International Chemical Safety Cards

DICHLOROACETIC ACID ICSC: 0868

DICHLOROACETIC ACID
Bichloroacetic acid
Dichlorethanoic acid
DCA
C2H2Cl2O2/CHCl2COOH
Molecular mass: 128.9
CAS # 79-43-6
RTECS # AG6125000
ICSC # 0868
UN # 1764
EC # 607-066-00-5
TYPES OF
HAZARD/
EXPOSURE 		ACUTE HAZARDS/
SYMPTOMS 		PREVENTION FIRST AID/
FIRE FIGHTING
FIRE Not combustible. Gives off irritating or toxic fumes (or gases) in a fire.

Powder, water spray, foam, carbon dioxide. In case of fire in the surroundings: all extinguishing agents allowed.
EXPLOSION

In case of fire: keep drums, etc., cool by spraying with water.
 
EXPOSURE
PREVENT GENERATION OF MISTS! AVOID ALL CONTACT!

INHALATION Burning sensation. Cough. Laboured breathing. Unconsciousness. Symptoms may be delayed (see Notes).
Ventilation, local exhaust, or breathing protection.
Fresh air, rest. Artificial respiration if indicated. Refer for medical attention.
SKIN Redness. Pain. Blisters.
Protective gloves. Protective clothing.
First rinse with plenty of water, then remove contaminated clothes and rinse again. Refer for medical attention. Wear protective gloves when administering first aid.
EYES Redness. Pain. Severe deep burns.
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 cramps. Burning sensation. Sore throat. Unconsciousness. Vomiting. Weakness.
Do not eat, drink, or smoke during work.
Rinse mouth. Do NOT induce vomiting. Refer for medical attention.
SPILLAGE DISPOSAL STORAGE PACKAGING & LABELLING
Collect leaking liquid in sealable containers. Cautiously neutralize remainder. Then wash away with plenty of water. Do NOT let this chemical enter the environment (extra personal protection: complete protective clothing including self-contained breathing apparatus).
Separated from metals, combustible and reducing substances, strong oxidants, strong bases, food and feedstuffs. Tightly closed. Cool.
Do not transport with food and feedstuffs.
C symbol
R: 35
S: 26
UN Hazard Class: 8
UN Packing Group: II
SEE IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON BACK
ICSC: 0868 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

DICHLOROACETIC ACID ICSC: 0868

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D
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PHYSICAL STATE; APPEARANCE:
COLOURLESS LIQUID , WITH PUNGENT ODOUR.

PHYSICAL DANGERS:


CHEMICAL DANGERS:
The substance decomposes on heating producing toxic and corrosive fumes (phosgene, hydrogen chloride). The substance is a medium strong acid. Attacks many metals forming flammable hydrogen gas. Attacks rubber.

OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE LIMITS (OELs):
PDK: 4 mg/m3 (USSR 1982).


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

INHALATION RISK:
No indication can be given about the rate in which a harmful concentration in the air is reached on evaporation of this substance at 20°C.

EFFECTS OF SHORT-TERM EXPOSURE:
Corrosive. The substance is corrosive to the eyes, the skin and the respiratory tract. Corrosive on ingestion as well. Inhalation of the vapour may cause lung oedema (see Notes). Exposure may result in death. Medical observation is indicated.

EFFECTS OF LONG-TERM OR REPEATED EXPOSURE:
PHYSICAL
PROPERTIES
 Boiling point: 193-194°C
Melting point: 9.7°C
Relative density (water = 1): 1.56
 Solubility in water: very good
Vapour pressure, Pa at 20°C: 19
Relative vapour density (air = 1): 4.45
ENVIRONMENTAL
DATA
 This substance may be hazardous to the environment; special attention should be given to water.
NOTES
Other melting points: -4°C. Apparently occurs in two crystalline forms. The symptoms of lung oedema often do not become manifest until a few hours have passed and they are aggravated by physical effort. Rest and medical observation are therefore essential. Immediate administration of an appropriate spray, by a doctor or a person authorized by him/her, should be considered.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION


ICSC: 0868 DICHLOROACETIC ACID
© IPCS, CEC, 1993
IMPORTANT LEGAL NOTICE: Neither the CEC or the IPCS nor any person acting on behalf of the CEC or the IPCS is responsible for the use which might be made of this information. This card contains the collective views of the IPCS Peer Review Committee and may not reflect in all cases all the detailed requirements included in national legislation on the subject. The user should verify compliance of the cards with the relevant legislation in the country of use.