Dimethylformamide

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

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

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

H360D ***: May damage the unborn child [Danger Reproductive toxicity]

P203, P261, P264+P265, P271, P280, P302+P352, P304+P340, P305+P351+P338, P317, P318, P321, P337+P317, P362+P364, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

This chemical does not meet GHS hazard criteria for < 0.1% (1 of 1434) of reports.

H226 (33.5%): Flammable liquid and vapor [Warning Flammable liquids]

H312 (98.6%): Harmful in contact with skin [Warning Acute toxicity, dermal]

H319 (98.7%): Causes serious eye irritation [Warning Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

H332 (98.4%): Harmful if inhaled [Warning Acute toxicity, inhalation]

H360 (93.5%): May damage fertility or the unborn child [Danger Reproductive toxicity]

P203, P210, P233, P240, P241, P242, P243, P261, P264+P265, P271, P280, P302+P352, P303+P361+P353, P304+P340, P305+P351+P338, P317, P318, P321, P337+P317, P362+P364, P370+P378, P403+P235, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Aggregated GHS information provided per 1434 reports by companies from 55 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.

Reported as not meeting GHS hazard criteria per 1 of 1434 reports by companies.

There are 54 notifications provided by 1433 of 1434 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.

H226: Flammable liquid and vapor [Warning Flammable liquids]

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

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

H350: May cause cancer [Danger Carcinogenicity]

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

H370: Causes damage to organs [Danger Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure]

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

P203, P210, P233, P240, P241, P242, P243, P260, P261, P264, P264+P265, P270, P271, P280, P302+P352, P303+P361+P353, P304+P340, P305+P351+P338, P308+P316, P316, P317, P318, P319, P321, P332+P317, P337+P317, P362+P364, P370+P378, P403+P233, P403+P235, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

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

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

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

H341: Suspected of causing genetic defects [Warning Germ cell mutagenicity]

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

P203, P210, P233, P240, P241, P242, P243, P260, P261, P264, P264+P265, P270, P271, P280, P303+P361+P353, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P308+P316, P316, P317, P318, P319, P321, P370+P378, P403+P233, P403+P235, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

H303: May be harmful if swallowed [Warning Acute toxicity, oral]

H313: May be harmful in contact with skin [Warning Acute toxicity, dermal]

P203, P210, P233, P240, P241, P242, P243, P260, P264, P264+P265, P270, P280, P301+P317, P302+P317, P303+P361+P353, P305+P354+P338, P308+P316, P317, P318, P319, P321, P370+P378, P403+P235, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

H360D: May damage the unborn child [Danger Reproductive toxicity]

P203, P261, P264+P265, P271, P280, P304+P340, P305+P351+P338, P317, P318, P337+P317, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Fresh air, rest. Refer for medical attention.

Remove contaminated clothes. Rinse and then wash skin with water and soap. Refer 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. Refer for medical attention .

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

SKIN: 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. 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. Be prepared to transport the victim to a hospital if advised by a physician. 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: Respiratory support

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wear self contained breathing apparatus for fire fighting if necessary.

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

Use water spray to cool unopened containers.

If material on fire or involved in fire: Use water in flooding quantities as fog. Solid streams of water may be ineffective. Use "alcohol" foam, dry chemical or carbon dioxide. Apply water from as far a distance as possible. Keep run-off water out of sewers and water sources.

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

· Keep unauthorized personnel away.

· Stay upwind, uphill and/or upstream.

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

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

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

· Do not touch or walk through spilled material.

· Stop leak if you can do it without risk.

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

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

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

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

Large Spill

· Dike far ahead of liquid spill for later disposal.

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

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

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

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

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

Immediate precautionary measure

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

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

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

Personal protection: complete protective clothing including self-contained breathing apparatus. Ventilation. Remove all ignition sources. Collect leaking and spilled liquid in sealable containers as far as possible. Absorb remaining liquid in sand or inert absorbent. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations.

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.

Prevent further leakage or spillage if safe to do so. Do not let product enter drains.

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.

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

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.

Recovering: Burn in soln in flammable solvent in furnace equipped with alkali scrubber. Recovery and recycle is an alternative to disposal for dimethyl formamide (DMF) from fiber spin baths and from PVC /polyvinyl chloride/ reactor cleaning solvents. Recommendable method: Incineration.

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.

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

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

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.

The worker should immediately wash the skin when it becomes contaminated.

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

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

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

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

Separated from incompatible materials. 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. Handle and store under inert gas.

Ideal materials for ... storage are nonalloy (carbon) steels, austenitic chromium nickel steels ... and aluminum. Seals ... should be made of polytetrafluoroethylene, polyethylene or polypropylene of high molecular weight. Ethylene-propylene rubber may also be used. Graphite can be used for lubricating moving parts in contact with DMF ... Since dimethylformamide (DMF) is hygroscopic, it should be kept under a blanket of dry nitrogen. High purity DMF, as required for acrylic fibers, is best stored in aluminum tanks.

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

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

Biological Exposure Indices (BEI) [ACGIH] - N-Methylformamide in urine = 30 mg/L at end of shift; N-Acetyl-S-(N-methylcarbamoyl)cysteine in urine = 30 mg/L at end of shift at end of workweek; [TLVs and BEIs]

5.0 [ppm]

AEGL 1: Notable discomfort, irritation, or certain asymptomatic non-sensory effects. However, the effects are not disabling and are transient and reversible upon cessation of exposure (Unit: ppm)

AEGL 2: Irreversible or other serious, long-lasting adverse health effects or an impaired ability to escape (Unit: ppm)

AEGL 3: Life-threatening health effects or death (Unit: ppm)

NR = Not recommended due to insufficient data

AEGLs Status: Final

2.0 [ppm]

91 [ppm]

530 [ppm]

10 ppm (30 mg/m³)

TWA 10 ppm (30 mg/m3) [skin]

10.0 [ppm]

500 ppm (NIOSH, 2024)

500.0 [ppm]

Excerpts from Documentation for IDLHs: Basis for original (SCP) IDLH: The chosen IDLH is based on the statements by Clayton et al. [1963] that rats survived a 4­hour exposure to air saturated with dimethylformamide vapor [Smyth and Carpenter 1948] and inhalation of saturated vapors for 6 hours was lethal [Haskell Laboratory]. A.D. Little reports that the saturated concentration at 20 C is 3,550 ppm. Because exposures to rats for 4 hours were at saturated concentrations, 3,500 ppm is chosen as the IDLH. . . . Human data: None relevant for use in determining the revised IDLH.

See: 68122

8 hr Time Weighted Avg (TWA): 10 ppm, skin.

Excursion Limit Recommendation: Excursions in worker exposure levels may exceed 3 times the TLV-TWA for no more than a total of 30 minutes during a work day, and under no circumstances should they exceed 5 times the TLV-TWA, provided that the TLV-TWA is not exceeded.

A4; Not classifiable as a human carcinogen.

Biological Exposure Index (BEI): Determinant: N-methylformamide in urine; Sampling Time: end of shift; BEI: 15 mg/L.

Biological Exposure Index (BEI): Determinant: N-acetyl-S-(N-methylcarbamoyl) cysteine in urine; Sampling Time: prior to last shift of workweek; BEI: 40 mg/L. Notation: The biological determinant is an indicator of exposure to the chemical, but the quantitative interpretation of the measurement is ambiguous. These determinants should be used as a screening test if a quantitative test is not practical, or as a confirmatory test if the quantitative test is not specific and the origin of the determinant is in question.

5 ppm as TWA; (skin); A3 (confirmed animal carcinogen with unknown relevance to humans); BEI issued.

5 ppm [2017]

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

Small Fire

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

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

Large Fire

· Water spray, fog or alcohol-resistant foam.

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

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

Fire Involving Tanks, Rail Tank Cars or Highway Tanks

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

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

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

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

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

N,n-dimethylformamide appears as a water-white liquid with a faint fishy odor. Flash point 136 °F. Slightly less dense than water. Vapors heavier than air. Toxic by inhalation or skin absorption. May irritate eyes.

Liquid; CBI

Colorless to pale-yellow liquid with a faint, amine-like odor; [NIOSH]

COLOURLESS-TO-YELLOW LIQUID WITH CHARACTERISTIC ODOUR.

Colorless to pale-yellow liquid with a faint, amine-like odor.

Colorless to very slightly yellow liquid

Water-white liquid

Fishy odor

Faint, amine-like odor

300 to 313 °F at 760 mmHg (NTP, 1992)

152.8 °C

BP: 76 °C at 39 mm Hg; 25 °C at 3.7 mm Hg

153 °C @760 [mm Hg]

-78 °F (NTP, 1992)

-60.3 °C

-60.4 °C

-60.48 °C

153 °F (NTP, 1992)

58 °C, closed cup

67 °C (open cup); 58 °C (Closed cup)

136 °F (58 °C)

58 °C c.c.

greater than or equal to 100 mg/mL at 72 °F (NTP, 1992)

Miscible with water and most common organic solvents

Miscible with ethanol, ethyl ether, acetone, benzene; slightly soluble in ligroin

1000000 mg/L at 25 °C

Solubility in water: miscible

Miscible

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

0.9445 at 25 °C/4 °C

Relative density (water = 1): 0.95

0.9455 @25 °C

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

2.51 (Air= 1)

Relative vapor density (air = 1): 2.5

3.7 mmHg at 77 °F ; 2.7 mmHg at 68 °F (NTP, 1992)

3.87 [mmHg]

3.87 mm Hg at 25 °C

Vapor pressure, kPa at 25 °C: 0.49

7.5 [mm Hg] @38 °C

Flammable. Water soluble.

Amides and Imides

CSL00007

N,N-DIMETHYLFORMAMIDE + SODIUM HYDRIDE

Thermal runaway reaction already at temperatures > 40°C

Deprotonation

CSL00013

Warning - Sodium Hydride combined with DMF can result in a fire.

Pyrophoric

Bretherick's

CSL00031

N,N-DIMETHYLFORMAMIDE + THIONYL CHLORIDE

Health Hazard

Harmful,Toxic

Chlorination

Generation of dimethylcarbamoyl chloride (carcinogen). DMCC is also toxic and a severe irritant.

User-Reported

CSL00032

N,N-DIMETHYLFORMAMIDE + OXALYL CHLORIDE

CSL00033

N,N-DIMETHYLFORMAMIDE + PHOSPHORUS OXYCHLORIDE

CSL00046

N,N-DIMETHYLFORMAMIDE + 2-CHLORO-5-FLUOROPYRIMIDINE + ZINC CYANIDE

Violent thermal exotherm at >100oC

Heteroaryl chloride

Cyanation

Palladium catalysed cyanation.

CSL00073

N,N-DIMETHYLFORMAMIDE + CHROMIUM(III) OXIDE

explosive

Explosive

CSL00074

N,N-DIMETHYLFORMAMIDE + POTASSIUM PERMANGANATE

CSL00085

N,N-DIMETHYLFORMAMIDE + 3-CHLOROPEROXYBENZOIC ACID

CSL00191

sodium hydride + N,N-dimethylformamide

NaH/DMF undergoes thermal decomposition at temperatures as low as 40 °C. The onset temperature for thermal decomposition appears dependent on water content in the DMF, and the weight ratio of NaH to DMF.

Flammable,Water Reactive

other: Hydride

Dimethylformamide ... is an organic solvent produced in large quantities through-out the world. It is used in the chemical industry as a solvent, an intermediate & an additive. Dimethylformamide is a colorless liquid with an unpleasant slight odor that ... has poor warning properties & individuals may be exposed through the inhalation of vapor. Occupational exposure occurs via skin contact with dimethylformamide liquid & vapors. ... Toxic amounts of dimethylformamide may be absorbed by inhalation & through the skin. Absorbed dimethylformamide is distributed uniformily. The /metabolism/ of dimethylformamide takes place mainly in the liver, with the aid of microsomal enzyme systems. In animals & humans, the main product of dimethylformamide biotransformation is N-hydroxymethyl-N-methylformamide. This metabolite is converted during gas chromatographic analysis to N-methylformamide, which itself (together with N-hydroxymethylformamide & formamide) a minor metabolite. ... In metabolic studies & biological monitoring, urinary concentration are expressed as N-hydroxymethylformamide. ... The determination of the /metabolites/ ... in the urine may be a suitable biological indicator of total dimethylformamide exposure. In experimental animals, it has been demonstrated that dimethylformamide metabolism is saturated at high levels &, at very high levels, dimethylformamide inhibits its own metabolism. Metabolic interaction occurs between dimethylformamide & ethanol. ... The effects of dimethylformamide on the environment have not been well studied. The toxicity for aquatic organisms appears to be low ... The acute toxicity of dimethylformamide in a variety of species is low ... . It is a slight to moderate skin & eye irritant. One study on guinea pigs indicated no sensitization potential. Dimethylformamide can facilitate the absorption of other chemical substances through the skin. Exposure of experimental animals to dimethylformamide via all routes of exposure may cause dose related liver injury. ... In some studies, signs of toxicity in the myocardium & kidneys have been /noted/. Dimethylformamide was ... found to be inactive, both in vitro & in vivo, in an extensive set of short term tests for genetic & related effects. No adequate long term carcinogenicity studies on experimental animals have been reported. ... Skin irritation & conjunctivitis have been reported after direct contact with dimethylformamide in /humans/. After accidental exposure to high levels of /this cmpd/, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, dizziness & fatigue occur within 48 hr. Liver function may be disturbed, & blood pressure changes, tachycardia & ECG abnormalities have been reported. ... Following long-term repeated exposure, symptoms include headache, loss of appetite & fatigue. Biochemical signs of liver dysfunction may be observed. Exposure to dimethylformamide, even at concn below 30 mg/cu m may cause alcohol intolerance. Symptoms may include a sudden facial flush, tightness of the chest, & dizziness sometimes accompanied by nausea & dypsnea. ... There is limited evidence that dimethylformamide is carcinogenic for human beings. An incr in testicular tumors was reported in one study, whereas another study showed incr incidence of tumors of the buccal cavity & pharynx, but not the testes. In two studies with limited details, an incr frequency of miscarriages was reported in women exposed to dimethylformamide among other chemicals.

While the mechanism of action of dimethyl formamide has not bee fully elucidated, thiocarbamate pesticides have been shown to inhibit aldehyde dehydrogenases. (A2459)

N,N-Dimethylformamide

3 x 10 ^-2 mg/m^3

Evaluation: There is inadequate evidence in humans for the carcinogenicity of dimethylformamide. There is evidence suggesting the lack of carcinogenicity of dimethylformamide in experimental animals. Overall evaluation: Dimethylformamide is not classifiable as to its carcinogenicity in humans (Group 3).

A4: Not classifiable as a human carcinogen.

Group 2A: Probably carcinogenic to humans

Volume 47: (1989) Some Organic Solvents, Resin Monomers and Related Compounds, Pigments and Occupational Exposures in Paint Manufacture and Painting

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

Volume 115: (2018) Some Industrial Chemicals

3, not classifiable as to its carcinogenicity to humans. (L135)

Dimethyl formamide is a known hepatatotoxin. It may also cause birth defects, kidney damage, and temporary alcohol intolerance. (L1658)

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

inhalation, skin absorption, ingestion, skin and/or eye contact

Oral ; inhalation ; dermal

Sore throat. Abdominal pain. Diarrhoea. Vomiting. Symptoms may be delayed.

MAY BE ABSORBED! See Inhalation.

Redness. Pain.

Aspiration hazard! Abdominal pain. Jaundice.

irritation eyes, skin, respiratory system; nausea, vomiting, colic; liver damage, enlarged liver; high blood pressure; face flush; dermatitis; In Animals: kidney, heart damage

Symptoms of dimethyl formamide exposure may include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, fatigue, headache, loss of appetite, and temporary alcohol intolerance. (L1658)

Eyes, skin, respiratory system, liver, kidneys, cardiovascular system

Chemical: DIMETHYL FORMAMIDE

Neurotoxin - Acute solvent syndrome

Occupational hepatotoxin - Primary hepatotoxins: the toxic effect to the liver is the principal adverse effect of the chemical.

Dermatotoxin - Skin burns.

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

ACGIH Carcinogen - Confirmed Animal.

Dimethylformamide

1 x 10^-1 mg/kg-day

3 x 10^-1 mg/kg-day

7 x 10^-2 mg/m^3

PDF Document

Inadequate information to assess carcinogenic potential

IRIS Current

PPRTV Current

LCLo (rat) = 5,000 ppm/6 hr

LD50: 2800 mg/kg (Oral, Rat) (T14)

LD50: 1400 mg/kg (Intraperitoneal, Rat) (T14)

LD50: 3800 mg/kg (Subcutaneous, Rat) (T14)

LD50: 2000 mg/kg (Intravenous, Rat) (T14)

Dimethylformamide exposure to air concn of 3500 ppm is considered immediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH).

LD50 MOUSE IP 1120 MG/KG (1.2 ML/KG)

LC50; Species: /Oncorhynchus mykiss/ (rainbow trout) weight 0.8 g; Conditions: static bioassay; Concentration: 12,000 mg/L for 96 hr (95% confidence limits 10,000-13,000 mg/L)

LC50; Species: Pimephales promelas (fathead minnow) weight 0.12 g; Conditions: flow through bioassay, water hardness 45.5 mg/L CaCO3, 25 +/- 1 °C, pH 7.5, dissolved oxygen >60% of saturation; Concentration: 1430 mg/L for 96 hr

EC50; Species: Anabaena inaequalis (Blue-Green Algae) 1X10+6 cells/mL; Conditions: freshwater, static; Concentration: 0.6% for 10-14 days (95% confidence interval: 0.36-0.84%); Effect: growth, general /formulation/

EC50; Species: Daphnia magna (Water flea) age <24 hr; Conditions: freshwater, static, 20.5 °C, pH 7.04-7.97, hardness 46.4 (40.4-56.3) mg/L CaCO3, alkalinity 41.7 (30.0-46.0) mg/L CaCO3, dissolved oxygen 85.5 (77.5-90.8) mg/L; Concentration: 26300000 ug/L for 24 hr (95% confidence interval: 23400000-29600000 ug/L); Effect: intoxication, immobilization

For more Ecotoxicity Values (Complete) data for N,N-DIMETHYLFORMAMIDE (28 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

2.60e+03

1.50e+04

3.10e+01

1.30e+02

6.10e+01

5.00e+00

1.20e-02

1.00e-01

3.00e-02

Volatile

1.06e+05

7.90e+03

4.40e+04

9.40e+01

3.90e+02

1.80e+02

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

N,N-Dimethylformamide's production and use as a solvent, in pharmaceutical intermediate, in acrylic fibers and in plastics may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. If released to air, a vapor pressure of 3.87 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates N,N-dimethylformamide will exist solely as a vapor in the atmosphere. Vapor-phase N,N-dimethylformamide 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 20 hours. N,N-Dimethylformamide contains chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm and, therefore, may be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight. If released to soil, N,N-dimethylformamide is expected to have very high mobility based upon an estimated Koc of 1. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon a Henry's Law constant of 7.39X10-8 atm-cu m/mole. N,N-Dimethylformamide may volatilize from dry soil surfaces based upon its vapor pressure. Utilizing the Japanese MITI test, 4.4% of the theoretical BOD was reached in 2 weeks, however, 100% of N,N-dimethylformamide was biodegraded in 9 days using a river die-away test. These results indicate that biodegradation may be an important environmental fate process. If released into water, N,N-dimethylformamide is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment based upon the estimated Koc. Volatilization from water surfaces is not expected to be an important fate process based upon this compound's Henry's Law constant. BCFs of 0.3 to 1.2, in carp, suggests bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low. Hydrolysis is not expected to be an important environmental fate process since neutral hydrolysis rate constants for amides are <10-9/sec under environmental conditions (pH 5 to 9). Occupational exposure to N,N-dimethylformamide may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where N,N-dimethylformamide is produced or used. Monitoring data indicate that the general population may be exposed to N,N-dimethylformamide via inhalation of ambient air and dermal contact with consumer products containing N,N-dimethylformamide. (SRC)

N,N-Dimethylformamide's production and use as a solvent, in pharmaceuticals, in acrylic fibers and in plastics(1) may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams(SRC).

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 1(SRC), determined from a structure estimation method(2), indicates that N,N-dimethylformamide is expected to have very high mobility in soil(SRC). Volatilization of N,N-dimethylformamide from moist soil surfaces is not expected to be an important fate process(SRC) given a Henry's Law constant of 7.39X10-8 atm-cu m/mole(3). N,N-Dimethylformamide is expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon a vapor pressure of 3.87 mm Hg at 25 °C(4). N,N-Dimethylformamide may biodegrade in soil based upon river die-away tests (100% in 6 days)(5), however, utilizing the Japanese MITI test, only 4.4% of the theoretical BOD was reached in 2 weeks(6).

AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 1(SRC), determined from a structure estimation method(2), indicates that N,N-dimethylformamide is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment(SRC). Volatilization from water surfaces is not expected(3) based upon a Henry's Law constant of 7.39X10-8 atm-cu m/mole(4). According to a classification scheme(5), BCFs of 0.3-1.2(6), suggest bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC). Hydrolysis is not expected to be an important environmental fate process since neutral hydrolysis rate constants for amides are <10-9/sec under environmental conditions (pH 5 to 9)(7). N,N-Dimethylformamide may biodegrade in the aqueous environment based on river die-away tests (100% in 6 days)(8); however, utilizing the Japanese MITI test, only 4.4% of the theoretical BOD was reached in 2 weeks(6).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), N,N-dimethylformamide, which has a vapor pressure of 3.87 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), is expected to exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase N,N-dimethylformamide 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 20 hours(SRC), calculated from its rate constant of 1.8X10-11 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(SRC) that was derived using a structure estimation method(3). N,N-Dimethylformamide contains chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm(4) and, therefore, may be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight(SRC).

AEROBIC: Aerobic unacclimated and acclimated river die-away tests showed that N,N-dimethylformamide at an initial concentration of 30 mg/L completely disappeared within 6 and 3 days, respectively(1). However, 24 to 48 hours was required before any degradation was observed among unacclimated samples(1). N,N-Dimethylformamide, present at 100 mg/L, reached 4.4% of its theoretical BOD in 2 weeks using an activated sludge inoculum at 30 mg/L in the Japanese MITI test(2). Aerobic grab sample data for N,N-dimethylformamide in sea water showed a mineralization rate of <3% in 24 hours for initial concentration of 10 ug/L and 100 ug/L(3). However, 20% of N,N-dimethylformamide at a concentration of 0.1 ug/L was mineralized in 24 hrs(3). All samples were adjusted to sterilized controls(3). Aqueous screening test data demonstrated that dimethylformamide was easily removed by sewage treatment facilities upon acclimation(4). Wastewater from a polyimide synthesis operation at Kansas City, MO contained N,N-dimethylformamide at a concentration of 65,500 mg/L before entering a bench scale biological treatment system(5). At feed rates of 90 lb/day/1000 cu ft, effluent from the biological reactor contained N,N-dimethylformamide at a concentration of <10 mg/L(5). The concentration of N,N-dimethylformamide in the reactor sludge was not documented(5).

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of N,N-dimethylformamide with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals has been estimated as 1.8X10-11 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(SRC) using a structure estimation method(1). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 20 hours at an atmospheric concentration of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(1). Hydrolysis is not expected to be an important environmental fate process since neutral hydrolysis rate constants for amides are <10-9/sec under environmental conditions (pH 5 to 9)(2). N,N-Dimethylformamide contains chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm(3) and, therefore, may be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight(SRC).

BCFs of 0.3-1.2 and 0.3-0.8 were reported in carp (Cyprinus carpio) when exposed to 2 and 20 ppm of N,N-dimethylformamide over a 2-week period, respectively(1). According to a classification scheme(2), these BCFs suggest the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC).

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

The Henry's Law constant for N,N-dimethylformamide is reported as 7.39X10-8 atm-cu m/mole(1). This Henry's Law constant indicates that N,N-dimethylformamide is expected to be essentially nonvolatile from moist soil and water surfaces(2). The potential for volatilization of N,N-dimethylformamide from dry soil surfaces may exist based upon a vapor pressure of 3.87 mm Hg(3).

DRINKING WATER: N,N-Dimethylformamide was listed as a contaminant found in drinking water for a survey of US cities including Pomona, Escondido, Lake Tahoe and Orange Co, CA; Dallas, TX; Washington, DC; Cincinnati, OH; Philadelphia, PA; Miami, FL; New Orleans, LA; Ottumwa, IA and Seattle, WA(1).

SURFACE WATER: One of 204 samples contained N,N-dimethylformamide in a national survey of surface waters(1). N,N-Dimethylformamide was detected in samples from 19 sites on 11 rivers from Niigata, Japan; samples were collected Jun to Nov 1999; concentrations were <0.03 to 0.25 ug/L(2).

N,N-Dimethylformamide was detected in the air over a hazardous waste site in Lowell, MA and a neighboring industry at 2.18 and >50 ppb, respectively(1). N,N-Dimethylformamide was detected in 1 of 63 industrial wastewater effluents at <10 ug/L(2). N,N-Dimethylformamide was detected in the waste effluent of a plastics manufacturer at 28,378 ng/uL of extract(3). Effluent from a New Jersey publically owned treatment works in a rural area with no industrial contribution contained 32 ppb of N,N-dimethylformamide(4). The specific mass emission of N,N-dimethylformamide from a sponge rubber carpet cushion was <1 ug/cu m hr after a 96 hour period in a 52 liter environmental chamber(5). N,N-Dimethylformamide was given off of an operating complete television set and an operating printed circuit board(6).

URBAN/SUBURBAN: N,N-Dimethylformamide was detected in the air of Lowell, MA at 8 ppb(1). N,N-Dimethylformamide was detected at <0.02-13.8 ug/cu m in a residential area around a waste site at an unspecified location in the Northeast US(2); the concentration upwind from this waste site was 0.06 ug/cu m(2).

INDOOR: The mean atmospheric concentration of N,N-dimethylformamide in a synthetic leather factory was 16.5 mg/cu m (range, 3-27 mg/cu m)(1). Workers at leather, polyurethane, and shoe-sole production facilities were exposed to N,N-dimethylformamide concentrations (mean value) in air of 9.1 ppm, 3.9 ppm, and 0.7 ppm, respectively(2).

The specific mass emission of N,N-dimethylformamide from a sponge rubber carpet cushion was <1 ug/cu m hr after a 96 hour period in a 52 liter environmental chamber(1). N,N-Dimethylformamide was reported as a component in tobacco smoke(2).

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

NIOSH (NOES Survey 1981-1983) has statistically estimated that 124,683 workers (16,011 of these were female) were potentially exposed to N,N-dimethylformamide in the US(1). Occupational exposure to N,N-dimethylformamide may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where N,N-dimethylformamide is produced or used. Monitoring data indicate that the general population may be exposed to N,N-dimethylformamide via inhalation of ambient air and dermal contact with consumer products containing N,N-dimethylformamide(SRC).

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

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.

Recovering: Burn in soln in flammable solvent in furnace equipped with alkali scrubber. Recovery and recycle is an alternative to disposal for dimethyl formamide (DMF) from fiber spin baths and from PVC /polyvinyl chloride/ reactor cleaning solvents. Recommendable method: Incineration.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

UN 2265; N,N-Dimethyl formamide.

IMO 3; N,N-Dimethylformamide

49 131 57; Dimethylformamide (combustible liquid, nos)

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

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations are published by the IATA Dangerous Goods Board pursuant to IATA Resolutions 618 and 619 and constitute a manual of industry carrier regulations to be followed by all IATA Member airlines when transporting hazardous materials.

The International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code lays down basic principles for transporting hazardous chemicals. Detailed recommendations for individual substances and a number of recommendations for good practice are included in the classes dealing with such substances. A general index of technical names has also been compiled. This index should always be consulted when attempting to locate the appropriate procedures to be used when shipping any substance or article.

Flammable Liquid

Symbol: T; R: 61-20/21-36; S: 53-45; Note: E

UN Hazard Class: 3; UN Pack Group: III