher concentrations.]

3300 ppm

3300 ppm [10%LEL]

See: 64175

15 min Short Term Exposure Limit (STEL): 1000 ppm.

A3; Confirmed animal carcinogen with unknown relevance to humans.

1000 ppm as STEL; A3 (confirmed animal carcinogen with unknown relevance to humans).

1000 ppm [2008]

380 mg/m

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

CAUTION: For fire involving UN1170, UN1987 or UN3475, alcohol-resistant foam should be used.

CAUTION: Ethanol (UN1170) can burn with an invisible flame. Use an alternate method of detection (thermal camera, broom handle, etc.)

Small Fire

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

Large Fire

· Water spray, fog or alcohol-resistant foam.

· 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.

ERPG-1: 1800 ppm - one hour exposure limit: 1 = mild transient health effects or objectionable odor [AIHA]

ERPG-2: 3300 ppm - one hour exposure limit: 2 = impaired ability to take protective action [AIHA]

Ethanol with a small amount of an adulterant added so as to be unfit for use as a beverage.

Ethanol appears as a clear colorless liquid with a characteristic vinous odor and pungent taste. Flash point 55 °F. Density 6.5 lb / gal. Vapors are heavier than air.

Liquid; Wet Solid; CBI; Gas Vapor; Gas Vapor; Liquid; Wet Solid; Liquid

Clear, colorless liquid with a weak, ethereal, vinous odor; [NIOSH]

COLOURLESS LIQUID WITH CHARACTERISTIC ODOUR.

Clear, colourless, mobile liquid with a characteristic odour and a burning taste

Clear, colorless liquid with a weak, ethereal, vinous odor.

Clear, colorless, very mobile liquid

Pleasant

Fragrant odor

Alcohol odor

Weak, ethereal, vinous odor

173.3 °F at 760 mmHg (NTP, 1992)

78.24 °C

78.29 °C @760 [mm Hg]

-173.4 °F (NTP, 1992)

-114.14 °C

-114.1 °C

-114 °C

55 °F (NTP, 1992)

14.0 °C (57.2 °F) - closed cup

Table: Flash Point for Ethyl Alcohol and Water [Table#229]

55 °F (13 °C) (closed cup)

12.0 °C c.c.

greater than or equal to 100 mg/mL at 73 °F (NTP, 1992)

In water, miscible /1X10+6 mg/L/ at 25 °C

Miscible with ethyl ether, acetone, chloroform; soluble in benzene

Miscible with many organic solvents

1000.0 mg/mL

Solubility in water: miscible

Soluble in water

(in ethanol)

Miscible

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

0.7893 g/cu cm at 20 °C

Relative density (water = 1): 0.79

0.7893 @ 20°C

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

1.59 (Air = 1)

Relative vapor density (air = 1): 1.6

Highly flammable. Water soluble.

Highly flammable. Soluble in water in all proportions.

Alcohols and Polyols

Highly Flammable

CSL00065

CALCIUM HYPOCHLORITE + ETHANOL

Potentially explosive

Explosive

User-Reported

CSL00066

ETHANOL + SILVER NITRATE

CSL00070

ETHANOL + AMMONIA + SILVER OXIDE

CSL00095

CHLORINE + ETHANOL

Potentially explosive in the presence of alcohols

CSL00128

ETHANOL + 1,3-DIAMINOGUANIDINE HYDROCHLORIDE + SODIUM NITRITE

We recently had an unanticipated explosion resulting in the injury of two chemists. The workers were repeating a recently published preparation of 1,5-diamino-1H-tetrazole by the aqueous diazotization of diaminoguanidine hydrochloride using a single equivalent of nitrous acid (Inorg. Chem. 2005, 44, 4237). After neutralization (pH 8) and evaporation, the desired product is extracted from the inorganic salts with hot ethanol. The ethanol is then evaporated and the resulting solid recrystallized from water. The preparation states that the product is pure after the ethanol extraction. Unfortunately, we have found that the ethanol extracts not only the desired product but also a very sensitive side product, 5-azidotetrazole. This side product is produced by either double diazotization of diaminoguanidine or possibly by diazotization of the desired product through the intermediate 1H-tetrazolo[1,5-d]tetrazole. If this procedure is repeated, it is imperative that the ethanol extract not be taken to dryness

Unanticipated explosion due to formation of the side product 5-azidotetrazole

http://pubs.acs.org/cen/safety/20050725.html

CSL00159

Sodium borohydride + Ethanol

Reaction resulted in a fire.

Not Available

Substance identification sources: Sodium borohydride. CAS Common Chemistry. CAS, a division of the American Chemical Society, n.d. https://commonchemistry.cas.org/detail?cas_rn=16940-66-2 (retrieved 2022-01-27) (CAS RN: 16940-66-2). Ethanol. CAS Common Chemistry. CAS, a division of the American Chemical Society, n.d. https://commonchemistry.cas.org/detail?cas_rn=64-17-5 (retrieved 2022-01-27) (CAS RN: 64-17-5).

User Reported

01/27/2022

CSL00168

Ethanol + Nickel

Exothermic reaction upon mixing resulted in a fire

Flammable,Pyrophoric

04/22/2022

04/21/2022

CSL00182

Silver Nitrate + Ethanol

N. M. Doherty (University of Washington) drew our attention to a serious explosion in her laboratory during the purification of silver nitrate using the procedure in our book on the “Purification of Laboratory Chemicals”, 2nd ed.; Pergamon: London, 1980, p 520. The following is quoted from her letter: As per your procedure the student was recrystallizing silver nitrate (20 g) from high purity (quartz-distilled, deionized) water (~100 mL) by the dropwise addition of high purity ethanol (~1 mL total). After collection of a first crop of crystals (~7 g), the student, follow- ing normal crystallization procedures, produced a second crop of crystals by concentration of the mother liquor by heating on a steam bath, then dropwise addition of another ~1 mL of ethanol. A contact explosion occurred during collection of the second crop when the student agitated the slurry on a sintered glass frit with a spatula. This explosion was quite violent, shattering the glassware involved and sending large chunks of glass as far as fifteen feet away. Very fortunately, the student was not cut by any of the glass shards; however, the potential for major personal injury was present. We were unaware of this danger, but explosions from silver nitrate and ethanol were known to occur and the haz- ards have been documented [Tully, J, P. News Ed. Chem, Soc.) 1941, 19, 250; Chem. Abstr. 1941, 35, 30928; Garin, D. L.; Henderson, K. 0. J. Chem. Educ. 1970,47, 741; Bretherick, L. “Handbook of Reactive Chemical Hazards”, 3rd ed.; Butterworths: London, 1985, pp 13-14. We are grateful to Professor Doherty for pointing out the dangers of this purification to us, and we should like to inform the chemical community of this grave error in our book. This will be rectified in the third edition.

Medium (up to 100g)

https://pubs.acs.org/doi/pdf/10.1021/ed063p1016.3

Literature Reference

The CIR Expert Panel concluded that Alcohol Denat.... denatured with t-Butyl Alcohol, Denatonium Benzoate, Diethyl Phthalate, or Methyl Alcohol are safe in the practices of use and concentration as described in this safety assessment, and, that Denatonium Benzoate is safe as a denaturant. The CIR Expert Panel concluded that the available data are insufficient to support the safety of Alcohol Denat.... denatured with Quassin, Brucine, and Brucine Sulfate in cosmetic products, and that the available data are insufficient to support the safety of Quassin, Brucine, and Brucine Sulfate as denaturants.

Ingredients for which the data are insufficient and their use in cosmetics is not supported

IDENTIFICATION AND USE: Ethanol is a clear, colorless, very mobile liquid. It is used in alcoholic beverages in suitable dilutions, and as a reagent in synthetic organic chemistry and chromatography, as well as industrial and laboratory organic solvent. Other uses are in manufacture of denatured alcohol, pharmaceuticals (rubbing compounds, lotions, tonics, colognes), in perfumery. Octane booster in gasoline. Pharmaceutic aid (solvent). HUMAN STUDIES: Ethanol is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant. It enhances the inhibitory effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) at the GABA-A receptor and competitively inhibits the binding of glycine at the N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (it disrupts excitatory glutaminergic neurotransmission). Ethanol also stimulates release of other inhibitory neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and serotonin. The most common clinical signs of ethanol toxicosis are ataxia, lethargy, vomiting, and recumbency. In more severe cases, hypothermia, disorientation, vocalization, hypotension, tremors, tachycardia, acidosis, diarrhea, respiratory depression, coma, seizures, and death may occur. Alcohol is directly irritating to the stomach and causes vomiting. High ethanol blood levels also stimulate emesis. The concern with vomiting during intoxication is that at high blood ethanol concentrations, the muscles that control the epiglottis become slow to react or even paralyzed. This increases the risk for aspiration. Ethanol intoxication reduces peripheral oxygen delivery and metabolism and causes mitochondrial oxidative dysfunction, potentially resulting in shock or hypoxia in an acutely intoxicated patient. Hypothermia may result from multiple mechanisms. Peripheral vasodilation, CNS depression, ethanol interference with the thermoregulator mechanism, and/or impaired behavioral responses to a cold environment all lead to a lowered body temperature. Moderate ethanol intake appears to reduce the risk of myocardial infarction and other heart diseases. However, high spirits consumption was associated with increased risk of cancer mortality in women. Consumption of alcoholic beverages (beer, in particular) is associated with an increased risk for rectal but not colon cancer. Beer is a commonly consumed alcoholic beverage among reproductive-age adults. Beer drinking males have an increased risk of contributing to pregnancy waste. Women consume beer before and after pregnancy recognition. Binge drinking appears to be a common drinking behavior, and those who binge drink have an increased risk of impaired fetal growth and offspring behavior. Beer consumption by lactating women might temporarily impair motor function of nursing infants. The rate of ethanol metabolism varies among individuals. Studies of twins indicate that interindividual variability in the rate of ethanol metabolism may be genetically controlled. The main pathway for ethanol oxidation in humans is to acetaldehyde via alcohol dehydrogenase pathway. Acetaldehyde is oxidized further to acetic acid by aldehyde dehydrogenase. Asians are known to be sensitive to the health effects of ethanol; the sensitivity has been attributed to different forms of the enzyme acetaldehyde dehydrogenase. Alcohol ingestion by Asians resulted in marked elevations of blood acetaldehyde levels ranging from 0.4 to 3 mg/L, and individuals developed facial flushing and tachycardia as a direct consequence of elevated blood acetaldehyde levels. ANIMAL STUDIES: A drop full-strength ethanol on rabbit eyes causes reversible injury graded only 3 on a scale of 10 after 24 hr. Application of 70% alcohol to rabbit corneas injures and temporarily loosens the corneal epithelium, but the recovery is complete. When rats were dosed with ethanol by oral gavage with 8 to 15 g/kg/day over 4 months and fed a diet containing 25% of total calories as fat, focal necrosis, inflammation, and fibrosis were observed in the liver. Nine baboons fed ethanol at 50% of total calories developed fatty liver, and four animals developed hepatitis within 9 to 12 months. Rabbits exposed to saturated vapors of ethanol for periods ranging from 25 to 365 days developed cirrhosis of the liver. Rats were given a single intraperitoneal dose of diethylnitrosamine followed by treatment with ethanol in drinking water for 12 to 18 months. Ethanol was an effective promoter of liver tumors. Cynomolgus monkeys administered up to 5 g/kg bw ethanol daily on gestation days 20-150 revealed an increase in pregnancy wastage (abortions and still births) but no structural malformation or facial change. Ethanol, and not acetaldehyde, has been implicated as the causative agent of the teratogenic effects in laboratory animals. Oral coadministration of 100 mg/kg of 4-methylpyrazole, an inhibitor of alcohol dehydrogenase, with 6 g/kg of ethanol intraperitoneally on gestation day 10 dramatically increased the embryotoxicity of ethanol in mice. Ethanol is not mutagenic in Salmonella typhimurium strains TA 97, TA 98, TA 100, TA 1535, TA 1537, or TA 1538 in the presence or absence of metabolic activation. In the presence of a metabolic activation system, ethanol is slightly mutagenic to Salmonella strain TA 102, a strain considered to respond to the presence of oxygen radicals. Ethanol did not induce mutations in mouse lymphoma L5178Y TK+/- cells and did not induce micronuclei in Chinese hamster V79 cells in the absence of metabolic activation. No chromosomal aberrations or sister chromatid exchanges were observed in Chinese hamster ovary cells treated with ethanol. ECOTOXICITY STUDIES: The zebrafish were exposed to different concentrations (control, 0.01, 0.1, and 1%) of ethanol from blastula stage to 144 hour-post-fertilization (hpf). No effect on survival was observed except the 1% ethanol group suffered 89% mortality during 108-120 hpf. No developmental defects were observed at the 0.01 and 0.1% concentrations, but significantly higher deformity rates occurred with 1% ethanol. Hyperactivity and less tortuous swimming paths were observed in all ethanol concentrations.

Alcohol intoxication causes CNS depression by enhancing the inhibitory effect of GABA on its receptors. Alcohol also inhibits the effects of glutamate on NMDA receptors, resulting in disinhibition and a blunted mental state. Ethanol intoxication manifests as slurred speech, stupor, and gait abnormalities. Severe intoxication may even result in a coma.

Clinicians should first correct thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency, which often accompanies chronic alcohol use disorder. Electrolyte derangements should be corrected through appropriate infusion. Extensive counseling is frequently required for patients with alcohol use disorder. Some medications that promote alcohol cessation include naltrexone (μ-opioid receptor antagonist), disulfiram (negative conditioning), topiramate, and gabapentin.

Alcohol withdrawal is another common morbidity that arises as a complication of alcohol use disorder (AUD). Alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) occurs due to abrupt cessation of alcohol consumption after binge drinking or long-term dependence. The signs and symptoms range from mild (eg, anxiety, headache, palpitations) to severe (eg, seizures, delirium tremens). The features of AWS typically arise within 24 hours of discontinuing alcohol consumption. Treatment involves supportive therapy for complaints. Any associated comorbidities should be treated with a 'banana bag' of essential vitamins. Severe AWS is an indication for benzodiazepine administration.

Alcohol binds to the GABA(A) receptors (delta subunit), NMDA receptors, Glycine receptors, Serotonin receptors, Acetylcholine receptors, L-channel calcium channels and GIRK channels. Ethanol acts in the central nervous system primarily by binding to the GABAA receptor, increasing the effects of the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA. Ethanol within the human body is converted into acetaldehyde by alcohol dehydrogenase. Acetaldehyde is linked to most of the clinical effects of alcohol. It has been shown to increase the risk of developing cirrhosis of the liver and multiple forms of cancer. During the metabolism of alcohol via the respective dehydrogenases, NAD (Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is converted into reduced NAD. Normally, NAD is used to metabolise fats in the liver, and as such alcohol competes with these fats for the use of NAD. Prolonged exposure to alcohol means that fats accumulate in the liver, leading to the term 'fatty liver'. Continued consumption (such as in alcoholism) then leads to cell death in the hepatocytes as the fat stores reduce the function of the cell to the point of death. These cells are then replaced with scar tissue, leading to the condition called cirrhosis.

Drug-Induced Liver Injury Severity and Toxicity (DILIst)

DILI Positive

DOI:10.1016/j.drudis.2019.09.022

A3; Confirmed animal carcinogen with unknown relevance to humans.

Ethanol in alcoholic beverages

Group 1: Carcinogenic to humans

Volume 96: (2010) Alcohol Consumption and Ethyl Carbamate

Volume 100E: (2012) Personal Habits and Indoor Combustions

TR-510: Toxicology and Carcinogenesis Studies of Urethane + Ethanol (CASRNs 51-79-6 & 64-17-5) in F344/N Rats and B6C3F1 Mice (Drinking Water Studies) (2004 )

09/05/02

Chemical Not Tested in Species/Sex

Inadequate Experiment

Under the conditions of this 2-year drinking water study, there was clear evidence of carcinogenic activity of urethane in male B6C3F 1 mice based on increased incidences of liver, lung, harderian gland, skin and forestomach neoplasms and of hemangiosarcoma, primarily of the liver and heart. There was clear evidence of carcinogenic activity of urethane in female B6C3F 1 mice based on increased incidences of liver, lung, harderian gland, mammary gland, and ovarian neoplasms and of hemangiosarcoma, primarily of the liver and spleen. The occurrences of hemangiosarcoma of the spleen in males and of the uterus and skin in females may have been exposure related.

Exposure to urethane resulted in increased incidences of nonneoplastic lesions of the liver and heart in males and females and of the uterus in females.

The design of this 2-year drinking water study was inadequate to determine the carcinogenic activity of ethanol in male and female B6C3F 1 mice.

Overall, there was weak evidence of an interaction of ethanol in the carcinogenicity of urethane in B6C3F 1 mice. In males, increasing the ethanol concentration may have decreased the alveolar/bronchiolar and harderian gland adenoma or carcinoma responses to urethane. In females, increasing the ethanol concentration may have increased the incidence of hemangiosarcoma of the heart and alveolar/bronchiolar adenoma or carcinoma responses to urethane.

Ethanol in alcoholic beverages is carcinogenic to humans (Group 1). (L135)

Acute: At 0.1% blood alcohol levels individuals experience CNS depression, nausea, possible vomiting, impaired cognition and impaired motor and sensory function. Accidents or injury can also occur due to the side effects of loss of coordination, slowed reaction time, sleepiness and impaired judgment. At >0.14% blood alcohol levels there is decreased blood flow to the brain. At greater than 0.3% blood alcohol there is a marked degree of stupefaction and possible unconsciousness. At levels greater than 0.4% there is a risk of death. Acute consumption leading to blood alcohol levels greater than 0.5% is almost universally fatal.

Chronic: high levels of alcohol consumption are associated with an increased risk of alcoholism, malnutrition, chronic pancreatitis, alcoholic (fatty) liver disease, and cancer. Frequent drinking of alcoholic beverages has been shown to be a major contributing factor in cases of elevated blood levels of triglycerides. In addition, damage to the central nervous system and peripheral nervous system can occur from chronic alcohol abuse. The long-term use of alcohol is capable of damaging nearly every organ and system in the body. The developing adolescent brain is particularly vulnerable to the toxic effects of alcohol. In addition, the developing fetal brain is also vulnerable, and fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) may result if pregnant mothers consume alcohol. The net effect of alcohol consumption on global human health is quite detrimental, with an estimated 3.8% of all global deaths and 4.6% of global disability-adjusted life-years attributable to alcohol. Ethanol is considered a teratogen (causing fetal alcohol syndrome) and a Group 1 carcinogen because of the carcinogenicity of acetaldehyde (a major metabolite of alcohol).

◉ Summary of Use during Lactation

The effects of maternal alcohol (ethanol) ingestion during lactation are complex and depend on the pattern of maternal drinking. With casual alcohol use (such as 1 glass of wine or beer) it is best to wait 2 to 2.5 hours per drink before nursing. Alcohol can decrease milk production, with 5 drinks or more decreasing milk letdown and disrupting nursing until maternal alcohol levels decrease. Casual drinking does not appear to affect breastfeeding duration, but daily heavy use of alcohol (more than 2 drinks daily) might decrease the length of time that mothers breastfeed their infants. Women with a family history of alcoholism have a blunted prolactin response following breast stimulation and may breastfeed more frequently to compensate. Beer may increase serum prolactin levels during nursing because of polysaccharides from barley and hops. In a US survey of 102 mothers who used beer as a galactogogue, 42% thought it increased milk supply. Although they may contain small amounts of alcohol, nonalcoholic cocktails and beer have minimal risks of infant alcohol exposure via breastmilk when consumed in moderation. The use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers do not result in clinically relevant alcohol levels in breastmilk.

Breastmilk alcohol levels closely parallel blood alcohol levels. The highest alcohol levels in milk occur 30 to 60 minutes after an alcoholic beverage, but food delays the time of peak milk alcohol levels. Nursing after 1 or 2 drinks (including beer) can decrease the infant's milk intake by 20 to 23% and cause infant agitation and poor sleep patterns. Nursing or pumping within 1 hour before ingesting alcohol may slightly reduce the subsequent amounts of alcohol in breastmilk.

The long-term effects of daily use of alcohol on infant development are unclear. In infants who were subjected to high alcohol exposure during pregnancy, breastfeeding for 4 or more months markedly improved their scores on the Bayley scales of mental and psychomotor development compared to infants who were breastfed 3 months or less. Heavy maternal use may cause excessive sedation, fluid retention, and hormone imbalances in breastfed infants. Greater or riskier alcohol consumption by nursing mothers may affect their children’s academic performance negatively in school. Preliminary data failed to find an increased risk of autism spectrum disorder or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder among the infants whose mothers used alcohol during breastfeeding.

◉ Effects in Breastfed Infants

A nursing mother was drinking large amounts of quinine wine, wine, champagne, beer and liquors. Her infant had been gaining 30 g of weight daily until he weighed almost 6 kg at 5 weeks of age. The infant had been restless and sleepless for several days when he suffered from violent fits and tonic-clonic seizures that required medical treatment. After he was taken off the mother's breast and began to be nursed by a wet nurse, his weight quickly dropped by 200 g in 3 days and fell into a pattern of calm sleep.

A similar case of chronic heavy alcohol use by a nursing mother resulted in pseudo-Cushing syndrome in her 4-month-old breastfed infant. The infant had a bloated appearance, excessive wight gain and diminished length for age. The mother reported drinking 50 cans of beer weekly and "generous" amounts of other alcoholic beverages to increase her milk supply. The infant's symptoms resolved and growth pattern returned to normal after her mother stopped consuming alcohol.

A series of 23 cases of severe thrombocytopenia and bleeding were reported among 21- to 60-day-old breastfed infants of Chinese women in Singapore over a 5-year period. None of the infants had received prophylactic vitamin K at birth and all of their mothers had been taking alcohol tonics after each meal beginning at 7 to 10 days after delivery which was a common practice among only the Chinese in the mixed ethnic population delivering at the hospital. Most of the infants also received 5 to 15 mL daily of "gripe water", which had an alcohol content of about 5%. The authors attributed these cases to the lack of prophylactic vitamin K (which was common practice at the time) and increased clotting factor degradation caused by alcohol.

A woman who drank 750 mL of port wine in 24 hours noticed that her breastfed 8-day-old had a deep unarousable sleep, snoring, pain insensitivity, inability to suck, excessive perspiration and a feeble pulse. These symptoms were attributed to the very young age of the infant and the large amount of alcohol consumed.

In a series of studies, investigators measured the effect of maternal alcohol use on their breastfed infants. In one study, 12 nursing mothers with infants 25 to 216 days of age drank 0.3 grams/kg of alcohol (about 1.5 drinks for a 60 kg woman) in orange juice over 15 minutes in the morning. On a separate occasion, they drank an equal volume of orange juice. In another study, 12 nursing mothers nursing infants with a median age of 150 days drank 0.3 grams/kg of alcohol as beer or the same volume of nonalcoholic beer on a separate occasion. In a third study, 12 nursing mothers with infants averaging 3.1 months of age drank 0.3 grams/kg of alcohol in orange juice over 15 minutes in the morning. On a separate occasion, they drank an equal volume of orange juice. In both studies, infants who drank milk that contained alcohol consumed 20 to 23% less milk during the 3- or 4-hour testing session, even though the time spent at the breast and number of sucks was unchanged. Mothers could perceive no difference in milk production or nursing behavior in their infants. Infants sucked more vigorously on a bottle containing their mothers' milk spiked with alcohol than on mothers' milk alone. In a study in which infants were weighed by the mothers before and after each feeding for the next 16 hours (20 hours total), infants increased the number of feedings during the period of 8 to 12 hours after the alcohol intake such that the total amount of milk consumed during the 20-hour period did not differ between the alcohol and non-alcohol days.

In studies that measured infant sleep, infants slept more frequently for shorter periods of time during the 3.5 to 4 hours after alcohol intake, whether it was after mothers drank 0.3 grams/kg of alcohol before breastfeeding or infants were given their mothers' milk spiked with an amount of alcohol (32 mg/100 mL) equivalent to that at 1 hour after maternal ingestion of 0.3 grams/kg of alcohol. After ingesting the alcohol-containing milk after maternal consumption of 0.3 grams/kg of alcohol, 14 infants from 4 to 11 weeks of age infants were observed for 1 hour after milk ingestion. Their behavioral state changed more frequently, they slept less, cried more and startled more than after consuming milk without alcohol. Mother-infant interactions were more conflictive after alcohol intake which may partially explain increased infant arousal after maternal and infant alcohol ingestion. A study that monitored the infants during the 24-hour period after maternal alcohol ingestion revealed that the infants compensated by spending more time in active (rapid eye movement) sleep from 3.5 hours to 24 hours with no further alcohol intake.

Long-term effects of alcohol ingestion during breastfeeding were studied in 2 separate populations by one group of investigators. In the first study, alcohol intake of more than 1 drink daily during nursing produced a measurable decrease in motor function development, but not mental development at 1 year of age. A later follow-up study found no decrements in performance of 18-month-old infants who were breastfed by mothers who consumed alcohol.

Studies have examined the effects of ingestion of pulque, an alcohol-containing drink made from agave cactus, in rural Mexican mothers. Most of the women had ingested pulque daily during pregnancy and lactation. One study found no effects on weight or length growth velocity among the 32 infants at 3 and 6 months of age whose mothers ingested an average of about 30 g of alcohol daily compared to the infants of 62 infants who did not drink pulque. Another study compared the growth of 40 infants whose mothers ingested pulque during pregnancy and lactation and 18 whose mothers did not. Mothers who consumed pulque ingested an average of 16.3 g daily. The infants whose mothers ingested pulque regularly had poorer growth between 1 and 57 months and smaller size at 57 months.

A retrospective study of 222 inner city women reported only as an abstract found that 1-year-old breastfed infants scored higher on language skills and motor development and had fewer hearing problems than nonbreastfed infants. Alcohol use by the mothers did not decrease the beneficial effects of breastfeeding.

A subgroup analysis of a large cohort study in Norway found that the infants of mothers who drank alcohol during breastfeeding had no greater risk of asthma, allergy or lower respiratory infections at 36 months of age than infants of mothers who did not drink.

Toxicity Threshold (Cell Multiplication Inhibition Test) Scenedesmus quadricauda (green algae) 5000 mg/L

Toxicity Threshold (Cell Multiplication Inhibition Test) Microcystis aeruginosa (algae) 1450 mg/L

Toxicity Threshold (Cell Multiplication Inhibition Test): Uronema parduczi Chatton-Lwoff (protozoa) 6120 mg/L

Toxicity Threshold (Cell Multiplication Inhibition Test) Entosiphon sulcatum (protozoa) 65 mg/L

For more Ecotoxicity Values (Complete) data for Ethanol (53 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ Ethanol and dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) are commonly used as carrier solvents for lipophilic chemicals in aquatic toxicity bioassays. However, very little information has been reported on the behavioral effects of these solvents. In this study, /the authors/ examined the effects of ethanol and DMSO on development and locomotor activity by a zebrafish embryo-larval bioassay. The zebrafish were exposed to different concentrations (control, 0.01, 0.1, and 1%) of ethanol or DMSO from blastula stage to 144 hour-post-fertilization (hpf). Hatchability, survival, and abnormalities were monitored every 12 hr, and locomotor activity of the larvae was analyzed at 144 hpf. Hatchability was not affected by the ethanol or DMSO treatments. No effect on survival was observed except the 1% ethanol group suffered 89% mortality during 108-120 hpf. No developmental defects were observed in any of the solvents at the 0.01 and 0.1% concentrations, but significantly higher deformity rates occurred with 1% ethanol and DMSO groups. Hyperactivity and less tortuous swimming paths were observed in all ethanol and DMSO concentrations. ...

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ 24-hr LC50 value for rainbow trout in flow-through bioassay system at 10 °C was 11200 mg/L. Ethanol at about 0.26 of the fingerling LC50, affected cardiovascular and respiratory system in adults. Slight ventilation rate and buccal pressure amplitude depression occurred in initial stages of 24 hr exposure. Q-T interval decreased.

Environmental effects of the substance have been adequately investigated, but no significant effects have been found.

Ethanol's production and use as a biofuel or biofuel additive, in alcoholic beverages, as a solvent, in pharmaceuticals, perfumery and organic synthesis may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. It's use as a pesticide (disinfectant, sanitizer, microbiocide, fungicide, plant regulator) will result in its direct release to the environment. Ethanol has been detected in emissions from animal wastes, plants, insects, forest fires, microbes, and volcanoes as well as from the natural fermentation of starch, sugar and other carbohydrates. Ethanol is a volatile component of many plants. If released to air, a vapor pressure of 59.3 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates ethanol will exist solely as a vapor in the atmosphere. Vapor-phase ethanol 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 5 days. Ethanol 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, ethanol is expected to have very high mobility based upon a log Koc of 0.20. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces is expected based upon a Henry's Law constant of 5.0X10-6 atm-cu m/mole. Ethanol may volatilize from dry soil surfaces based upon its vapor pressure. Utilizing the Japanese MITI test, 89% of the Theoretical BOD was reached in 2 weeks indicating that biodegradation is an important environmental fate process. If released into water, ethanol is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment based upon the log Koc. Biodegradation of ethanol in water is expected based on degradation half-lives of a few days in aquatic studies. Volatilization from water surfaces is expected based upon this compound's Henry's Law constant. Estimated volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 5 and 39 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 (pH 5 to 9). Occupational exposure to ethanol may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where ethanol is produced or used. The general population is exposed to ethanol primarily through the consumption of alcoholic beverages containing this product. Monitoring data indicate that the general population may also be exposed to ethanol via inhalation of ambient air or dermal contact with products containing ethanol. (SRC)

Ethanol has been detected in emissions from animal wastes, plants, insects, forest fires, microbes, and volcanoes(1) as well as emissions from the natural fermentation of starch, sugar and other carbohydrates(2). Ethanol is a volatile component of many plants(3).

Ethanol's production and use as a biofuel or biofuel additive(1), in alcoholic beverages, as a solvent, in pharmaceuticals, perfumery and organic synthesis(2) may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams(SRC). It's use as a pesticide (disinfectant, sanitizer, microbiocide, fungicide, plant regulator)(3) will result in its direct release to the environment(SRC).

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), a log Koc value of 0.20(2), indicates that ethanol is expected to have very high mobility in soil. Volatilization of ethanol from moist soil surfaces is expected(SRC) given a Henry's Law constant of 5.0X10-6 atm-cu m/mole(3). Ethanol is expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon a vapor pressure of 59.3 mm Hg at 25 °C(4). Ethanol, present at 100 mg/L, reached 89% of its Theoretical BOD in 2 weeks using an activated sludge inoculum at 30 mg/L in the Japanese MITI test(5). Ethanol, present at 100 mg/L, was completely degraded in 5-8 days in an aerobic sandy soil/groundwater microcosm(6).

AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), a log Koc value of 0.20(2), indicates that ethanol is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment(SRC). Volatilization from water surfaces is expected(3) based upon a Henry's Law constant of 5.0X10-6 atm-cu m/mole(4). Using this Henry's Law constant and an estimation method(3), volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 5 and 39 days, respectively(SRC). Ethanol is not expected to undergo hydrolysis in the environment due to the lack of functional groups that hydrolyze under environmental conditions(3). According to a classification scheme(5), an estimated BCF of 3(SRC), from its log Kow of -0.31(6) and a regression-derived equation(7), suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low. Biodegradation of ethanol in water is expected based on degradation half-lives on the order of a few days in aquatic studies conducted using microcosms constructed with a low organic sandy soil and groundwater(8).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), ethanol, which has a vapor pressure of 59.3 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), is expected to exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase ethanol 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 5 days(SRC), calculated from its rate constant of 3.27X10-12 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(3). Ethanol 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: Ethanol was shown to biodegrade under aerobic conditions in various screening tests using different types of inocula and incubation periods(1-8). 5 Day Theoretical BOD values were 37-86%(1,4). Biodegradation of 3, 7 and 10 mg/L ethanol with non-acclimated filtered sewage seed in fresh water resulted in an average Theoretical BOD of 74% in 5 days and 84% in 20 days; in salt water 45% of the Theoretical BOD was reached in 5 days and 75% was reached in 20 days(4). Ethanol rapidly degraded in soil forming formaldehyde and acetic acid along with carbon dioxide and water(6). Ethanol, present at 100 mg/L, reached 89% of its Theoretical BOD in 2 weeks using an activated sludge inoculum at 30 mg/L in the Japanese MITI test(7). Ethanol, present at 100 mg/L, was completely degraded in 5-8 days in aerobic microcosms prepared from low organic (0.2% organic carbon) sandy aquifer material at pH 5.2 and prepared with 20 mg/L of either benzene, toluene or o-xylene(8).

ANAEROBIC: Anaerobic degradation (thermophilic digestion, 54 °C) of ethanol (5 mL of a 5% aqueous ethanol solution) produced approximately 1000 mL gas/g sample using seed which had been prepared in a synthetic medium(1). At a starting concentration of 100 mg/L, ethanol was rapidly degraded in anaerobic microcosms prepared from low organic (0.2% organic carbon) sandy aquifer material and ground water at pH 5.2 with a half-life of approximately 1.5 days under denitrifying conditions and about 5 days under iron-reducing conditions(2). Ethanol biodegradation was measured using a shallow sand and gravel test aquifer in Merrick Co, central Platte Valley, Nebraska which was subjected to a pulse containing 220 mg/L ethanol and 12 mg/L bromide and monitored for 2.5 months(3). An average first-order decay constant was estimated of be 0.32/day, corresponding to a half-life of 2.2 days(3).

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of ethanol with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals is 3.27X10-12 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(1). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 5 days at an atmospheric concentration of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(2). Ethanol is not expected to undergo hydrolysis in the environment due to the lack of functional groups that hydrolyze under environmental conditions(3). Ethanol 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). A smog chamber test with 2 ppm ethanol and 1 ppm nitrogen resulted in 20% degradation in 5 hr(4). Ethanol is considered to have low reactivity in photochemical smog(5). Reaction with hydroxyl radicals in aquatic media will not likely be an important environmental process(6).

An estimated BCF of 3 was calculated in fish for ethanol(SRC), using a log Kow of -0.31(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).

A log Koc of 0.20 has been reported for ethanol(1). According to a classification scheme(2), this Koc value suggests that ethanol is expected to have very high mobility in soil. Transport was not retarded in an ethanol leaching test using a shallow sand and gravel test aquifer in Merrick Co, central Platte Valley, Nebraska(3). A sorption coefficient on a snow surface was reported as log K = -3.04 (cu m snow surface/sq m air) at -6.8 °C(4).

The Henry's Law constant for ethanol is 5.0X10-6 atm-cu m/mole(1). This Henry's Law constant indicates that ethanol 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 5 days(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 39 days(SRC). Ethanol's Henry's Law constant indicates that volatilization from moist soil surfaces may occur(SRC). Ethanol is expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon an extrapolated vapor pressure of 59.3 mm Hg(3).

GROUNDWATER: Ethanol was found in 1 of 13 leachate contaminated groundwater samples from the Anoka sandplain near Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minnesota at 190 ug/L(1). Ethanol was detected at 58 ug/L in 1 of 7 Minnesota groundwater sites where inorganic levels indicated good or unknown water quality(1).

DRINKING WATER: Ethanol was identified, not quantified, in public water supplies(1-4). Ethanol was identified, not quantified (1975-1976), in 1 of 3 water treatment plants and in drinking water of 1 of 1 hotel in Philadelphia(5).

SURFACE WATER: Ethanol was identified, not quantified, in 4 raw water sources - uncontaminated and contaminated with agricultural runoff, municipal or industrial wastes(1). Ethanol was detected in the Hayashida River, Japan in an area highly polluted by the leather industry, at a concentration of 4020 ppb(2).

RAIN/SNOW/FOG: Ethanol was detected in precipitation samples from Santa Rita, AZ (rural) at a concentration of 15 ppb (by mass); the ratio of concentration in precipitation/condensate was 0.31(1).

Ethanol was detected in 2 of 6 leachate sites from Minnesota landfills at 23,000 and 110,000 ppb(1). Traces of ethanol were detected in 1 of 11 domestic wells near Granby, CT landfill in 1984(2). Ethanol was identified, not quantified, in the volatile gases from compost samples collected at an in-vessel composting station, Joyceville, Ontario, Canada from May through July 1996(4). Ethanol levels in exhaust from simple hydrocarbon fuels (e.g. benzene, isooctane) were reported as <0.1-0.6 ppm(3). In the Gubrist highway tunnel, Switzerland, 214 emission measurements collected in 2004 resulted in an emission factor for ethanol of 10.3 mg/km(5). Emission factors of 6.6 and 58.8 mg/km were determined for light and heavy duty vehicles, respectively(5). The annual road traffic ethanol emission in Switzerland is was estimated to be 1 kiloton/year (57.5 kilotons/year for the European Union)(5). The addition of ethanol at 5% and 20% decreases exhaust emissions from a spark ignition engine by 12% and 48%, respectively(6). As the concentration of ethanol increased from 0 to 80.1% in starting fuel, the amount of ethanol in tailpipe emissions increased from 0 to 0.0337 g/mile(7).

URBAN/SUBURBAN: In a monitoring study conducted in Chicago, IL (year not specified), ethanol was detected near 9% and in 46% homes tested at 0.5-<100 ppb(1). Ethanol was identified, not quantified, in atmospheric samples from Leningrad, USSR in 1976(2). Ethanol was detected at mean, median and range of 4.9, 3.0 and <1-38 ppb, respectively, in ambient air from Boston, MA(3). Ethanol was detected at mean, median and range of 2.9, 2.2 and <1-22 ppb, respectively, in ambient air from Houston, TX(3). Ethanol was detected at a mean concentration of 150 ppb in Tuscon, AZ in sampling from February-September 1982(4). Ethanol was detected at a geometric mean of 5.4 ug/cu m in 37 samples collected from 27 sites in Melbourne, Australia(5). Levels outside a newly constructed dwelling were 5.6, <2 and <1 ug/cu m after 2, 19 and 246 days, respectively(5).

INDOOR: Ethanol was detected at levels of 6.3 and 10.2 ppb in two samples obtained inside buildings housing photocopying equipment located on a university campus in MD(1). Monitoring for volatile organic pollutants in 27 new and established buildings was conducted in Melbourne, Australia. Ethanol was detected in 22 non-complaint buildings at a geometric mean of 7.2 ug/cu m (61 air samples), detected in 5 complaint buildings at a geometric mean of 9.8 ug/cu m (11 samples), and from all 27 associated outdoor sites at a geometric mean of 5.4 ug/cu m (37 air samples). Levels in a new dwelling following construction were reported as follows (ug/cu m): living room - 150, 280, 220, and 120 on days 2, 19, 72, and 246, respectively; bedroom - 310, 390, 190, 190 on days 2, 19, 72, and 246, respectively; outdoor - 5.6, <2, <1 on days 2, 19, and 246, respectively(2).

RURAL/REMOTE: Samples taken in Pt. Barrow, AK, in 1967, indicated a 24 hour average concentration for ethanol of 0.77 ppb(1).

Ethanol was identified, not quantified, as a volatile plant isolate in soy beans(1). Ethanol was detected at levels of 250-980 ppb (common beans), 4900 ppb (split peas) and 2900 ppb (lentils)(2). Ethanol was identified, not quantified, as a volatile flavor component in fried bacon(3) and mountain Beaufort cheese (French Alps, summer and winter)(4). Ethanol was detected at levels of 140 to 890 mg/kg in fermented soybean curds(5). Ethanol was identified, not quantified, as a volatile component of pine sprout tea and pine needle tea(6). Ethanol is produced in the manufacture of alcohol, whiskey and gin(7). A standard drink in the US is equal to 14.0 grams (0.6 ounces) of pure alcohol as typically found in 12-ounces of beer (5% alcohol); 8-ounces of malt liquor (7% alcohol); 5-ounces wine (12% alcohol); 1.5-ounces or a "shot" of 80-proof distilled spirits or liquor (e.g. , gin, rum, vodka, or whiskey)(8). In 14 honey spirit samples collected from market or artisan Portuguese producers, the alcohol concentration was 28.0-53.0%, most of this alcohol is reported as ethanol(9).

Ethanol concentration was measured using two different methods in nine different wine styles with the following results(1):[Table#230]

Ethanol is ... present to extent of 3-6% by vol in naturally fermented beers and ales, 10-12% in wines and 20-60% in distilled beverages.

Ethanol is a volatile component from the leaves of the Japanese beautyberry (Callicarpa japonica Thunb.; Verbenaceae)(1). In olives (Olea europaea L) collected in Spain from the 2012-2013 crop year, ethanol was detected at 0.56-2.90, 6-58 and 1.5-11.5 mg/kg from Picual, Hojiblanca and Arbequina cultivars, respectively(2).

Ethanol concentrations in various plants(1). [Table#241]

Ethanol concentrations emitted from dairy silages (corn, alfalfa, cereal), high moisture ground corn (HMGC), total mixed rations (TMR), and other feedstuffs (almond hulls and almond shells) at a large dairy farm (approximately 3,000 cows) in Yolo County, CA were as follows nL/L: 1043.72, corn silage; 346.53, alfalfa silage; 1615.56, cereal silage; 339.01, HMGC; 349.68 TMR; not detected, almond hulls; 48.60 almond shells(1). Average ethanol concentrations were 244.21, 170.11 and 874.02 ug/cu m in non-smoke, reduced smoke and standard smoke incense(2). Ethanol levels in a new parked car were 299.6 ug/cu m; it was not detected in similar 3-yr old vehicle(3). Ethanol was one of the most abundant compounds in gasoline with reported concentrations of 7.5% and 5.4% wt in summer and winter headspace vapor, respectively , and 6.0% and 6.3 % wt in summer and winter liquid gasoline, respectively, as reported in a diurnal and seasonal variability analysis of gasoline-related volatile organic compound emissions in Riverside, California(4). Ethanol is listed as an ingredient in hundreds of home use products (arts and crafts, auto products, commercial/industrial, home maintenance, inside the home, landscape/yard, personal care, pesticides, pet care, uncategorized)(5).

According to the 2016 TSCA Inventory Update Reporting data, 209 reporting facilities estimate the number of persons reasonably likely to be exposed in the manufacturing, processing, or use of ethanol in the United States may be as low as <10 workers up to 1000 or greater workers per plant; the data may be greatly underestimated due to confidential business information (CBI) or unknown values(1).

NIOSH (NOES Survey 1981-1983) has statistically estimated that 2,069,125 workers (1,014,002 of these were female) were potentially exposed to ethanol in the US(1). Occupational exposure to ethanol may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where ethanol is produced or used(SRC). The general population is exposed to ethanol primarily through the consumption of alcoholic beverages containing this chemical. Monitoring data indicate that the general population may also be exposed to ethanol via inhalation of ambient air, dermal contact with products containing this compound(SRC).

Occupational exposure to ethanol during nail sculpturing range 0.17-16.2 ppm, mean 2.07 ppm in 34 samples of workroom air of 74 nail salons in southeastern Norway. Breaking down nail application methods, ethanol ranges were 0.17-3.91 ppm for acrylic method, 0.45-16.2 ppm for the UV gel method, and a mean of 0.26 ppm for the resin and acrylic powder method(1).

There is probably greater exposure to ethanol than to any other solvent with the exception of water. Not only is it used as a solvent in industry, but it is heavily consumed by large numbers of people as a component of potentially intoxicating beverages. As a result of the petroleum shortage, plans call for diluting gasoline with ethanol to form a combustible product termed "gasohol". At that point it is likely that ... /there will be/ universal exposure to ethanol.

Ethanol concentrations of various sources have been reported: workrooms - concentration up to 5000 ppm; from whiskey fermentation vats - average of 182 g/cu m grain input; in gasoline exhaust - 0.1 to 0.6 ppm

Ethanol was detected at levels of 13-1000 ppb in the exhaled breath of 64 human subjects(1).

SRP: 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 air, soil or water; effects on animal, aquatic and plant life; and conformance with environmental and public health regulations. If it is possible or reasonable use an alternative chemical product with less inherent propensity for occupational harm/injury/toxicity or environmental contamination.

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

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

The following wastewater treatment technologies have been investigated for ethanol: Biological Treatment.

/GUIDE 127 FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS (Water-Miscible)/ 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 127 FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS (Water-Miscible)/ Health: Inhalation or contact with material may irritate or burn skin and eyes. Fire may produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Vapors may cause dizziness or suffocation. Runoff from fire control may cause pollution.

/GUIDE 127 FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS (Water-Miscible)/ 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, uphill and/or upstream. Ventilate closed spaces before entering.

/GUIDE 127 FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS (Water-Miscible)/ 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 Ethanol (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

UN 1170; Ethanol or Ethyl alcohol or Ethanol solutions or Ethyl alcohol solutions

IMO 3; Ethanol (Ethyl alcohol) or Ethanol solution (Ethyl alcohol solution)

49 091 10; Ethyl Alcohol, anhydrous, denatured in part with gasoline content not to exceed 5% (alcohol, nos)

49 091 59; Cologne Spirits (Ethanol or Ethyl Alcohol)

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. Ethanol is included on the dangerous goods list.

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. Ethanol is included on the dangerous goods list.

Flammable Liquid

UN Hazard Class: 3; UN Pack Group: II