Product Identification

Product Name

4-Hydroxybenzoic acid methyl ester

Synonyms

4-Hydroxybenzoic acid methyl ester
Maseptol
Methyl 4-hydroxybenzoate
Methyl Butex
Methyl p-hydroxybenzoate
Preserval

CAS

99-76-3

Formula

C8H8O3

Molecular Weight

152.15

EINECS

202-785-7

RTECS

DH2450000

RTECS Class

Drug; Mutagen

Merck

12,6182

Beilstein/Gmelin

509801

Beilstein Reference

4-10-00-00360

Physical and Chemical Properties

Appearance

Solid.

Solubility in water

Slightly soluble

Melting Point

125 - 128

Boiling Point

270 - 280

Density

1.1208 g/cm3 (137 C)

pKa/pKb

8.30 (pKa)

Partition Coefficient

1.96

Heat Of Vaporization

77.10 kJ/mol

Heat Of Combustion

-3751 kJ/mol

Usage

Inhibitor of growth of molds & to lesser extent bacteria, as vehicle for ophthalmic soln., Preservative.

Refractive Index

1.5204 (137 C)

First Aid Measures

Ingestion

Do NOT induce vomiting. If victim is conscious and alert, give 2-4 cupfuls of milk or water. Never give anything by mouth to an unconscious person. Get medical aid immediately.

Inhalation

Remove from exposure to fresh air immediately. If not breathing, give artificial respiration. If breathing is difficult, give oxygen. Get medical aid if cough or other symptoms appear. DO NOT use mouth-to-mouth respiration.

Skin

Get medical aid immediately. Flush skin with plenty of soap and water for at least 15 minutes while removing contaminated clothing and shoes. Wash clothing before reuse.

Eyes

Immediately flush eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes, occasionally lifting the upper and lower eyelids. Get medical aid immediately.

Handling and Storage

Storage

Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from incompatible substances. Keep containers tightly closed.

Handling

Wash thoroughly after handling. Remove contaminated clothing and wash before reuse. Use with adequate ventilation. Minimize dust generation and accumulation. Avoid contact with skin and eyes. Keep container tightly closed. Avoid ingestion and inhalation.

Hazards Identification

Inhalation

May cause respiratory tract irritation.

Skin

May cause skin sensitization, an allergic reaction, which becomes evident upon re-exposure to this material.

Eyes

May cause moderate eye irritation.

Ingestion

May cause irritation of the digestive tract.

Hazards

Dusts at sufficient concentrations can form explosive mixtures with air.

EC Risk Phrase

R 36/37/38

EC Safety Phrase

S 26 36

UN (DOT)

2769

Exposure Controls/Personal Protection

Personal Protection

Eyes: Wear appropriate protective eyeglasses or chemical safety goggles as described by OSHA's eye and face protection regulations in 29 CFR 1910.133 or European Standard EN166. Skin: Wear appropriate protective gloves to prevent skin exposure. Clothing: Wear appropriate protective clothing to prevent skin exposure.

Respirators

Follow the OSHA respirator regulations found in 29CFR 1910.134 or European Standard EN 149. Always use a NIOSH or European Standard EN 149 approved respirator when necessary.

Exposure Effects

Repeated exposure may cause sensitization dermatitis.

Poison Class

5

Fire Fighting Measures

Autoignition

> 600

Fire Fighting

Wear a self-contained breathing apparatus in pressure-demand, MSHA/NIOSH (approved or equivalent), and full protective gear. Dusts at sufficient concentrations can form explosive mixtures with air. During a fire, irritating and highly toxic gases may be generated by thermal decomposition or combustion. Extinguishing media: Use water spray, dry chemical, or carbon dioxide.

Accidental Release Measures

Small spills/leaks

Avoid runoff into storm sewers and ditches which lead to waterways. Clean up spills immediately, using the appropriate protective equipment. Wear a self contained breathing apparatus and appropriate Personal protection. (See Exposure Controls, Personal Protection section). Sweep up, then place into a suitable container for disposal. Avoid generating dusty conditions. Provide ventilation.

Stability and Reactivity

Stability

Stable under normal temperatures and pressures.

Incompatibilities

Strong oxidizing agents, strong bases.

Decomposition

Carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, acrid smoke and fumes.

Transport Information

UN Number

2769

HS Code

2918 29 30