Diethyl Sulfate

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

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

H314: Causes severe skin burns and eye damage [Danger Skin corrosion/irritation]

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

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

H350: May cause cancer [Danger Carcinogenicity]

P203, P260, P261, P264, P270, P271, P280, P301+P317, P301+P330+P331, P302+P352, P302+P361+P354, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P316, P317, P318, P321, P330, P362+P364, P363, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

H302 (99.8%): Harmful if swallowed [Warning Acute toxicity, oral]

H311 (52.4%): Toxic in contact with skin [Danger Acute toxicity, dermal]

H312 (47.9%): Harmful in contact with skin [Warning Acute toxicity, dermal]

H314 (100%): Causes severe skin burns and eye damage [Danger Skin corrosion/irritation]

H318 (59.2%): Causes serious eye damage [Danger Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

H331 (13.2%): Toxic if inhaled [Danger Acute toxicity, inhalation]

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

H340 (99.8%): May cause genetic defects [Danger Germ cell mutagenicity]

H350 (99.8%): May cause cancer [Danger Carcinogenicity]

H412 (13%): Harmful to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

P203, P260, P261, P262, P264, P264+P265, P270, P271, P273, P280, P301+P317, P301+P330+P331, P302+P352, P302+P361+P354, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P316, P317, P318, P321, P330, P361+P364, P362+P364, P363, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Aggregated GHS information provided per 424 reports by companies from 14 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.

Information may vary between notifications depending on impurities, additives, and other factors. The percentage value in parenthesis indicates the notified classification ratio from companies that provide hazard codes. Only hazard codes with percentage values above 10% are shown. For more detailed information, please visit ECHA C&L website.

Not Classified

H311: Toxic in contact with skin [Danger Acute toxicity, dermal]

H318: Causes serious eye damage [Danger Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

H371: May cause damage to organs [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure]

P203, P260, P262, P264, P264+P265, P270, P280, P301+P317, P301+P330+P331, P302+P352, P302+P361+P354, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P308+P316, P316, P317, P318, P321, P330, P361+P364, P363, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

H331: Toxic if inhaled [Danger Acute toxicity, inhalation]

P203, P260, P261, P262, P264, P270, P271, P280, P301+P317, P301+P330+P331, P302+P352, P302+P361+P354, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P316, P318, P321, P330, P361+P364, P363, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Fresh air, rest. Half-upright position. Refer immediately for medical attention.

Remove contaminated clothes. Rinse skin with plenty of water or shower for at least 15 minutes. Refer immediately for medical attention.

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

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

INHHALATION: Remove to fresh air. If not breathing, give artificial respiration. If breathing is difficult, give oxygen.

EYES OR SKIN: Irrigate with running water for at least 15 min.; hold eyelids open if neccessary. Consult an ophthamologist immediately. Wash skin with soap and water. Speed in removing material from skin is of extreme importance. Remove contaminated clothing and shoes at the site. Keep victim quiet and maintain normal body temperature. Effects may be delayed; keep victim under observation.

INGESTION: If victim is conscious, give victim two glasses of water and have victim induce vomiting. (USCG, 1999)

General First Aid:

· Call 911 or emergency medical service.

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

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

· Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult.

· If victim is not breathing:

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

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

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

· Remove and isolate contaminated clothing and shoes.

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

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

· For severe burns, immediate medical attention is required.

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

· Keep victim calm and warm.

· Keep victim under observation.

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

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

Specific First Aid:

· Removal of solidified molten material from skin requires medical assistance.

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 152 [Substances - Toxic (Combustible)]:

SMALL FIRE: Dry chemical, CO2 or water spray.

LARGE FIRE: Water spray, fog or regular foam. If it can be done safely, move undamaged containers away from the area around the fire. Dike runoff from fire control for later disposal. Avoid aiming straight or solid streams directly onto the product.

FIRE INVOLVING TANKS, RAIL TANK CARS OR HIGHWAY TANKS: Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles. Do not get water inside containers. 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, foam, carbon dioxide.

Use dry chemical, foam, carbon dioxide, or water spray. Use water spray to keep fire-exposed containers cool. Approach fire from upwind to avoid hazardous vapors and toxic decomposition products.

· 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.

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

· Do not touch damaged containers or spilled material unless wearing appropriate protective clothing.

· Stop leak if you can do it without risk.

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

· Cover with plastic sheet to prevent spreading.

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

· DO NOT GET WATER INSIDE CONTAINERS.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 152 [Substances - Toxic (Combustible)]:

IMMEDIATE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURE: Isolate spill or leak area in all directions for at least 50 meters (150 feet) for liquids and at least 25 meters (75 feet) for solids.

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

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

Immediate precautionary measure

· Isolate spill or leak area in all directions for at least 50 meters (150 feet) for liquids and at least 25 meters (75 feet) for solids.

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

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

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

Personal protection: complete protective clothing including self-contained breathing apparatus. Do NOT let this chemical enter the environment. 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.

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": A high-efficiency particulate arrestor (HEPA) or charcoal filters can be used to minimize amt of carcinogen in exhausted air ventilated safety cabinets, lab hoods, glove boxes or animal rooms ... Filter housing that is designed so that used filters can be transferred into plastic bag without contaminating maintenance staff is avail commercially. Filters should be placed in plastic bags immediately after removal ... The plastic bag should be sealed immediately ... The sealed bag should be labelled properly ... Waste liquids ... should be placed or collected in proper containers for disposal. The lid should be secured & the bottles properly labelled. Once filled, bottles should be placed in plastic bag, so that outer surface ... is not contaminated ... The plastic bag should also be sealed & labelled. ... Broken glassware ... should be decontaminated by solvent extraction, by chemical destruction, or in specially designed incinerators. /Chemical Carcinogens/

Stop or control the leak, if this can be done without undue risk. Use water spray to cool & disperse vapors, & protect personnel. Approach release from upwind. Absorb in noncombustible material for proper disposal. Prompt cleanup and removal are necessary.

SRP: At the time of review, criteria for land treatment or burial (sanitary landfill) disposal practices are subject to significant revision. Prior to implementing land disposal of waste residue (including waste sludge), consult with environmental regulatory agencies for guidance on acceptable disposal practices.

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": There is no universal method of disposal that has been proved satisfactory for all carcinogenic compounds & specific methods of chem destruction ... published have not been tested on all kinds of carcinogen-containing waste. ... summary of avail methods & recommendations ... /given/ must be treated as guide only. /Chemical Carcinogens/

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": ... Incineration may be only feasible method for disposal of contaminated laboratory waste from biological expt. However, not all incinerators are suitable for this purpose. The most efficient type ... is probably the gas-fired type, in which a first-stage combustion with a less than stoichiometric air:fuel ratio is followed by a second stage with excess air. Some ... are designed to accept ... aqueous & organic-solvent solutions, otherwise it is necessary ... to absorb soln onto suitable combustible material, such as sawdust. Alternatively, chem destruction may be used, esp when small quantities ... are to be destroyed in laboratory. /Chemical Carcinogens/

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": HEPA (high-efficiency particulate arrestor) filters ... can be disposed of by incineration. For spent charcoal filters, the adsorbed material can be stripped off at high temp & carcinogenic wastes generated by this treatment conducted to & burned in an incinerator. ... LIQUID WASTE: ... Disposal should be carried out by incineration at temp that ... ensure complete combustion. SOLID WASTE: Carcasses of lab animals, cage litter & misc solid wastes ... should be disposed of by incineration at temp high enough to ensure destruction of chem carcinogens or their metabolites. /Chemical Carcinogens/

For more Disposal Methods (Complete) data for DIETHYLSULFATE (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": Smoking, drinking, eating, storage of food or of food & beverage containers or utensils, & the application of cosmetics should be prohibited in any laboratory. All personnel should remove gloves, if worn, after completion of procedures in which carcinogens have been used. They should ... wash ... hands, preferably using dispensers of liq detergent, & rinse ... thoroughly. Consideration should be given to appropriate methods for cleaning the skin, depending on nature of the contaminant. No standard procedure can be recommended, but the use of organic solvents should be avoided. Safety pipettes should be used for all pipetting. /Chemical Carcinogens/

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": In animal laboratory, personnel should remove their outdoor clothes & wear protective suits (preferably disposable, one-piece & close-fitting at ankles & wrists), gloves, hair covering & overshoes. ... clothing should be changed daily but ... discarded immediately if obvious contamination occurs ... /also,/ workers should shower immediately. In chemical laboratory, gloves & gowns should always be worn ... however, gloves should not be assumed to provide full protection. Carefully fitted masks or respirators may be necessary when working with particulates or gases, & disposable plastic aprons might provide addnl protection. If gowns are of distinctive color, this is a reminder that they should not be worn outside of lab. /Chemical Carcinogens/

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": ... Operations connected with synth & purification ... should be carried out under well-ventilated hood. Analytical procedures ... should be carried out with care & vapors evolved during ... procedures should be removed. ... Expert advice should be obtained before existing fume cupboards are used ... & when new fume cupboards are installed. It is desirable that there be means for decreasing the rate of air extraction, so that carcinogenic powders can be handled without ... powder being blown around the hood. Glove boxes should be kept under negative air pressure. Air changes should be adequate, so that concn of vapors of volatile carcinogens will not occur. /Chemical Carcinogens/

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": Vertical laminar-flow biological safety cabinets may be used for containment of in vitro procedures ... provided that the exhaust air flow is sufficient to provide an inward air flow at the face opening of the cabinet, & contaminated air plenums that are under positive pressure are leak-tight. Horizontal laminar-flow hoods or safety cabinets, where filtered air is blown across the working area towards the operator, should never be used ... Each cabinet or fume cupboard to be used ... should be tested before work is begun (eg, with fume bomb) & label fixed to it, giving date of test & avg air-flow measured. This test should be repeated periodically & after any structural changes. /Chemical Carcinogens/

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

Excerpt from ERG Guide 152 [Substances - Toxic (Combustible)]:

ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames) from immediate area. Do not touch damaged containers or spilled material unless wearing appropriate protective clothing. Stop leak if you can do it without risk. Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas. Cover with plastic sheet to prevent spreading. Absorb or cover with dry earth, sand or other non-combustible material and transfer to containers. DO NOT GET WATER INSIDE CONTAINERS. (ERG, 2024)

Separated from food and feedstuffs. Dry. Well closed. Keep in a well-ventilated room. Store in an area without drain or sewer access.

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": Storage site should be as close as practical to lab in which carcinogens are to be used, so that only small quantities required for ... expt need to be carried. Carcinogens should be kept in only one section of cupboard, an explosion-proof refrigerator or freezer (depending on chemicophysical properties ...) that bears appropriate label. An inventory ... should be kept, showing quantity of carcinogen & date it was acquired ... Facilities for dispensing ... should be contiguous to storage area. /Chemical Carcinogens/

Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated location. Separate from bases, oxidizing materials, water and air.

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

· Wear chemical protective clothing that is specifically recommended by the manufacturer when there is NO RISK OF FIRE.

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

0.16 [ppm]

1.8 [ppm]

11 [ppm]

skin absorption (H); carcinogen category: 2; germ cell mutagen group: 2

Small Fire

· Dry chemical, CO2 or water spray.

Large Fire

· Water spray, fog or regular foam.

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

· Dike runoff from fire control for later disposal.

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

Fire Involving Tanks, Rail Tank Cars or Highway Tanks

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

· Do not get water inside containers.

· 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.

No indication can be given about the rate at which a harmful concentration of this substance in the air is reached.

The substance is corrosive to the eyes, skin and respiratory tract. Inhalation may cause lung oedema. The effects may be delayed. Medical observation is indicated.

This substance is probably carcinogenic to humans. May cause heritable genetic damage to human germ cells.

Wear positive pressure breathing apparatus and special protective clothing. (USCG, 1999)

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": ... Dispensers of liq detergent /should be available./ ... Safety pipettes should be used for all pipetting. ... In animal laboratory, personnel should ... wear protective suits (preferably disposable, one-piece & close-fitting at ankles & wrists), gloves, hair covering & overshoes. ... In chemical laboratory, gloves & gowns should always be worn ... however, gloves should not be assumed to provide full protection. Carefully fitted masks or respirators may be necessary when working with particulates or gases, & disposable plastic aprons might provide addnl protection. ... gowns ... /should be/ of distinctive color, this is a reminder that they are not to be worn outside the laboratory. /Chemical Carcinogens/

NO open flames. See Chemical Dangers.

AVOID ALL CONTACT! IN ALL CASES CONSULT A DOCTOR!

Use ventilation, local exhaust or breathing protection.

Protective gloves. Protective clothing.

Wear face shield or eye protection in combination with breathing protection.

Do not eat, drink, or smoke during work.

Diethyl sulfate appears as a clear colorless liquid with a peppermint odor. Burns, though may be difficult to ignite. Corrosive to metals and tissue. It is a potent alkylating agent. Flash point is 104 °C (219 °F) [Aldrich MSDS].

Colorless liquid with an odor of peppermint; darkens with age; [Merck Index] Colorless oily liquid; [MSDSonline]

OILY COLOURLESS LIQUID WITH CHARACTERISTIC ODOUR. TURNS BROWN ON EXPOSURE TO AIR.

Colorless, oily liquid ... darkens with age

Peppermint odor

Faint ethereal odor

409 °F at 760 mmHg (USCG, 1999)

209.5 °C with decomposition

208 °C @760 [mm Hg]

-12 °F (USCG, 1999)

220 °F (USCG, 1999)

220 °F (CLOSED CUP)

104 °C c.c.

Miscible in alcohol and ether.

In water, 7,000 mg/l @ 20 °C

Solubility in water: reaction

1.1803 at 68 °F (USCG, 1999) - Denser than water; will sink

1.172 g/cu cm @ 25 °C

Relative density (water = 1): 1.2

1.172 @25 °C

5.31 (Air= 1)

Relative vapor density (air = 1): 5.3

0.21 [mmHg]

Vapor pressure: 1 mm Hg @ 47 °C

0.212 mm Hg @ 25 °C

Vapor pressure, Pa at 20 °C: 20

0.75 [mm Hg] @36 °C

log Kow= 1.14

817 °F (USCG, 1999)

817 °F (436 °C)

Decomposes at elevated temperature forming ethyl ether, which is more flammable than the material itself.

Rapidly decomposed by hot water into monoethyl sulfate and alcohol.

When heated to decomp it emits toxic fumes of /sulfur oxides/.

1.79 centipoises @ 20 °C

Noncorrosive

Index of Refraction = 1.40037 @ 20 °C/D

Liquid slightly heavier than water.

Gradually decomp by water; rapidly decomp by hot water into monoethyl sulfate and alcohol

Wt/gal: 9.8 lb @ 20 °C

Hydrolysis rate constant: 1.15X10-4/sec at 25 °C; hydrolysis half-life = 1.7 hours at pH 7 and 298 K.

Combustible. Slowly reacts with water to form ethyl alcohol, a flammable liquid, and ethyl sulfate, with eventual conversion to sulfuric acid.

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

Water-Reactive

The presence of moisture in a metal container of DIETHYL SULFATE caused the formation of sulfuric acid which reacts with the metal to release hydrogen which pressurized and exploded the container [Chem. Abst. 28:2908(1934)].

React violently with 3,8-dinitro-9-phenylphenanthridine plus water. Reaction with iron plus water forms explosive hydrogen gas.

... Can react with oxidizing materials. Moisture causes liberation of /sulfuric acid/. Violent reaction with potassium tert-butoxide.

The presence of moisture in a metal container of diethyl sulfate caused formation of sulfuric acid which reacted with the metal to release hydrogen which pressurized and exploded the container.

Diethyl sulfate

Evaluation: There is inadequate evidence for the carcinogenicity in humans of diethyl sulfate. There is sufficient evidence for the carcinogenicity of diethyl sulfate in experimental animals. Diethyl sulfate is probably carcinogenic to humans (2A). In making the overall evaluation, the Working Group took into account diethyl sulfate is a strong direct alkylating agent which ethylates DNA and that as a result, it is genotoxic in virtually all test systems examined including potent effects in somatic and germ cells of mammals exposed in vivo.

Diethyl sulfate: reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen.

Group 2A: Probably carcinogenic to humans

Volume 54: (1992) Occupational Exposures to Mists and Vapours from Strong Inorganic Acids; and Other Industrial Chemicals

Volume 71: (1999) Re-evaluation of Some Organic Chemicals, Hydrazine and Hydrogen Peroxide (Part 1, Part 2, Part 3)

NB Overall evaluation upgraded to Group 2A with supporting evidence from other relevant data

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

Cough. Sore throat. Laboured breathing. Shortness of breath. Symptoms may be delayed.

Redness. Pain. Serious skin burns.

Redness. Pain. Severe burns.

Burns in mouth and throat. Burning sensation behind the breastbone. Abdominal pain. Shock or collapse.

Reproductive Toxin - A chemical that is toxic to the reproductive system, including defects in the progeny and injury to male or female reproductive function. Reproductive toxicity includes developmental effects. See Guidelines for Reproductive Toxicity Risk Assessment.

Dermatotoxin - Skin burns.

Toxic Pneumonitis - Inflammation of the lungs induced by inhalation of metal fumes or toxic gases and vapors.

IARC Carcinogen - Class 2: International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies chemicals as probable (2a), or possible (2b) human carcinogens.

NTP Carcinogen - Reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen.

LCLo (rat) = 250 ppm/4h

LD50 Rat oral 0.88 g/kg

LD50 Mouse ip 150 mg/kg body weight

LD50 Rat sc 350 mg/kg body weight

LD50 Rabbit percutaneous 600 mg/kg body weight

LD50 Mouse oral 647 mg/kg

For basic treatment: Establish a patent airway. Suction if necessary. Watch for signs of respiratory insufficiency and assist ventilations if necessary. Administer oxygen by nonrebreather mask at 10 to 15 L/min. Monitor for pulmonary edema and treat if necessary. Anticipate seizures and treat if necessary. Monitor for shock and treat if necessary. For eye contamination, flush eyes immediately with water. Irrigate each eye continuously with normal saline during transport. Do not use emetics. For ingestion, rinse mouth and administer 5 ml/kg up to 200 ml of water for dilution if the patient can swallow, has a strong gag reflex, and does not drool. Administer activated charcoal. Cover skin burns with sterile dressings after decontamination. /Sulfur and related compounds/

For advanced treatment: Consider orotracheal or nasotracheal intubation for airway control in the patient who is unconscious. Early intubation at the first sign of upper airway obstruction may be necessary. Monitor cardiac rhythm and treat arrhythmias if necessary. Start an IV with D5W TKO. Use lactated Ringer's if signs of hypovolemia are present. Watch for signs of fluid overload. Consider drug therapy for pulmonary edema. Treat seizures with diazepam (Valium). For hypotension with signs of hypovolemia, administer fluid cautiously. Consider vasopressors for hypotension with a normal fluid volume. Watch for signs of fluid overload. Use proparacaine hydrochloride to assist eye irrigation. /Sulfur and related compounds/

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": Whenever medical surveillance is indicated, in particular when exposure to a carcinogen has occurred, ad hoc decisions should be taken concerning ... /cytogenetic and/or other/ tests that might become useful or mandatory. /Chemical Carcinogens/

/HUMAN EXPOSURE STUDIES/ Causes severe eye and skin burns. May be harmful if absorbed through skin or inhaled. Symptoms of overexposure include coughing, wheezing, headache, nausea, & vomiting.

/EPIDEMIOLOGY STUDIES/ In a historical cohort study of process workers, chemical mechanics, and refinery workers at a factory manufacturing isopropyl alcohol and ethanol by the strong acid process, a process which produces high concns of diethyl sulfate, excess mortality from upper respiratory (laryngeal) cancer was found among process workers.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ ... Rats tolerate saturated vapor for 2 hr without production of deaths. Inhalation of 250 ppm for 24 hr caused 0/6 deaths in rats while 500 ppm for 4 hr caused 6/6 deaths. It produced ... necrosis of rabbit skin when applied in undiluted state.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ Test by drop application on rabbit eyes indicated moderate injury, graded 5-7 on a scale of 1-10 /10 being most severe/, judged at 24 hr.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Chronic Exposure or Carcinogenicity/ Two groups of 12 BD rats were given 1.25 or 2.5% oily soln ... sc in weekly doses of 25 or 50 mg/kg bw ... for 49 wk. Eleven local sarcomas and 1 glandular carcinoma developed ... 2 cases of metastasis to lungs ... in 6/12 rats in 25 mg/kg bw group, 5 sarcomas and 1 myosarcoma developed ... no ... controls ... described.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Chronic Exposure or Carcinogenicity/ Two groups of 12 BD rats ... given weekly doses of 25 or 50 mg/kg/bw ... by gavage for 81 wk (total dose, 1.9 or 3.7 g/kg bw), and ... observed until death. In each group, 1 squamous cell carcinoma of forestomach was found, and 6/24 rats showed a number of benign papillomas of forestomach. No... controls... described.

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

The dermal carcinogenicity of diethyl sulfate was evaluated in a group of 40 C3H/HeJ male mice painted 3 times/week for their lifespan on the skin of the back, with undiluted diethyl sulfate at an average dose of 0.0074 g/mouse/application. A negative control group of 40 animals was exposed to 0.0126 g acetone/mouse/application in the same manner as the treated group. All the treated mice were dead after 23 months of the study, 11 after 18 months, and 27 after one year. The first skin neoplasm was observed after 12 months of treatment, with a total of 21 animals developing malignant skin neoplasms. The total cancer incidence was 87.5% and the median latent periods for appearance of neoplasms and cancer were 15.7 and 16.2 months, respectively. No skin tumors were observed in the control group.

The mutagenicity of diethyl sulfate was evaluated in the Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) Mutation test, both in the presence and absence of added metabolic activation by Aroclor-induced rat liver S9 fraction. Based on the results of preliminary toxicity determinations, diethyl sulfate, diluted with DMSO, was tested for mutagenicity at ranges of concentrations of 2.5-40x10(-3)% and 5-80x10(-3)% (v/v in DMSO) in the presence and absence of activation, respectively. All concentrations of diethyl sulfate tested caused a positive response in the tests both with and without activation.

The ability of diethyl sulfate to induce sister chromatid exchanges (SCE) in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells was evaluated in the absence of added metabolic activation. Based on preliminary toxicity tests, diethyl sulfate, diluted with DMSO, was tested at concentrations of 0, 0.00125, 0.0025, 0.0050, 0.010 or 0.020 % (v/v). A total of 15 cells/dose level were examined in all but the highest dose level tested since this dose level was toxic to the cells. There were statistically significant increases observed in the numbers of SCE/cell and SCE/chromosome relative to negative controls at concentrations of 0.0050 and 0.010% (p < 0.001, Student's t-test). A positive dose-response relationship was observed.

The ability of diethyl sulfate to cause an increase in unscheduled DNA synthesis in rat liver cells was evaluated. Based on preliminary toxicity tests, diethyl sulfate, diluted in DMSO, was tested at concentrations of 0, 0.0001, 0.001, 0.003, 0.010, 0.030 or 0.100% (v/v). Cells were treated with test article for 2 hrs. Statistically significant increases in DNA synthesis relative to negative controls were observed at all tested concentrations using both values for radioactivity incorporation into either nuclei or DNA (p < 0.05 for concentrations of 0.001 and 0.100% and p < 0.001 for the remaining concentrations). A linear dose-response pattern was not observed although the cumulative responses observed over a wide range of concentrations suggested a significant biological effect.

/PLANTS/ Diethyl sulfate induced unscheduled DNA synthesis in pollen of petunia hybrida. It induced chromosomal aberrations in meiotic cells and chlorophyll mutations in rice, ring chromosomes in Allium sativum root tips and anaphase and telophase aberrations in Papaver somniferum root meristemic cells.

The substance is harmful to aquatic organisms.

Diethylsulfate's production and use as an ethylating agent for a wide variety of organic functional groups may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. If released to air, a vapor pressure of 0.212 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates diethylsulfate will exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase diethylsulfate 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 9 days. Diethylsulfate is also degraded in the atmosphere by water and moisture and the half-life for this reaction is less than 1 day. If released to soil, diethylsulfate is expected to hydrolyze rapidly in moist soils. Adsorption, biodegradation, and volatilization from soil are not expected to be important fate processes because hydrolysis occurs rapidly. If released into water, diethylsulfate is expected to hydrolyze with an estimated half-life of 1.7 hours; ethanol and sulfuric acid have been identified as hydrolysis products. Volatilization, adsorption to suspended solids and sediments, biodegradation, and bioconcentration are not expected to be important fate processes in aquatic systems because of the rapid rate of hydrolysis. Occupational exposure to diethylsulfate may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where diethylsulfate is produced or used in the synthesis of a variety of intermediates and products. (SRC)

/PLANTS/ Diethyl sulfate induced unscheduled DNA synthesis in pollen of petunia hybrida. It induced chromosomal aberrations in meiotic cells and chlorophyll mutations in rice, ring chromosomes in Allium sativum root tips and anaphase and telophase aberrations in Papaver somniferum root meristemic cells.

The substance is harmful to aquatic organisms.

Diethylsulfate's production and use as an ethylating agent for a wide variety of organic functional groups may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. If released to air, a vapor pressure of 0.212 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates diethylsulfate will exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase diethylsulfate 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 9 days. Diethylsulfate is also degraded in the atmosphere by water and moisture and the half-life for this reaction is less than 1 day. If released to soil, diethylsulfate is expected to hydrolyze rapidly in moist soils. Adsorption, biodegradation, and volatilization from soil are not expected to be important fate processes because hydrolysis occurs rapidly. If released into water, diethylsulfate is expected to hydrolyze with an estimated half-life of 1.7 hours; ethanol and sulfuric acid have been identified as hydrolysis products. Volatilization, adsorption to suspended solids and sediments, biodegradation, and bioconcentration are not expected to be important fate processes in aquatic systems because of the rapid rate of hydrolysis. Occupational exposure to diethylsulfate may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where diethylsulfate is produced or used in the synthesis of a variety of intermediates and products. (SRC)

Diethylsulfate's production and use as an ethylating agent for a wide variety of organic functional groups(1-3) may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams(SRC).

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based upon the hydrolysis of diethylsulfate in aqueous environments(1), diethylsulfate is expected to hydrolyze in moist soils(SRC). Volatilization from soil surfaces and adsorption to soil are not expected to be important processes because of hydrolysis(SRC).

AQUATIC FATE: If released to water, diethylsulfate is expected to hydrolyze rapidly(SRC). A hydrolysis rate constant of 1.15X10-4/sec at 25 °C(1) translates to a half-life of 1.7 hours at pH 7(SRC). The rate of hydrolysis will increase in both acidic and basic waters as the reaction is catalyzed under these conditions(2). Volatilization from water surfaces, adsorption to suspended solids and sediments, biodegradation, and bioconcentration are not expected to be important fate processes in aquatic systems because of hydrolysis(SRC).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), diethylsulfate, which has a vapor pressure of 0.212 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), is expected to exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase diethylsulfate is degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals(SRC); the half-lives for this reaction in air is estimated to be about 9 days(SRC), calculated from its rate constant of 1.8X10-12 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(3). Diethylsulfate also reacts rapidly with water in the atmosphere, with an estimated half-life of <1 day(3).

Diethylsulfate, present at 100 mg/l, achieved 89% of its theoretical BOD after 4 weeks using an activated sludge inoculum at 30 mg/l and the Japanese MITI test(1).

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of diethylsulfate with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals has been measured as 1.8X10-12 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(1). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 9 days at an atmospheric concentration of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(1). Experimental rate constants for the gas-phase reactions of diethylsulfate with ozone, <3.4X10-21 cu cm/mol-sec; ammonia, <1.4X10-21 cu cm/mol-sec; and water, <2.3X10-23 cu cm/mol-sec translate to atmospheric lifetimes of >12 yr, >9 yr, and <1 day, respectively(1). A measured hydrolysis rate constant of 1.15X10-4/sec for diethylsulfate in water at 25 °C(2) translates to a half-life of 1.7 hrs at pH 7(SRC). The reaction is catalyzed under both acidic and basic conditions forming sulfuric acid and free ethanol(3).

Based upon the rapid rate of hydrolysis for diethylsulfate in aqueous environments(1), bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is expected to be low(SRC).

Based upon the rapid hydrolysis of diethylsulfate in aqueous environments(1), adsorption to soil and leaching are not expected to be important fate processes(SRC).

Based upon the rapid rate of hydrolysis for diethylsulfate in aqueous environments(1), volatilization from water and soil surfaces is not expected to be an important process(SRC).

In 1989, total land releases of diethylsulfate in the US were estimated at approximately 114 kg and total air emissions were estimated as approximately 4 tons from 28 locations(1).

URBAN/SUBURBAN: Diethylsulfate was qualitatively detected in the atmosphere of the Netherlands(1). In 1989, total air emissions of diethylsulfate in the U.S. were estimated at approximately 4 tons from 28 locations(2).

NIOSH (NOES Survey 1981-1983) has statistically estimated that 2,261 workers (164 of these are female) are potentially exposed to diethylsulfate in the US(1). Occupational exposure to diethylsulfate may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where diethylsulfate is produced or used(SRC).

SRP: At the time of review, criteria for land treatment or burial (sanitary landfill) disposal practices are subject to significant revision. Prior to implementing land disposal of waste residue (including waste sludge), consult with environmental regulatory agencies for guidance on acceptable disposal practices.

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": There is no universal method of disposal that has been proved satisfactory for all carcinogenic compounds & specific methods of chem destruction ... published have not been tested on all kinds of carcinogen-containing waste. ... summary of avail methods & recommendations ... /given/ must be treated as guide only. /Chemical Carcinogens/

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": ... Incineration may be only feasible method for disposal of contaminated laboratory waste from biological expt. However, not all incinerators are suitable for this purpose. The most efficient type ... is probably the gas-fired type, in which a first-stage combustion with a less than stoichiometric air:fuel ratio is followed by a second stage with excess air. Some ... are designed to accept ... aqueous & organic-solvent solutions, otherwise it is necessary ... to absorb soln onto suitable combustible material, such as sawdust. Alternatively, chem destruction may be used, esp when small quantities ... are to be destroyed in laboratory. /Chemical Carcinogens/

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": HEPA (high-efficiency particulate arrestor) filters ... can be disposed of by incineration. For spent charcoal filters, the adsorbed material can be stripped off at high temp & carcinogenic wastes generated by this treatment conducted to & burned in an incinerator. ... LIQUID WASTE: ... Disposal should be carried out by incineration at temp that ... ensure complete combustion. SOLID WASTE: Carcasses of lab animals, cage litter & misc solid wastes ... should be disposed of by incineration at temp high enough to ensure destruction of chem carcinogens or their metabolites. /Chemical Carcinogens/

For more Disposal Methods (Complete) data for DIETHYLSULFATE (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

/GUIDE 152: SUBSTANCES - TOXIC (Combustible)/ Fire or Explosion: Combustible material: may burn but does not ignite readily. Containers may explode when heated. Runoff may pollute waterways. Substance may be transported in a molten form.

/GUIDE 152: SUBSTANCES - TOXIC (Combustible)/ Health: Highly toxic, may be fatal if inhaled, swallowed or absorbed through skin. Contact with molten substance may cause severe burns to skin and eyes. Avoid any skin contact. Effects of contact or inhalation may be delayed. Fire may produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Runoff from fire control or dilution water may be corrosive and/or toxic and cause pollution.

/GUIDE 152: SUBSTANCES - TOXIC (Combustible)/ 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 in all directions for at least 50 meters (150 feet) for liquids and at least 25 meters (75 feet) for solids. Keep unauthorized personnel away. Stay upwind. Keep out of low areas.

/GUIDE 152: SUBSTANCES - TOXIC (Combustible)/ Protective Clothing: Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Wear chemical protective clothing that is specifically recommended by the manufacturer. It may provide little or no thermal protection. Structural firefighters' protective clothing provides limited protection in fire situations ONLY; it is not effective in spill situations where direct contact with the substance is possible.

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

UN 1594; Diethylsulfate

IMO 6.1; Diethylsulfate

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.

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": Procurement ... of unduly large amt ... should be avoided. To avoid spilling, carcinogens should be transported in securely sealed glass bottles or ampoules, which should themselves be placed inside strong screw-cap or snap-top container that will not open when dropped & will resist attack from the carcinogen. Both bottle & the outside container should be appropriately labelled. ... National post offices, railway companies, road haulage companies & airlines have regulations governing transport of hazardous materials. These authorities should be consulted before ... material is shipped. /Chemical Carcinogens/

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": When no regulations exist, the following procedure must be adopted. The carcinogen should be enclosed in a securely sealed, watertight container (primary container), which should be enclosed in a second, unbreakable, leakproof container that will withstand chem attack from the carcinogen (secondary container). The space between primary & secondary container should be filled with absorbent material, which would withstand chem attack from the carcinogen & is sufficient to absorb the entire contents of the primary container in the event of breakage or leakage. Each secondary container should then be enclosed in a strong outer box. The space between the secondary container & the outer box should be filled with an appropriate quantity of shock-absorbent material. Sender should use fastest & most secure form of transport & notify recipient of its departure. If parcel is not received when expected, carrier should be informed so that immediate effort can be made to find it. Traffic schedules should be consulted to avoid ... arrival on weekend or holiday ... /Chemical Carcinogens/

Do not transport with food and feedstuffs.

Symbol: T; R: 45-46-20/21/22-34; S: 53-45; Note: E

UN Hazard Class: 6.1; UN Pack Group: II