ethylene

H220: Extremely flammable gas [Danger Flammable gases]

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

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

This chemical does not meet GHS hazard criteria for 0.8% (38 of 4869) of reports.

H220 (99.2%): Extremely flammable gas [Danger Flammable gases]

H280 (44.1%): Contains gas under pressure; may explode if heated [Warning Gases under pressure]

H336 (99.1%): May cause drowsiness or dizziness [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure; Narcotic effects]

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

Aggregated GHS information provided per 4869 reports by companies from 43 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.

Reported as not meeting GHS hazard criteria per 38 of 4869 reports by companies.

There are 42 notifications provided by 4831 of 4869 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.

This chemical does not meet GHS hazard criteria for 100% (2 of 2) of all reports.

Not Classified

Reported as not meeting GHS hazard criteria by 2 of 2 companies. For more detailed information, please visit ECHA C&L website.

Aggregated GHS information provided per 2 reports by companies from 1 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory.

Reported as not meeting GHS hazard criteria per 2 of 2 reports by companies.

There are 0 notifications provided by 0 of 2 reports by companies with hazard statement code(s).

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

H281: Contains refrigerated gas; may cause cryogenic burns or injury [Warning Gases under pressure]

H402: Harmful to aquatic life [Hazardous to the aquatic environment, acute hazard]

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

P203, P210, P222, P261, P271, P273, P280, P282, P304+P340, P319, P336+P317, P377, P381, P403, P403+P233, P405, P410+P403, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

P203, P210, P222, P261, P271, P280, P282, P304+P340, P319, P336+P317, P377, P381, P403, P403+P233, P405, P410+P403, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Fresh air, rest. Artificial respiration may be needed. Refer for medical attention.

Remove victim to fresh air, give artificial respiration and oxygen if breathing has stopped, and call a physician. (USCG, 1999)

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

Refer to the "General First Aid" section. Specific First Aid: Clothing frozen to the skin should be thawed before being removed. In case of contact with liquefied gas, only medical personnel should attempt thawing frosted parts. In case of burns, immediately cool affected skin for as long as possible with cold water. Do not remove clothing if adhering to skin. (ERG, 2024)

General First Aid:

· Call 911 or emergency medical service.

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

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

· Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult.

· If victim is not breathing:

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

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

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

· Remove and isolate contaminated clothing and shoes.

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

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

· For severe burns, immediate medical attention is required.

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

· Keep victim calm and warm.

· Keep victim under observation.

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

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

Specific First Aid:

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

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

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

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

Excerpt from ERG Guide 116 [Gases - Flammable (Unstable); polymerization hazard]:

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

SMALL FIRE: Dry chemical or CO2.

LARGE FIRE: Water spray or fog. If it can be done safely, move undamaged containers away from the area around the fire.

FIRE INVOLVING TANKS: Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles. Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out. Do not direct water at source of leak or safety devices; icing may occur. Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of tank. ALWAYS stay away from tanks in direct contact with flames. For massive fire, use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles; if this is impossible, withdraw from area and let fire burn. (ERG, 2024)

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

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

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

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

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

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

To fight fire, stop flow of gas, use CO2, dry chemical, or fine water spray.

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

For more Fire Fighting Procedures (Complete) data for Ethylene (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Closed containers may rupture violently when heated.

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

· Keep unauthorized personnel away.

· Stay upwind, uphill and/or upstream.

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

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

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

· Do not touch or walk through spilled material.

· Stop leak if you can do it without risk.

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

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

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

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

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

· Isolate area until gas has dispersed.

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

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

Excerpt from ERG Guide 116 [Gases - Flammable (Unstable); polymerization hazard]:

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

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

FIRE: If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 1600 meters (1 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 1600 meters (1 mile) in all directions. (ERG, 2024)

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

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

Immediate precautionary measure

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

Large Spill

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

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

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

Evacuate danger area! Ventilation. Remove all ignition sources. Turn off gas at source if possible. Personal protection: chemical protection suit including self-contained breathing apparatus.

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

Spills on water: Contain if possible. If solubilized in water, apply activated carbon at 10% of the spill amount over the region occupied by 10 mg/L or greater concentrations. Mechanical dredges or lifts may then be used to remove immobilized masses of pollutants. Peat moss is also recommended as a sorbent.

By forced ventilation, maintain concentration of gas below the range of explosive mixture. Remove the tank or cylinder to an open area. Leave to bleed off in the atmosphere.

Evacuate danger area! Ventilation. Remove all ignition sources and turn off gas at source if possible. Personal protection: chemical protection suit including self-contained breathing apparatus.

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

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

Do not discharge ethylene directly into sewers or surface waters. Dispose of by incineration. If necessary, a flammable solvent may be added to aid in burning.

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

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

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

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

Excerpt from ERG Guide 116 [Gases - Flammable (Unstable); polymerization hazard]:

ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames) from immediate area. All equipment used when handling the product must be grounded. Stop leak if you can do it without risk. Do not touch or walk through spilled material. Do not direct water at spill or source of leak. Use water spray to reduce vapors or divert vapor cloud drift. Avoid allowing water runoff to contact spilled material. If possible, turn leaking containers so that gas escapes rather than liquid. Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas. Isolate area until gas has dispersed. (ERG, 2024)

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

ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames) from immediate area. All equipment used when handling the product must be grounded. Do not touch or walk through spilled material. Stop leak if you can do it without risk. If possible, turn leaking containers so that gas escapes rather than liquid. Use water spray to reduce vapors or divert vapor cloud drift. Avoid allowing water runoff to contact spilled material. Do not direct water at spill or source of leak. CAUTION: For LNG - Liquefied natural gas (UN1972), DO NOT apply water, regular or alcohol-resistant foam directly on spill. Use a high-expansion foam if available to reduce vapors. Prevent spreading of vapors through sewers, ventilation systems and confined areas. Isolate area until gas has dispersed. CAUTION: When in contact with refrigerated/cryogenic liquids, many materials become brittle and are likely to break without warning. (ERG, 2024)

Fireproof. Separated from strong oxidants.

Store in cool dry, well-ventilated location. Protect against static electricity and lightning. Isolate from oxidizing materials, halogens, and other combustibles.

Keep container tightly closed in a dry and well-ventilated place. Contents under pressure. Storage class (TRGS 510): Gases

Protect containers against physical damage. Outdoor or detached storage is preferred. For indoor storage, use a fireproof, well-ventilated, area isolated from any sources of ignition.

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

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

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

1000 [ppm]

11000 [ppm]

66000 [ppm]

200.0 [ppm]

8 hr Time Weighted Avg (TWA): 200 ppm.

Peak Exposure Recommendation: Transient increases in workers' exposure levels may exceed 3 times the value of the TLV-TWA level for no more than 15 minutes at a time, on no more than 4 occasions spaced 1 hour apart during a workday, and under no circumstances should they exceed 5 times the value of the TLV-TWA level. In addition, the 8-hour TWA is not to be exceeded for an 8-hour work period.

A4; Not classifiable as a human carcinogen.

200 ppm as TWA; A4 (not classifiable as a human carcinogen).

200 ppm [2001]

carcinogen category: 3

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

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

Small Fire

· Dry chemical or CO2.

Large Fire

· Water spray or fog.

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

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

Fire Involving Tanks

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

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

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

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

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

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

Russia STEL 100 mg/cu m

Switzerland TWA 10,000 ppm (11500 mg/cu m)

On loss of containment this substance can cause suffocation by lowering the oxygen content of the air in confined areas.

Exposure could cause lowering of consciousness.

Ethylene is exempted from the requirement of a tolerance for residues when: (a) For all food commodities, it is used as a plant regulator on plants, seeds, or cuttings and on all food commodities after harvest and when applied in accordance with good agricultural practices. (b) Injected into the soil to cause premature germination of witchweed in bean (lima and string), cabbage, cantaloupe, collard, corn, cotton, cucumber, eggplant, okra, onion, pasture grass, pea (field and sweet), peanut, pepper, potato, sweet potato, sorghum, soybean, squash, tomato, turnip, and watermelon fields as part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture witchweed control program.

Organic vapor canister or air-supplied mask. (USCG, 1999)

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

Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Structural firefighters' protective clothing provides thermal protection but only limited chemical protection. Always wear thermal protective clothing when handling refrigerated/cryogenic liquids. (ERG, 2024)

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

Skin protection: Handle with gloves.

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

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

Ethylene appears as a colorless gas with a sweet odor and taste. It is lighter than air. It is easily ignited and a flame can easily flash back to the source of the leak. Under prolonged exposure to fire or heat the containers may rupture violently and rocket. Can cause explosion.

Ethylene, refrigerated liquid (cryogenic liquid) appears as a pressurized liquid when shipped below 50 °F. Colorless with a sweet odor and taste. Vapors arising from the boiling liquid are lighter than air. Easily ignited. Not toxic but is a simple asphyxiant. Under prolonged exposure to fire or intense heat the containers may rupture violently and rocket. Used as an anesthetic, a refrigerant, and to make other chemicals.

Gas Vapor; Gas Vapor; Liquid; Liquid

Colorless gas with a faint sweet odor; [Merck Index] Vapor density = 0.978 (lighter than air); [HSDB]

COLOURLESS COMPRESSED GAS WITH CHARACTERISTIC ODOUR.

Colorless gas with a sweet odor.

Colorless gas

Olefinic, hedonic tone: unpleasant to neutral

Tasteless

-154.7 °F at 760 mmHg (USCG, 1999)

-103.8 °C

BP: -102.4 °C at 700 mm Hg

-154.7 °F

-103.77 °C @760 [mm Hg]

-272.4 °F (USCG, 1999)

-169.18 °C

-169.2 °C

-272.4 °F

-169.15 °C

-213 °F (approx.) (USCG, 1999)

-100 °C (-148 °F) - closed cup

Flammable gas

-213 °F (approx)

In water, 131 mg/L at 25 °C

Slightly soluble in water

1 volume dissolves in about 4 volumes water at 0 °C, in about 9 volumes water at 25 °C, in about 0.5 volumes alcohol at 25 °C, in about 0.05 volumes ether at 15.5 °C

Very soluble in ethanol, ether; soluble in acetone acid, benzene

Soluble in acetone, benzene

0.131 mg/mL at 25 °C

Solubility in water, mg/l at 25 °C: 131 (very slightly soluble)

0.569 at -154.84 °F (USCG, 1999) - Less dense than water; will float

Density: 50.5678 g/cu cm at -104 °C

0.569 at -154.84 °F

0.568 @ -104°C

0.98 (Air = 1)

Relative vapor density (air = 1): 0.98

Vapor pressure 4,040 kPa (-1.5 °C)

5.21X10+4 mm Hg at 25 °C /Extrapolated/

Vapor pressure, kPa at 15 °C: 8100

51200 [mm Hg] @25 °C

Highly flammable.

Highly flammable

Hydrocarbons, Aliphatic Unsaturated

Polymerizable Compounds

Highly Flammable

Polymerizable

Peroxidizable Compound

Peroxidizable monomer may initiate exothermic polymerization of the bulk material [Bretherick 1979. p. 160]. Ethylene in the presence of aluminum chloride may undergo a violent reaction [J. Inst. Pet. 33:254. 1947]. Ozone and ethylene react explosively [Berichte 38:3837]. Ethylene can polymerize at low pressure if catalyzed by titanium halides. (Sundaram, K. M, M. M. Shreehan, E. F. Olszewski. "Ethylene." Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 2001.)

Peroxidizable monomer may initiate exothermic polymerization of the bulk material [Bretherick, 1979 p. 160]. Ethylene in the presence of aluminum chloride may undergo a violent reaction, [J. Inst. Pet. 33:254(1947]. Ozone and ethylene react explosively, [Berichte 38:3837]. Contact of very cold liquefied gas with water may result in vigorous or violent boiling of the product and extremely rapid vaporization due to the large temperature differences involved. If the water is hot, there is the possibility that a liquid "superheat" explosion may occur. Pressures may build to dangerous levels if liquid gas contacts water in a closed container, [Handling Chemicals Safely 1980]. Ethylene can polymerize at low pressure if catalyzed by titanium halides. (Sundaram, K. M, M. M. Shreehan, E. F. Olszewski. "Ethylene." Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 2001.)

Incompatible materials: Strong oxidizing agents, carbon tetrachloride, chlorine, copper, vinyl compounds.

Reacts vigorously with oxidizing materials.

In absence of nitrogen as a diluent, interaction with /trifluoromethyl hypofluorite/ ... /and/ ethylene is explosive on mixing.

Explosive reaction with chlorine is possible.

For more Hazardous Reactivities and Incompatibilities (Complete) data for Ethylene (22 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

IDENTIFICATION AND USE: Ethylene is a colorless gas. It is used for oxyethylene welding and cutting metals, as well as in the manufacture of alcohol, mustard gas, and many other organics. It is also used in manufacture of ethylene oxide (for plastics), polythene, polystyrene and other plastics. Ethylene is a plant growth regulator, which is used commercially to accelerate the ripening of various fruits. HUMAN STUDIES: Exposure to 37.5% ethylene for 15 min may result in marked memory disturbances. Humans exposed to as much as 50% ethylene in air, whereby the oxygen availability is decreased to 10%, experienced a loss of consciousness. Prolonged inhalation of 85% ethene in air is slightly toxic, whereas 94% in oxygen is fatal. Death is certain at 8% oxygen. In fatal human intoxication, ethylene affects the respiratory center of the brain and kills by suffocation. Postmortem analysis has revealed that the right side of the heart is full of blood, while the left side is empty. In workers chronically exposed, ethylene has been associated with a decrease in maximum arterial pressure, slower pulse, lengthened later period of the visual-motor response, increased thresholds of olfaction and hearing, and tension of the thermoregulatory apparatus. In eight people not occupationally exposed to ethylene, the DNA adduct 7-(2-hydroxyethyl)guanine was detected at a background level in peripheral lymphocytes. ANIMAL STUDIES: Mice were dosed by gavage with 3.75 mg/kg bw ethylene for 4 months. The treated animals displayed no changes in behavior or in body weight gain and oxygen consumption. Gross pathology examination revealed no changes in the relative weights or in the histological structure of the visceral organs. Inhalation exposure to 600,000 ppm continuously for 90 days in rats caused reduced food uptake and activity, peripheral leucopenia, decreased thrombocyte and erythrocyte count, and decrease in bone marrow cellularity. One-day-old and adult rats continuously exposed to 3 mg/cu m per day for 90 days exhibited hypertension, disruption of the subordination chronaxy, and decreased cholinesterase activity. Experiments proved ethylene to be metabolized in certain species, notably mice and rats, into the carcinogenic and mutagenic ethylene oxide. Administration of ethylene by head-only exposure revealed no potential for adverse reproductive effects in the rat. Ethylene was not found to be mutagenic with or without metabolic activation in Salmonella typhimurium strains TA98, TA1537, TA100, or TA1535. Rats and mice exposed 6 hr/day 5 days/week for 4 weeks to 40-3000 ppm ethylene did not have a significant increase in the frequency of micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes in the bone marrow, when compared to the control group.

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

A4; Not classifiable as a human carcinogen.

Ethylene

Group 3: Not classifiable as to its carcinogenicity to humans

Volume Sup 7: Overall Evaluations of Carcinogenicity: An Updating of IARC Monographs Volumes 1 to 42, 1987; 440 pages; ISBN 92-832-1411-0 (out of print)

Volume 60: (1994) Some Industrial Chemicals

The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation.

Drowsiness. Unconsciousness.

Neurotoxin - Acute solvent syndrome

Other Poison - Simple Asphyxiant

ACGIH Carcinogen - Not Classifiable.

LD50 Mouse inhalation 950,000 ppm

The rate of rise of alveolar ethylene concentration will be accelerated when administrated simultaneously with 70% nitrous oxide.

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

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 ... . For eye contamination, flush eyes immediately with water. Irrigate each eye continuously with 0.9% saline (NS) during transport ... . Do not use emetics. For ingestion, rinse mouth and administer 5 mL/kg up to 200 mL of water for dilution if the patient can swallow, has a strong gag reflex, and does not drool. Administer activated charcoal ... . Treat frostbite with rapid rewarming techniques ... . /Aliphatic hydrocarbons and related compounds/

Advanced treatment: Consider orotracheal or nasotracheal intubation for airway control in the patient who is unconscious or in respiratory rest. Positive pressure ventilation techniques with a bag-valve-mask device may be beneficial. Consider drug therapy for pulmonary edema ... . Monitor cardiac rhythm and treat arrhythmias as necessary ... . Start an IV administration of D5W TKO /SRP: "To keep open", minimal flow rate/. Use 0.9% saline (NS) or lactated Ringer's (LR) if signs of hypovolemia are present. For hypotension with signs of hypovolemia, administer fluid cautiously. Watch for signs of fluid overload ... . Treat seizures with diazepam (Valium) or lorazepam (Ativan) ... . Use proparacaine hydrochloride to assist eye irrigation ... . /Aliphatic hydrocarbons and related compounds/

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

For more Antidote and Emergency Treatment (Complete) data for Ethylene (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

The analytical determination of hemoglobin adducts was used as an effective biomonitoring tool after a fire outbreak at a chemical plant close to Cologne, Germany in 2008. More than 1000 people (e.g. fire-men, police officers, and workers) were potentially exposed to acrylonitrile and ethylene. Air monitoring in the surrounding was performed, and acrylonitrile was measured in concentrations up to 20 ppm, the mean value being 7 ppm (time range: 8 hr). As many people were concerned about their individual body burden, biomonitoring was recommended for all people involved. 816 persons took advantage of this opportunity and came for blood sampling to the occupational health department of our company. Regarding the lifespan of erythrocytes up to 3 months, it was possible to analyze hemoglobin adducts of acrylonitrile and ethylene during and after the accident. In case of acrylonitrile the hemoglobin adduct N-(2-cyanoethyl) valine and regarding ethylene, N-(2-hydroxyethyl) valine was determined. As a result, the body burden was in nearly all cases within our internal adduct reference values (CyEtVal<15 ug/L blood or <612 pmol/g globin; HyEtVal<15 ug/L blood or 646 pmol/g globin). In about 1% of the cases, the adduct concentrations were slightly above these reference values. This means that the body burden measured by biomonitoring turned out to be far lower than the one expected from the air data. Therefore, following chemical incidents, in case biomonitoring is meaningful, it is highly recommended beside of air monitoring.

/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ Exposure at 37.5% for 15 min may result in marked memory disturbances. Humans exposed to as much as 50% ethylene in air, whereby the oxygen availability is decreased to 10%, experienced a loss of consciousness. Prolonged inhalation of 85% ethene in air is slightly toxic, whereas 94% in oxygen is fatal. Death is certain at 8% oxygen.

/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ In fatal /human/ intoxication, ethene affects the respiratory center of the brain and kills by suffocation. Postmortem analysis has revealed that the right side of the heart is full of blood, while the left side is empty.

/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ In workers chronically exposed, ethene has been associated with a decrease in maximum arterial pressure, slower pulse, lengthened later period of the visual-motor response, increased thresholds of olfaction and hearing, and in the tension of the thermoregulatory apparatus.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ ... Ethene may alter carbohydrate metabolism and has caused temporary hypoglycemia. Additionally, a reduction of inorganic phosphates has been noted.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ Exposure of rats at up to 500,000 ppm ethylene for 4 hours produced no liver damage (other tissues were not examined).In Holtzman rats pretreated with Arochlor 1254, increasing levels of liver damage were seen in those animals exposed at 10,000 to 50,000 ppm ethylene for 4 hours. For fasted, Aroclor-pretreated rats exposed at 6000 ppm ethylene, a marginal increase in serum sorbitol dehydrogenase (SDH) activity was found in animals additionally treated with trichloropropene oxide (TCPO). Similarly, Fisher rats exposed at 10,000 ppm for 5 hours with no pretreatment had no observable liver changes, and Arochlor pretreated rats developed uniform centrilobular necrosis, while Aroclor-pretreated controls with no ethylene exposure had only slight hypertrophy.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ Male rats exposed to 10, 25 and 57x10+3 ppm for 4 hr showed increased serum pyruvate and liver weights.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ Ethylene inhaled at a dose of 11.5 g/cu m (10,000 ppm) for 4 hr is acutely hepatotoxic to rats pretreated with the polychlorinated biphenyl Aroclor 1254 given orally at a dose of 300 umol/kg bw once daily for 3 days. It is not acutely toxic without such pretreatment.

For more Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for Ethylene (19 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

The following link will take the user to the National Toxicology Program (NTP) Test Status of Agents Search page, which tabulates the results and current status of tests such as "Short-Term Toxicity Studies", "Long-term Carcinogenicity Studies", "Developmental Studies", "Genetic Toxicology Studies", etc., performed with this chemical. Testing status for ethylene is available.[Available from, as of July 26, 2017: https://ntpsearch.niehs.nih.gov/?e=True&ContentType=Testing+Status]

/PLANTS/ Incubation of cut spurs of Hippophae rhamnoides in atmospheres containing 1 mL ethylene/L for 120 hr induced formation of abscission layer and complete abscission of ripe fruit within 1 week. Presence of leaves decreased the abscisic effect of ethylene.

/PLANTS/ Treating potato tubers with ethylene donors (Hydrel, Dihydrol or Camposan) inhibited the sprouting of the growth points and increased abscisic acid content of the meristem of the growth points and of the cortical parenchyma. However, abscisic acid content of the tubers increased less when Hydrel was used at growth-stimulating (0.05%) than at growth-inhibiting (0.5 and 1%) concentrations. Abscisic acid concentration in the tubers decreased 90-120 days after the treatment resulting in active tuber sprouting after that time when 0.05% Hydrel was used, while when the high Hydrel concentrations were applied, the abscisic acid concentration remained still at a high level inhibiting the sprouting 120-150 days after treatment and even later. Thus, the increase in abscisic acid concentration resulting from treatment with ethylene donors was the main cause of inhibition of tuber sprouting. The other ethylene donors behaved similarly as Hydrel did also increasing the abscisic acid concentration in the tuber tissues. In the control tubers (treated with 0.05% ethylene donors) the abscisic acid decreased 210 days after the treatment to 0.08 ug/g fresh matter while in tubers treated at 0.5% concentration it remained at that time at a level 10-fold that in the control. A direct relation between the concentration of ethylene donors used for treatment and abscisic acid concentration in the tubers was found.

/PLANTS/ Easter lilies (Lilium longiflorum) were treated with ethylene or ethephon at several development stages of flower buds. Ethylene hastened flower-bud opening. The earlier ethylene treatment during the flower-bud development stages, the earlier flowering occurred. Ethylene or ethephon treatment decreased tepal length, but increased degenerated flower buds and distorted flowers. Ethylene also hastened flower senescence to result in earlier wilting and earlier dropping of flowers.

/PLANTS/ Malformation is arguably the most crucial disease of mango (Mangifera indica L.). The etiology of the disease has not yet been successfully resolved. Here, we quantified the endogenous ethylene content in malformed and healthy vegetative and floral tissues of mango cultivars viz., Amrapali, Bombay green, Chausa, Dushehri and Mallika. Levels of ethylene were higher in malformed vegetative and floral tissues as compared with that of healthy tissues at both prior to full bloom and full bloom stages. The study also revealed that isolates of Fusarium dissected from mango exhibited most morphological similarities to the accepted standard features of Fusarium mangiferae. The growth dynamic of F. mangiferae were evaluated with varying temperatures ranging from 5 to 40 °C. Temperatures of 25 °C, 30 °C and 35 °C were better suited for growth of F. mangiferae than temperatures of 20 °C or 40 °C. Conidium germination of F. mangiferae was maximum at 30 °C and minimum at <15 °C. World-wide occurrence of mango malformation showed its most severity at 10-15 °C temperature range. Stress ethylene level is higher in diseased tissue at the same temperature range where growth of Fusaria is found to be completely restricted. The present study provides direct evidence that low temperature induced 'stress ethylene' is potentially responsible for the disease while on the other hand Fusarium role in the disease either through toxic principle or malformation inducing principle is not conclusive at <15 °C and is rather out of question.

/PLANTS/ Regulation of stomatal aperture is crucial in terrestrial plants for controlling water loss and gaseous exchange with environment. While much is known of signaling for stomatal opening induced by blue light and the role of hormones, little is known about the regulation of stomatal closing in darkness. The present study was aimed to verify their role in stomatal regulation in darkness. Epidermal peelings from the leaves of Commelina benghalensis were incubated in a defined medium in darkness for 1 hr followed by a 1 hr incubation in different test solutions [hydrogen peroxide, propyl gallate, ethrel (ethylene), silver nitrate, sodium orthovanadate, tetraethyl ammonium chloride, calcium chloride, lanthanum chloride, separately and in combination] before stomatal apertures were measured under the microscope. In the dark stomata remained closed under treatments with ethylene and propyl gallate but opened widely in the presence of hydrogen peroxide and silver nitrate. The opening effect was largely unaffected by supplementing the treatment with Na-vanadate (PM H+ ATPase inhibitor) and tetraethyl ammonium chloride (K(+)-channel inhibitor) except that opening was significantly inhibited by the latter in presence of hydrogen peroxide. On the other hand, hydrogen peroxide could not override the closing effect of ethylene at any concentrations while a marginal opening of stomata was found when silver nitrate treatment was given together with propyl gallate. Calcium chloride treatment opened stomata in the darkness while lanthanum chloride maintained stomata closed. A combination of lanthanum chloride and propyl gallate strongly promoted stomatal opening. A probable action of ethylene in closing stomata of Commelina benghalensis in dark has been proposed.

Ethylene's production and use as a chemical intermediate and precursor in industrial organic synthesis, in the welding and cutting of metals, as a refrigerant may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. Its use as a plant growth regulator will result in its direct release to the environment. Ethylene is a natural product emitted by plants. If released to air, a vapor pressure of 5.21X10+4 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates ethylene will exist solely as a gas in the atmosphere. Gas-phase ethylene 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 2 days. Ethylene absorbs UV at wavelength 175.2 nm and, therefore, is not expected to be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight. If released to soil, ethylene is expected to have very high mobility based upon an estimated Koc of 13. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon a Henry's Law constant of 0.228 atm-cu m/mole. Ethylene may volatilize from dry soil surfaces based upon its vapor pressure. Biodegradation data in soil or water were not available. However, ethylene was biodegraded to ethylene oxide using acclimated cell free extracts. If released into water, ethylene is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment based upon the estimated Koc. Volatilization from water surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon this compound's estimated Henry's Law constant. Estimated volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 2 hrs and 2 days, respectively. An estimated BCF of 2.6 suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low. Hydrolysis is not expected to be an important environmental fate process since this compound lacks functional groups that hydrolyze under environmental conditions (pH 5 to 9). Occupational exposure to ethylene may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where ethylene is produced or used. Monitoring data indicate that the general population may be exposed to ethylene via inhalation of ambient air and smoking cigarettes. (SRC)

Ethylene is a natural product emitted by fruits, flowers, leaves, roots, and tubers(1). The release rate of ethylene from plants varies during the life cycle of the plant(1). Plants that normally produce 0.6 to 6 ug ethylene/kg (fresh weight) per hour may produce up to 120 ug/kg per hour during ripening of fruits and during senescence and loss of leaves(1). Ethylene has been found in the gaseous metabolites released by germinating bean, corn, cotton, and pea seeds, from fading morning glory flowers and from ripening avocados and apples(2). Ethylene is released to the atmosphere from biomass combustion and volcanos(3). Photodegradation of dissolved organic material (possibly released from plankton) is expected to be the primary production mechanism of ethylene in the mid-Atlantic ocean(4).

The total annual emission of ethylene from the global surface is estimated as 18-45 million tons, of which approximately 74% is emitted from natural sources(1).

Ethylene's production and use as a chemical intermediate and precursor in industrial organic synthesis, in the welding and cutting of metals, as a refrigerant(1-3) may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams(SRC). Its use as a plant growth regulator(2,4) will result in its direct release to the environment(SRC). It's former use as an anesthetic(3) resulted in its direct release to the environment(SRC).

Ethylene is emitted from the burning of vegetation, agricultural wastes, and refuse, from the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels. It is believed that burning of biomass to clear land for agriculture or other uses contribute 77% of the anthropogenic emissions of ethylene, followed by combustion of fossil fuels, which contribute 21% of the anthropogenic emissions. Cigarette smoke contains ethylene (1-2 mg released per cigarette)(1).

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 13(SRC), determined from a structure estimation method(2), indicates that ethylene is expected to have very high mobility in soil(SRC). Volatilization of ethylene from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process(SRC) given a Henry's Law constant of 0.228 atm-cu m/mole(3). Ethylene is expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon a vapor pressure of 5.21X10+4 mm Hg at 25 °C(4). Biodegradation data in soil were not available(SRC, 2017). However, ethylene was biodegraded to ethylene oxide using acclimated cell free extracts(8).

/PLANTS/ Incubation of cut spurs of Hippophae rhamnoides in atmospheres containing 1 mL ethylene/L for 120 hr induced formation of abscission layer and complete abscission of ripe fruit within 1 week. Presence of leaves decreased the abscisic effect of ethylene.

/PLANTS/ Treating potato tubers with ethylene donors (Hydrel, Dihydrol or Camposan) inhibited the sprouting of the growth points and increased abscisic acid content of the meristem of the growth points and of the cortical parenchyma. However, abscisic acid content of the tubers increased less when Hydrel was used at growth-stimulating (0.05%) than at growth-inhibiting (0.5 and 1%) concentrations. Abscisic acid concentration in the tubers decreased 90-120 days after the treatment resulting in active tuber sprouting after that time when 0.05% Hydrel was used, while when the high Hydrel concentrations were applied, the abscisic acid concentration remained still at a high level inhibiting the sprouting 120-150 days after treatment and even later. Thus, the increase in abscisic acid concentration resulting from treatment with ethylene donors was the main cause of inhibition of tuber sprouting. The other ethylene donors behaved similarly as Hydrel did also increasing the abscisic acid concentration in the tuber tissues. In the control tubers (treated with 0.05% ethylene donors) the abscisic acid decreased 210 days after the treatment to 0.08 ug/g fresh matter while in tubers treated at 0.5% concentration it remained at that time at a level 10-fold that in the control. A direct relation between the concentration of ethylene donors used for treatment and abscisic acid concentration in the tubers was found.

/PLANTS/ Easter lilies (Lilium longiflorum) were treated with ethylene or ethephon at several development stages of flower buds. Ethylene hastened flower-bud opening. The earlier ethylene treatment during the flower-bud development stages, the earlier flowering occurred. Ethylene or ethephon treatment decreased tepal length, but increased degenerated flower buds and distorted flowers. Ethylene also hastened flower senescence to result in earlier wilting and earlier dropping of flowers.

/PLANTS/ Malformation is arguably the most crucial disease of mango (Mangifera indica L.). The etiology of the disease has not yet been successfully resolved. Here, we quantified the endogenous ethylene content in malformed and healthy vegetative and floral tissues of mango cultivars viz., Amrapali, Bombay green, Chausa, Dushehri and Mallika. Levels of ethylene were higher in malformed vegetative and floral tissues as compared with that of healthy tissues at both prior to full bloom and full bloom stages. The study also revealed that isolates of Fusarium dissected from mango exhibited most morphological similarities to the accepted standard features of Fusarium mangiferae. The growth dynamic of F. mangiferae were evaluated with varying temperatures ranging from 5 to 40 °C. Temperatures of 25 °C, 30 °C and 35 °C were better suited for growth of F. mangiferae than temperatures of 20 °C or 40 °C. Conidium germination of F. mangiferae was maximum at 30 °C and minimum at <15 °C. World-wide occurrence of mango malformation showed its most severity at 10-15 °C temperature range. Stress ethylene level is higher in diseased tissue at the same temperature range where growth of Fusaria is found to be completely restricted. The present study provides direct evidence that low temperature induced 'stress ethylene' is potentially responsible for the disease while on the other hand Fusarium role in the disease either through toxic principle or malformation inducing principle is not conclusive at <15 °C and is rather out of question.

/PLANTS/ Regulation of stomatal aperture is crucial in terrestrial plants for controlling water loss and gaseous exchange with environment. While much is known of signaling for stomatal opening induced by blue light and the role of hormones, little is known about the regulation of stomatal closing in darkness. The present study was aimed to verify their role in stomatal regulation in darkness. Epidermal peelings from the leaves of Commelina benghalensis were incubated in a defined medium in darkness for 1 hr followed by a 1 hr incubation in different test solutions [hydrogen peroxide, propyl gallate, ethrel (ethylene), silver nitrate, sodium orthovanadate, tetraethyl ammonium chloride, calcium chloride, lanthanum chloride, separately and in combination] before stomatal apertures were measured under the microscope. In the dark stomata remained closed under treatments with ethylene and propyl gallate but opened widely in the presence of hydrogen peroxide and silver nitrate. The opening effect was largely unaffected by supplementing the treatment with Na-vanadate (PM H+ ATPase inhibitor) and tetraethyl ammonium chloride (K(+)-channel inhibitor) except that opening was significantly inhibited by the latter in presence of hydrogen peroxide. On the other hand, hydrogen peroxide could not override the closing effect of ethylene at any concentrations while a marginal opening of stomata was found when silver nitrate treatment was given together with propyl gallate. Calcium chloride treatment opened stomata in the darkness while lanthanum chloride maintained stomata closed. A combination of lanthanum chloride and propyl gallate strongly promoted stomatal opening. A probable action of ethylene in closing stomata of Commelina benghalensis in dark has been proposed.

Ethylene's production and use as a chemical intermediate and precursor in industrial organic synthesis, in the welding and cutting of metals, as a refrigerant may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. Its use as a plant growth regulator will result in its direct release to the environment. Ethylene is a natural product emitted by plants. If released to air, a vapor pressure of 5.21X10+4 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates ethylene will exist solely as a gas in the atmosphere. Gas-phase ethylene 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 2 days. Ethylene absorbs UV at wavelength 175.2 nm and, therefore, is not expected to be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight. If released to soil, ethylene is expected to have very high mobility based upon an estimated Koc of 13. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon a Henry's Law constant of 0.228 atm-cu m/mole. Ethylene may volatilize from dry soil surfaces based upon its vapor pressure. Biodegradation data in soil or water were not available. However, ethylene was biodegraded to ethylene oxide using acclimated cell free extracts. If released into water, ethylene is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment based upon the estimated Koc. Volatilization from water surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon this compound's estimated Henry's Law constant. Estimated volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 2 hrs and 2 days, respectively. An estimated BCF of 2.6 suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low. Hydrolysis is not expected to be an important environmental fate process since this compound lacks functional groups that hydrolyze under environmental conditions (pH 5 to 9). Occupational exposure to ethylene may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where ethylene is produced or used. Monitoring data indicate that the general population may be exposed to ethylene via inhalation of ambient air and smoking cigarettes. (SRC)

Ethylene is a natural product emitted by fruits, flowers, leaves, roots, and tubers(1). The release rate of ethylene from plants varies during the life cycle of the plant(1). Plants that normally produce 0.6 to 6 ug ethylene/kg (fresh weight) per hour may produce up to 120 ug/kg per hour during ripening of fruits and during senescence and loss of leaves(1). Ethylene has been found in the gaseous metabolites released by germinating bean, corn, cotton, and pea seeds, from fading morning glory flowers and from ripening avocados and apples(2). Ethylene is released to the atmosphere from biomass combustion and volcanos(3). Photodegradation of dissolved organic material (possibly released from plankton) is expected to be the primary production mechanism of ethylene in the mid-Atlantic ocean(4).

The total annual emission of ethylene from the global surface is estimated as 18-45 million tons, of which approximately 74% is emitted from natural sources(1).

Ethylene's production and use as a chemical intermediate and precursor in industrial organic synthesis, in the welding and cutting of metals, as a refrigerant(1-3) may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams(SRC). Its use as a plant growth regulator(2,4) will result in its direct release to the environment(SRC). It's former use as an anesthetic(3) resulted in its direct release to the environment(SRC).

Ethylene is emitted from the burning of vegetation, agricultural wastes, and refuse, from the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels. It is believed that burning of biomass to clear land for agriculture or other uses contribute 77% of the anthropogenic emissions of ethylene, followed by combustion of fossil fuels, which contribute 21% of the anthropogenic emissions. Cigarette smoke contains ethylene (1-2 mg released per cigarette)(1).

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 13(SRC), determined from a structure estimation method(2), indicates that ethylene is expected to have very high mobility in soil(SRC). Volatilization of ethylene from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process(SRC) given a Henry's Law constant of 0.228 atm-cu m/mole(3). Ethylene is expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon a vapor pressure of 5.21X10+4 mm Hg at 25 °C(4). Biodegradation data in soil were not available(SRC, 2017). However, ethylene was biodegraded to ethylene oxide using acclimated cell free extracts(8).

AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 13(SRC), determined from a structure estimation method(2), indicates that is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment(SRC). Volatilization from water surfaces is expected(3) based upon a Henry's Law constant of 0.228 atm-cu m/mole(4). Using this Henry's Law constant and an estimation method(3), volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 2 hrs and 2 days, respectively(SRC). According to a classification scheme(5), an estimated BCF of 2.6(SRC), from its log Kow of 1.13(6) and a regression-derived equation(2), suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC). Biodegradation data in water were not available(SRC, 2017). However, ethylene was biodegraded to ethylene oxide using acclimated cell free extracts(7).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), ethylene, which has a vapor pressure of 5.21X10+4 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), is expected to exist solely as a gas in the ambient atmosphere. Gas-phase ethylene 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 2 days(SRC), calculated from its rate constant of 7.9X10-12 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(3). Gas-phase ethylene will also be degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with ozone and nitrate radicals with respective half-lives of 6.5 and 190 days(4-6). Ethylene absorbs UV at wavelength 175.2 nm(7) and, therefore, is not expected to be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight since sunlight consists of wavelengths above 290 nm(SRC).

PURE CULTURE: Sixteen cell-free cultures of bacteria (Mycobacterium; Brevibacterium, Pseudomonas, Nocardia, Arthrobacter, Corynebacterium, Actinomyces and Acinetobacter spp) acclimated to propane isolated from lake water from Warinanaco Park, Linden NJ and from lake and soil samples from Bayway Refinery, Linden, NJ were isolated. The rate of epoxidation to 1,2-ethoxyethane ranged from 0.07 to 2.60 umol/hr per mg of protein. Using Brevibacterium, ethylene oxide was formed at a rate of 0.40 umol/10 min-mg protein(1). Cell-free cultures of Methylosinaus trichosporium and Methylococcus capsulatus, isolated from lake water from Warinanaco Park, Linden NJ and from lake and soil samples from Bayway Refinery, Linden, NJ and acclimated to methane, were found to convert ethylene to ethylene oxide at a rate ranging from 0.9 to 5.5 umol/hr per mg of protein(2,3).

The rate constant for the gas-phase reaction of ethylene with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals is 7.9X10-12 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(1). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 2 days at an atmospheric concentration of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(2). The rate constant for the gas-phase reaction of ethylene with ozone has been estimated as 1.8X10-18 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(SRC) that was derived using a structure estimation method(2). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 6.5 days at an atmospheric concentration of 7X10+11 ozone molecules per cu cm(3). The rate constant for the gas-phase reaction of ethylene with nitrate radicals (NO3) is measured to be 2.14X10-16 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(4) which corresponds to a half-life of about 190 days at an atmospheric concentration of 2X10+8 NO3 radicals per cu cm(5). Ethylene is not expected to undergo hydrolysis in the environment due to the lack of functional groups that hydrolyze under environmental conditions(6). Ethylene absorbs UV at wavelength 175.2 nm(7) and, therefore, is not expected to be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight since sunlight consists of wavelengths above 290 nm(SRC).

Estimated lifetime under photochemical smog conditions in S.E. England: 7.2 hours.

An estimated BCF of 2.6 was calculated in fish for ethylene(SRC), using a log Kow of 1.13(1) and a regression-derived equation(2). According to a classification scheme(3), this BCF suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC).

Using a structure estimation method based on molecular connectivity indices(1), the Koc of ethylene can be estimated to be 13(SRC). According to a classification scheme(2), this estimated Koc value suggests that ethylene is expected to have very high mobility in soil(SRC).

The Henry's Law constant for ethylene is 0.228 atm-cu m/mole(1). This Henry's Law constant indicates that ethylene is expected to volatilize rapidly from water surfaces(2). Based on this Henry's Law constant, the volatilization half-life from a model river (1 m deep, flowing 1 m/sec, wind velocity of 3 m/sec)(2) is estimated as 2 hours(SRC). The volatilization half-life from a model lake (1 m deep, flowing 0.05 m/sec, wind velocity of 0.5 m/sec)(2) is estimated as 2 days(SRC). Ethylene's Henry's Law constant indicates that volatilization from moist soil surfaces may occur(SRC). Ethylene is expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon a vapor pressure of 5.21X10+4 mm Hg(3).

SURFACE WATER: During 1966-1973, ethylene was found in several surface waters (concentration): Gulf of Mexico (1.7-35 nL/L), Caribbean Sea (2.2-12 nL/L), Atlantic Ocean (1.1-11 nL/L), Pacific Ocean (2-11 nL/L), York River, VA (13 nL/L), Potomac River (11 nL/L), and the lower Chesapeake Bay (9 nL/L)(1).

SEA WATER: Ethylene was found at a concentration range of 63-246 pMol/L in sea water from the mid-Atlantic ocean during September and October of 1988(2). In April of 1985, ethylene was detected in several water samples taken from the Indian Ocean along the coast of Madagascar and Africa at a concentration range of 6-36 ppbV(1). In June of 1976, ethylene was found in South Texas Coastal waters at a concentration range of 5.8-13.2 nL/L; the major source of ethylene in this area is expected to be offshore petroleum operations(3). In 1977, concentrations of ethylene (20.1 and 20.7 nL/L) were detected in the Gulf of Mexico near the outflow of the Mississippi River and the discharge of formation waters and hydrocarbon venting from offshore oil production; other concentrations monitored in the Gulf of Mexico ranged from 0.6-5 nL/L(4). Ethylene concentrations in the Caribbean Sea were monitored to be 3.7-4.7 nL/L in 1977(4).

RAIN/SNOW/FOG: Ethylene concentration in interstitial air within the Arctic snowpack was 0.14 ppbv, collected from ice camp NARWHAL in April, 1994(1).

In May of 1983, emissions of ethylene from automobile exhaust ranged from 4.45 to 7.44 %TNMHC (total non-methane hydrocarbon) at 6 sites on U.S. Highway 70, Raleigh, NC(1). Emissions of ethylene from various gasoline fueled engines ranged from 108-135 mg/km driven(2). In another study, emissions of ethylene from various gasoline fueled engines averaged 211.94 mg/km driven in an urban area, 123.2 mg/km driven in a suburban area, 93.39 mg/km driven in a rural area, and 82.58-102.26 mg/km driven on a motorway(3). Furthermore, emissions of ethylene increased from about 6.2 to about 13 % of total hydrocarbon content (THC) when the speed increased from 20 km/hr to about 115 km/hr(3). Ethylene concentrations ranged from 0.04-1.06 ppm in air containing automotive emissions(4). Ethylene has been detected in emissions from alkylate-powered lawn mowers and mopeds(5). The average concentration of ethylene in the Lincoln Tunnel (connecting Weehawhen, NJ with Manhattan Island, NY) was 1,374.9 ppbC in 1970 and 408.7 ppbC in 1982(6). The contribution of vehicle emissions from an attached garage to residential indoor ethylene levels was studied using a 1993 Buick Regal. Ethylene emission rates (mg/test) at cold start were 375 at -10 °C, 500 at 0 °C, and 290 at 24 °C(7).

Ethylene was detected in 9 jet engine emission samples at a concentration range of 0.27-731.3 ppmC(1). Emissions of ethylene from various gasoline fueled cars were: 3.02-5.31 % of total hydrocarbon content (THC) in a 1987 Toyota Camry, 3.55-7.04 %THC in a 1986 GM Grand Am, 3.8-5.91 %THC in a 1986 Ford Mustang, 5.32-9.27 %THC in a 1984 GM Cavalier, 3.13-4.75 %THC in a 1986 Chrysler Omni, 2.84-5.61 %THC in a 1987 Nissan Sentra, 4.04-6.71 %THC in a 1985 Honda Accord, 3.42-5.82 %THC in a 1987 Toyota Corolla, and 4.27- 6.37 %THC in a 1987 Dodge Caravelle(2). An average high-volume roadway concentration measured during August, 1990 in Atalanta, GA was 4.34 ppbc; the weighted average whole gas concentration was 0.00631 ppbC(3). Average ethylene emissions from two passenger ferries operating in the Skagerak-Kattegatt-Oresund region of Sweden were reported as 2.4 and 5.3 mg/cu nm during low speed manoeuvring and 4.6 and 4.7 during crossings(4). The mass concentration of ethylene/CO was 14.9X10-3 from car exhausts sampled in Sveavagen, Sweden(5). Ethylene was reported at 4.56, 4.52 and 4.28% of total VOC species in exhaust from light-, medium- and heavy-duty diesel trucks, respectively, in Beijing, China. In 2012, the number of vehicles in Beijing numbered 5 million of which 4% where diesel(6). Ethylene was qualitatively identified in stack emissions from waste incineration(7). Ethylene was qualitatively identified in emissions from burning polyethylene(8) .

SEDIMENT: In 1977, ethylene concentrations in core samples taken from the Bearing shelf, Bearing slope, and Aleutian basin were: 10-131, 11-91, and 9-150 mL/L interstitial water, respectively(1).

... Detected in average community air at very low levels, but is more prevalent in the air of large metropolitan areas.

URBAN/SUBURBAN: In September of 1969, ethylene was detected in the ambient air of Pt. Barrow, AK at an average concentration of 0.5 ppb(1). Ethylene was detected in the ambient air of Jetmore, KA and San Jose, CA at respective concentrations of 383 and 6796 parts per trillion(2). The average ethylene concentration monitored in the ambient air of Harwell, England was 2.3 ppb(3). The concentration range of ethylene in Houston air, which includes industrial locations and tunnels, was monitored to be 3.15-682 ppb during September of 1973-April of 1974(4). Ethylene concentrations over a 10 day period ranged from 6 to 8 ppb, sampled at Sveavagen Sweden from November 29 to December 9, 1986(5). Mass concentrations of ethylene/CO were 5.7X10-3, 6.1X10-3 to 8.6X10-3, and 14.9X10-3 in Swedish urban air samples from Sveavagen, Horsngratan, and car exhausts, respectively(5).

Urban air: 12-250 ppb; downtown Los Angeles, California: 20-102 ppb; East San Gabriel Valley: 15-37 ppb.

INDOOR AIR: Ethylene was qualitatively identified in trace amounts in nuclear submarine atmospheres(1). Ethylene was detected at an average concn of 490 ppbV in the indoor air of a house in Sundarijal, Nepal during December of 1982-January of 1983; the use of biomass fuels is expected to be responsible for the high ethylene concn(2).

RURAL/REMOTE: In January of 1980, ethylene was detected at concentrations of 50 and 200 parts per trillion in trace gases from the South Pole and the Pacific Northwest (approximately 45 deg N), respectively(1). Ethylene was detected at an average concentration range of 0.6-1.7 ppb in ambient air samples taken in Exelberg, Austria during July 15-August 22, 1987(2). Ethylene was detected at a concentration range of 2.7-16.2 in 15 of 15 ambient air samples from both picnic and interior forest sites taken at Jones State Forest, TX in January of 1978(3). Ethylene was detected in the ambient air of Tulsa, OK at a concentration range of 6.5-11.5 ppbC on July 27, 1978; 37 km downwind from this site, in a rural atmosphere, ethylene was detected at a concentration of 1 ppbC(4). Ethylene was detected in the ambient air of Smoky Mountain National Park, TN at a concentration range of 1.4-7.4 ppbC in September of 1978(4). Ethylene was detected in the ambient air of Rio Blanco county, CO at a concentration range of 1.2-1.4 ppbC in September of 1978(4). Ethylene was present at 6.7% (nighttime) and 5.0% (daytime) of the total non-methane hydrocarbons detected in air samples taken from the summit of Whiteface Mountain in New York State, sampled from July 12-16, 1994. Average nighttime and daytime mixing ratio concentrations were 0.45 and 0.31 ppbv, respectively(5). Ethylene concentrations in Arctic air samples ranged from 0.014 to 1.7 ppbv, collected in April, 1994(6). Mean concentration ranges from four rural locations across Canada were 0.20-1.15 ppbv, 0.12-1.04 ppbv, 0.29-1.35 ppbv, and 0.23-1.17 ppbv for Kejimkujil National Park, Nova Scotia, Lac la Flamme Province Quebec, Egbert Ontario, and Saturna Island, British Columbia, respectively(7).

Ethylene was detected at concentrations of 2.27 and 9.32 uL/L in internal samples of Bisbee Delicious apples from 2 orchards during fruit growth and maturation in 1990(1). Ethylene has been found in the gaseous metabolites released by germinating bean, corn, cotton, and pea seeds(2).

Ethylene is produced by all plant tissues in high amounts and acts as an endogenous plant growth regulator(1).

Ethylene is a component of tobacco smoke, tobacco and tobacco substitute smoke(1). The average airborne yield of ethylene was measured to be 1,200 ug/cigarette(2).

Ethylene emissions from cookstoves in common use in China that are fueled with briquettes, coal, wood, wheat residue, maize residue, kerosene, liquified petroleum gas, coal gas, and natural gas were 1.52-8.87, 54.9-2856, 257-612, 699, 296-334, 185, 0.885, 6.87, and 5.72 ng/kg dry fuel, respectively(1). Ethylene was detected at a concentration range of 537-847 ppb in 3 wood combustion emissions(2). Median concentrations of ethylene emissions from residential fireplaces using softwood and hardwood fuel were 715.05 and 1069.78 mg/kg, respectively; a concentration of 2528.65 mg/kg was measured from a woodstove using hardwood fuel(3). Ethylene was detected not quantified using a synthetic log(3). Ethylene was produced at 844.6, 469.4 and 851.1 mg/kg of biomass burning of Loblolly pine, Western hemlock and Ponderosa pine (Pinaceae), respectively. It was produced at 568.5,593.6 and 444.7 mg/kg biomass burning of mixed Aceraceae/Fagaceae, Palmae/Pinaceae and Poaceae/Pinaceae, respectively(4).

According to the 2016 TSCA Inventory Update Reporting data, 32 reporting facilities estimate the number of persons reasonably likely to be exposed during the manufacturing, processing, or use of ethylene in the United States may be as low as 10 workers and as high as 10,000 workers per plant; the data may be greatly underestimated due to confidential business information (CBI) or unknown values(1).

NIOSH (NOES Survey 1981-1983) has statistically estimated that 12,282 workers (2,363 of these are female) were potentially exposed to ethylene in the US(1). Occupational exposure to ethylene may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where ethylene is produced or used. Monitoring data indicate that the general population may be exposed to ethylene via inhalation of ambient air(SRC).

On July 30, 1992, a human operating a walk-behind alkylate-fueled lawn mower was exposed to ethylene at a concentration of 70 ug/cu m(1). On September 23, 1992, a human driving a car in urban traffic was exposed to ethylene at a concentration of 9 ug/cu m(1).

An ethylene yearly mean exposure of 1.8 ug/cu m was determined for Swedish urban air samples, collected in Sveavagen from 29 November to December, 1986(1).

Ethylene was detected in the expired air from 2 of 8 volunteers (1 smoker) during a test period of approximately 1 hr at quantities of 120 ug (smoker) and 0.91 ug(1).

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

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

Do not discharge ethylene directly into sewers or surface waters. Dispose of by incineration. If necessary, a flammable solvent may be added to aid in burning.

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

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

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

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

For more DOT Emergency Guidelines (Complete) data for Ethylene (16 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

1962 116P

UN 1038; Ethylene, refrigerated liquid (cryogenic liquid)

UN 1962; Ethylene

IMO 2.1; Ethylene; ethylene, refrigerated liquid

49 057 34; Ethylene, compressed

49 057 35; Ethylene, refrigerated liquid

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. Ethylene is included on the dangerous goods list.

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

Flammable Gas

UN Hazard Class: 2.1