Product Identification

Product Name

3-Methylbenzoic acid

Synonyms

3-Methylbenzoic acid
b-Methylbenzoic acid
m-Methylbenzoic acid

CAS

99-04-7

Formula

C8H8O2

Molecular Weight

136.15

EINECS

202-723-9

RTECS

XU1200000

RTECS Class

Drug

Merck

12,9673

Beilstein/Gmelin

970526

Beilstein Reference

4-09-00-01712

EC Class

irritant

Physical and Chemical Properties

Appearance

White to yellowish crystals or mostly yellow flaky solid (with some white flakes). Has a floral-honey odor.

Solubility in water

Very soluble

Melting Point

108 - 111

Boiling Point

263

Vapor Pressure

0.005 (25 C)

Density

1.054 g/cm3 (20 C)

pKa/pKb

4.27 (pKa)

Partition Coefficient

2.36

Heat Of Vaporization

53.0 kJ/mol

Usage

Precursor to deet (n,n diethyl-m-toluamide) the well-known insect repellent.

Refractive Index

1.50367 (111.6 C)

First Aid Measures

Ingestion

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.

Inhalation

Remove from exposure to fresh air immediately. If not breathing, give artificial respiration. If breathing is difficult, give oxygen. Get medical aid.

Skin

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

Eyes

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

Keep container closed when not in use. Store in a tightly closed container. Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from incompatible substances.

Handling

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

Hazards Identification

Ingestion

May cause irritation of the digestive tract.

Inhalation

May cause respiratory tract irritation.

Skin

May cause skin irritation.

Eyes

May cause eye irritation.

EC Risk Phrase

R 22 36/37/38

EC Safety Phrase

S 26 36/37/39

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.

Poison Class

4

Fire Fighting Measures

Flash Point

120

Autoignition

500

Fire Fighting

Wear a self-contained breathing apparatus in pressure-demand, MSHA/NIOSH (approved or equivalent), and full protective gear. During a fire, irritating and highly toxic gases may be generated by thermal decomposition or combustion. To extinguish fire use water spray, dry chemical, carbon dioxide, or appropriate foam.

Fire Potential

This material is probably combustible.

Accidental Release Measures

Small spills/leaks

Clean up spills immediately, using the appropriate protective equipment. Sweep up or absorb material, then place into a suitable clean, dry, closed container for disposal. Provide ventilation.

Stability and Reactivity

Disposal Code

4

Incompatibilities

Oxidizing agents.

Stability

Stable under normal temperatures and pressures.

Decomposition

Carbon monoxide, irritating and toxic fumes and gases, carbon dioxide, acrid smoke and fumes.

Transport Information

HS Code

2916 39 00