n-HEXANE

International Chemical Safety Cards

n-HEXANE

ICSC: 0279

n-HEXANE
C₆H₁₄
Molecular mass: 86.2
CAS # 110-54-3
RTECS # MN9275000
ICSC # 0279
UN # 1208
EC # 601-037-00-0

TYPES OF HAZARD/ EXPOSURE	ACUTE HAZARDS/ SYMPTOMS	PREVENTION	FIRST AID/ FIRE FIGHTING
FIRE	Highly flammable.	NO open flames, NO sparks, and NO smoking.	Powder, AFFF, foam, carbon dioxide.
EXPLOSION	Vapour/air mixtures are explosive.	Closed system, ventilation, explosion-proof electrical equipment and lighting. Do NOT use compressed air for filling, discharging, or handling. Use reduced-sparking handtools.	In case of fire: keep drums, etc., cool by spraying with water. Fire fighters should wear complete protective clothing including self-contained breathing apparatus.

EXPOSURE
INHALATION	Dizziness. Drowsiness. Dullness. Headache. Laboured breathing. Nausea. Unconsciousness. Weakness.	Ventilation, local exhaust, or breathing protection.	Fresh air, rest. Refer for medical attention.
SKIN	Dry skin. Redness.	Protective gloves.	Remove contaminated clothes. Rinse and then wash skin with water and soap. Refer for medical attention.
EYES	Redness. Pain.	Safety goggles, face shield, or eye protection in combination with breathing protection.	First rinse with plenty of water for several minutes (remove contact lenses if easily possible), then take to a doctor.
INGESTION	Abdominal pain (further see Inhalation).	Do not eat, drink, or smoke during work.	Rinse mouth. Do NOT induce vomiting. Rest. Refer for medical attention.

SPILLAGE DISPOSAL

STORAGE

PACKAGING & LABELLING

Consult an expert! Collect leaking and spilled liquid in sealable containers as far as possible. Absorb remaining liquid in sand or inert absorbent and remove to safe place. Do NOT wash away into sewer (extra personal protection: self-contained breathing apparatus).

Fireproof. Separated from strong oxidants. Cool. Well closed.

F symbol
Xn symbol
R: 11-48/20
S: 9-16-24/25-29-51
UN Haz Class: 3
UN Pack Group: II

SEE IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON BACK

ICSC: 0279

Prepared in the context of cooperation between the International Programme on Chemical Safety & the Commission of the European Communities © IPCS CEC 1993

International Chemical Safety Cards

n-HEXANE

ICSC: 0279

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PHYSICAL STATE; APPEARANCE:
VOLATILE COLOURLESS LIQUID , WITH CHARACTERISTIC ODOUR.

PHYSICAL DANGERS:
The vapour is heavier than air and may travel along the ground; distant ignition possible.

CHEMICAL DANGERS:
Reacts with strong oxidants causing fire and explosion hazard.

OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE LIMITS (OELs):
TLV (as TWA): 50 ppm; 176 mg/m³ (ACGIH 1992-1993).
MAK: 50 ppm; 180 mg/m³; (1992).

ROUTES OF EXPOSURE:
The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation of its vapour, through the skin and by ingestion.

INHALATION RISK:
A harmful contamination of the air can be reached rather quickly on evaporation of this substance at 20°C.

EFFECTS OF SHORT-TERM EXPOSURE:
The substance irritates the eyes. Swallowing the liquid may cause aspiration into the lungs with the risk of chemical pneumonitis. The substance may cause effects on the central nervous system.

EFFECTS OF LONG-TERM OR REPEATED EXPOSURE:
Repeated or prolonged contact with skin may cause dermatitis. The liquid defats the skin. The substance may have effects on the peripheral nervous system , resulting in polyneuropathy.

PHYSICAL
PROPERTIES

Boiling point: 69°C
Melting point: -95°C
Relative density (water = 1): 0.66
Solubility in water: none
Vapour pressure, kPa at 20°C: 16
Relative vapour density (air = 1): 3.0

Relative density of the vapour/air-mixture at 20°C (air = 1): 1.3
Flash point: -22°C (c.c.)
Auto-ignition temperature: 240°C
Explosive limits, vol% in air: 1.1-7.5
Octanol/water partition coefficient as log Pow: 3.9