Product Identification

Product Name

p-Methylbenzonitrile

Synonyms

4-Methylbenzenecarbonitrile
CNT
p-Tolunitrile

CAS

104-85-8

Formula

C8H7N

Molecular Weight

117.15

EINECS

203-244-8

RTECS

XV0700000

RTECS Class

Primary Irritant

Merck

12,9676

Beilstein/Gmelin

507386

Beilstein Reference

4-09-00-01738

EC Class

irritant

Physical and Chemical Properties

Appearance

Beige solid at 62.6 F.

Solubility in water

Insoluble

Melting Point

25 - 28

Boiling Point

217.6

Vapor Pressure

30 (42 C)

Density

1.001 g/cm3 (0 C)

Refractive Index

1.5281 (25 C)

First Aid Measures

Ingestion

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

Inhalation

Remove from exposure to fresh air immediately. If breathing is difficult, give oxygen. Get medical aid. DO NOT use mouth-to-mouth respiration. If breathing has ceased apply artificial respiration using oxygen and a suitable mechanical device such as a bag and a mask.

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

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

Handling and Storage

Storage

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

Handling

Wash thoroughly after handling. Use only in a well ventilated area. Minimize dust generation and accumulation. Avoid contact with eyes, skin, and clothing. Keep container tightly closed. Avoid ingestion and inhalation. Wash clothing before reuse.

Hazards Identification

Inhalation

May cause respiratory tract irritation. Aspiration may lead to pulmonary edema. May be metabolized to cyanide which in turns act by inhibiting cytochrome oxidase impairing cellular respiration.

Skin

Causes skin irritation. May be metabolized to cyanide which in turn acts by inhibiting cytochrome oxidase impairing cellular respiration. May cause cyanosis of the extremities.

Eyes

Causes eye irritation. May cause chemical conjunctivitis and corneal damage.

Ingestion

May cause gastrointestinal irritation with nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Metabolism may release cyanide, which may result in headache, dizziness, weakness, collapse, unconsciousness and possible death.

Hazards

Vapors may form explosive mixtures with air. Vapors may travel to source of ignition and flash back. Most vapors are heavier than air. They will spread along ground and collect in low or confined areas (sewers, basements, tanks). Vapor explosion and poison hazard indoors, outdoors or in sewers.

EC Risk Phrase

R 36/37/38

EC Safety Phrase

S 23 24/25

UN (DOT)

3273

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 and clothing 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

May be metabolized to cyanide which in turn acts by inhibiting cytochrome oxidase impairing cellular respiration. Effects may be delayed. Chronic exposure to cyanide solutions may lead to the development of a cyanide rash, characterized by itching, and by macular, papular, and vesicular eruptions, and may be accompanied by secondary infections.

Poison Class

4

Fire Fighting Measures

Flash Point

78

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. Runoff from fire control or dilution water may cause pollution. To extinguish fire, use water, dry chemical, chemical foam, or alcohol-resistant foam. Use agent most appropriate to extinguish fire.

Fire Potential

This chemical is combustible.

Accidental Release Measures

Small spills/leaks

Vacuum or sweep up material and place into a suitable disposal container. Clean up spills immediately, using the appropriate protective equipment. Avoid generating dusty conditions. Provide ventilation.

Stability and Reactivity

Disposal Code

6

Incompatibilities

Oxidizing agents, strong bases.

Stability

Stable at room temperature in closed containers under normal storage and handling conditions.

Decomposition

Nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, irritating and toxic fumes and gases, carbon dioxide, nitrogen.

Combustion Products

Fire will produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases.

Transport Information

UN Number

3273

Hazard Class

3

Packing Group

I; II

HS Code

2926 90 95