Propylene oxide

Synonyms & Trade Names

1,2-Epoxy propane, Methyl ethylene oxide, Methyloxirane, Propene oxide, 1,2-Propylene oxide

Physical Description

Colorless liquid with a benzene-like odor. [Note: A gas above 94°F.]

Incompatibilities & Reactivities

Anhydrous chlorides of iron, tin, and aluminum; peroxides of iron and aluminum; alkali metal hydroxides; iron; strong acids, caustics & peroxides [Note: Polymerization may occur due to high temperatures or contamination with alkalis, aqueous acids, amines & acidic alcohols.]

Symptoms

irritation eyes, skin, respiratory system; skin blisters, burns; [potential occupational carcinogen]

Cancer Site

[in animals: nasal tumors]

Respirator Recommendations

NIOSH

At concentrations above the NIOSH REL, or where there is no REL, at any detectable concentration:
(APF = 10,000) Any self-contained breathing apparatus that has a full facepiece and is operated in a pressure-demand or other positive-pressure mode
(APF = 10,000) Any supplied-air respirator that has a full facepiece and is operated in a pressure-demand or other positive-pressure mode in combination with an auxiliary self-contained positive-pressure breathing apparatus

Escape:
(APF = 50) Any air-purifying, full-facepiece respirator (gas mask) with a chin-style, front- or back-mounted canister providing protection against the compound of concern
Any appropriate escape-type, self-contained breathing apparatus

Important additional information about respirator selection