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Ethylene Oxide

PubChem CID
6354
Structure
Ethylene Oxide_small.png
Ethylene Oxide_3D_Structure.png
Ethylene Oxide__Crystal_Structure.png
Molecular Formula
Synonyms
  • Oxirane
  • ETHYLENE OXIDE
  • 75-21-8
  • Epoxyethane
  • 1,2-Epoxyethane
Molecular Weight
44.05 g/mol
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Dates
  • Create:
    2004-09-16
  • Modify:
    2025-01-18
Description
Ethylene oxide is a flammable gas with a somewhat sweet odor. It dissolves easily in water. Ethylene oxide is a man-made chemical that is used primarily to make ethylene glycol (a chemical used to make antifreeze and polyester). A small amount (less than 1%) is used to control insects in some stored agricultural products and a very small amount is used in hospitals to sterilize medical equipment and supplies.
Ethylene Oxide can cause cancer, developmental toxicity, female reproductive toxicity and male reproductive toxicity according to state or federal government labeling requirements.
Ethylene oxide appears as a clear colorless gas with an ethereal odor with a flash point below 0 °F. Liquid less dense than water. Vapors heavier than air. May polymerize exothermically if heated or contaminated. If the polymerization takes place inside a container, the container may rupture violently. Vapors very toxic. Vapors irritate the eyes, skin, and respiratory system. Prolonged skin contact may result in delayed burns. Used to make other chemicals, as a fumigant and industrial sterilant.
See also: Benzonatate (monomer of); Polidocanol (monomer of); Laureth-5 (monomer of) ... View More ...

1 Structures

1.1 2D Structure

Chemical Structure Depiction
Ethylene Oxide.png

1.2 3D Conformer

1.3 Crystal Structures

1 of 5
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CCDC Number
Associated Article
Crystal Structure Data
Crystal Structure Depiction
Crystal Structure Depiction

2 Names and Identifiers

2.1 Computed Descriptors

2.1.1 IUPAC Name

oxirane
Computed by Lexichem TK 2.7.0 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)

2.1.2 InChI

InChI=1S/C2H4O/c1-2-3-1/h1-2H2
Computed by InChI 1.0.6 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)

2.1.3 InChIKey

IAYPIBMASNFSPL-UHFFFAOYSA-N
Computed by InChI 1.0.6 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)

2.1.4 SMILES

C1CO1
Computed by OEChem 2.3.0 (PubChem release 2024.12.12)

2.2 Molecular Formula

C2H4O
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
C2H4O

2.3 Other Identifiers

2.3.1 CAS

75-21-8
31586-84-2
857892-58-1

2.3.2 Deprecated CAS

142175-32-4, 184288-32-2, 19034-08-3, 37341-05-2, 436859-78-8, 99932-75-9

2.3.3 European Community (EC) Number

2.3.4 UNII

2.3.5 UN Number

2.3.6 ChEBI ID

2.3.7 ChEMBL ID

2.3.8 DSSTox Substance ID

2.3.9 HMDB ID

2.3.10 ICSC Number

2.3.11 KEGG ID

2.3.12 Metabolomics Workbench ID

2.3.13 NCI Thesaurus Code

2.3.14 Nikkaji Number

2.3.15 RTECS Number

2.3.16 Wikidata

2.3.17 Wikipedia

2.4 Synonyms

2.4.1 MeSH Entry Terms

  • Ethylene Oxide
  • Oxide, Ethylene
  • Oxirane

2.4.2 Depositor-Supplied Synonyms

3 Chemical and Physical Properties

3.1 Computed Properties

Property Name
Molecular Weight
Property Value
44.05 g/mol
Reference
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
XLogP3-AA
Property Value
-0.1
Reference
Computed by XLogP3 3.0 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Hydrogen Bond Donor Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Hydrogen Bond Acceptor Count
Property Value
1
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Rotatable Bond Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Exact Mass
Property Value
44.026214747 Da
Reference
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Monoisotopic Mass
Property Value
44.026214747 Da
Reference
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Topological Polar Surface Area
Property Value
12.5 Ų
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Heavy Atom Count
Property Value
3
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Formal Charge
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Complexity
Property Value
10.3
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Isotope Atom Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Defined Atom Stereocenter Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Undefined Atom Stereocenter Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Defined Bond Stereocenter Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Undefined Bond Stereocenter Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Covalently-Bonded Unit Count
Property Value
1
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Compound Is Canonicalized
Property Value
Yes
Reference
Computed by PubChem (release 2021.10.14)

3.2 Experimental Properties

3.2.1 Physical Description

Ethylene oxide appears as a clear colorless gas with an ethereal odor with a flash point below 0 °F. Liquid less dense than water. Vapors heavier than air. May polymerize exothermically if heated or contaminated. If the polymerization takes place inside a container, the container may rupture violently. Vapors very toxic. Vapors irritate the eyes, skin, and respiratory system. Prolonged skin contact may result in delayed burns. Used to make other chemicals, as a fumigant and industrial sterilant.
Liquid; Gas or Vapor
Colorless gas or liquid (below 51 degrees F) with an ether-like odor; [NIOSH] Vapor density = 1.49 (heavier than air); [HSDB]
COLOURLESS COMPRESSED LIQUEFIED GAS WITH CHARACTERISTIC ODOUR.
Colorless gas or liquid (below 51 °F) with an ether-like odor.

3.2.2 Color / Form

Colorless ... gas at ordinary room temp and pressure; liquid below 12 °C
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2006., p. 651
Colorless gas or liquid (below 51 degrees F) ...
NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards & Other Databases CD-ROM. Department of Health & Human Services, Centers for Disease Prevention & Control. National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2005-151 (2005)

3.2.3 Odor

Sweet
U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Transportation. CHRIS - Hazardous Chemical Data. Volume II. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office, 1984-5.
Reminiscent of bruised apples
Reynolds, J.E.F., Prasad, A.B. (eds.) Martindale-The Extra Pharmacopoeia. 28th ed. London: The Pharmaceutical Press, 1982., p. 562
... Ether-like odor
NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards & Other Databases CD-ROM. Department of Health & Human Services, Centers for Disease Prevention & Control. National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2005-151 (2005)

3.2.4 Boiling Point

51.3 °F at 760 mmHg (EPA, 1998)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 1998. Extremely Hazardous Substances (EHS) Chemical Profiles and Emergency First Aid Guides. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office.
10.6 °C
Lide, D.R. CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics 86TH Edition 2005-2006. CRC Press, Taylor & Francis, Boca Raton, FL 2005, p. 3-408
11 °C
51 °F

3.2.5 Melting Point

-170.5 °F (EPA, 1998)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 1998. Extremely Hazardous Substances (EHS) Chemical Profiles and Emergency First Aid Guides. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office.
-111.7 °C
Lide, D.R., G.W.A. Milne (eds.). Handbook of Data on Organic Compounds. Volume I. 3rd ed. CRC Press, Inc. Boca Raton ,FL. 1994., p. V4: 3793
-111 °C
-171 °F

3.2.6 Flash Point

-0.4 to 0 °F (EPA, 1998)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 1998. Extremely Hazardous Substances (EHS) Chemical Profiles and Emergency First Aid Guides. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office.
-20 °F (-29 °C) (closed cup)
Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 13 ed. Quincy, MA: National Fire Protection Association, 2002., p. 325-62
-18 °C (open cup)
Bingham, E.; Cohrssen, B.; Powell, C.H.; Patty's Toxicology Volumes 1-9 5th ed. John Wiley & Sons. New York, N.Y. (2001)., p. V6 997
Flammable gas
-20 °F (liquid)
NA (Gas) -20 °F (Liquid)

3.2.7 Solubility

Miscible (NTP, 1992)
National Toxicology Program, Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health (NTP). 1992. National Toxicology Program Chemical Repository Database. Research Triangle Park, North Carolina.
Soluble in benzene, acetone, ethanol, ether
Lide, D.R., G.W.A. Milne (eds.). Handbook of Data on Organic Compounds. Volume I. 3rd ed. CRC Press, Inc. Boca Raton ,FL. 1994., p. V4: 3793
Miscible with... carbon tetrachloride.
Bingham, E.; Cohrssen, B.; Powell, C.H.; Patty's Toxicology Volumes 1-9 5th ed. John Wiley & Sons. New York, N.Y. (2001)., p. V6: 997
Miscible with water
Schultze HC; in Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology. 2nd ed., New York, NY: John Wiley and Sons, V8: 523-8 (1965)
Solubility in water: miscible
Miscible

3.2.8 Density

0.8222 at 50 °F (EPA, 1998) - Less dense than water; will float
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 1998. Extremely Hazardous Substances (EHS) Chemical Profiles and Emergency First Aid Guides. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office.
0.882 at 10 °C/10 °C
Lide, D.R., G.W.A. Milne (eds.). Handbook of Data on Organic Compounds. Volume I. 3rd ed. CRC Press, Inc. Boca Raton ,FL. 1994., p. V4: 3793
Relative density (water = 1): 0.9
0.82 (liquid at 50 °F)
1.49(relative gas density)

3.2.9 Vapor Density

1.49 (EPA, 1998) - Heavier than air; will sink (Relative to Air)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 1998. Extremely Hazardous Substances (EHS) Chemical Profiles and Emergency First Aid Guides. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office.
1.49
Celanese Chemical Co Inc, Product Bulletin Sheet 1978 as cited in Environment Canada; Tech Info for Problem Spills: Ethylene oxide p.3 (1982)
Relative vapor density (air = 1): 1.5

3.2.10 Vapor Pressure

1095 mmHg at 68 °F (EPA, 1998)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 1998. Extremely Hazardous Substances (EHS) Chemical Profiles and Emergency First Aid Guides. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office.
1,310 mm Hg at 25 °C (extrapolated)
Daubert, T.E., R.P. Danner. Physical and Thermodynamic Properties of Pure Chemicals Data Compilation. Washington, D.C.: Taylor and Francis, 1989.
Vapor pressure, kPa at 20 °C: 146
1.46 atm

3.2.11 LogP

log Kow = -0.30
Hansch, C., Leo, A., D. Hoekman. Exploring QSAR - Hydrophobic, Electronic, and Steric Constants. Washington, DC: American Chemical Society., 1995., p. 4
-0.3

3.2.12 Henry's Law Constant

Henry's Law constant = 1.48X10-4 atm-cu m/mol at 25 °C
Conway RA et al; Environ Sci Technol 17: 107-112 (1983)

3.2.13 Stability / Shelf Life

HYDROLYZES SLOWLY IN AQ SOLN
Sunshine, I. (ed.). CRC Handbook of Analytical Toxicology. Cleveland: The Chemical Rubber Co., 1969., p. 517
STABLE IN WATER
Worthing, C. R. (ed.). Pesticide Manual. 6th ed. Worcestershire, England: British Crop Protection Council, l979., p. 236

3.2.14 Autoignition Temperature

804 °F (USCG, 1999)
U.S. Coast Guard. 1999. Chemical Hazard Response Information System (CHRIS) - Hazardous Chemical Data. Commandant Instruction 16465.12C. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office.
804 °F (429 °C)
Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 13 ed. Quincy, MA: National Fire Protection Association, 2002., p. 325-62
429 °C

3.2.15 Decomposition

Liquid ethylene oxide is not detonable, but the vapor may be readily initiated into explosive decomposition.
Bretherick, L. Handbook of Reactive Chemical Hazards. 4th ed. Boston, MA: Butterworth-Heinemann Ltd., 1990, p. 272
Explosive decomposition may occur.
Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 13 ed. Quincy, MA: National Fire Protection Association, 2002., p. 49-76
Decompostion products are explosive.
ITII. Toxic and Hazardous Industrial Chemicals Safety Manual. Tokyo, Japan: The International Technical Information Institute, 1988., p. 666

3.2.16 Viscosity

9.45X10-3 mPa.s (25 °C, gas) and 0.254 mPa.s (10 °C, liquid)
Matheson Gas Prod; Tech Info for Problem Spills: Ethylene oxide p.4 (1982)

3.2.17 Heat of Combustion

1280.9 kJ/mol (liquid); 1306.1 kJ/mol (gas)
Lide, D.R. (ed.). CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. 75th ed. Boca Raton, Fl: CRC Press Inc., 1994-1995., p. 5-76

3.2.18 Heat of Vaporization

24.75 kJ/mol at 25 °C
NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards & Other Databases CD-ROM. Department of Health & Human Services, Centers for Disease Prevention & Control. National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2005-151 (2005), p. 6-109

3.2.19 Ionization Potential

10.56 eV

3.2.20 Polymerization

Precautions designed to prevent explosive polymerization of ethylene oxide are discussed, including rigid exclusion of acids, covalent halides such as aluminium, iron (III), and tin (IV) chloride, basic materials like alkali hydroxides, ammonia, amines, metallic potassium, and catalytically active solids such as aluminium or iron oxides or rust.
Bretherick, L. Handbook of Reactive Chemical Hazards. 4th ed. Boston, MA: Butterworth-Heinemann Ltd., 1990, p. 274
Polymerization is catalyzed by a number of materials, such as acids, alkalis, some carbonates, oxides of iron and aluminum, and chlorides of iron, tin, aluminum, and boron. No acetylide-forming metals such as copper or copper alloys should be in contact with ethylene oxide.
Clayton, G. D. and F. E. Clayton (eds.). Patty's Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology: Volume 2A, 2B, 2C: Toxicology. 3rd ed. New York: John Wiley Sons, 1981-1982., p. 2166
Accidental contamination of an ethylene oxide feed tank by ammonia caused violently explosive polymerization.
Bretherick, L. Handbook of Reactive Chemical Hazards. 4th ed. Boston, MA: Butterworth-Heinemann Ltd., 1990, p. 273
It is relatively stable in aqueous solutions or when diluted with carbon dioxide or halocarbons, but it may undergo slow polymerization during storage.
DHHS/NTP; SUBSTANCE PROFILES REPORT ON CARCINOGENS, ELEVENTH EDITION: Ethylene Oxide CAS No. 75-21-8 p.1. Available from, as of July 23, 2008: https://ntp.niehs.nih.gov/

3.2.21 Odor Threshold

Odor Threshold Low: 257.0 [ppm]

Odor Threshold High: 690.0 [ppm]

Detection odor threshold from AIHA (mean = 420 ppm)

Recognition: 1.5 mg/cu m= 0.8 ppm, mean detection concn: 700 ppm; absolute perception limit: 260 ppm; 50% recognition: 500 ppm; 100% recognition: 500 ppm
Verschueren, K. Handbook of Environmental Data of Organic Chemicals. 2nd ed. New York, NY: Van Nostrand Reinhold Co., 1983., p. 654
Low: 520 mg/cu m; High: 1400 mg/cu m
Ruth JH; Am Ind Hyg Assoc J 47: A-142-51 (1986)
300 ppm in air
Hayes, W.J., Jr., E.R. Laws, Jr., (eds.). Handbook of Pesticide Toxicology. Volume 2. Classes of Pesticides. New York, NY: Academic Press, Inc., 1991., p. 663

3.2.22 Refractive Index

Inex of refraction: 1.3597 at 7 °C/D
Lide, D.R., G.W.A. Milne (eds.). Handbook of Data on Organic Compounds. Volume I. 3rd ed. CRC Press, Inc. Boca Raton ,FL. 1994., p. V4: 3793

3.2.23 Kovats Retention Index

Standard non-polar
417 , 417 , 405.3 , 405 , 400 , 405 , 400
Semi-standard non-polar
397 , 410
Standard polar
680

3.2.24 Other Experimental Properties

Heat of solution in water: 142.57 kJ/kg @ 25 °C
Gerhartz, W. (exec ed.). Ullmann's Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry. 5th ed.Vol A1: Deerfield Beach, FL: VCH Publishers, 1985 to Present., p. VA10: 118 (1987)
CAN REACT WITH OXIDIZING MATERIALS
Sax, N.I. Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 4th ed. New York: Van Nostrand Reinhold, 1975., p. 741
Ratio of specific heats of vapor (gas): 1.212
U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Transportation. CHRIS - Hazardous Chemical Data. Volume II. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office, 1984-5.
For more Other Experimental Properties (Complete) data for ETHYLENE OXIDE (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

3.3 SpringerMaterials Properties

3.4 Chemical Classes

3.4.1 Cosmetics

Cosmetics ingredient -> Base; Fragrance; Other (Specify); Solvent

3.4.2 Endocrine Disruptors

Potential endocrine disrupting compound
S109 | PARCEDC | List of 7074 potential endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) by PARC T4.2 | DOI:10.5281/zenodo.10944198

3.4.3 Food Additives

ANTIMICROBIAL AGENT, FUMIGANT -> FDA Substance added to food

3.4.4 Pesticides

Agrochemicals -> Pesticide active substances
Active substance -> EU Pesticides database: Not approved
Pesticides -> Fumigants

4 Spectral Information

4.1 1D NMR Spectra

1D NMR Spectra

4.1.1 1H NMR Spectra

Spectra ID
Instrument Type
JEOL
Frequency
300 MHz
Solvent
neat
Shifts [ppm]:Intensity
2.54:1000.00
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4.1.2 13C NMR Spectra

1 of 3
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13C NMR Spectra
13C NMR: 270 (Stothers, Carbon-13 NMR Spectroscopy, Academic Press, New York)
2 of 3
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Source of Sample
D. R. Paulson, F. Y. Tang, G. F. Moran J. Org. Chem. 40, 184(1975)
Copyright
Copyright © 1980, 1981-2024 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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4.1.3 17O NMR Spectra

1 of 2
Copyright
Copyright © 2016-2024 W. Robien, Inst. of Org. Chem., Univ. of Vienna. All Rights Reserved.
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2 of 2
Copyright
Copyright © 2016-2024 W. Robien, Inst. of Org. Chem., Univ. of Vienna. All Rights Reserved.
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4.2 Mass Spectrometry

4.2.1 GC-MS

1 of 6
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MoNA ID
MS Category
Experimental
MS Type
GC-MS
MS Level
MS1
Instrument
HITACHI RMU-5B
Instrument Type
EI-B
Ionization Mode
positive
Top 5 Peaks

29 99.99

44 61.78

15 54.18

14 21.78

43 15.66

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License
CC BY-NC-SA
2 of 6
View All
NIST Number
18867
Library
Main library
Total Peaks
24
m/z Top Peak
29
m/z 2nd Highest
15
m/z 3rd Highest
44
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4.2.2 Other MS

1 of 2
Other MS
MASS: 61296 (NIST/EPA/MSDC Mass Spectral Database, 1990 version)
2 of 2
Authors
MASS SPECTROSCOPY SOC. OF JAPAN (MSSJ)
Instrument
HITACHI RMU-5B
Instrument Type
EI-B
MS Level
MS
Ionization Mode
POSITIVE
Ionization
ENERGY 80 eV
Top 5 Peaks

29 999

44 618

15 542

14 218

43 157

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License
CC BY-NC-SA

4.3 UV Spectra

MAX ABSORPTION (GAS): 169 NM (LOG E= 3.58); 171 NM (LOG E= 3.57)
Weast, R.C. (ed.). Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. 60th ed. Boca Raton, Florida: CRC Press Inc., 1979., p. C-293
UV: HBCP 171
Lide, D.R., G.W.A. Milne (eds.). Handbook of Data on Organic Compounds. Volume I. 3rd ed. CRC Press, Inc. Boca Raton ,FL. 1994., p. V4: 3793

4.4 IR Spectra

IR Spectra
IR: 1109 (Sadtler Research Laboratories Prism Collection)

4.4.1 Vapor Phase IR Spectra

1 of 2
Instrument Name
DIGILAB FTS-14
Technique
Vapor Phase
Copyright
Copyright © 1980, 1981-2024 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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2 of 2
Technique
Vapor Phase
Source of Spectrum
Sigma-Aldrich Co. LLC.
Source of Sample
Aldrich
Catalog Number
387614
Copyright
Copyright © 2018-2024 Sigma-Aldrich Co. LLC. - Database Compilation Copyright © 2018-2024 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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4.5 Raman Spectra

Raman Spectra
Raman: 191 (American Petroleum Insitute spectral collection)

4.6 Other Spectra

LIQ IS LIGHTER THAN WATER, VAPOR IS HEAVIER THAN AIR
Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 12 ed. Quincy, MA: National Fire Protection Association, 1997., p. 49-68

6 Chemical Vendors

7 Drug and Medication Information

7.1 Clinical Trials

7.1.1 ClinicalTrials.gov

7.2 Reported Fatal Dose

LD50 values are 72 mg/kg (rat, oral) and 187 mg/kg (rat, subcutaneous injection)

8 Food Additives and Ingredients

8.1 Food Additive Classes

JECFA Functional Classes
Food Additives -> PRESERVATIVE;

8.2 FDA Substances Added to Food

Used for (Technical Effect)
ANTIMICROBIAL AGENT, FUMIGANT
GRAS Number
3, 27

8.3 Evaluations of the Joint FAO / WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives - JECFA

Chemical Name
ETHYLENE OXIDE
Evaluation Year
1958

9 Agrochemical Information

9.1 Agrochemical Category

Pesticide active substances

9.2 EU Pesticides Data

Active Substance
ethylene oxide
Status
Not approved [Reg. (EC) No 1107/2009]

10 Pharmacology and Biochemistry

10.1 MeSH Pharmacological Classification

Disinfectants
Substances used on inanimate objects that destroy harmful microorganisms or inhibit their activity. Disinfectants are classed as complete, destroying SPORES as well as vegetative forms of microorganisms, or incomplete, destroying only vegetative forms of the organisms. They are distinguished from ANTISEPTICS, which are local anti-infective agents used on humans and other animals. (From Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary, 11th ed) (See all compounds classified as Disinfectants.)

10.2 Absorption, Distribution and Excretion

The study reported here examined the dosimetry of ethylene oxide (EO) in male B6C3F1 mice by direct determination of blood EO concentrations. Steady-state blood EO concentrations were measured during a single 4-hr nose-only inhalation exposure (0, 50, 100, 200, 300, or 400 ppm EO). In addition, glutathione (GSH) concentrations were measured in liver, lung, kidney, and testis to assess the role of the GSH depletion in the saturable metabolism previously observed in mice. Blood EO concentrations were found to increase linearly with exposure concentration up to 200 ppm. Markedly sublinear blood dosimetry was observed at exposure concentrations exceeding 200 ppm. An EO exposure concentration-dependent reduction in tissue GSH levels was observed, with both liver and lung GSH levels significantly depressed at EO exposure concentrations of 100 ppm or greater. /The/ results also indicate that depletion of GSH is likely responsible for nonlinear dosimetry of EO in mice and that GSH depletion corresponds with reports of dose-rate effects in mice exposed to EO.
Brown CD et al; Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 148 (2): 215-21 (1998)
... The objectives of this study were to examine the relationship between cigarette smoking and hemoglobin adducts derived from ... EO and to investigate whether null genotypes for glutathione transferase (GSTM1 and GSTT1) alter the internal dose of these agents. The hemoglobin adduct ... N-(2-hydroxyethyl)valine (HEVal), which is formed from EO, and GST genotypes were determined in blood samples obtained from 16 nonsmokers and 32 smokers (one to two packs/day). Smoking information was obtained by questionnaire, and plasma cotinine levels were determined by immunoassay. Glutathione transferase null genotypes (GSTM1 and GSTT1) were determined by PCR. ... HEVal levels increased with increased cigarette smoking dose (both self-reported and cotinine-based). ... HEVal levels were also correlated. ... GSTM1 null genotypes had no significant impact on HEVal. However, HEVal levels were significantly elevated in GSTT1-null individuals when normalized to smoking status or cotinine levels. ... The lack of a functional GSTT1 is estimated to increase the internal dose of EO derived from cigarette smoke by 50-70%.
Fennell TR et al; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 9 (7): 705-12 (2000)
AFTER EXPOSURE OF MICE TO MIXT OF 1,2-(3)H-ETHYLENE OXIDE VAPOR IN AIR FOR 75 MIN, 90-95% OF RADIOACTIVITY WAS ELIMINATED IN 24 HR. HIGHEST CONCN OF RESIDUAL RADIOACTIVITY WERE FOUND IN PROTEIN FRACTIONS OF SPLEEN; SMALLER AMT OCCURRED IN LIVER, KIDNEY, LUNG & TESTIS.
IARC. Monographs on the Evaluation of the Carcinogenic Risk of Chemicals to Humans. Geneva: World Health Organization, International Agency for Research on Cancer, 1972-PRESENT. (Multivolume work). Available at: https://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Classification/index.php, p. V11 162 (1976)
Iv injection of (14)C-labeled ethylene oxide indicated that (14)C concn in the testicle, epididymis and other organs were higher than those in the blood when measured 20 min to 4 hr after exposure. Radioactivity was still present in the epididymis 24 hr after exposure had ended.
Appelgren LE et al; Europ Soc Toxicol 18: 315 (1977)
For more Absorption, Distribution and Excretion (Complete) data for ETHYLENE OXIDE (11 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

10.3 Metabolism / Metabolites

Ethylene oxide reacts with glutathione to form cysteine derivatives, forms ethylene glycol by epoxide hydrolase with subsequent metabolism of the glycol, and reacts with chloride to form 2-chloroethanol. The relative importance of these pathways is undefined. Ethylene glycol glutathione conjugates are metabolites of ethylene oxide. ...
Dart, R.C. (ed). Medical Toxicology. Third Edition, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. Philadelphia, PA. 2004., p. 1244
In adult male Sprague-Dawley rats, male Swiss CD-1 mice, and male rabbits, 20 or 60 mg/kg ethylene oxide as a solution in distilled water was injected into the caudal vein in rats and mice or in the marginal vein in rabbits. Some animals were exposed to 200 ppm ethylene oxide in inhalation chambers. The animals were housed in metabolism cages, and urine samples were collected at 0-6 hr and 6-24 hr. The urine samples were analyzed for 2-hydroxyethylmercapturic acid, N-acetyl-S-carboxy-methyl-L cysteine, S-(2-hydroxyethyl)-L-cysteine, S-carboxymethyl-L-cysteine, and ethylene glycol. Species-related differences in the metabolic disposition of ethylene oxide were observed. Excretion product patterns did not differ significantly between injected doses. Rats (n= 5) eliminated 37% of ethylene oxide as 2-hydroxyethylmercapturic acid (31%) and ethylene glycol (6%); mice (n= 10) converted 19.3% of the ethylene oxide to 2-hydroxyethylmercapturic acid (8.3%), S-2-hydroxyethyl-L-cysteine (5.8%), S-carboxymethyl-L-cysteine (1.9%), and ethylene glycol (3.3%). The rabbits (n= 3) excreted only 2% of the ethylene oxide, primarily as ethylene glycol. In rats, larger amounts of 2-hydroxyethylmercapturic acid were excreted in the 6-24 hr period, and larger amounts of ethylene glycol were excreted in the 0-6 hr period. In mice, equal amounts of 3-hydroxyethylmercapturic acid were excreted in the two collection periods and larger amounts of ethylene glycol were excreted in the 6-24 hr period. No urine was voided by the rabbits in the 0-6 hr period. No qualitative differences in urinary metabolite excretion of ethylene oxide were observed relative to the method of exposure.
Tardif R et al; Fundam Appl Toxicol 9 (3): 448-53 (1987)
In the presence of water and chloride, ethylene oxide is hydrolyzed to 2-chloroethanol and ethylene glycol. The glycol is further metabolized to oxalate, formic acid and CO2.
European Chemicals Bureau; IUCLID Dataset, Ethylene Oxide (CAS # 75-21-8) p. 155 (2000 CD-ROM edition). Available from, as of July 9, 2008: https://esis.jrc.ec.europa.eu/
Within 24 hours following iv treatment 35% of the administered doses ranging from 1 to 10 mg/kg to the rat were excreted as 2-hydroxyethyl-mercapturic acid (2-HEMA) in the urine. After inhalation exposure to different ethylene oxide concentrations, the 2-HEMA levels determined in 24 hr-urine were linearly related to ethylene oxide exposure levels.
European Chemicals Bureau; IUCLID Dataset, Ethylene Oxide (CAS # 75-21-8) p. 155 (2000 CD-ROM edition). Available from, as of July 9, 2008: https://esis.jrc.ec.europa.eu/
In animals and humans, there are two routes of ethylene oxide catabolism, both of which are considered to be detoxification pathways. The first involves hydrolysis to ethylene glycol, with subsequent conversion to oxalic acid, formic acid, and carbon dioxide. The second involves conjugation with glutathione, with subsequent metabolic steps yielding S-(2-hydroxyethyl)cysteine (S-(2-carboxymethyl)cysteine) and N-acetylated derivatives (ie, N-acetyl-S-(2-hydroxyethyl)cysteine (and N-acetyl-S-(2-carboxymethyl)cysteine)) ... . The route involving conjugation with glutathione appears to predominate in rats and mice; in larger species (rabbits, dogs), the conversion of ethylene oxide is primarily via hydrolysis through ethylene glycol ... . Ethylene oxide may also be formed from the metabolism of ethylene ... . A physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model for the dosimetry of inhaled ethylene oxide was first developed for rats and included binding of ethylene oxide to hemoglobin and DNA in addition to tissue distribution, metabolic pathways (ie, hydrolysis by epoxide hydrolase and conjugation by glutathione-S-transferase), and depletion of hepatic and extra-hepatic glutathione ... . The model was then refined and extended to mice and humans ... . Simulations indicate that in mice, rats, and humans, about 80%, 60%, and 20%, respectively, would be metabolized via glutathione conjugation ... . This is consistent with observed levels of theta-class glutathione S-transferase (GSTT1) enzyme activity in the order mice > rats > humans. In rats and mice, GSTT1 activity was highest in the liver, followed by the kidney and testes. Rat brain and rat and mouse lung contained small amounts of activity compared with other tissues (enzyme activity in mouse brain was not examined). Ethylene oxide is a substrate for the human GSTT1 enzyme ... .
International Programme on Chemical Safety; Concise International Chemical Assessment Document Number 54: ETHYLENE OXIDE (2003). Available from, as of July 22, 2008: https://www.inchem.org/pages/cicads.html
The metabolism of ethylene oxide is not completely known. Data from animal studies indicate two possible pathways for the metabolism of ethylene oxide: hydrolysis to ethylene glycol and glutathione conjugation to form mercapturic acid and meththio-metabolites.

10.4 Biological Half-Life

No reports found; [TDR, p. 694]
TDR - Ryan RP, Terry CE, Leffingwell SS (eds). Toxicology Desk Reference: The Toxic Exposure and Medical Monitoring Index, 5th Ed. Washington DC: Taylor & Francis, 1999., p. 694
Labeled ethylene oxide is primarily excreted in urine and a half-life of approximately 10 min was estimated for the first-order clearance of ethylene oxide in rodents.
USEPA/OPPTS; Revised Ethylene Oxide HED Risk Assessment for Reregistration Eligibility Document (RED) p.9 EPA-HQ-OPP-2005-0203-0100 (May 2007). Available from, as of July 21, 2008: https://www.regulations.gov/search/Regs/home.html#home
The elimination half life is estimated at 40 to 55 minutes in humans.
Dart, R.C. (ed). Medical Toxicology. Third Edition, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. Philadelphia, PA. 2004., p. 1244

10.5 Mechanism of Action

Ethylene oxide is an electrophilic agent that alkylates nucleophilic groups in biological macromolecules .... Since ethylene oxide is formed during the metabolism of ethylene, a natural body constituent, endogenous as well as exogenous sources of ethylene and ethylene oxide contribute to background alkylation of proteins such as hemoglobin and albumin, as well as DNA ... . N-(2-Hydroxyethyl)valine (HEVal) and hydroxyethylhistidine (HEHis) adducts have been frequently monitored in tissues of workers exposed to ethylene oxide in occupational settings ... . Background levels of HEVal in non-smokers ranged from 9 to 188 pmol/g globin ... Studies of smokers exposed to ethylene oxide in cigarette smoke ... and occupationally exposed workers ... have revealed higher levels of hemoglobin HEVal adducts among individuals with a GSTT1 null genotype (ie, homozygous deletion of GSTT1 gene) than among those with a GSTT1 positive genotype (ie, having at least one copy of the GSTT1 gene). ...
International Programme on Chemical Safety; Concise International Chemical Assessment Document Number 54: ETHYLENE OXIDE (2003). Available from, as of July 22, 2008: https://www.inchem.org/pages/cicads.html
Ethylene oxide binding to DNA results primarily in the formation of 7-(2-hydroxyethyl)guanine (7-HEGua) ... . In DNA extracted from the lymphocytes of unexposed individuals, mean background levels of 7-HEGua ranged from 2 to 8.5 pmol/mg DNA ... Human tissue contains 10- to 15-fold higher levels of endogenous 7-HEGua than rodent tissue. ... In mice, half-lives for the removal of 7-HEGua in DNA from a variety of tissues (brain, lung, spleen, liver, and testes) were 1.5- to 3.9-fold lower than in rats ... . In both rats and mice, substantive depletion of glutathione pools has been observed following single exposure to high levels (ie, > 550 mg/cu m) of ethylene oxide ... although it should be noted that increases in tumour incidence have been observed at lower concentrations. ...
International Programme on Chemical Safety; Concise International Chemical Assessment Document Number 54: ETHYLENE OXIDE (2003). Available from, as of July 22, 2008: https://www.inchem.org/pages/cicads.html
The /physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK)/ models for rats, mice, and humans are qualitatively similar in their elements and provide for interspecies comparisons of internal ethylene oxide dose. The models are consistent with the conclusion that ethylene oxide is acting as a direct-acting alkylating agent in humans and rodents. Quantitative differences in response in biomarkers of exposure and effect are accounted for by differences in basic physiology between rodents and humans, rather than by factors suggesting a different mode of action.
International Programme on Chemical Safety; Concise International Chemical Assessment Document Number 54: ETHYLENE OXIDE (2003). Available from, as of July 22, 2008: https://www.inchem.org/pages/cicads.html
Evidence for a common mechanism of carcinogenesis in humans and experimental animals comes from studies that have demonstrated similar genetic damage in cells of exposed animals and workers. The DNA damaging activity of ethylene oxide provides its effectiveness as a sterilant, and it is this same property that accounts for its carcinogenic risk to humans.
DHHS/NTP; SUBSTANCE PROFILES REPORT ON CARCINOGENS, ELEVENTH EDITION: Ethylene Oxide CAS No. 75-21-8 p.1. Available from, as of July 23, 2008: https://ntp.niehs.nih.gov/

10.6 Biochemical Reactions

10.7 Transformations

11 Use and Manufacturing

11.1 Uses

Ethylene oxide is used mainly as a chemical intermediate in the manufacture of ethylene glycol (antifreeze), textiles, detergents, polyurethane foam, solvents, medicine, adhesives, and other products.

Relatively small amounts of ethylene oxide are used as a fumigant, as a sterilant for food (spices) and cosmetics, and in hospital sterilization of surgical equipment and plastic devices that cannot be sterilized by steam.

EPA CPDat Chemical and Product Categories
The Chemical and Products Database, a resource for exposure-relevant data on chemicals in consumer products, Scientific Data, volume 5, Article number: 180125 (2018), DOI:10.1038/sdata.2018.125
Sources/Uses
Ethylene oxide sterilizers are used by medical and dental staff to sterilize heat-sensitive instruments. [p. 736, Harber] Occupational asthma from ethylene oxide has been reported in a nurse. [Malo]
Industrial Processes with risk of exposure
Sterilizing Equipment [Category: Clean]
/In the/ manufacture of ethylene glycol and higher glycols, surfactants, acrylonitrile, ethanolamines; petroleum demulsifier; fumigant; rocket propellant; industrial sterilant (e.g., medical plastic tubing); fungicide.
Lewis, R.J. Sr.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 15th Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. New York, NY 2007., p. 531
For Ethylene oxide (USEPA/OPP Pesticide Code: 042301) ACTIVE products with label matches. /SRP: Registered for use in the U.S. but approved pesticide uses may change periodically and so federal, state and local authorities must be consulted for currently approved uses./
National Pesticide Information Retrieval System's USEPA/OPP Chemical Ingredients Database on Ethylene Oxide (75-21-8). Available from, as of July 1, 2008: https://npirspublic.ceris.purdue.edu/ppis/
ETO is an antimicrobial and conventional chemical. It is a biocide, Pesticide: fungicide, fumigant, herbicide, insecticide, rodenticide used to control the following pests: American foulbrood disease (Bacillus larvae), animal pathogenic bacteria, animal pathogenic fungi, bacteria, bacterial spores, Candida albicans, European foulbrood disease (Streptoccus pluton), Herpes simplex virus, Hew (FDA/BVM), unspecified microorganisms, Mycobacterium spp., Nosema apis, Pseudomonas spp., Rhinoviruses, storage microorganisms, stored product insects, wax moth. ... ETO is used to sterilize medical or laboratory equipment, pharmaceuticals, and aseptic packaging ... or to reduce microbial load on musical instruments, cosmetics, whole and ground spices or other seasoning materials ... and artifacts, archival material or library objects. In North Carolina, ETO is also used to fumigate beehive equipment (eg, woodenware boxes and frames) and wax or plastic combs that are contaminated with the bacteria Paenibacillus larvae, the cause of American Foulbrood Disease.
USEPA/Office of Pesticide Programs; Reregistration Eligibility Decision Document - Ethylene Oxide p.14 EPA 738-R-08-003 (March 2008). Available from, as of July 21, 2008: https://www.epa.gov/pesticides/reregistration/status.htm
ETO is used to sterilize new and reusable medical equipment (eg, surgical instruments, hypodermic needles/syringes, surgical prosthetic parts, hemodialysis machines, heart and lung machines, dental instruments, veterinary instruments, heat labile material, moisture labile material, oral and inhalation equipment, diagnostic instruments, thermometers, surgical dressings, first aid equipment). Approximately 7.4 million pounds are used annually for sterilization of medical and laboratory items/equipment. ... Despite the fact that there are several methods that are available to sterilize medical devices, no currently available sterilization treatment can replace ETO for some uses, including certain heat-sensitive and irradiation-sensitive materials and some instruments and devices that require sterilization on-site in hospitals.
USEPA/Office of Pesticide Programs; Reregistration Eligibility Decision Document - Ethylene Oxide p.26 EPA 738-R-08-003 (March 2008). Available from, as of July 21, 2008: https://www.epa.gov/pesticides/reregistration/status.htm
For more Uses (Complete) data for ETHYLENE OXIDE (20 total), please visit the HSDB record page.
Ethylene oxide is an industrial chemical that is important or critical to the production of detergents, thickeners, solvents, plastics, and various organic chemicals such as ethylene glycol, ethanolamines, simple and complex glycols, polyglycol ethers and other compounds. It is also used as a sterilizing agent, a fumigant, a fungicide and as an insecticide. Ethylene oxide ranks 26th in volume among the major industrial chemicals produced in the United States. About 65% of ethylene oxide is used for synthesis of ethylene glycol, an antifreeze product.

11.1.1 Use Classification

Hazardous Air Pollutants (HAPs)
Food Additives -> PRESERVATIVE; -> JECFA Functional Classes
Hazard Classes and Categories -> Carcinogens, Mutagens, Teratogens, Flammable - 4th degree, Reactive - 3rd degree

11.1.2 Industry Uses

  • Monomers
  • Surface active agents
  • Processing aids not otherwise specified
  • Finishing agents
  • Functional fluids (closed systems)
  • Intermediate
  • Intermediates

11.1.3 Consumer Uses

  • Intermediates
  • Intermediate
  • Functional fluids (closed systems)
  • Surface active agents
  • Finishing agents
  • Processing aids not otherwise specified

11.1.4 Household Products

California Safe Cosmetics Program (CSCP)

Cosmetics product ingredient: Ethylene oxide (Oxirane)

Also known as: oxirane; dihydrooxirene; dimethylene oxide; epoxyethane; oxane

Source: Ethylene oxide is a highly reactive gas with a slightly sweet odor. Ethylene oxide is used primarily in the synthesis of other chemicals for use in perfumes and other cosmetics. It is also used in small amounts to sterilize food and cosmetics.

Potential health impacts: People are mainly exposed to ethylene oxide from inhaling ethylene oxide vapors. Studies of female rats given ethylene oxide orally found higher rates of stomach cancer. Studies of mice exposed to ethylene oxide by inhalation showed an increase in lung, uterine, and breast tumors. Many large occupational studies show that workers exposed to ethylene oxide have higher rates of breast, lymphatic, and hematopoietic (blood) cancers. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) categorizes ethylene oxide as a human carcinogen. California Proposition 65 lists ethylene oxide as both a carcinogen and a developmental toxin.

Product count: 97

Household & Commercial/Institutional Products

Information on 66 consumer products that contain Ethylene oxide in the following categories is provided:

• Auto Products

• Commercial / Institutional

• Home Maintenance

• Inside the Home

• Personal Care

• Pet Care

11.2 Methods of Manufacturing

(1) Oxidation of ethylene in air or oxygen with silver catalyst; (2) action of an alkali on ethylene chlorohydrin.
Lewis, R.J. Sr.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 15th Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. New York, NY 2007., p. 531
Prepared from ethylene chlorohydrin and potassium hydroxide ... manufactured by catalytic oxidation of ethylene.
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2006., p. 651
Direct oxidation ... utilizes the catalytic oxidation of ethylene with oxygen over a silver-based catalyst ... .
Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology. 4th ed. Volumes 1: New York, NY. John Wiley and Sons, 1991-Present., p. V9 924
The process involves the reaction of ethylene with hypochlorous acid followed by dehydrochlorination of the resulting chlorohydrin with lime .... . /Chlorohydrin process/
Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology. 4th ed. Volumes 1: New York, NY. John Wiley and Sons, 1991-Present., p. V9 923
Ethylene oxide was first produced in the United States in 1921. Until 1937, ethylene oxide was produced by the chlorohydrin process, in which ethylene was treated with hypochlorous acid to produce ethylene chlorohydrin. Calcium hydroxide or sodium hydroxide was used to convert ethylene chlorohydrin to ethylene oxide. Currently in the United States, essentially all production of ethylene oxide uses the direct vapor phase oxidation process. This process oxidizes ethylene with air or oxygen in the presence of a silver catalyst to produce ethylene oxide.
DHHS/NTP; SUBSTANCE PROFILES REPORT ON CARCINOGENS, ELEVENTH EDITION: Ethylene Oxide CAS No. 75-21-8 p.2. Available from, as of July 23, 2008: https://ntp.niehs.nih.gov/

11.3 Impurities

Ethylene oxide is available commercially in the United States as a high-purity chemical that contains a maximum of 0.03% water, 0.003% aldehydes as acetaldehyde, and 0.002% acidity as acetic acid.
DHHS/NTP; SUBSTANCE PROFILES REPORT ON CARCINOGENS, ELEVENTH EDITION: Ethylene Oxide CAS No. 75-21-8 p.1. Available from, as of July 23, 2008: https://ntp.niehs.nih.gov/

11.4 Formulations / Preparations

ETO is formulated and marketed as a gas or a pressurized liquid. The end use formulations are all gas mixtures of ETO and inert gases (eg, carbon dioxide) in varying concentrations.
USEPA/Office of Pesticide Programs; Reregistration Eligibility Decision Document - Ethylene Oxide p.14 EPA 738-R-08-003 (March 2008). Available from, as of July 21, 2008: https://www.epa.gov/pesticides/reregistration/status.htm
/ETHYLENE OXIDE/ IS MIXED WITH EITHER CARBON DIOXIDE OR FLUOROCARBON 12 ... TO ELIMINATE FLAMMABILITY ... . CARBOXIDE IS NONFLAMMABLE MIXTURE OF 10% BY WT ETHYLENE OXIDE IN CARBON DIOXIDE ... STERILANT 12 IS NONFLAMMABLE MIXT OF 12% BY WT ... IN FLUOROCARBON 12 ... .
Farm Chemicals Handbook 1981. Willoughby, Ohio: Meister, 1981., p. C-141
Grades or purity: commercial: 100% must contain no acetylene.
U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Transportation. CHRIS - Hazardous Chemical Data. Volume II. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office, 1984-5.
GRADES: TECHNICAL; PURE (99.7%).
Sax, N.I. and R.J. Lewis, Sr. (eds.). Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary. 11th ed. New York: Van Nostrand Reinhold Co., 1987., p. 490
For more Formulations/Preparations (Complete) data for ETHYLENE OXIDE (35 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

11.5 Consumption Patterns

CHEM INT FOR ETHYLENE GLYCOL, 60.5%; CHEM INT FOR NONIONIC SURFACTANTS (ACYCLIC), 7.1%; CHEM INT FOR NONIONIC SURFACTANTS (CYCLIC), 4.6%; CHEM INT FOR GLYCOL ETHERS, 7.2%; CHEM INT FOR ETHANOLAMINES, 7.1%; CHEM INT FOR DIETHYLENE GLYCOL, 5.1%; CHEM INT FOR TRIETHYLENE GLYCOL, 2.1%; CHEM INT FOR POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL, 1.6%; OTHER, 4.7% (1981)
SRI
Monoethylene glycol, 59%; higher glycols, 15%; ethoxylates, 10%; ethanolamines, 6%; glycol ethers, 5%; miscellaneous, 5% (1984)
CHEMICAL PRODUCTS SYNOPSIS: Ethylene Oxide, 1985

CHEMICAL PROFILE: Ethylene oxide. End-use Pattern for Ethylene Oxide in 1987

Table: End-use Pattern for Ethylene Oxide in 1987

End-use
Ethylene glycol
Percent
59
End-use
Nonionic surfactants
Percent
14
End-use
Ethanolamines
Percent
8
End-use
Glycol ethers
Percent
6
End-use
Diethylene glycol
Percent
6
End-use
Triethylene glycol
Percent
2
End-use
Miscellaneous, including polyethylene glycol, urethane polyols and exports
Percent
5

Anonymous; Chemical Marketing Reporter, 231 (10): 54 (1987); 9 March 1987
CHEMICAL PROFILE: Ethylene oxide. US Demand: 1986: 5.7 billion pounds; 1987: 5.8 billion pounds; 1991: 6.4 billion pounds /projected/
Anonymous; Chemical Marketing Reporter, 231 (10): 54 (1987); 9 March 1987
For more Consumption Patterns (Complete) data for ETHYLENE OXIDE (18 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

11.6 U.S. Production

Aggregated Product Volume

2019: 5,000,000,000 - <10,000,000,000 lb

2018: 5,000,000,000 - <10,000,000,000 lb

2017: 5,000,000,000 - <10,000,000,000 lb

2016: 5,000,000,000 - <10,000,000,000 lb

(1977) 2.03X10+12 G
SRI
(1982) 2.26X10+12 G
SRI
(1986) 2.49X10+12 g /Estimated/
CHEMICAL PRODUCTS SYNOPSIS: Ethylene Oxide, 1985
(1985) 2.58X10+12 g
Chem Eng News 64 (40): 13 (1986)
For more U.S. Production (Complete) data for ETHYLENE OXIDE (20 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

11.7 U.S. Imports

(1977) 1.15X10+10 G
SRI
(1982) 4.30X10+9 G
SRI
(1985) 1.03X10+10 g
BUREAU OF THE CENSUS. U.S. IMPORTS FOR CONSUMPTION AND GENERAL IMPORTS 1985 p. 1-583
CHEMICAL PROFILE: Ethylene Oxide. US Imports: 1994: 32 million pounds
Anonymous; Chemical Marketing Reporter, 249 (10): 37 (1996); 4 March 1996
For more U.S. Imports (Complete) data for ETHYLENE OXIDE (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

11.8 U.S. Exports

(1978) 3.46X10+10 G
SRI
(1983) 6.27X10+9 G
SRI
(1985) 2.82X10+10 g
BUREAU OF THE CENSUS. U.S. EXPORTS, SCHEDULE E, 1985 p.2-76
CHEMICAL PROFILE: Ethylene Oxide. US Exports: 1994: 27 million pounds
Anonymous; Chemical Marketing Reporter, 249 (10): 37 (1996); 4 March 1996
For more U.S. Exports (Complete) data for ETHYLENE OXIDE (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

11.9 General Manufacturing Information

Industry Processing Sectors
  • Soap, Cleaning Compound, and Toilet Preparation Manufacturing
  • Petrochemical Manufacturing
  • All Other Chemical Product and Preparation Manufacturing
  • Oil and Gas Drilling, Extraction, and Support activities
  • Construction
  • Paper Manufacturing
  • Pesticide, Fertilizer, and Other Agricultural Chemical Manufacturing
  • All Other Basic Organic Chemical Manufacturing
  • Wholesale and Retail Trade
  • Miscellaneous Manufacturing
  • Asphalt Paving, Roofing, and Coating Materials Manufacturing
EPA TSCA Commercial Activity Status
Oxirane: ACTIVE
The WHO Recommended Classification of Pesticides by Hazard /does not classify gaseous or volatile fumigants, including Ethylene oxide/. According to the PIC /Prior Informed Consent/ Convention, export of /Ethylene oxide/ can only take place with the prior informed consent of the importing Party. ...
WHO (2005) The WHO Recommended Classification of Pesticides by Hazard and Guidelines to Classification 2004, International Programme on Chemical Safety, p.39 (further information can be found at: https://www.pic.int/).
A variety of new process concepts for ethylene oxide-ethylene glycol are being developed based on such raw materials as synthesis gas and ethanol.
CHEMICAL PRODUCTS SYNOPSIS: Ethylene Oxide, 1985
The compatibility of polycarbonate with ethylene oxide was studied. The polycarbonate devices can be safely exposed to 3 ethylene oxide cycles. Polycarbonates are compatible with ethanol at 73-158 °F.
Miller-Mizia R; Med Device Diagn 8 (11): 36-7 (1986)
The chlorohydrin process is not economically competitive, and was quickly replaced by the direct oxidation process as the dominant technology. At the present time, all ethylene oxide production in the world is achieved by the direct oxidation process.
Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology. 4th ed. Volumes 1: New York, NY. John Wiley and Sons, 1991-Present., p. V9 923

11.10 Sampling Procedures

NIOSH Method 3702. Analyte: Ethylene oxide. Sampler: Ambient air or bag sample. Flow Rate: Greater or equal to 0.07 l/min; spot samples possible. Shipment: Calibration and carrier gas shipment must comply with hazardous materials shipment regulations. Sample Stability: Bag samples stable 24 hrs @ 25 °C.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service. Centers for Disease Control, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. NIOSH Manual of Analytical Methods, 3rd ed. Volumes 1 and 2 with 1985 supplement, and revisions. Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, February 1984., p. 3702-1
NIOSH Method 1614. Analyte: Ethylene oxide. Matrix: Air. Sampler: Solid sorbent tube (hydrogen bromide-coated petroleum charcoal, 100 mg/50 mg) Flow Rate: 0.05 to 0.15 l/min: Sample Size: 24 liters. Shipment: Routine. Sample Stability: 90% recovery after 17 days @ 25 °C in the dark.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service. Centers for Disease Control, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. NIOSH Manual of Analytical Methods, 3rd ed. Volumes 1 and 2 with 1985 supplement, and revisions. Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, February 1984., p. 1614-1
Analyte: Ethylene oxide. Procedure: Trapping on solid adsorber. Sample flow: 0.05 to 1.15 l/min. Sample Size: 11 (at 5 ppm) to 24 liters.
Royal Society of Chemistry. Measurement Techniques for Carcinogenic Agents in Workplace Air. Publ. No. EUR 11897, Commission of the European Communities/Scientific and Technical Communication Unit, Luxembourg. Great Britian: St. Edmundsbury Press Ltd, 1989., p. 21
The method uses a hydrobromic acid-coated charcoal tube to collect ethylene oxide as its 2-bromoethanol reaction product. Similar high recoveries were obtained for 4 hr samples collected at a sampling rate of 0.1 l/min from test atmospheres in the concentration range of 0.1 to 16 ppm ethylene oxide at high humidity (80%) and ambient temperature (22 deg to 25 °C). Samples collected under these same conditions and stored for a minimum of 2 weeks resulted in average recoveries that ranged from 84% to 101%. Average recoveries of 97% were obtained for 2 ppm air samples collected at low humidity with no storage; however, storage of these samples at 22 °C to 25 °C resulted in an approximated loss of 5% per week.
Cummins KJ et al: Am Ind Hyg Assoc J 48 (6): 563-73 (1987)

12 Identification

12.1 Analytic Laboratory Methods

NIOSH Method 3702. Analyte: Ethylene oxide. Procedure: Gas chromatography (portable) with photoionization detector. For ethylene oxide this method has an estimated detection limit of 2.5 pg/injection @ .001 ppm/ml injection. The precision/RSD is less than 0.07 @ 0.05 to 0.02 ppm. Applicability: The working range is 0.001 to 1000 ppm in relatively non-complex atmospheres (eg, sterilization facilities). Interferences: Freon 12, carbon dioxide and alcohols do not interfere.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service. Centers for Disease Control, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. NIOSH Manual of Analytical Methods, 3rd ed. Volumes 1 and 2 with 1985 supplement, and revisions. Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, February 1984., p. 3702-1
NIOSH Method 1614. Analyte: Ethylene oxide. Matrix: Air. Procedure: Gas chromatography electron capture detector. For ethylene oxide this method has an estimated detection limit of 1 ug ethanol/sample. The precision/RSD is 0.028 @ 18 to 71 ug ethanol/sample. Applicability: The working range is 0.05 to 4.6 ppm (0.08 to 8.3 mg/cu m) for a 24 liter air sample. Interferences: 2-Bromoethanol, if present in the sample, interferes.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service. Centers for Disease Control, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. NIOSH Manual of Analytical Methods, 3rd ed. Volumes 1 and 2 with 1985 supplement, and revisions. Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, February 1984., p. 1614-1
Analyte: Ethylene oxide. Procedure: Gas chromatography/Electron capture detector. Carrier gas flow: 25 ml/min. Sample size: 1 ml. The working range is 0.04 to 0.98 ppm (24 liter sample). Overall precision: 0.13 and detection limit of 1 ug/sample. Interference: 2-Bromoethanol.
Royal Society of Chemistry. Measurement Techniques for Carcinogenic Agents in Workplace Air. Publ. No. EUR 11897, Commission of the European Communities/Scientific and Technical Communication Unit, Luxembourg. Great Britian: St. Edmundsbury Press Ltd, 1989., p. 21
Ethylene oxide can be determined by spectrophotometry and by colorimetry or volumetrically. Gas chromatography of air samples and residues from fumigated materials has been used for foodstuffs, pharmaceuticals and surgical equipment. It can also be found in cigarette smoke by gas chromatography or mass spectrometry ... and also in mixtures of lower olefin oxides and aldehydes. Limits of detection by spectrophotometry and gas chromatography were generally of the order of 1 mg/kg.
IARC. Monographs on the Evaluation of the Carcinogenic Risk of Chemicals to Humans. Geneva: World Health Organization, International Agency for Research on Cancer, 1972-PRESENT. (Multivolume work). Available at: https://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Classification/index.php, p. V11 160 (1976)
For more Analytic Laboratory Methods (Complete) data for ETHYLENE OXIDE (12 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

12.2 Clinical Laboratory Methods

Medical devices that are sterilized with ethylene oxide (EtO) retain small quantities of EtO residuals, which ... The goal of this round-robin study is to investigate the capability of a novel solid-phase microextraction-gas chromatographic (SPME-GC) method for trace-level EtO residuals analysis: three independent laboratories conducted a guided experiment using this SPME-GC method, in assessing method performance, ruggedness and the feasibility of SPME fibers. These were satisfactory across the independent laboratories, at the 0.05-5.00 ppm EtO range. This method was then successfully applied to analyze EtO residuals in several sterilized/aerated medical devices of various polymeric composition, reliably detecting and quantifying the trace levels of EtO residuals present ( approximately 0.05 ppm EtO). SPME is a feasible alternative for quantifying trace-level EtO residuals in sterilized medical devices, thereby lowering the limit of quantification (LOQ) by as much as two to three orders of magnitude over the current GC methodology of direct liquid injection.
Harper T et al; Biomed Chromatogr 22 (2): 136-48 (2008)
A gas chromatography-electron impact ionization-mass spectrometric (GC-EI-MS) assay was developed for the determination of ethylene oxide-hemoglobin adduct (N-2-hydroxyethylvaline, HEVal). HEVal and deuterated HEVal (d(4)-HEVal) were synthesized for identification and quality control. Globin samples were separated from red blood cells (RBCs) by acidic isopropanol and extracted with ethyl acetate. HEVal adduct in globin was transformed to HEVal-pentafluorophenylthiohydantoin derivative by modified Edman-degradation method, which was extracted from globin with diethylether. d(4)-HEVal was used as an internal reference standard. The dried extract was derivatized with N-methyl-N-(tert-butyldimethylsilyl) trifluoroacetamide (MTBDMSTFA)-NH(4)I (1000:4, w/w) containing 0.4 mg of dithioerthritol. The TBDMS derivative of HEVal had very good chromatographic property and offered sensitive response of GC-EI-MS. The recovery of HEVal was about 81.6% and the coefficient of variation was 5.0% at the concentration of 311 pmol/g. Low limit of detection (LOD) of the assay was 1.8 pmol/g in 0.1g hemoglobin. The experiments have demonstrated to detect background level of HEVal adduct in human blood. HEVal adduct in globin was detected between 12 and 6573 pmol/g.
Ahn HS, Shin HS; J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci 843 (2): 202-8 (2006)
... Methods were developed using capillary gas chromatography. Gas chromatography with mass spectrometry for determining S-methylcysteine, N(r)(2-hydroxyethyl)histidine and N(r)(2-hydroxypropyl)histidine in hemoglobin, allowing the monitoring of in vivo exposure of laboratory animals and humans to methylating agents, ethylene oxide and propylene oxide, respectively. ... An alternative method of dose monitoring of some methylating agents by the measurement of the urinary N-7-methylated guanine derived from alkylated DNA break-down products was also investigated.
Bailey E et al; Arch Toxicol 60 (1-3): 187-91 (1987)

12.3 NIOSH Analytical Methods

13 Safety and Hazards

13.1 Hazards Identification

ERG Hazard Classes
Toxic/poison by inhalation (TIH/PIH)

13.1.1 GHS Classification

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Note
Pictograms displayed are for 99.1% (116 of 117) of reports that indicate hazard statements. This chemical does not meet GHS hazard criteria for 0.9% (1 of 117) of reports.
Pictogram(s)
Corrosive
Irritant
Environmental Hazard
Signal
Danger
GHS Hazard Statements

H315 (40.2%): Causes skin irritation [Warning Skin corrosion/irritation]

H317 (40.2%): May cause an allergic skin reaction [Warning Sensitization, Skin]

H318 (40.2%): Causes serious eye damage [Danger Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

H411 (59%): Toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

H412 (40.2%): Harmful to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

Precautionary Statement Codes

P261, P264, P264+P265, P272, P273, P280, P302+P352, P305+P354+P338, P317, P321, P332+P317, P333+P317, P362+P364, P391, and P501

(The corresponding statement to each P-code can be found at the GHS Classification page.)

ECHA C&L Notifications Summary

Aggregated GHS information provided per 117 reports by companies from 3 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.

Reported as not meeting GHS hazard criteria per 1 of 117 reports by companies. For more detailed information, please visit ECHA C&L website.

There are 2 notifications provided by 116 of 117 reports by companies with hazard statement code(s).

Information may vary between notifications depending on impurities, additives, and other factors. The percentage value in parenthesis indicates the notified classification ratio from companies that provide hazard codes. Only hazard codes with percentage values above 10% are shown.

13.1.2 Hazard Classes and Categories

Skin Irrit. 2 (40.2%)

Skin Sens. 1B (40.2%)

Eye Dam. 1 (40.2%)

Aquatic Chronic 2 (59%)

Aquatic Chronic 3 (40.2%)

Flam. Gas 1 (> 99.9%)

Flam. Gas 1, Chem. Unst. Gas A (17.7%)

Press. Gas (Liq.) (85.8%)

Acute Tox. 3 (19.8%)

Acute Tox. 4 (62.1%)

Skin Corr. 1 (19.5%)

Skin Irrit. 2 (80.5%)

Eye Dam. 1 (19.5%)

Eye Irrit. 2 (80.5%)

Acute Tox. 3 (99.3%)

STOT SE 3 (> 99.9%)

STOT SE 3 (19.7%)

Muta. 1B (> 99.9%)

Carc. 1B (> 99.9%)

Repr. 1B (18.9%)

STOT RE 1 (78.8%)

13.1.3 NFPA Hazard Classification

1 of 2
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NFPA 704 Diamond
3-4-3
NFPA Health Rating
3 - Materials that, under emergency conditions, can cause serious or permanent injury.
NFPA Fire Rating
4 - Materials that rapidly or completely vaporize at atmospheric pressure and normal ambient temperature or that are readily dispersed in air and burn readily.
NFPA Instability Rating
3 - Materials that in themselves are capable of detonation or explosive decomposition or explosive reaction but that require a strong initiating source or must be heated under confinement before initiation.

13.1.4 Highly Hazardous Substance

OSHA Highly Hazardous Chemicals, Toxics and Reactives
  • Chemical: Ethylene Oxide
  • Threshold: 5000 [lb]
  • Note: Ethylene Oxide in quantities at or above above 5000lb presents a potential for a catastrophic event as a toxic or reactive highly hazardous chemical.

13.1.5 Health Hazards

It can cause death. Lowest inhalation concentration causing toxic effects is 12500 ppm/10 seconds. It is a strong skin irritant. Neurological disorders and even death have been reported. (EPA, 1998)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 1998. Extremely Hazardous Substances (EHS) Chemical Profiles and Emergency First Aid Guides. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office.
ERG 2024, Guide 119P (Ethylene oxide)

· TOXIC; may be fatal if inhaled or absorbed through skin. Some may cause severe skin burns and eye damage.

· Contact with gas or liquefied gas may cause burns, severe injury and/or frostbite.

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

· Runoff from fire control or dilution water may cause environmental contamination.

13.1.6 Fire Hazards

Severe explosion hazard when exposed to heat or flame. Irritating vapors are generated when heated. Vapor is heavier than air and may travel considerable distance to a source of ignition and flash back. Vapor forms explosive mixtures with air over a wide range. Liquid is not detonable but the vapor may be readily initiated into explosive decomposition. Avoid metal fittings containing copper, silver, mercury or magnesium; ammonia, oxidizing agents; acids, organic bases; amines; certain salts; alcohols; mercaptans, ferric chloride; magnesium perchlorate; m-nitroaniline; trimethylamine, potassium, tin chlorides; alkanethiols; bromoethane; aluminum chloride; aluminum oxide; iron chlorides; and iron oxides. Avoid air, heat, acids and bases, metal or metal chloride catalysts. Hazardous polymerization may occur. Avoid acids; covalent halides such as chlorides of aluminum, iron (III), tin (IV); basic materials like alkali hydrides, ammonia, amines, and potassium; catalytically active solids such as aluminum or iron oxides or rust, chlorides of boron, aluminum, tin, and iron; some carbonates; and metals such as copper and copper alloys (EPA, 1998)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 1998. Extremely Hazardous Substances (EHS) Chemical Profiles and Emergency First Aid Guides. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office.
ERG 2024, Guide 119P (Ethylene oxide)

· Flammable; may be ignited by heat, sparks or flames.

· May form explosive mixtures with air. Ethylene oxide (UN1040) may react explosively even in the absence of air.

· Those substances designated with a (P) may polymerize explosively when heated or involved in a fire.

· Vapors from liquefied gas are initially heavier than air and spread along ground.

· Vapors may travel to source of ignition and flash back.

· Some of these materials may react violently with water.

· Cylinders exposed to fire may vent and release toxic and flammable gas through pressure relief devices.

· Containers may explode when heated.

· Ruptured cylinders may rocket.

· Runoff may create fire or explosion hazard.

Extremely flammable. Gas/air mixtures are explosive. Risk of fire and explosion as a result of decomposition when heated.

13.1.7 Hazards Summary

Ethylene oxide is a flammable gas with a somewhat sweet odor. It dissolves easily in water. Ethylene oxide is a man-made chemical that is used primarily to make ethylene glycol (a chemical used to make antifreeze and polyester). A small amount (less than 1%) is used to control insects in some stored agricultural products and a very small amount is used in hospitals to sterilize medical equipment and supplies.
The major use of ethylene oxide is as a chemical intermediate in the manufacture of ethylene glycol. Ethylene oxide is also used as a sterilizing agent for medical equipment and a fumigating agent for spices. The acute (short-term) effects of ethylene oxide in humans consist mainly of central nervous system depression and irritation of the eyes and mucous membranes. Chronic (long-term) exposure to ethylene oxide in humans can cause irritation of the eyes, skin, nose, throat, and lungs, and damage to the brain and nervous system. There also is some evidence linking ethylene oxide exposure to reproductive effects. EPA has concluded that ethylene oxide is carcinogenic to humans by the inhalation route of exposure. Evidence in humans indicates that exposure to ethylene oxide increases the risk of lymphoid cancer and, for females, breast cancer.
Acute inhalation injuries result from exposures between 200 and 400 ppm. At higher concentrations, ethylene oxide (EtO) may cause neurological dysfunction. Chronic effects of exposure include reproductive toxicity and peripheral neuropathy. [LaDou, p. 501] The most common skin effects are irritation and second degree burns, but allergic contact dermatitis has been reported. [Sullivan, p. 1135] Healthcare workers performing EtO sterilization may develop cataracts. Highest exposures occurred during unloading (especially when the sterilization cycle was interrupted) and during cylinder changing. [J Occup Environ Med 1999 Jun;41(6):492-9] There is limited positive data that EtO causes spontaneous abortions in humans and birth defects and testicular damage in experimental animals. [ATSDR Case Studies #29] [Ethylene oxide allergy in dialysis patients. Purello D'Ambrosio F, et al. Nephrol Dial Transplant. 1997 Jul;12(7):1461-3.] [Airborne occupational contact dermatitis from ethylene oxide. Romaguera C, et al. Contact Dermatitis. 1998 Aug;39(2):85.] Liquid causes second degree burns after contact for a few minutes. [CHRIS] Corrosive to skin; [Quick CPC] Germ cell mutagens that have shown to increase the mutant frequency in the progeny of exposed mammals. [MAK] Although the IARC Working Group concluded that the epidemiological evidence for carcinogenicity of EO was limited, EO was classified as a category 1 carcinogen because of its rodent carcinogenicity, alkylating properties and ability to cause chromosomal aberrations. However, the substantial epidemiological evidence regarding carcinogenic effects of EO to date does not show any consistent carcinogenic effects in humans and clearly these alkylating properties have not led to any consistent cancer excess in exposed populations. [PMID 19430313] There were reports from Sweden among producers and some users of ethylene oxide that hinted at excess risks of leukemia. But larger American studies have subsequently shown no such risk. [Boffetta, p. 3] Ethylene oxide (UN1040) has warning of explosive polymerization; [ERG 2016]
LaDou - LaDou J, Harrison R (eds). Current Occupational & Environmental Medicine, 5th Ed. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2014., p. 501
Sullivan - Sullivan JB, Krieger GR (eds). Clinical Environmental Health and Toxic Exposures. Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2001., p. 1135
Quick CPC - Forsberg K, Mansdorf SZ. Quick Selection Guide to Chemical Protective Clothing, 5th Ed. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley-Interscience, 2007.

13.1.8 Fire Potential

Flammable gas.
Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 13 ed. Quincy, MA: National Fire Protection Association, 2002., p. 49-76

13.1.9 Skin, Eye, and Respiratory Irritations

Ethylene oxide is irritating to the eyes, respiratory tract, and skin.
Rom, W.N. (ed.). Environmental and Occupational Medicine. 2nd ed. Boston, MA: Little, Brown and Company, 1992., p. 1034
Exposure to high concentrations of ethylene oxide vapor or eye splashes of concentrated solutions can cause eye irritation, inflammation of the eye membrane and corneal injury. Exposure to ethylene oxide has also been linked to the development of cataracts.
ATSDR; Medical Management for Ethylene Oxide CAS 75-21-8; UN 1040. 19 pp. Available from, as of July 21, 2008: https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/MHMI/mmg137.html
Aqueous solutions of ethylene oxide or solutions formed when the anhydrous cmpd comes in contact with moist skin are irritating and may lead to a severe dermatitis with blisters, blebs and burns. It is also absorbed by leather and rubber and may produce burns or irritation. Allergic eczematous dermatitis has also been reported. Exposure to the vapor in high concn leads to irritation of the eyes. Severe eye damage may result if the liquid is splashed in the eyes. Large amounts of ethylene oxide evaporating from the skin may cause frostbite.
Sittig, M. Handbook of Toxic and Hazardous Chemicals and Carcinogens, 1985. 2nd ed. Park Ridge, NJ: Noyes Data Corporation, 1985., p. 433
Irritating to skin, eyes, and respiratory system.
Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 13 ed. Quincy, MA: National Fire Protection Association, 2002., p. 49-76
The vapors are irritating to the eyes, skin, and respiratory system. /Ethylene oxide or ethylene oxide with nitrogen/
Association of American Railroads; Bureau of Explosives. Emergency Handling of Hazardous Materials in Surface Transportation. Association of American Railroads, Pueblo, CO. 2005, p. 410

13.1.10 EPA Hazardous Waste Number

U115; A toxic waste when a discarded commercial chemical product or manufacturing chemical intermediate or an off-specification commercial chemical product or a manufacturing chemical intermediate.

13.2 Safety and Hazard Properties

13.2.1 Acute Exposure Guideline Levels (AEGLs)

13.2.1.1 AEGLs Table
AEGLs
AEGL 1: Notable discomfort, irritation, or certain asymptomatic non-sensory effects. However, the effects are not disabling and are transient and reversible upon cessation of exposure (Unit: ppm)
10 min
NR
30 min
NR
60 min
NR
4 hr
NR
8 hr
NR
AEGLs
AEGL 2: Irreversible or other serious, long-lasting adverse health effects or an impaired ability to escape (Unit: ppm)
10 min
80
30 min
80
60 min
45
4 hr
14
8 hr
7.9
AEGLs
AEGL 3: Life-threatening health effects or death (Unit: ppm)
10 min
360
30 min
360
60 min
200
4 hr
63
8 hr
35
13.2.1.2 AEGLs Notes

NR=Not recommended

AEGLs Status: Final

13.2.2 Flammable Limits

Lower flammable limit: 3.0% by volume; Upper flammable limit: 100% by volume
Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 13 ed. Quincy, MA: National Fire Protection Association, 2002., p. 325-62
Flammability
Flammable Gas

13.2.3 Lower Explosive Limit (LEL)

3 % (EPA, 1998)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 1998. Extremely Hazardous Substances (EHS) Chemical Profiles and Emergency First Aid Guides. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office.
3.0%

13.2.4 Upper Explosive Limit (UEL)

100 % (EPA, 1998)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 1998. Extremely Hazardous Substances (EHS) Chemical Profiles and Emergency First Aid Guides. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office.
100%

13.2.5 Critical Temperature & Pressure

Critical temperature = 469.15 K; Critical pressure = 7.1941X10+6 Pa
Daubert, T.E., R.P. Danner. Physical and Thermodynamic Properties of Pure Chemicals Data Compilation. Washington, D.C.: Taylor and Francis, 1989.

13.2.6 Physical Dangers

The gas is heavier than air and may travel along the ground; distant ignition possible.

13.2.7 Explosive Limits and Potential

LOWER EXPLOSIVE LIMIT: 3.0%, UPPER EXPLOSIVE LIMIT: 100%. EXPLOSION HAZARD: SEVERE, WHEN EXPOSED TO FLAME.
Sax, N.I. Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 6th ed. New York, NY: Van Nostrand Reinhold, 1984., p. 1347
GAS IS EXPLOSIVE IN CONCN ABOVE 3% & MUST BE MIXED WITH CARBON DIOXIDE OR FLUOROCARBONS.
Gilman, A.G., L.S.Goodman, and A. Gilman. (eds.). Goodman and Gilman's The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics. 7th ed. New York: Macmillan Publishing Co., Inc., 1985., p. 972
Flammable gas. Volatile flammable liquid below room temperature. Explosive decomposition may occur in vapor or liquid phase. Vapor forms explosive mixtures with air over a wide range. Vapors are heavier than air and may travel to a source of ignition and flash back. Closed containers may rupture violently when heated.
Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 13 ed. Quincy, MA: National Fire Protection Association, 2002., p. 49-76
Ethylene oxide is highly reactive and potentially explosive when heated or in the presence of alkali metal hydroxides and highly active catalytic surfaces. ... Vapors may be flammable or explosive if there is inadequate heat dissipation.
DHHS/NTP; SUBSTANCE PROFILES REPORT ON CARCINOGENS, ELEVENTH EDITION: Ethylene Oxide CAS No. 75-21-8 p.1. Available from, as of July 23, 2008: https://ntp.niehs.nih.gov/
Explosive limits , vol% in air: 3-100

13.2.8 OSHA Standards

Permissible exposure limits -(1) 8-hour time weighted average (TWA). The employer shall ensure that no employee is exposed to an airborne concentration of ethylene oxide in excess of one (1) part ethylene oxide per million parts of air (1 ppm) as an 8-hour time-weighted average (8-hour TWA). (2) Excursion limit. The employer shall ensure that no employee is exposed to an airborne concentration of ethylene oxide in excess of 5 parts of ethylene oxide per million parts of air (5 ppm) as averaged over a sampling period of fifteen (15) minutes.
29 CFR 1910.1047(c) (USDOL); U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of June 2, 2008: https://www.ecfr.gov

13.2.9 NIOSH Recommendations

Recommended Exposure Limit: 10 Hr Time-Weighted Avg: <0.1 ppm (<0.18 mg/cu m).
NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards & Other Databases CD-ROM. Department of Health & Human Services, Centers for Disease Prevention & Control. National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2005-151 (2005)
Recommended Exposure Limit: 10 min/day ceiling value: 5 ppm (9 mg/cu m).
NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards & Other Databases CD-ROM. Department of Health & Human Services, Centers for Disease Prevention & Control. National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2005-151 (2005)
NIOSH considers ethylene oxide to be a potential occupational carcinogen.
NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards & Other Databases CD-ROM. Department of Health & Human Services, Centers for Disease Prevention & Control. National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2005-151 (2005)

13.3 First Aid Measures

Inhalation First Aid
Fresh air, rest. Refer for medical attention.
Skin First Aid
Remove contaminated clothes. ON FROSTBITE: rinse with plenty of water, do NOT remove clothes. Rinse skin with plenty of water or shower. Refer for medical attention .
Eye First Aid
First rinse with plenty of water for several minutes (remove contact lenses if easily possible), then refer for medical attention.

13.3.1 First Aid

Warning: Ethylene oxide is corrosive to moist tissues. Caution is advised.

Signs and Symptoms of Acute Ethylene Oxide Exposure: Signs and symptoms of acute exposure to ethylene oxide may be severe, and include dyspnea (shortness of breath), cough, pulmonary edema, pneumonia, and respiratory failure. Lethargy, headache, dizziness, twitching, convulsions, paralysis, and coma may be observed. Cardiac arrhythmias and cardiovascular collapse may also occur. Gastrointestinal effects of acute exposure may include nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Ethylene oxide may severely irritate or burn mucous membranes and moist skin. Eye contact may result in conjunctivitis (red, inflamed eyes) and erosion of the cornea.

Emergency Life-Support Procedures: Acute exposure to ethylene oxide may require decontamination and life support for the victims. Emergency personnel should wear protective clothing appropriate to the type and degree of contamination. Air-purifying or supplied-air respiratory equipment should also be worn, as necessary. Rescue vehicles should carry supplies such as plastic sheeting and disposable plastic bags to assist in preventing spread of contamination.

Inhalation Exposure:

1. Move victims to fresh air. Emergency personnel should avoid self-exposure to ethylene oxide.

2. Evaluate vital signs including pulse and respiratory rate, and note any trauma. If no pulse is detected, provide CPR. If not breathing, provide artificial respiration. If breathing is labored, administer oxygen or other respiratory support.

3. Obtain authorization and/or further instructions from the local hospital for administration of an antidote or performance of other invasive procedures.

4. Transport to a health care facility.

Dermal/Eye Exposure:

1. Remove victims from exposure. Emergency personnel should avoid self- exposure to ethylene oxide.

2. Evaluate vital signs including pulse and respiratory rate, and note any trauma. If no pulse is detected, provide CPR. If not breathing, provide artificial respiration. If breathing is labored, administer oxygen or other respiratory support.

3. Remove contaminated clothing as soon as possible.

4. If eye exposure has occurred, eyes must be IMMEDIATELY flushed with lukewarm water for AT LEAST 15 minutes.

5. If liquid is spilled on the skin, allow ethylene oxide to vaporize before washing THOROUGHLY with soap and water.

6. Obtain authorization and/or further instructions from the local hospital for administration of an antidote or performance of other invasive procedures.

7. Transport to a health care facility.

Ingestion Exposure:

1. Evaluate vital signs including pulse and respiratory rate, and note any trauma. If no pulse is detected, provide CPR. If not breathing, provide artificial respiration. If breathing is labored, administer oxygen or other respiratory support.

2. Obtain authorization and/or further instructions from the local hospital for administration of an antidote or performance of other invasive procedures.

3. Give the victims water or milk: children up 1 year old, 125 mL (4 oz or 1/2 cup); children 1 to 12 years old 200 mL (6 oz or 3/4 cup); adults, 250 mL (8 oz or 1 cup). Water or milk should be given only if victims are conscious and alert.

4. Activated charcoal may be administered if victims are conscious and alert. Use 15 to 30 g (1/2 to 1 oz) for children, 50 to 100 g (1-3/4 to 3-1/2 oz) for adults, with 125 to 250 mL (1/2 to 1 cup) of water.

5. Ethylene oxide generally acts as its own cathartic; however, if deemed necessary, excretion may be promoted by administering a saline cathartic or sorbitol to conscious and alert victims. Children require 15 to 30 g (1/2 to 1 oz) of cathartic; 50 to 100 g (1-3/4 to 3-1/2 oz) is recommended for adults.

6. Transport to a health care facility. (EPA, 1998)

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 1998. Extremely Hazardous Substances (EHS) Chemical Profiles and Emergency First Aid Guides. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office.
ERG 2024, Guide 119P (Ethylene oxide)

General First Aid:

· Call 911 or emergency medical service.

· Ensure that medical personnel are aware of the material(s) involved, take precautions to protect themselves and avoid contamination.

· Move victim to fresh air if it can be done safely.

· Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult.

· If victim is not breathing:

-- DO NOT perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation; the victim may have ingestedor inhaled the substance.

-- If equipped and pulse detected, wash face and mouth, then give artificial respiration using a proper respiratory medical device (bag-valve mask, pocket mask equipped with a one-way valve or other device).

-- If no pulse detected or no respiratory medical device available, provide continuouscompressions. Conduct a pulse check every two minutes or monitor for any signs of spontaneous respirations.

· Remove and isolate contaminated clothing and shoes.

· For minor skin contact, avoid spreading material on unaffected skin.

· In case of contact with substance, remove immediately by flushing skin or eyes with running water for at least 20 minutes.

· For severe burns, immediate medical attention is required.

· Effects of exposure (inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact) to substance may be delayed.

· Keep victim calm and warm.

· Keep victim under observation.

· For further assistance, contact your local Poison Control Center.

· Note: Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Life Support (ALS) should be done by trained professionals.

Specific First Aid:

· In case of contact with liquefied gas, only medical personnel should attempt thawing frosted parts.

· In case of burns, immediately cool affected skin for as long as possible with cold water. Do not remove clothing if adhering to skin.

In Canada, an Emergency Response Assistance Plan (ERAP) may be required for this product. Please consult the shipping paper and/or the "ERAP" section.

(See general first aid procedures)

Eye: Irrigate immediately - If this chemical contacts the eyes, immediately wash (irrigate) the eyes with large amounts of water, occasionally lifting the lower and upper lids. Get medical attention immediately.

Skin: Water flush immediately - If this chemical contacts the skin, immediately flush the contaminated skin with water. If this chemical penetrates the clothing, immediately remove the clothing and flush the skin with water. Get medical attention promptly.

Breathing: Respiratory support

Swallow: Medical attention immediately (liquid)

13.4 Fire Fighting

Move container from fire area if you can do so without risk. Stay away from ends of tanks. Fight fire from maximum distance. For massive fire in cargo area, use unmanned hose holder or monitor nozzles; if this is impossible, withdraw from area and let fire burn. Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety device or any discoloration of tank due to fire. Isolate for 1 mile in all directions if tank car or truck is involved in fire. Keep unnecessary people away; isolate hazard area and deny entry. Stay upwind; keep out of low areas. Wear positive pressure breathing apparatus and full protective clothing. Evacuate area endangered by gas.

Extinguish with alcohol foam, carbon dioxide, dry chemical or water spray, fog, or foam. Let burn unless leak can be stopped immediately. (EPA, 1998)

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 1998. Extremely Hazardous Substances (EHS) Chemical Profiles and Emergency First Aid Guides. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office.
Shut off supply; if not possible and no risk to surroundings, let the fire burn itself out. In other cases extinguish with powder, alcohol-resistant foam, water spray, carbon dioxide. In case of fire: keep cylinder cool by spraying with water. Combat fire from a sheltered position.

13.4.1 Fire Fighting Procedures

GAS: Poisonous gases are produced in fire. Do not estinguish the fire unless the flow of gas can be stopped and any remaining gas is out of the line. Specially trained personnel may use fog lines to cool exposures and let the fire burn itself out. Vapors are heavier than air and will collect in low areas. Vapors may travel long distances to ignition sources and flashback. Vapors in confined area may explode in fire. Storage containers and parts of containers may rocket great distances, in many directions. If materials or contaminated runoff enters waterways, notify downstream users of potentially contaminated waters. Notify local health and fire officials and pollution control agencies. From a secure, explosion-proof location, use water spray to cool exposed containers. If cooling streams are ineffective (venting sound increases in volume and pitch, tank discolors, or shows any signs of deforming), withdraw immediately to a secure position. If employees are expected to fight fires, they must be trained and equipped. LIQUID: Poisonous gases are produced in fire. Use dry chemical, carbon dioxide, or foam extinguishers. Although soluble in water, solutions will continue to burn until diluted to approximately 22 volumes of water to one volume of ethylene oxide. Vapors are heavier than air and will collect in low areas. Vapors may travel long distances to ignition sources and flashback. Vapors in confined area may explode in fire. Storage containers and parts of containers may rocket great distances, in many directions. If materials or contaminated runoff enters waterways, notify downstream users of potentially contaminated waters. Notify local health and fire officials and pollution control agencies. From a secure, explosion-proof location, use water spray to cool exposed containers. If cooling streams are ineffective (venting sound increases in volume and pitch, tank discolors, or shows any signs of deforming), withdraw immediately to a secure position. If employees are expected to fight fires, they must be trained and equipped.
Sittig, M. Handbook of Toxic and Hazardous Chemicals and Carcinogens, 2002. 4th ed.Vol 1 A-H Norwich, NY: Noyes Publications, 2002., p. 1101
Fire extinguishing agents: water.
U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Transportation. CHRIS - Hazardous Chemical Data. Volume II. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office, 1984-5.
Stop flow of gas if possible. Combat fires from behind barrier, with unmanned hose holder or monitor nozzle. Flood discharge area with water. Cool exposed containers and protect men effecting shut off with water.
U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Transportation. CHRIS - Hazardous Chemical Data. Volume II. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office, 1984-5.
Carbon dioxide and dry-chemical extinguishers are useful against small fire.
ITII. Toxic and Hazardous Industrial Chemicals Safety Manual. Tokyo, Japan: The International Technical Information Institute, 1988., p. 238
For more Fire Fighting Procedures (Complete) data for ETHYLENE OXIDE (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

13.4.2 Firefighting Hazards

Vapor is heavier than air and may travel considerable distance to a source of ignition and flash back.
U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Transportation. CHRIS - Hazardous Chemical Data. Volume II. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office, 1984-5.

13.5 Accidental Release Measures

Public Safety: ERG 2024, Guide 119P (Ethylene oxide)

· CALL 911. Then call emergency response telephone number on shipping paper. If shipping paper not available or no answer, refer to appropriate telephone number listed on the inside back cover.

· Keep unauthorized personnel away.

· Stay upwind, uphill and/or upstream.

· Many gases are heavier than air and will spread along the ground and collect in low or confined areas (sewers, basements, tanks, etc.).

· Ventilate closed spaces before entering, but only if properly trained and equipped.

Spill or Leak: ERG 2024, Guide 119P (Ethylene oxide)

· ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames) from immediate area.

· All equipment used when handling the product must be grounded.

· Do not touch or walk through spilled material.

· Stop leak if you can do it without risk.

· Do not direct water at spill or source of leak.

· Use water spray to reduce vapors or divert vapor cloud drift. Avoid allowing water runoff to contact spilled material.

· FOR CHLOROSILANES, use alcohol-resistant foam to reduce vapors.

· If possible, turn leaking containers so that gas escapes rather than liquid.

· Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas.

· Isolate area until gas has dispersed.

13.5.1 Isolation and Evacuation

Excerpt from ERG Guide 119 [Gases - Toxic - Flammable; polymerization hazard]:

IMMEDIATE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURE: Isolate spill or leak area for at least 100 meters (330 feet) in all directions.

SPILL: See ERG Tables 1 and 3 - Initial Isolation and Protective Action Distances on the UN/NA 1040 datasheet.

FIRE: If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 1600 meters (1 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 1600 meters (1 mile) in all directions. (ERG, 2024)

Evacuation: ERG 2024, Guide 119P (Ethylene oxide)

Immediate precautionary measure

· Isolate spill or leak area for at least 100 meters (330 feet) in all directions.

Spill

· For highlighted materials: see Table 1 - Initial Isolation and Protective Action Distances.

· For non-highlighted materials: increase the immediate precautionary measure distance, in the downwind direction, as necessary.

Fire

· If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 1600 meters (1 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 1600 meters (1 mile) in all directions.

Isolation

Small spill:

- ISOLATE in all directions: 30 m (100 ft)

Large spill:

- ISOLATE in all Directions:

-- Rail tank car: 200 m (600 ft)

-- Rail tank car: 200 m (600 ft)

-- Rail tank car: 200 m (600 ft)

-- Highway tank truck or trailer: 100 m (300 ft)

-- Highway tank truck or trailer: 100 m (300 ft)

-- Highway tank truck or trailer: 100 m (300 ft)

-- Multiple small cylinders or single ton cylinder: 30 m (100 ft)

-- Multiple small cylinders or single ton cylinder: 30 m (100 ft)

-- Multiple small cylinders or single ton cylinder: 30 m (100 ft)

Protection

Small spill:

- PROTECT people from downwind during DAY time: 0.1 km (0.1 mi)

- PROTECT people from downwind during NIGHT time: 0.2 km (0.2 mi)

Large spill:

- PROTECT people from downwind during DAY time:

-- Rail tank car:

- - - Low wind (< 6 mph (<10 km/h)): 1.5 km (1.0 mi)

- - - Moderate wind (6-12 mph (10-20 km/h)): 0.8 km (0.5 mi)

- - - High wind (> 12 mph (>20 km/h)): 0.7 km (0.4 mi)

-- Rail tank car:

- - - Low wind (< 6 mph (<10 km/h)): 1.5 km (1.0 mi)

- - - Moderate wind (6-12 mph (10-20 km/h)): 0.8 km (0.5 mi)

- - - High wind (> 12 mph (>20 km/h)): 0.7 km (0.4 mi)

-- Rail tank car:

- - - Low wind (< 6 mph (<10 km/h)): 1.5 km (1.0 mi)

- - - Moderate wind (6-12 mph (10-20 km/h)): 0.8 km (0.5 mi)

- - - High wind (> 12 mph (>20 km/h)): 0.7 km (0.4 mi)

-- Highway tank truck or trailer:

- - - Low wind (< 6 mph (<10 km/h)): 0.9 km (0.6 mi)

- - - Moderate wind (6-12 mph (10-20 km/h)): 0.5 km (0.3 mi)

- - - High wind (> 12 mph (>20 km/h)): 0.4 km (0.3 mi)

-- Highway tank truck or trailer:

- - - Low wind (< 6 mph (<10 km/h)): 0.9 km (0.6 mi)

- - - Moderate wind (6-12 mph (10-20 km/h)): 0.5 km (0.3 mi)

- - - High wind (> 12 mph (>20 km/h)): 0.4 km (0.3 mi)

-- Highway tank truck or trailer:

- - - Low wind (< 6 mph (<10 km/h)): 0.9 km (0.6 mi)

- - - Moderate wind (6-12 mph (10-20 km/h)): 0.5 km (0.3 mi)

- - - High wind (> 12 mph (>20 km/h)): 0.4 km (0.3 mi)

-- Multiple small cylinders or single ton cylinder:

- - - Low wind (< 6 mph (<10 km/h)): 0.4 km (0.3 mi)

- - - Moderate wind (6-12 mph (10-20 km/h)): 0.2 km (0.1 mi)

- - - High wind (> 12 mph (>20 km/h)): 0.1 km (0.1 mi)

-- Multiple small cylinders or single ton cylinder:

- - - Low wind (< 6 mph (<10 km/h)): 0.4 km (0.3 mi)

- - - Moderate wind (6-12 mph (10-20 km/h)): 0.2 km (0.1 mi)

- - - High wind (> 12 mph (>20 km/h)): 0.1 km (0.1 mi)

-- Multiple small cylinders or single ton cylinder:

- - - Low wind (< 6 mph (<10 km/h)): 0.4 km (0.3 mi)

- - - Moderate wind (6-12 mph (10-20 km/h)): 0.2 km (0.1 mi)

- - - High wind (> 12 mph (>20 km/h)): 0.1 km (0.1 mi)

Large spill:

- PROTECT people from downwind during NIGHT time:

-- Rail tank car:

- - - Low wind (< 6 mph (<10 km/h)): 3.0 km (1.8 mi)

- - - Moderate wind (6-12 mph (10-20 km/h)): 1.4 km (0.9 mi)

- - - High wind (> 12 mph (>20 km/h)): 0.8 km (0.5 mi)

-- Rail tank car:

- - - Low wind (< 6 mph (<10 km/h)): 3.0 km (1.8 mi)

- - - Moderate wind (6-12 mph (10-20 km/h)): 1.4 km (0.9 mi)

- - - High wind (> 12 mph (>20 km/h)): 0.8 km (0.5 mi)

-- Rail tank car:

- - - Low wind (< 6 mph (<10 km/h)): 3.0 km (1.8 mi)

- - - Moderate wind (6-12 mph (10-20 km/h)): 1.4 km (0.9 mi)

- - - High wind (> 12 mph (>20 km/h)): 0.8 km (0.5 mi)

-- Highway tank truck or trailer:

- - - Low wind (< 6 mph (<10 km/h)): 2.0 km (1.3 mi)

- - - Moderate wind (6-12 mph (10-20 km/h)): 0.7 km (0.4 mi)

- - - High wind (> 12 mph (>20 km/h)): 0.4 km (0.3 mi)

-- Highway tank truck or trailer:

- - - Low wind (< 6 mph (<10 km/h)): 2.0 km (1.3 mi)

- - - Moderate wind (6-12 mph (10-20 km/h)): 0.7 km (0.4 mi)

- - - High wind (> 12 mph (>20 km/h)): 0.4 km (0.3 mi)

-- Highway tank truck or trailer:

- - - Low wind (< 6 mph (<10 km/h)): 2.0 km (1.3 mi)

- - - Moderate wind (6-12 mph (10-20 km/h)): 0.7 km (0.4 mi)

- - - High wind (> 12 mph (>20 km/h)): 0.4 km (0.3 mi)

-- Multiple small cylinders or single ton cylinder:

- - - Low wind (< 6 mph (<10 km/h)): 0.8 km (0.5 mi)

- - - Moderate wind (6-12 mph (10-20 km/h)): 0.3 km (0.2 mi)

- - - High wind (> 12 mph (>20 km/h)): 0.2 km (0.1 mi)

-- Multiple small cylinders or single ton cylinder:

- - - Low wind (< 6 mph (<10 km/h)): 0.8 km (0.5 mi)

- - - Moderate wind (6-12 mph (10-20 km/h)): 0.3 km (0.2 mi)

- - - High wind (> 12 mph (>20 km/h)): 0.2 km (0.1 mi)

-- Multiple small cylinders or single ton cylinder:

- - - Low wind (< 6 mph (<10 km/h)): 0.8 km (0.5 mi)

- - - Moderate wind (6-12 mph (10-20 km/h)): 0.3 km (0.2 mi)

- - - High wind (> 12 mph (>20 km/h)): 0.2 km (0.1 mi)

13.5.2 Spillage Disposal

Evacuate danger area! Consult an expert! Personal protection: gas-tight chemical protection suit including self-contained breathing apparatus. Ventilation. Do NOT wash away into sewer. NEVER direct water jet on liquid. Remove gas with fine water spray.

13.5.3 Cleanup Methods

GAS: Evacuate and restrict persons not wearing protective equipment from area of spill or leak until cleanup is complete. Remove all ignition sources. Establish forced ventilation to keep levels below explosive limit. Stop the flow of gas if it can be done safely. If source of leak us a cylinder and the leak cannot be stopped in place, remove leaking cylinder to a safe place in the open air, and repair leak or allow cylinder to empty. Keep this chemical out of a confined space, such as a sewer, because of the possibility of an explosion, unless the sewer is designed to prevent the build-up of explosive concentrations. LIQUID: For small spills flush area with flooding amounts of water. For large spills, dike spill for later disposal. Absorb liquids in vermiculite, dry sand, earth, or a similar non-organic materials and deposit in sealed containers. May also be covered with weak reducing agents; resulting sludge neutralized and flushed to sewer. Collect powdered material in the most convenient and safe manner and deposit in sealed containers. Ventilate area of spill or leak after clean-up is complete. It may be necessary to contain and dispose of this chemical as a hazardous waste. If material or contaminated runoff enters waterways, notify downstream users of potentially contaminated waters. Contact your Department of Environmental Protection or your regional office of the federal EPA for specific recommendations. If employees are required to clean-up spills, they must be properly trained and equipped.
Sittig, M. Handbook of Toxic and Hazardous Chemicals and Carcinogens, 2002. 4th ed.Vol 1 A-H Norwich, NY: Noyes Publications, 2002., p. 1101
Shut off ignition sources and call fire dept. Stop /flow/ if possible. Stay upwind and use water spray to "knock down" vapor. Isolate and remove discharged material. Notify local health and pollution control agencies.
U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Transportation. CHRIS - Hazardous Chemical Data. Volume II. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office, 1984-5.
PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": A high-efficiency particulate arrestor (HEPA) or charcoal filters can be used to minimize amt of carcinogen in exhausted air ventilated safety cabinets, lab hoods, glove boxes or animal rooms ... Filter housing that is designed so that used filters can be transferred into plastic bag without contaminating maintenance staff is avail commercially. Filters should be placed in plastic bags immediately after removal ... The plastic bag should be sealed immediately ... The sealed bag should be labelled properly ... Waste liquids ... should be placed or collected in proper containers for disposal. The lid should be secured & the bottles properly labelled. Once filled, bottles should be placed in plastic bag, so that outer surface ... is not contaminated ... The plastic bag should also be sealed & labelled. ... Broken glassware ... should be decontaminated by solvent extraction, by chemical destruction, or in specially designed incinerators. /Chemical Carcinogens/
Montesano, R., H. Bartsch, E.Boyland, G. Della Porta, L. Fishbein, R. A. Griesemer, A.B. Swan, L. Tomatis, and W. Davis (eds.). Handling Chemical Carcinogens in the Laboratory: Problems of Safety. IARC Scientific Publications No. 33. Lyon, France: International Agency for Research on Cancer, 1979., p. 15
Eliminate all ignition sources. Releases may require isolation or evacuation. Approach release from upwind. Stop or control the leak, if this can be done without undue risk. Use water spray to cool and disperse vapors, protect personnel, and dilute spills to form nonflammable mixtures. Water solutions no longer flammable in open areas when diluted as 1 part in 22 parts water. In enclosed areas such as sewers, dilution to 1 part in 100 parts water may be required to eliminate flash potential. Control runoff and isolate discharged material for proper disposal.
Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 13 ed. Quincy, MA: National Fire Protection Association, 2002., p. 49-76

13.5.4 Disposal Methods

[40 CFR 240-280, 300-306, 702-799 (7/1/2006)] Generators of waste (equal to or greater than 100 kg/mo) containing this contaminant, EPA hazardous waste number U115, must conform with USEPA regulations in storage, transportation, treatment and disposal of waste.
Concentrated waste containing no peroxides-discharge liquid at a controlled rate near a pilot flame. Concentrated waste containing peroxides-perforation of a container of the waste from a safe distance followed by open burning.
Sittig, M. Handbook of Toxic and Hazardous Chemicals and Carcinogens, 2002. 4th ed.Vol 1 A-H Norwich, NY: Noyes Publications, 2002., p. 1102
A good candidate for rotary kiln incineration at a temperature range of 820 to 1,600 °C and residence times of seconds for liquids and gases, and hours for solids. A good candidate for fluidized bed incineration at a temperature range of 450 to 980 °C and residence times of seconds for liquids and gases, and longer for solids.
USEPA; Engineering Handbook for Hazardous Waste Incineration p.3-13 (1981) EPA 68-03-3025
Evaporation & open burning: A) Place on ground in an open area. Evaporate or burn by igniting from a safe distance. B) Dissolve in benzene, petroleum ether or higher alcohol such as butanol. Dispose by burning the soln. Recommendable method: Incineration. Peer review: Ethylene oxide boils @ 11 °C, therefore burning in an incinerator can cause difficulties unless a gas feed can be arranged. It is soluble in water or alcohol and these soln can be burned. (Peer-review conclusions of an IRPTC expert consultation (May 1985))
United Nations. Treatment and Disposal Methods for Waste Chemicals (IRPTC File). Data Profile Series No. 5. Geneva, Switzerland: United Nations Environmental Programme, Dec. 1985., p. 180
For more Disposal Methods (Complete) data for ETHYLENE OXIDE (9 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

13.5.5 Preventive Measures

SRP: The scientific literature for the use of contact lenses in industry is conflicting. The benefit or detrimental effects of wearing contact lenses depend not only upon the substance, but also on factors including the form of the substance, characteristics and duration of the exposure, the uses of other eye protection equipment, and the hygiene of the lenses. However, there may be individual substances whose irritating or corrosive properties are such that the wearing of contact lenses would be harmful to the eye. In those specific cases, contact lenses should not be worn. In any event, the usual eye protection equipment should be worn even when contact lenses are in place.
Wear protective gloves and clothing to prevent any reasonable probability of skin contact. Safety equipment suppliers/manufacturers can provide recommendations on the most protective glove/clothing material for your operation. All protective clothing (suits, gloves, footwear, headgear) should be clean, available each day, and put on before work. Contact lenses should not be worn when working with this chemical. Wear gas and splash-proof chemical goggles and face shield unless full facepiece respiratory protection is worn. Employees should wash immediately with soap when skin is wet or contaminated. Provide emergency showers and eyewash.
Sittig, M. Handbook of Toxic and Hazardous Chemicals and Carcinogens, 2002. 4th ed.Vol 1 A-H Norwich, NY: Noyes Publications, 2002., p. 1100
SRP: Contaminated protective clothing should be segregated in such a manner so that there is no direct personal contact by personnel who handle, dispose, or clean the clothing. Quality assurance to ascertain the completeness of the cleaning procedures should be implemented before the decontaminated protective clothing is returned for reuse by the workers. Contaminated clothing should not be taken home at end of shift, but should remain at employee's place of work for cleaning.
Prevent overfeeding of OECD Make sure that all interlocks and other safeguards are in place before sterilization begins. Periodically wash or vent sterilized products that sit idle in a sterilizer or aeration room to prevent EtO buildup. Monitor EtO concentrations in the sterilizer before the back vents are activated to avoid venting high EtO concentrations to the oxidizing emission control device (OECD). Vent confined spaces such as the sterilizer and the aeration room to the outisde after a power loss. Do not purge EtO lines to an OECD. Perform regular preventive maintenance. Obtain management approval before changing the process or safety interlocks.
NIOSH; NIOSH Publication No. 2007-164: Preventing Worker Injuries and Deaths from Explosions in Industrial Ethylene Oxide Sterilization Facilities (Revised Edition) 40 pp. (August 2007). Available from, as of July 21, 2008: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/2007-164/pdfs/2007-164.pdf
For more Preventive Measures (Complete) data for ETHYLENE OXIDE (34 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

13.6 Handling and Storage

13.6.1 Nonfire Spill Response

Excerpt from ERG Guide 119 [Gases - Toxic - Flammable; polymerization hazard]:

ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames) from immediate area. All equipment used when handling the product must be grounded. Do not touch or walk through spilled material. Stop leak if you can do it without risk. Do not direct water at spill or source of leak. Use water spray to reduce vapors or divert vapor cloud drift. Avoid allowing water runoff to contact spilled material. FOR CHLOROSILANES, use alcohol-resistant foam to reduce vapors. If possible, turn leaking containers so that gas escapes rather than liquid. Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas. Isolate area until gas has dispersed. (ERG, 2024)

13.6.2 Safe Storage

Fireproof. Cool.

13.6.3 Storage Conditions

Prior to working with this chemical you should be trained on its proper handling and storage. Before entering a confined space where this chemical may be present, check to make sure that an explosive concentration does not exist. It must be stored to avoid contact with even small amounts of acids (such as nitric or sulfuric acids); alkalis (such as sodium bydroxide or potassium hydroxide); cataylic anhydrous chlorides of iron, aluminum or tin; iron or aluminum oxide; or metallic potassium hydroxide); catalytic anhydrous chlorides of iron, aluminum or tin; iron or aluminum oxide; or metallic potassium hydroxide, since it may react by itself, liberating much heat and causing a possible explosion. Ethylene oxide should not contact oxidizers (such as perchlorates, perxoides, permanganates, chlorates, and nitrates) since an explosion could occur. Store in tightly closed containers in a cool, well-ventilated area away from heat, sparks, or sunlight. Sources of ignition such as smoking and open flames are prohibited where ethlyene oxide is handled, used, or stored. Metal containers involving the transfer of 5 gallons or more of ethylene oxide should br grounded and bonded. Drums must be equipped with self-closing valves, pressure vacuum bungs, and flame arresters. Use only non-sparking tools and equipment, especially when opening and closing containers of ethylene oxide . Wherever ethylene oxide is used, handled, manufactured, or stored, use explosion-proof electrical equipment and fittings.
Sittig, M. Handbook of Toxic and Hazardous Chemicals and Carcinogens, 2002. 4th ed.Vol 1 A-H Norwich, NY: Noyes Publications, 2002., p. 1101
Store EtO in tightly closed cylinders or tanks in a cool, shaded, well-ventilated, explosion-proof area.
NIOSH; NIOSH Publication No. 2007-164: Preventing Worker Injuries and Deaths from Explosions in Industrial Ethylene Oxide Sterilization Facilities (Revised Edition) 40 pp. (August 2007). Available from, as of July 21, 2008: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/2007-164/pdfs/2007-164.pdf
Temperature: ambient
U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Transportation. CHRIS - Hazardous Chemical Data. Volume II. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office, 1984-5.
Protect containers against physical damage, check for leakage intermittently. Store in distant outdoor tank or container protected from direct sunlight, lined with insulating material, equipped with an adequate refrigeration and water system. Indoor storage should be restricted to small quantities. Place material in a combustible liquid cabinet which is fireproof in conformity with regulations.
ITII. Toxic and Hazardous Industrial Chemicals Safety Manual. Tokyo, Japan: The International Technical Information Institute, 1988., p. 237
For more Storage Conditions (Complete) data for ETHYLENE OXIDE (7 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

13.7 Exposure Control and Personal Protection

Protective Clothing: ERG 2024, Guide 119P (Ethylene oxide)

· Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).

· Wear chemical protective clothing that is specifically recommended by the manufacturer when there is NO RISK OF FIRE.

· Structural firefighters' protective clothing provides thermal protection but only limited chemical protection.

Exposure Summary

Biological Exposure Indices (BEI) [ACGIH] - N-(2-hydroxyethyl)valine (HEV) hemoglobin adducts = 5000 pmol HEV/g globin. See urine BEI and further details. [TLVs and BEIs]

TIH (Toxic Inhalation Hazard) - Term used to describe gases and volatile liquids that are toxic when inhaled. Some are TIH materials themselves, e.g., chlorine, and some release TIH gases when spilled in water, e.g., chlorosilanes. [ERG 2016].

ACGIH - Documentation of the TLVs and BEIs, 7th Ed. Cincinnati: ACGIH Worldwide, 2020.
TLVs and BEIs - _Threshold Limit Values for Chemical Substances and Physical Agents & Biological Exposure Indices. _Cincinnati: ACGIH, 2020.

13.7.2 Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL)

1.0 [ppm], STEL(OSHA) = 5 ppm
PEL-TWA (8-Hour Time Weighted Average)
1 ppm [0.5 ppm Action Level]
PEL-C (Ceiling)
5 ppm [15 minute excursion limit]
[1910.1047] TWA 1 ppm 5 ppm [15-minute Excursion]

13.7.3 Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH)

800 ppm ; A potential occupational carcinogen. (NIOSH, 2024)

800.0 [ppm]

Excerpts from Documentation for IDLHs: Reports of effects in humans include: nasal irritation after exposures to 12,500 ppm for 10 sec. Acute studies in animals have shown: death after exposure > 8000 ppm for 10 min.; no apparent injuries after exposure to 4000 ppm for 30 min., 2000 ppm for 60 min., or 500 ppm for 1 hr.

NIOSH considers ethylene oxide to be a potential occupational carcinogen.
NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards & Other Databases CD-ROM. Department of Health & Human Services, Centers for Disease Prevention & Control. National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2005-151 (2005)
800 ppm

Ca [800 ppm]

See: 75218

13.7.4 Threshold Limit Values (TLV)

1.0 [ppm]
8 hr Time Weighted Avg (TWA): 1 ppm.
American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists TLVs and BEIs. Threshold Limit Values for Chemical Substances and Physical Agents and Biological Exposure Indices. Cincinnati, OH, 2008, p. 30
Excursion Limit Recommendation: Excursions in worker exposure levels may exceed three times the TLV-TWA for no more than a total of 30 min during a work day, and under no circumstances should they exceed five times the TLV-TWA, provided that the TLV-TWA is not exceeded.
American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists TLVs and BEIs. Threshold Limit Values for Chemical Substances and Physical Agents and Biological Exposure Indices. Cincinnati, OH, 2008, p. 5
A2; Suspected human carcinogen.
American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists TLVs and BEIs. Threshold Limit Values for Chemical Substances and Physical Agents and Biological Exposure Indices. Cincinnati, OH, 2008, p. 30
1 ppm as TWA; (skin); A2 (suspected human carcinogen); BEI issued.
TLV-TWA (Time Weighted Average)
1 ppm [1990]

13.7.5 Occupational Exposure Limits (OEL)

EU-OEL
1.8 mg/m
MAK (Maximale Arbeitsplatz Konzentration)
skin absorption (H); carcinogen category: 2; germ cell mutagen group: 2

13.7.6 Emergency Response Planning Guidelines

Emergency Response: ERG 2024, Guide 119P (Ethylene oxide)

· DO NOT EXTINGUISH A LEAKING GAS FIRE UNLESS LEAK CAN BE STOPPED.

Small Fire

· Dry chemical, CO2, water spray or alcohol-resistant foam.

Large Fire

· Water spray, fog or alcohol-resistant foam.

· FOR CHLOROSILANES, DO NOT USE WATER; use alcohol-resistant foam.

· If it can be done safely, move undamaged containers away from the area around the fire.

· Damaged cylinders should be handled only by specialists.

Fire Involving Tanks

· Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles.

· Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out.

· Do not direct water at source of leak or safety devices; icing may occur.

· Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of tank.

· ALWAYS stay away from tanks in direct contact with flames.

ERPG-1: Not appropriate - one hour exposure limit: 1 = mild transient health effects or objectionable odor [AIHA]

ERPG-2: 50 ppm - one hour exposure limit: 2 = impaired ability to take protective action [AIHA]

ERPG-3: 500 ppm - one hour exposure limit: 3 = life threatening health effects [AIHA]

13.7.7 Other Standards Regulations and Guidelines

Germany: 5 ppm; USSR: 0.5 ppm.
American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists. Documentation of the Threshold Limit Values and Biological Exposure Indices. 5th ed. Cincinnati, OH: American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists, 1986., p. 257
Emergency Response Planning Guidelines (ERPG): ERPG(1) Not appropriate; ERPG(2) 50 ppm (without serious, adverse effects) for up to 1 hr exposure; ERPG(3) 500 ppm (not life threatening) up to 1 hr exposure.
American Industrial Hygiene Association. The AIHA 1999 Emergency Response Planning Guidelines and Workplace Environmental Exposure Level Guides Handbook. American Industrial Hygiene Association. Fairfax, VA 1999., p. 25

13.7.8 Inhalation Risk

A harmful concentration of this gas in the air will be reached very quickly on loss of containment.

13.7.9 Effects of Short Term Exposure

The vapour is irritating to the eyes, skin and respiratory tract. Water solutions may cause skin blisters. Rapid evaporation of the liquid may cause frostbite.

13.7.10 Effects of Long Term Exposure

Repeated or prolonged contact may cause skin sensitization. Repeated or prolonged inhalation may cause asthma. The substance may have effects on the nervous system. This substance is carcinogenic to humans. May cause heritable genetic damage to human germ cells.

13.7.11 Allowable Tolerances

Tolerances are established for residues of the antimicrobial agent and insecticide ethylene oxide, when used as a postharvest fumigant in or on the following food commodities:
Commodity
Coconut, copra
Parts per million
50
Commodity
Spices, whole
Parts per million
50
Commodity
Walnut, black
Parts per million
50
40 CFR 180.151(a) (1) (USEPA); U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of June 26, 2008: https://www.ecfr.gov
Ethylene oxide may be safely used as a fumigant for the control of microorganisms and insect infestation in ground spices and other processed natural seasoning materials, except mixtures to which salt has been added, in accordance with the following prescribed conditions: (i) Ethylene oxide, either alone or admixed with carbon dioxide or dichlorodifluoromethane, shall be used in amounts not to exceed that required to accomplish the intended technical effects. If used with dichlorodifluoromethane, the dichlorodifluoromethane shall conform with the requirements prescribed by 21 CFR 173.355 of this chapter. (ii) To assure safe use of the fumigant, its label and labeling shall conform to that registered with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and it shall be used in accordance with such label or labeling. (iii) Residues of ethylene oxide in ground spices from both postharvest application to whole spices and application to the ground spices shall not exceed the established tolerance of 50 parts per million for residues in whole spices in paragraph (a)(1) of this section.
40 CFR 180.151(a) (2) (USEPA); U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of June 26, 2008: https://www.ecfr.gov

13.7.12 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Excerpt from NIOSH Pocket Guide for Ethylene oxide:

Skin: PREVENT SKIN CONTACT (LIQUID) - If this chemical is in liquid form, wear appropriate personal protective clothing to prevent skin contact.

Eyes: PREVENT EYE CONTACT (LIQUID) - If this chemical is in liquid form, wear appropriate eye protection to prevent eye contact.

Wash skin: WHEN CONTAMINATED (LIQUID) - If this chemical is in liquid form, the worker should immediately wash the skin when it becomes contaminated.

Remove: WHEN WET (FLAMMABLE) - Work clothing that becomes wet should be immediately removed due to its flammability hazard (i.e., for liquids with a flash point <100 °F).

Change: No recommendation is made specifying the need for the worker to change clothing after the workshift.

Provide: QUICK DRENCH (LIQUID) - Facilities for quickly drenching the body should be provided (when this chemical is in liquid form) within the immediate work area for emergency use where there is a possibility of exposure. [Note: It is intended that these facilities provide a sufficient quantity or flow of water to quickly remove the substance from any body areas likely to be exposed. The actual determination of what constitutes an adequate quick drench facility depends on the specific circumstances. In certain instances, a deluge shower should be readily available, whereas in others, the availability of water from a sink or hose could be considered adequate.] (NIOSH, 2024)

NIOSH: 5 ppm: GMFS+ (any air-purifying, full-facepiece respirator (gas mask) with a chin-style, front- or back-mounted canister providing protection against the compound of concern); or SCBAF (any self-contained breathing apparatus with a full facepiece); or SAF (any supplied-air respirator with a full facepiece). Emergency or planned entry into unknown concentrations or IDLH conditions: SCBAF:PD,PP (any self-breathing apparatus that has a full facepiece and is operated in a pressure-demand or other positive-pressure mode); or SAF:PD, PP: ASCBA (any supplied-air respirator that has a full facepiece and is operated in a pressure-demand or other positive-pressure mode in combination with an auxiliary self-contained breathing apparatus operated in a pressure-demand or other positive pressure mode). Escape: GMFS+ {any air-purifying, full facepiece respirator (gas mask) with a chin-style, front- or back- mounted canister providing protection against the compound of concern); or SCBAE (any appropriate escape-type, self-contained breathing apparatus). (+ End of service life indicator (ESLI) required).
Sittig, M. Handbook of Toxic and Hazardous Chemicals and Carcinogens, 2002. 4th ed.Vol 1 A-H Norwich, NY: Noyes Publications, 2002., p. 1101
AIR-SUPPLIED MASK; GOGGLES OR FACE SHIELD; RUBBER SHOES & COVERALLS.
U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Transportation. CHRIS - Hazardous Chemical Data. Volume II. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office, 1984-5.
Wear neoprene gloves, safety glasses, plastic protective clothing and self-contained breathing apparatus.
ITII. Toxic and Hazardous Industrial Chemicals Safety Manual. Tokyo, Japan: The International Technical Information Institute, 1988., p. 237
PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": ... Dispensers of liq detergent /should be available./ ... Safety pipettes should be used for all pipetting. ... In animal laboratory, personnel should ... wear protective suits (preferably disposable, one-piece & close-fitting at ankles & wrists), gloves, hair covering & overshoes. ... In chemical laboratory, gloves & gowns should always be worn ... however, gloves should not be assumed to provide full protection. Carefully fitted masks or respirators may be necessary when working with particulates or gases, & disposable plastic aprons might provide addnl protection. ... gowns ... /should be/ of distinctive color, this is a reminder that they are not to be worn outside the laboratory. /Chemical Carcinogens/
Montesano, R., H. Bartsch, E.Boyland, G. Della Porta, L. Fishbein, R. A. Griesemer, A.B. Swan, L. Tomatis, and W. Davis (eds.). Handling Chemical Carcinogens in the Laboratory: Problems of Safety. IARC Scientific Publications No. 33. Lyon, France: International Agency for Research on Cancer, 1979., p. 8
For more Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) (Complete) data for ETHYLENE OXIDE (13 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

(See personal protection and sanitation codes)

Skin: Prevent skin contact (liquid)

Eyes: Prevent eye contact (liquid)

Wash skin: When contaminated (liquid)

Remove: When wet (flammable)

Change: No recommendation

Provide: Quick drench (liquid)

13.7.13 Respirator Recommendations

(See OSHA respirator requirements for selected chemicals)

NIOSH

Up to 5 ppm:

(APF = 50) Any air-purifying, full-facepiece respirator (gas mask) with a chin-style, front- or back-mounted canister providing protection against the compound of concern†

(APF = 50) Any self-contained breathing apparatus with a full facepiece

(APF = 50) Any supplied-air respirator with a full facepiece

Emergency or planned entry into unknown concentrations or IDLH conditions:

(APF = 10,000) Any self-contained breathing apparatus that has a full facepiece and is operated in a pressure-demand or other positive-pressure mode

(APF = 10,000) Any supplied-air respirator that has a full facepiece and is operated in a pressure-demand or other positive-pressure mode in combination with an auxiliary self-contained positive-pressure breathing apparatus

Escape:

(APF = 50) Any air-purifying, full-facepiece respirator (gas mask) with a chin-style, front- or back-mounted canister providing protection against the compound of concern†

Any appropriate escape-type, self-contained breathing apparatus

Important additional information about respirator selection

13.7.14 Preventions

Fire Prevention
NO open flames, NO sparks and NO smoking. Closed system, ventilation, explosion-proof electrical equipment and lighting. Use non-sparking handtools.
Exposure Prevention
AVOID ALL CONTACT! IN ALL CASES CONSULT A DOCTOR!
Inhalation Prevention
Use closed system or ventilation.
Skin Prevention
Protective gloves. Cold-insulating gloves. Protective clothing.
Eye Prevention
Wear eye protection in combination with breathing protection.
Ingestion Prevention
Do not eat, drink, or smoke during work. Wash hands before eating.

13.8 Stability and Reactivity

13.8.1 Air and Water Reactions

Highly flammable. Flammable over a wide vapor-air concentration range. Must be diluted on the order of 24 to 1 with water to lose flammability. Soluble in water.

13.8.2 Reactive Group

Epoxides

Polymerizable Compounds

13.8.3 Reactivity Alerts

Highly Flammable

Explosive

Polymerizable

13.8.3.1 CSL Reaction Information
CSL No
Reactants/Reagents
Ethylene oxide + Trimethylamine
Warning Message
Exothermic reaction resulted in an explosion and fire
GHS Category
Explosive,Flammable
Reaction Scale
Not Available
Reference Source
User Reported
Modified Date
04/22/2022
Create Date
04/21/2022

13.8.4 Reactivity Profile

Colorless gas at room temperature (b.p. 11 °C), confirmed carcinogen. Highly flammable, severe explosion hazard when exposed to flame. The autoignition temperature may be as low as 140 °C in presence of rust. Rapid compression of the vapor with air causes explosion. Ethylene oxide vapor may be initiated into explosive decomposition in absence of air [Hess, L. G., et al., Ind. Eng. Chem., 1950, 42, p. 1251]. Metal fittings containing magnesium, copper or silver should be avoided, since traces of acetylene in ethylene oxide may produce metal acetylides capable of detonating the vapor [MCA SD-38, 1971]. Violent polymerization occurs on contact with strong bases (alkali hydroxides, ammonia) or acids, amines, metallic potassium, oxides (aluminum oxide, iron oxide, rust), covalent halides (aluminum chloride, ferric chloride, tin(IV) chloride) [Gupta, A. K., J. Soc. Chem. Ind., 1949, 68, p. 179]. Violent reaction with m-nitroaniline, magnesium perchlorate, mercaptans, thiols, triethylamine [Bretherick, 5th ed., 1995, p. 316]. Ethylene oxide and SO2 can react violently in pyridine solution with pressurization if ethylene oxide is in excess (Nolan, 1983, Case History 51).

13.8.5 Hazardous Reactivities and Incompatibilities

Forms explosive mixture with air. Dangerously reactive; may rearrange chemically and/or polymerize violently with evolution of heat, when in contact with highly active catalytic surfaces such as anhydrous chlorides or iron, tin and aluminum, pure oxides of iron and aluminum, and alkali metal hydroxides. Even small amounts of strong acids, alkalis, oxidizers can cause a reaction. Avoid contact with copper. Protect container from physical damage, sun and heat. Attacks some plastics, rubber or coatings.
Sittig, M. Handbook of Toxic and Hazardous Chemicals and Carcinogens, 2002. 4th ed.Vol 1 A-H Norwich, NY: Noyes Publications, 2002., p. 1099
Metal fittings containing copper, silver, mercury, or magnesium should not be used in ethylene oxide service, since traces of acetylene could produce explosive acetylides capable of detonating ethylene oxide vapor.
Bretherick, L. Handbook of Reactive Chemical Hazards. 4th ed. Boston, MA: Butterworth-Heinemann Ltd., 1990, p. 272
INCOMPATIBILITIES: BECAUSE OF HIGH CHEMICAL REACTIVITY ... IT REACTS WITH MANY PHARMACEUTICAL SUBSTANCES & WITH VITAMINS, AMINO ACIDS, & OTHER FOOD CONSTITUENTS. ...
Osol, A. (ed.). Remington's Pharmaceutical Sciences. 16th ed. Easton, Pennsylvania: Mack Publishing Co., 1980., p. 1101
Accidental contamination of a large ethylene oxide feed-cylinder by reaction liquor containing trimethylamine caused the cylinder to explode 18 hr later. Contamination was possible because of a faulty pressure gauge and suck-back of froth above the liquid level.
Bretherick, L. Handbook of Reactive Chemical Hazards. 4th ed. Boston, MA: Butterworth-Heinemann Ltd., 1990, p. 276
For more Hazardous Reactivities and Incompatibilities (Complete) data for ETHYLENE OXIDE (16 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

13.9 Transport Information

13.9.1 DOT Emergency Guidelines

If ... THERE IS NO FIRE, go directly to the Table of Initial Isolation and Protective Action Distances /(see table below)/ ... to obtain initial isolation and protective action distances. IF THERE IS A FIRE, or IF A FIRE IS INVOLVED, go directly to the appropriate guide /(see guide(s) below)/ and use the evacuation information shown under PUBLIC SAFETY.

Table: Table of Isolation and Protective Action Distances for Ethylene oxide

Small Spills (from a small package or small leak from a large package)
First ISOLATE in all Directions 30 meters (100 feet)
Then PROTECT persons Downwind during DAY: 0.1 kilometers (0.1 miles)
Then PROTECT persons Downwind during NIGHT: 0.2 kilometers (0.1 miles)
Small Spills (from a small package or small leak from a large package)
Large Spills (From a large package or from many small packages)
Small Spills (from a small package or small leak from a large package)
First ISOLATE in all Directions 90 meters (300 feet)
Then PROTECT persons Downwind during DAY: 0.8 kilometers (0.5 miles)
Then PROTECT persons Downwind during NIGHT: 2.4 kilometers (1.5 miles)

U.S. Department of Transportation. 2004 Emergency Response Guidebook. A Guide book for First Responders During the Initial Phase of a Dangerous Goods/Hazardous Materials Incident. Washington, D.C. 2004302
/GUIDE 119P: GASES - TOXIC - FLAMMABLE/ Health: TOXIC; may be fatal if inhaled or absorbed through skin. Contact with gas or liquefied gas may cause burns, severe injury and/or frostbite. Fire will produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Runoff from fire control may cause pollution.
U.S. Department of Transportation. 2004 Emergency Response Guidebook. A Guide book for First Responders During the Initial Phase of a Dangerous Goods/Hazardous Materials Incident. Washington, D.C. 2004
/GUIDE 119P: GASES - TOXIC - FLAMMABLE/ Fire or Explosion: Flammable; may be ignited by heat, sparks or flames. May form explosive mixtures with air. Those substances designated with a "P" may polymerize explosively when heated or involved in a fire. Vapors from liquefied gas are initially heavier than air and spread along ground. Vapors may travel to source of ignition and flash back. Some of these materials may react violently with water. Cylinders exposed to fire may vent and release toxic and flammable gas through pressure relief devices. Containers may explode when heated. Ruptured cylinders may rocket. Runoff may create fire or explosion hazard.
U.S. Department of Transportation. 2004 Emergency Response Guidebook. A Guide book for First Responders During the Initial Phase of a Dangerous Goods/Hazardous Materials Incident. Washington, D.C. 2004
/GUIDE 119P: GASES - TOXIC - FLAMMABLE/ Public Safety: CALL Emergency Response Telephone Number ... . As an immediate precautionary measure, isolate spill or leak area for at least 100 meters (330 feet) in all directions. Keep unauthorized personnel away. Stay upwind. Many gases are heavier than air and will spread along ground and collect in low or confined areas (sewers, basements, tanks). Keep out of low areas. Ventilate closed spaces before entering.
U.S. Department of Transportation. 2004 Emergency Response Guidebook. A Guide book for First Responders During the Initial Phase of a Dangerous Goods/Hazardous Materials Incident. Washington, D.C. 2004
For more DOT Emergency Guidelines (Complete) data for ETHYLENE OXIDE (9 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

13.9.2 DOT ID and Guide

13.9.3 Shipping Name / Number DOT/UN/NA/IMO

UN 1040; Ethylene oxide
IMO 2.3; Ethylene oxide

13.9.4 Standard Transportation Number

49 201 08; Ethylene oxide

13.9.5 Shipment Methods and Regulations

No person may /transport,/ offer or accept a hazardous material for transportation in commerce unless that person is registered in conformance ... and the hazardous material is properly classed, described, packaged, marked, labeled, and in condition for shipment as required or authorized by ... /the hazardous materials regulations (49 CFR 171-177)./
49 CFR 171.2 (7/1/96)
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations are published by the IATA Dangerous Goods Board pursuant to IATA Resolutions 618 and 619 and constitute a manual of industry carrier regulations to be followed by all IATA Member airlines when transporting hazardous materials.
International Air Transport Association. Dangerous Goods Regulations. 47th Edition. Montreal, Quebec Canada. 2006., p. 188
The International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code lays down basic principles for transporting hazardous chemicals. Detailed recommendations for individual substances and a number of recommendations for good practice are included in the classes dealing with such substances. A general index of technical names has also been compiled. This index should always be consulted when attempting to locate the appropriate procedures to be used when shipping any substance or article.
International Maritime Organization. International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code. London, UK. 2004., p. 43

13.9.6 DOT Label

Poison Gas Flammable Gas

13.9.7 EC Classification

Symbol: F+, T; R: 45-46-12-23-36/37/38; S: 53-45; Note: E

13.9.8 UN Classification

UN Hazard Class: 2.3; UN Subsidiary Risks: 2.1

13.10 Regulatory Information

The Australian Inventory of Industrial Chemicals
Chemical: Oxirane
California Safe Cosmetics Program (CSCP) Reportable Ingredient

Hazard Traits - Carcinogenicity; Dermatotoxicity; Developmental Toxicity; Genotoxicity; Hazard Trait Under Review; Hematotoxicity; Neurotoxicity; Reproductive Toxicity; Respiratory Toxicity

Authoritative List - ATSDR Neurotoxicants; CA TACs; EC Annex VI CMRs - Cat. 1B; IARC Carcinogens - 1; IRIS Carcinogens - Carcin.; NTP RoC - known; OEHHA RELs; Prop 65

Report - regardless of intended function of ingredient in the product

REACH Registered Substance
New Zealand EPA Inventory of Chemical Status
Oxirane (ethylene oxide): HSNO Approval: HSR001059 Approved with controls

13.10.1 DHS Chemicals of Interest (COI)

Chemicals of Interest(COI)
Ethylene oxide
Release: Minimum Concentration (%)
1
Release: Screening Threshold Quantities (in pounds)
10000
Security Issue: Release - Flammables
Flammable chemical that can be released at a facility.

13.10.2 Atmospheric Standards

This action promulgates standards of performance for equipment leaks of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) in the Synthetic Organic Chemical Manufacturing Industry (SOCMI). The intended effect of these standards is to require all newly constructed, modified, and reconstructed SOCMI process units to use the best demonstrated system of continuous emission reduction for equipment leaks of VOC, considering costs, non air quality health and environmental impact and energy requirements. Ethylene oxide is produced, as an intermediate or a final product, by process units covered under this subpart.
40 CFR 60.489 (USEPA); U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of June 26, 2008: https://www.ecfr.gov
Listed as a hazardous air pollutant (HAP) generally known or suspected to cause serious health problems. The Clean Air Act, as amended in 1990, directs EPA to set standards requiring major sources to sharply reduce routine emissions of toxic pollutants. EPA is required to establish and phase in specific performance based standards for all air emission sources that emit one or more of the listed pollutants. Ethylene oxide is included on this list.
Clean Air Act as amended in 1990, Sect. 112 (b) (1) Public Law 101-549 Nov. 15, 1990

13.10.3 State Drinking Water Guidelines

(FL) FLORIDA 10 ug/L
USEPA/Office of Water; Federal-State Toxicology and Risk Analysis Committee (FSTRAC). Summary of State and Federal Drinking Water Standards and Guidelines (11/93) To Present

13.10.4 CERCLA Reportable Quantities

Persons in charge of vessels or facilities are required to notify the National Response Center (NRC) immediately, when there is a release of this designated hazardous substance, in an amount equal to or greater than its reportable quantity of 10 lb or 4.54 kg. The toll free number of the NRC is (800) 424-8802. The rule for determining when notification is required is stated in 40 CFR 302.4 (section IV. D.3.b).
40 CFR 302.4 (USEPA); U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of April 16, 2008: https://www.ecfr.gov
Releases of CERCLA hazardous substances are subject to the release reporting requirement of CERCLA section 103, codified at 40 CFR part 302, in addition to the requirements of 40 CFR part 355. Ethylene oxide is an extremely hazardous substance (EHS) subject to reporting requirements when stored in amounts in excess of its threshold planning quantity (TPQ) of 1,000 lbs.
40 CFR 355 (USEPA); U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of June 26, 2008: https://www.ecfr.gov

13.10.5 TSCA Requirements

Pursuant to section 8(d) of TSCA, EPA promulgated a model Health and Safety Data Reporting Rule. The section 8(d) model rule requires manufacturers, importers, and processors of listed chemical substances and mixtures to submit to EPA copies and lists of unpublished health and safety studies. Oxirane is included on this list. Effective date: 10/4/82; Sunset date: 10/4/92.
40 CFR 716.120 (USEPA); U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of June 26, 2008: https://www.ecfr.gov

13.10.6 RCRA Requirements

U115; As stipulated in 40 CFR 261.33, when ethylene oxide, as a commercial chemical product or manufacturing chemical intermediate or an off-specification commercial chemical product or a manufacturing chemical intermediate, becomes a waste, it must be managed according to Federal and/or State hazardous waste regulations. Also defined as a hazardous waste is any residue, contaminated soil, water, or other debris resulting from the cleanup of a spill, into water or on dry land, of this waste. Generators of small quantities of this waste may qualify for partial exclusion from hazardous waste regulations (40 CFR 261.5).
40 CFR 261.33 (USEPA); U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of June 26, 2008: https://www.ecfr.gov

13.10.7 FIFRA Requirements

Tolerances are established for residues of the antimicrobial agent and insecticide ethylene oxide, when used as a postharvest fumigant in or on the following food commodities:
Commodity
Coconut, copra
Commodity
Spices, whole
Commodity
Walnut, black
40 CFR 180.151(a) (1) (USEPA); U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of June 26, 2008: https://www.ecfr.gov
Ethylene oxide may be safely used as a fumigant for the control of microorganisms and insect infestation in ground spices and other processed natural seasoning materials, except mixtures to which salt has been added, in accordance with the following prescribed conditions: (i) Ethylene oxide, either alone or admixed with carbon dioxide or dichlorodifluoromethane, shall be used in amounts not to exceed that required to accomplish the intended technical effects. If used with dichlorodifluoromethane, the dichlorodifluoromethane shall conform with the requirements prescribed by 21 CFR 173.355 of this chapter. (ii) To assure safe use of the fumigant, its label and labeling shall conform to that registered with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and it shall be used in accordance with such label or labeling. (iii) Residues of ethylene oxide in ground spices from both postharvest application to whole spices and application to the ground spices shall not exceed the established tolerance of 50 parts per million for residues in whole spices in paragraph (a)(1) of this section.
40 CFR 180.151(a) (2) (USEPA); U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of June 26, 2008: https://www.ecfr.gov
As the federal pesticide law FIFRA directs, EPA is conducting a comprehensive review of older pesticides to consider their health and environmental effects and make decisions about their future use. Under this pesticide reregistration program, EPA examines health and safety data for pesticide active ingredients initially registered before November 1, 1984, and determines whether they are eligible for reregistration. In addition, all pesticides must meet the new safety standard of the Food Quality Protection Act of 1996. Ethylene oxide is found on List A, which contains most food use pesticides and consists of the 194 chemical cases (or 350 individual active ingredients) for which EPA issued registration standards prior to FIFRA, as amended in 1988. Case No: 2275; Pesticide type: insecticide, fungicide, rodenticide, antimicrobial; Case Status:In Pre-Special Review. The pesticide is in or has completed the reregistration process and, meanwhile, is also the subject of an in-depth Special Review.; Active ingredient (AI): Ethylene oxide; Data Call-in (DCI) Date(s): 05/24/91; AI Status: The producers of the pesticide has made commitments to conduct the studies and pay the fees required for reregistration, and are meeting those commitments in a timely manner.
United States Environmental Protection Agency/ Prevention, Pesticides and Toxic Substances; Status of Pesticides in Registration, Reregistration, and Special Review. (1998) EPA 738-R-98-002, p. 182

13.11 Other Safety Information

Chemical Assessment
IMAP assessments - Oxirane: Human health tier II assessment

13.11.1 Toxic Combustion Products

Incomplete combustion releases carbon monoxide ... .
DHHS/NTP; SUBSTANCE PROFILES REPORT ON CARCINOGENS, ELEVENTH EDITION: Ethylene Oxide CAS No. 75-21-8 p.1. Available from, as of July 23, 2008: https://ntp.niehs.nih.gov/
Irritating vapors generated when heated.
U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Transportation. CHRIS - Hazardous Chemical Data. Volume II. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office, 1984-5.

13.11.2 History and Incidents

Workers may be at risk of death or serious injury from explosions if safe operating procedures are not established and followed in large-scale industrial processes that use ethylene oxide gas (EtO) for sterilizing medical devices and other products ... . In these processes, products are placed in bulk in a closed, semitrailer-sized chamber, and EtO is injected into the chamber. Once sterilization is completed, EtO is vented at a controlled rate through closed ductwork to an emissions control device. There, to meet environmental emissions limits, the EtO is either burned off or converted to water and carbon dioxide through heat and catalytic conversion. If EtO is inadvertently "overfed" into the emissions control device at rates or concentrations higher than the device safely can handle, concentrations of the gas may reach flammable levels. If that occurs, heat sources in the emissions control device may trigger an explosion. ... "If ignited from overfeeding in industrial sterilization processes, EtO can explode with enough force to lift a 50,000 pound sterilization chamber three feet off its foundation, and blow out steel ductwork," noted NIOSH Director Linda Rosenstock, M.D., M.P.H. "It is important to treat it with care." Between 1994 and 1998, EtO was associated with 10 explosions at industrial sterilization facilities and also at EtO repackaging plants where EtO is transferred from large drums to small tubes or canisters for later use in small sterilization units at hospitals. In one such explosion, a worker was killed and 59 others were injured.
NIOSH; NIOSH Notes Safeguards to Prevent Explosion Risk in Industrial Ethylene Oxide Sterilization Processes (May 11, 2000) Available from, as of July 21, 2008: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/updates/ethyster.html
On August 19, 2004, an explosion at /a contract medical sterilization services/ ... ethylene oxide (EO) sterilization facility in Ontario, California, injured four workers and caused extensive damage to the 66,000 square-foot facility. Flying glass from the control room windows was responsible for all of the injuries, and both the facility structure and equipment sustained severe damage. The ... plant and neighboring facilities were evacuated, and plant operations were disrupted for 9 months. ... /The/ EO facility in Ontario performs services for manufacturers of a variety of medical products such as disposable syringes, urinary tract catheters, and cardiovascular stints and valves. The U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB) determined that maintenance personnel overrode safety devices and EO flowed through the ventilation system from a sterilizer to an open-flame catalytic oxidizer (oxidizer) where it ignited. The flame traveled back to the sterilizer chamber through the ventilation system ducting and ignited a large volume of EO in the chamber. The investigation identified the following root causes: Engineering controls installed at the facility did not prevent an explosive concentration of ethylene oxide (EO) from reaching the oxidizer. Employees did not understand the hazards associated with the process. This CSB report makes recommendations to Sterigenics International, Inc., the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), and others.
U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board; Investigation Report No. 2004-11-I-CA Sterigenics (4 Employees Injured) 59 p. (August 19, 2004) Available from, as of July 22, 2008: https://www.csb.gov/completed_investigations/docs/CSBSterigenicsFinalReport.pdf
A Chessie System freight train derailed in a wooded, rural area near Woodland Park, Michigan in February 1978. Four tank cars were damaged, spilling approx 300,000 lb of vinylidene chloride, 330,000 lb of phenol, and 125,000 lb of ethylene oxide. Most of the phenol, which had solidified on the surface, was removed by a cleanup contractor although residual phenol remained in the soil. The ethylene oxide vaporized, posing no groundwater contamination problems. The vinylidene chloride percolated through the sandy soils into the groundwater about 50 ft below the ground surface. Vinylidene chloride concentrations as high as 300 mg/L were found in monitoring wells near the derailment site. The groundwater cleanup program was completed over a three yr period. ...
Posthuma AR et al; 1983 Nat Conf Environ Engin p.775-82 (1983)

13.11.3 Special Reports

NIOSH; NIOSH Publication No. 2007-164: Preventing Worker Injuries and Deaths from Explosions in Industrial Ethylene Oxide Sterilization Facilities (Revised Edition) 40 pp. (August 2007). This Alert informs owners, managers, supervisors, engineers, safety professionals, and workers about the explosions, injuries, and deaths that may occur at industrial industrial ethylene oxide (EtO) sterilization facilities and repackaging plants. Steps are recommended for preventing these explosions. This supersedes NIOSH Publication 2000-119.
USEPA/Office of Pesticide Programs; Reregistration Eligibility Decision Document - Ethylene Oxide EPA 738-R-08-003 (March 2008). This document provides a thorough review of the scientific data underlying ethylene oxide's registration and fulfills the EPA's requirement to determine whether pesticides containing the active ingredient pebulate are eligible for reregistration before calling in data on products.
ATSDR; Medical Management for Ethylene Oxide CAS 75-21-8; UN 1040. 19 pp. Provides background information on the toxicity and sources of exposure to ethylene oxide as well as medical managements for patients exposed in an emergency situation and their follow-up care.
European Chemicals Bureau; IUCLID Dataset, Ethylene Oxide (CAS # 75-21-8) p. 71 (2000 CD-ROM edition) contains information on use, toxicology, and environmental effects of this chemical as supplied to the European Union by industry.
For more Special Reports (Complete) data for ETHYLENE OXIDE (11 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

14 Toxicity

14.1 Toxicological Information

14.1.1 Toxicity Summary

IDENTIFICATION: Ethylene oxide is a colorless, high reactive gas at room temperature and pressure. It used in the manufacture of ethylene glycol and surfactants. It used in the manufacture of surfactants. Ethylene oxide is also used as a sterilant for health care materials and other heat-sensitive products. HUMAN EXPOSURE: Ethylene oxide is rapidly taken up via the lungs, distributed, and metabolized to ethylene glycol and to glutathione conjugates. Ethylene oxide can be absorbed though the skin from the gas phase or from aqueous solutions and is uniformly distributed throughout the body. Ethylene oxide is an alkylating agent and forms protein and DNA adducts. Hemoglobin adducts have been used for biomonitoring. Based on studies primarily in occupationally exposed populations, ethylene oxide is an ocular, respiratory, and dermal irritant and a sensitizing agent. Neurological effects (primarily sensorimotor polyneuropathy) have been observed in workers exposed to relatively high concentrations. The route of likely greatest exposure and focus of the human health is inhalation from air. There is some evidence of an association between exposure to ethylene oxide and the development of haematological cancers in epidemiological studies of occupationally exposed populations, limitations of the data preclude definitive conclusions. There is consistent evidence that ethylene oxide has induced clastogenic changes in exposed workers. ANIMAL/PLANT STUDIES: The acute inhalation toxicity of ethylene oxide in rodents and dogs is low. In inhalation studies, ethylene oxide has induced a wide range of tumours (e.g., leukaemia, lymohoma, brain, lung). Ethylene oxide induces gene mutations at all phylogenetic levels tested in vitro and in vivo. It also induces germ cell mutations and clastogenic effects in experimental animals. In experimental animals, ethylene oxide is fetotoxic in the presence and absence of maternal toxicity at concentrations higher than those associated with cancer and other non-cancer (i.e., neurological) effects; it is teratogenic only at very high concentrations (above about 1600 mg/m3). Evidence from epidemiological studies of reproductive effects (primarily spontaneous abortions) of ethylene oxide in humans is limited. In experimental animals, among non-neoplastic effects, reproductive effects occur at lowest concentration (>90 mg/m3). These include reductions in litter size, increased post-implantation losses, alterations in sperm morphology, and changes in sperm count and motility. Available data on the non-neoplastic effects of repeated exposure to ethylene oxide in studies are limited, with past focus being primarily on the carcinogenicity of the compound. Reported effects in studies in animals were restricted primarily to those on the hematological and nervous systems.
International Programme on Chemical Safety; Poisons Information Monograph: Ethylene Oxide (PIM) (1999) Available from, as of May 16, 2008: https://www.inchem.org/pages/pims.html
Ethylene oxide is an alkylating agent. The addition of alkyl groups to proteins, DNA, and RNA by binding to the sulfhydryl and hydroxyl, amino, and carboxyl groups, prevents normal cellular metabolism and ultimately kills cells. It is likely that the carcinogenicity of ethylene oxide in laboratory animals arises primarily as a result of its direct alkylation of DNA and RNA. In vivo exposure to ethylene oxide induced mutations (5- to 5.6-fold) at the Hprt locus in splenic T-lymphocytes in rats and mice.

14.1.2 EPA IRIS Information

Toxicity Summary
EPA IRIS Summary PDF (Update: Dec-16-2016 )
Cancer Sites

Immune

Reproductive

14.1.3 RAIS Toxicity Values

Inhalation Unit Risk (IUR) (ug/m^3)^-1
0.003
Inhalation Unit Risk Reference
IRIS Current
Inhalation Acute Reference Concentration (RfCa) (mg/m^3)
0.72
Inhalation Acute Reference Concentration Reference
ATSDR Final
Inhalation Chronic Reference Concentration (RfC) (mg/m^3)
0.03
Inhalation Chronic Reference Concentration Reference
CALEPA
Inhalation Subchronic Reference Concentration (RfCs) (mg/m^3)
0.13
Inhalation Subchronic Reference Concentration Reference
ATSDR Final
Inhalation Short-term Reference Concentration (RfCt) (mg/m^3)
0.13
Inhalation Short-term Reference Concentration Reference
ATSDR Final
Oral Slope Factor (CSFo)(mg/kg-day)^-1
0.31
Oral Slope Factor Reference
CALEPA

14.1.4 NIOSH Toxicity Data

14.1.5 Evidence for Carcinogenicity

A2; Suspected human carcinogen.
American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists TLVs and BEIs. Threshold Limit Values for Chemical Substances and Physical Agents and Biological Exposure Indices. Cincinnati, OH, 2008, p. 30
Evaluation: There is limited evidence in humans for the carcinogenicity of ethylene oxide. There is sufficient evidence in experimental animals for the carcinogenicity of ethylene oxide. In making the overall evaluation, the Working Group took into consideration the following supporting evidence. Ethylene oxide is a directly acting alkylating agent that: (1) induces a sensitive, persistent dose-related increase in the frequency of chromosomal aberrations and sister chromatid exchange in peripheral lymphocytes and micronuclei in bone marrow cells of exposed workers; (2) has been associated with malignancies of the lymphatic and hematopoietic system in both humans and experimental animals; (3) induces a dose related increase in the frequency of hemoglobin adducts in exposed humans and dose related increases in the numbers of adducts in DNA and hemoglobin in exposed rodents; (4) induces gene mutations and heritable translocations in germ cells of exposed rodents; and (5) is a powerful mutagen and clastogen at all phylogenetic levels. Overall evaluation: Ethylene oxide is carcinogenic to humans (Group 1).
IARC. Monographs on the Evaluation of the Carcinogenic Risk of Chemicals to Humans. Geneva: World Health Organization, International Agency for Research on Cancer, 1972-PRESENT. (Multivolume work). Available at: https://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Classification/index.php, p. 60 139 (1994)
Ethylene Oxide: known to be a human carcinogen.
DHHS/National Toxicology Program; Eleventh Report on Carcinogens: Ethylene Oxide (75-21-8) (January 2005). Available from, as of July 31, 2009: https://ntp.niehs.nih.gov/ntp/roc/eleventh/profiles/s085ethy.pdf

14.1.6 Carcinogen Classification

1 of 3
IARC Carcinogenic Agent
Ethylene oxide
IARC Carcinogenic Classes
Group 1: Carcinogenic to humans
IARC Monographs

Volume Sup 7: Overall Evaluations of Carcinogenicity: An Updating of IARC Monographs Volumes 1 to 42, 1987; 440 pages; ISBN 92-832-1411-0 (out of print)

Volume 60: (1994) Some Industrial Chemicals

Volume 97: (2008) 1,3-Butadiene, Ethylene Oxide and Vinyl Halides (Vinyl Fluoride, Vinyl Chloride and Vinyl Bromide)

Volume 100F: (2012) Chemical Agents and Related Occupations

Additional information
NB Overall evaluation upgraded to Group 1 based on mechanistic and other relevant data
2 of 3
NTP Technical Report
TR-326: Toxicology and Carcinogenesis Studies of Ethylene Oxide (CASRN 75-21-8) in B6C3F1 Mice (Inhalation Studies) (1987 )
Peer Review Date
Conclusion for Male Rat
Chemical Not Tested in Species/Sex Chemical Not Tested in Species/Sex
Conclusion for Female Rat
Chemical Not Tested in Species/Sex Chemical Not Tested in Species/Sex
Conclusion for Male Mice
Clear Evidence Clear Evidence
Conclusion for Female Mice
Clear Evidence Clear Evidence
Summary
Under the conditions of these 2-year inhalation studies, there was clear evidence of carcinogenic activity for B6C3F1 mice as indicated by dose-related increased incidences of benign or malignant neoplasms of the lung and benign neoplasms of the harderian gland in both male and female B6C3F1 mice following exposure to ethylene oxide vapors at 50 and 100 ppm. In female mice, ethylene oxide caused additional malignant neoplasms of the uterus, mammary gland, and hematopoietic system (lymphoma).
3 of 3
Carcinogen Classification
1, carcinogenic to humans. (L135)

14.1.7 Health Effects

At high doses (>200 ppm) ethylene oxide irritates mucous membranes of the nose and throat; higher concentrations cause damage to the trachea and bronchi, progressing into the partial collapse of the lungs. High concentrations can cause pulmonary edema and damage the cardiovascular system. Because the odor threshold for ethylene oxide varies between 250 and 700 ppm, the gas will already be at toxic concentrations when it can be smelled. Ethylene oxide is carcinogenic, mutagenic and an irritant. With chronic low doses, an increased incidence of brain tumors and mononuclear cell leukemia was found in rats that had inhaled ethylene oxide at concentrations of 10, 33, or 100 mL/m3 over a period of two years. Studies of workers exposed to ethylene oxide in ethylene oxide factories or hospital sterilizing rooms have shown an increased incidence of leukemia, stomach cancer, cancer of the pancreas and Hodgkin's disease.

14.1.8 Exposure Routes

The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation and through the skin.
inhalation, ingestion, (liquid), skin and/or eye contact
Inhalation, Dermal

14.1.9 Symptoms

Inhalation Exposure
Cough. Drowsiness. Headache. Nausea. Sore throat. Vomiting. Weakness.
Skin Exposure
MAY BE ABSORBED! Frostbite. Redness. Pain.
Eye Exposure
Redness. Pain. Blurred vision.
irritation eyes, skin, nose, throat; peculiar taste; headache; nausea, vomiting, diarrhea; dyspnea (breathing difficulty), cyanosis, pulmonary edema; drowsiness, lassitude (weakness, exhaustion), incoordination; EKG abnormal; eye, skin burns (liquid or high vapor concentration); liquid: frostbite; reproductive effects; ; In Animals: convulsions; liver, kidney damage [potential occupational carcinogen]
The major effects seen in workers exposed to ethylene oxide at low levels for several months or years are irritation of the eyes, skin, and mucous membranes and problems in the functioning of the brain and nerves. Acute exposure leads to central nervous system effects. Headache, nausea and vomiting are often evident. Peripheral neuropathy, impaired hand-eye coordination and memory loss have been reported in more recent case studies of chronically-exposed workers at estimated average exposure levels as low as 3 ppm. Ethylene oxide easily penetrates through the clothing and footwear, causing skin irritation and dermatitis with the formation of blisters, fever and leukocytosis. High concentrations can cause pulmonary edema and damage the cardiovascular system.

14.1.10 Target Organs

Cancer, Developmental (effects during periods when organs are developing) , Endocrine (Glands and Hormones), Hematological (Blood Forming), Neurological (Nervous System), Reproductive (Producing Children), Respiratory (From the Nose to the Lungs)
Eyes, skin, respiratory system, liver, central nervous system, blood, kidneys, reproductive system

14.1.11 Cancer Sites

Immune

Reproductive

[peritoneal cancer, leukemia]

14.1.12 Adverse Effects

Neurotoxin - Sensorimotor

Occupational hepatotoxin - Secondary hepatotoxins: the potential for toxic effect in the occupational setting is based on cases of poisoning by human ingestion or animal experimentation.

Reproductive Toxin - A chemical that is toxic to the reproductive system, including defects in the progeny and injury to male or female reproductive function. Reproductive toxicity includes developmental effects. See Guidelines for Reproductive Toxicity Risk Assessment.

Dermatotoxin - Skin burns.

Skin Sensitizer - An agent that can induce an allergic reaction in the skin.

Asthma - Reversible bronchoconstriction (narrowing of bronchioles) initiated by the inhalation of irritating or allergenic agents.

Toxic Pneumonitis - Inflammation of the lungs induced by inhalation of metal fumes or toxic gases and vapors.

IARC Carcinogen - Class 1: International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies chemicals as established human carcinogens.

NTP Carcinogen - Known to be a human carcinogen.

ACGIH Carcinogen - Suspected Human.

14.1.13 Acute Effects

14.1.14 Toxicity Data

LC50 (rat) = 800 ppm/4H
Ethylene oxide is toxic by inhalation with an U.S. OSHA permissible exposure limit calculated over 8 hours of 1 ppm, and a short term exposure over 15 minutes of 5 ppm.

14.1.15 Minimum Risk Level

<1 ppm

14.1.16 Treatment

There is no antidote for ethylene oxide poisoning. Treatment is supportive of respiratory and cardiovascular functions.

14.1.17 Interactions

Cell transformation in vitro of C3H/10T1/2 cells, using gamma-radiation and ethylene oxide, in both the absence and presence of the cancer promoter, 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13- acetate, was studied. 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate promotes transformation of C3H/10T1/2 cells to the same extent. In the dose ranges studied the average enhancement of the transformation frequency was 2.4 and 2.5 for ethylene oxide and gamma-radiation, respectively. The rad-equivalence of ethylene oxide in the presence of 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate was calculated to be 75 + or - 52 rad/mMh (95% confidence interval) which is consistent with the value 78 + or - 14 rad/mMh (95% confidence interval) obtained without 12-O-teradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate treatment.
Kolman A et al; Toxicol Lett 53 (3): 307-13 (1990)

14.1.18 Antidote and Emergency Treatment

Establish and maintain vital functions. ... Administer warm humidified oxygen and bronchodilators, if needed. Treat cardiac dysrhythmias and control convulsions with standard treatments. Monitor for several hours after exposure. Significant exposure usually causes effects that indicate hospital admission.
Dart, R.C. (ed). Medical Toxicology. Third Edition, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. Philadelphia, PA. 2004., p. 1245
Immediate first aid: Ensure that adequate decontamination has been carried out. If patient is not breathing, start artificial respiration, preferably with a demand-valve resuscitator, bag-valve-mask device, or pocket mask, as trained. Perform CPR as necessary. Immediately flush contaminated eyes with gently flowing water. Do not induce vomiting. If vomiting occurs, lean patient forward or place on left side (head-down position, if possible) to maintain an open airway and prevent aspiration. Keep patient quiet and maintain normal body temperature. Obtain medical attention. /Ethylene oxide and related compounds/
Currance, P.L. Clements, B., Bronstein, A.C. (Eds).; Emergency Care For Hazardous Materials Exposure. 3Rd edition, Elsevier Mosby, St. Louis, MO 2005, p. 280
Basic treatment: Establish a patent airway (oropharyngeal or nasopharyngeal airway, if needed). Suction if necessary. Watch for signs of respiratory insufficiency and assist ventilations if necessary. Administer oxygen by nonrebreather mask at 10 to 15 L/min. Monitor for pulmonary edema and treat if necessary ... . Anticipate seizures and treat if necessary ... . For eye contamination, flush eyes immediately with water. Irrigate each eye continuously with 0.9% saline (NS) during transport ... . Do not use emetics. For ingestion, rinse mouth and administer 5 ml/kg up to 200 ml of water for dilution if the patient can swallow, has a strong gag reflex, and does not drool. Administer activated charcoal ... . Cover skin burns with sterile dressings after decontamination ... . Treat frostbite with rapid rewarming techniques ... . /Ethylene oxide and related compounds/
Currance, P.L. Clements, B., Bronstein, A.C. (Eds).; Emergency Care For Hazardous Materials Exposure. 3Rd edition, Elsevier Mosby, St. Louis, MO 2005, p. 280-1
Advanced treatment: Consider orotracheal or nasotracheal intubation for airway control in the patient who is unconscious, has severe pulmonary edema, or is in severe respiratory distress. Positive-pressure ventilation techniques with a bag-valve-mask device may be beneficial. Consider drug therapy for pulmonary edema ... . Monitor cardiac rhythm and treat arrhythmias if necessary. Start IV administration of D5W /SRP: "To keep open", minimal flow rate/. Use 0.9% saline (NS) or lactated Ringer's (LR) if signs of hypovolemia are present. For hypotension with signs of hypovolemia, administer fluid cautiously. Watch for signs of fluid overload ... . Treat seizures with diazepam or lorazepam ... . Use proparacaine hydrochloride to assist eye irrigation ... . /Ethylene oxide and related compounds/
Currance, P.L. Clements, B., Bronstein, A.C. (Eds).; Emergency Care For Hazardous Materials Exposure. 3Rd edition, Elsevier Mosby, St. Louis, MO 2005, p. 281
For more Antidote and Emergency Treatment (Complete) data for ETHYLENE OXIDE (7 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

14.1.19 Medical Surveillance

For those with frequent or potentially high exposure (half the TLV or greater), the following are recommended before beginning work and at regular times after that: Lung function tests. If symptoms develop or overexposure is suspected, the following may be useful: Consider chest x-ray after acute overexposure. Evaluation by a qualified allergist, including careful exposure history and special testing, may help disagnose skin allergy. Liver and kidney function tests.
Sittig, M. Handbook of Toxic and Hazardous Chemicals and Carcinogens, 2002. 4th ed.Vol 1 A-H Norwich, NY: Noyes Publications, 2002., p. 1100
Biological monitoring of ethylene oxide exposure by analysis of alveolar air and blood was studied in 10 workers employed in a hospital sterilizer unit. Environmental air, alveolar air, and venous blood were sampled during and at the end of an 8 hr workshift. The mean environmental concentration of ethylene oxide was 5.4 mg/cu m air and the mean alveolar ethylene oxide concentration was 1.2 mg/cu m alveolar air. Regression analysis showed that blood ethylene oxide concentrations were higher than environmental ethylene oxide concentrations by a mean ratio of 3 and higher than alveolar ethylene oxide concentrations by a mean ratio of 12.
Brugnone F et al; Int Arch Occup Environ Health 58: 105-12 (1986)
PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": Whenever medical surveillance is indicated, in particular when exposure to a carcinogen has occurred, ad hoc decisions should be taken concerning ... /cytogenetic and/or other/ tests that might become useful or mandatory. /Chemical Carcinogens/
Montesano, R., H. Bartsch, E.Boyland, G. Della Porta, L. Fishbein, R. A. Griesemer, A.B. Swan, L. Tomatis, and W. Davis (eds.). Handling Chemical Carcinogens in the Laboratory: Problems of Safety. IARC Scientific Publications No. 33. Lyon, France: International Agency for Research on Cancer, 1979., p. 23
The 1984 OSHA standard for ethylene oxide (EtO) mandates medical surveillance under various circumstances. When performed medical surveillance for EtO must include a complete blood count (CBC) with differential leukocyte count. This requirement is based on reports of EtO associated absolute lymphocytosis and other hematologic effects. This paper describes experiences in providing EtO medical surveillance for a 300 bed hospital over a 6 year period. An apparent relative lymphocytosis which persisted over 3-4 years in sterilization workers with documented TWA personal EtO exposures averaging 0.07 ppm /was observed/. In addition three workers had a history of acutely toxic overexposure to EtO as a result of a sterilizer malfunction. These workers became symptomatic following the high accidental overexposure but did not show absolute lymphocytosis or altered patterns in the relative lymphocytosis. Finally a cross-sectional comparison of the CBC data from the EtO exposed workers to data from non-EtO exposed hospital workers showed no significant differences ruling out an association of the relative lymphocytosis with EtO exposure. These observations led us to review the basis for the inclusion of the CBC in routine EtO medical surveillance. /Such/ experience, review of the literature on EtO associated lymphocytosis and anemia, and review of the literature on the use of the CBC with differential as screening test suggest that the leukocyte differential may not be useful in routine medical surveillance for EtO exposure.
LaMontagne AD et al; Am J Ind Med; 24 (2): 191-206 (1993)
For more Medical Surveillance (Complete) data for ETHYLENE OXIDE (7 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

14.1.20 Human Toxicity Excerpts

/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ Ethylene oxide is a highly reactive alkylating agent that reacts with many constituents of tissue resulting in cellular and tissue dysfunction and destruction. Evidence for human exposure to this chemical is the presence of ethylene oxide adducts of DNA and hemoglobin. Direct contact with liquid ethylene oxide or solutions of ethylene oxide produces immediate local irritation of skin and mucous membranes. Inhalation of high concentrations of ethylene oxide can cause CNS depression or pulmonary edema. The onset of symptoms may be delayed for up to 72 hours.
ATSDR; Medical Management for Ethylene Oxide CAS 75-21-8; UN 1040. 19 pp. Available from, as of July 21, 2008: https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/MHMI/mmg137.html
/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ Initially, ethylene oxide affects the nose and throat. Concentrations as low as 200 ppm produce rapid onset of nose and throat irritation. Higher concentrations may cause inflammation of the lining in the trachea and bronchi, narrowing of the bronchi, and partial lung collapse. Accumulation of fluid in the lungs may evolve up to 72 hours after exposure. Severe respiratory distress may lead to cardiovascular collapse.
ATSDR; Medical Management for Ethylene Oxide CAS 75-21-8; UN 1040. 19 pp. Available from, as of July 21, 2008: https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/MHMI/mmg137.html
/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ Ethylene oxide is a CNS depressant. High-dose exposures can result in diverse neurologic manifestations including seizures, loss of consciousness, and coma. Onset of neurologic signs and symptoms may be delayed 6 hours or more after exposure. Respiratory paralysis and delayed peripheral nerve damage have been reported after massive exposure.
ATSDR; Medical Management for Ethylene Oxide CAS 75-21-8; UN 1040. 19 pp. Available from, as of July 21, 2008: https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/MHMI/mmg137.html
/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ Exposure to low vapor concentrations of ethylene oxide can result in nausea and vomiting, which is often delayed.
ATSDR; Medical Management for Ethylene Oxide CAS 75-21-8; UN 1040. 19 pp. Available from, as of July 21, 2008: https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/MHMI/mmg137.html
For more Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for ETHYLENE OXIDE (81 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

14.1.21 Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ Exposure of animals to high concn of the gas has caused lacrimation in cats, and inflammation of the conjunctiva and clouding of the cornea in dogs, cats, rabbits, and especially guinea pigs.
Grant, W.M. Toxicology of the Eye. 3rd ed. Springfield, IL: Charles C. Thomas Publisher, 1986., p. 419
/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ When ethylene oxide/saline solutions of varied concentrations (0.1% to > 20%) were applied repeatedly over a 6-hour period to the eyes of rabbits, a dose-dependent increase in congestion, swelling, discharge, iritis, and corneal cloudiness was observed. These effects were an indication of the irritating effect of ethylene oxide on mucous membranes and corneal epithelium. The 0.1% ethylene oxide concentration was the maximum, nondamaging concentration of this chemical for the 6 hour exposure period.
American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists. Documentation of the TLV's and BEI's with Other World Wide Occupational Exposure Values. CD-ROM Cincinnati, OH 45240-1634 2007.
/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ Infusion of ethylene oxide into the aorta of rats caused a significant decrease (approximately 30%) in kidney glomerular filtration rates, resulting in kidney dysfunction.
American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists. Documentation of the TLV's and BEI's with Other World Wide Occupational Exposure Values. CD-ROM Cincinnati, OH 45240-1634 2007.
/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ When freshly prepared aqueous solutions (2 to 5%) were injected intravenously into dogs, the LD50 was found to be about 125 mg/kg. A dose of 30 mg/kg or more usually caused vomiting and defecation for about 2 hr, followed by weakness and flaccidity, usually apparent in the hind limbs first. Doses up to 100 mg/kg in dogs under barbiturate anesthesia caused no apparent changes in blood pressure or cardiac rate. Respiration is adequate until terminal stages, when it becomes labored and cyanosis develops. Tonic extensor spasm may precede respiratory cessation. Since the heart usually beats after all reflexes disappear, death is believed due to respiratory failure .
Clayton, G. D. and F. E. Clayton (eds.). Patty's Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology: Volume 2A, 2B, 2C: Toxicology. 3rd ed. New York: John Wiley Sons, 1981-1982., p. 2172
For more Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for ETHYLENE OXIDE (85 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

14.1.22 Human Toxicity Values

No effect level: 5-10 ppm, during 10 yr; severe toxic effects: 60 min 250 ppm= 450 mg/cu m; symptoms of illness: 100 ppm= 180 mg/cu m; unsatisfactory >10 ppm= 18 mg/cu m
Verschueren, K. Handbook of Environmental Data of Organic Chemicals. 2nd ed. New York, NY: Van Nostrand Reinhold Co., 1983., p. 654-655

14.1.23 Non-Human Toxicity Values

LD50 Rat (male) oral 330 mg/kg /From table/
USEPA/OPPTS; Revised Ethylene Oxide HED Risk Assessment for Reregistration Eligibility Document (RED) p.11 EPA-HQ-OPP-2005-0203-0100 (May 2007). Available from, as of July 21, 2008: https://www.regulations.gov/search/Regs/home.html#home
LD50 Rat oral 72 mg/kg bw
European Chemicals Bureau; IUCLID Dataset, Ethylene Oxide (CAS # 75-21-8) p. 41 (2000 CD-ROM edition). Available from, as of July 9, 2008: https://esis.jrc.ec.europa.eu/
LD50 Mouse male oral 280 mg/kg bw
European Chemicals Bureau; IUCLID Dataset, Ethylene Oxide (CAS # 75-21-8) p. 42 (2000 CD-ROM edition). Available from, as of July 9, 2008: https://esis.jrc.ec.europa.eu/
LD50 Mouse female oral 365 mg/kg bw
European Chemicals Bureau; IUCLID Dataset, Ethylene Oxide (CAS # 75-21-8) p. 43 (2000 CD-ROM edition). Available from, as of July 9, 2008: https://esis.jrc.ec.europa.eu/
For more Non-Human Toxicity Values (Complete) data for ETHYLENE OXIDE (19 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

14.1.24 Ongoing Test Status

The following link will take the user to the National Toxicology Program (NTP) Test Agent Search Results page, which tabulates all of the "Standard Toxicology & Carcinogenesis Studies", "Developmental Studies", and "Genetic Toxicity Studies" performed with this chemical. Clicking on the "Testing Status" link will take the user to the status (i.e., in review, in progress, in preparation, on test, completed, etc.) and results of all the studies that the NTP has done on this chemical.[Available from: http://ntp-apps.niehs.nih.gov/ntp_tox/index.cfm?fuseaction=ntpsearch.searchresults&searchterm=75-21-8]

14.1.25 National Toxicology Program Studies

... Toxicology and carcinogenesis studies of ethylene oxide (greater than 99% pure) were conducted by exposing groups of 50 B6C3F1 mice of each sex to air containing 0, 50, or 100 ppm ethylene oxide, 6 hours per day, 5 days per week for 102 wk. ... Conclusions: Under the conditions of these 2 yr inhalation studies, there was clear evidence of carcinogenic activity for B6C3F1 mice as indicated by dose related incr incidences of benign or malignant neoplasms of the lung and benign neoplasms of the harderian gland in both male and female B6C3F1 mice following exposure to ethylene oxide vapors at 50 and 100 ppm. In female mice, ethylene oxide caused additional malignant neoplasms of the uterus, mammary gland, and hematopoietic system (lymphoma).
Toxicology & Carcinogenesis Studies of Ethylene Oxide in B6C3F1 Mice (Inhalation Studies). Technical Report Series No. 326 (1987) NIH Publication No. 88-2582 U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Toxicology Program, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709
Ethylene oxide (ETO) ... was evaluated for toxic and teratogenic effects in artificially inseminated New Zealand white (NZW) rabbits which were matched for body weight across treatment groups on gestational day (gd) 0. Ethylene oxide in 5% dextrose was administered daily in a volume of 1 ml/kg of body weight on gestational day 6 through 14 at dosages of 0, 9, 18 or 36 mg/kg/day, iv, or on gestational day 6 through 9 at dosages of 0, 18 or 36 mg/kg/day, iv. ... Administration of ethylene oxide (0, 9, 18 or 36 mg/kg/day, iv) on gestational days 6-14 resulted in mortality rates of 0% (0/27), 8.3% (2/24), 4.2% (1/24) and 22.2% (6/27), for the control through high-dose groups, respectively. Measures of maternal body weight (gestational days 14 and 30), maternal weight gain (i.e., weight gain during gestation, weight gain during treatment and absolute weight gain) and gravid uterine weight were each decreased in a dose-related manner. Examination of uterine contents on gestational day 30 revealed significant dose-related increases in the percentage of resorptions, nonlive and affected fetuses per litter. Average live litter size was decreased in a dose-related manner, as was the percentage of males per litter. No evidence of a treatment-related teratogenic effect observed, even at dosages which produced maternal and fetal toxicity. Maternal toxicity related to ethylene oxide (0, 18 or 36 mg/kg/day, iv) administered on gestational days 6-9 was limited to localized inflammation at the injection site for 1/23 confirmed-pregnant females in the high-dose group. Maternal weight gain during treatment and during gestation were reduced in a dose-related manner, but absolute maternal weight gain was not affected. At sacrifice on gestational day 30, examination of the uterine contents failed to reveal any evidence of a fetotoxic or teratogenic effect. In conclusion, no evidence for a teratogenic effect of ethylene oxide was observed when the compound was administered intravenously to NZW rabbits on gestational days 6-14 or gestational days 6-9 of gestation.
Department of Health & Human Services/National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Toxicology Program; Teratologic Evaluation of Ethylene oxide (CAS No. 75-21-8) in New Zealand White Rabbits, NTP Study No. TER82078 (April 18, 1983) Available from, as of August 16, 2002: https://ntp.niehs.nih.gov/index.cfm?objectid=0847FF31-90CC-C685-88B4D7EAC975BD44

14.1.26 TSCA Test Submissions

Chronic toxicity was evaluated in rats from the Army Chemical Center's Chemical Corps Medical Laboratories colony (20 animals) exposed to 100 ppm ethylene oxide via inhalation for 6 hrs/day for 6 months. The exposed animals showed no toxic signs. No significant effects were observed in weight gain, rectal temperature, EKG's, blood calcium and urea, or bilirubin. Mortalities for exposed and control rats were 3 out of 20 and 3 out of 20, respectively.
Army Chemical Center; The Chronic Toxicity of Inhaled Ethylene Oxide. (1955), EPA Document No. 878211697, Fiche No. 205856
Chronic toxicity was evaluated in mice from the Army Chemical Center's Chemical Corps Medical Laboratories colony (30 animals) exposed to 100 ppm ethylene oxide via inhalation for 6 hrs/day for 6 months. The exposed animals showed no toxic signs. No significant effects were observed in weight gain, rectal temperature, EKG's, blood calcium and urea, or bilirubin. Mortalities for exposed and control mice were 8 out of 30 and 4 out of 30, respectively.
Army Chemical Center; The Chronic Toxicity of Inhaled Ethylene Oxide. (1955), EPA Document No. 878211697, Fiche No. 205856
In a one-generation teratology study, pregnant female Fischer 344 rats (21-22/group) were exposed to ethylene oxide by inhalation at nominal concentrations of 0, 10, 33 or 100 ppm for 6 hrs on gestation days (GD) 6-15. The only treatment-related effect noted was a significant decrease in male and female fetal body weight relative to fetuses in control groups. No significant differences between treated and control animals were observed in the following: maternal and fetal survival, number of implantation and resorption sites, number of preimplantation losses, crown-to-rump length, the results of examination of all the fetuses for gross external abnormalities and half of each litter for visceral abnormalities and the other half for skeletal abnormalities.
Carnegie-Mellon University; Ethylene Oxide Teratology Study. (1979), EPA Document No. 878213864, Fiche No. OTS0206333
Chronic toxicity and oncogenicity were evaluated in groups of male and female Fischer 344 rats (120/sex/group) exposed to ethylene oxide via inhalation at 0, 10, 33 and 100 ppm for 6 hrs/day, 5 days/week for approximately 2 yrs. There was a statistically significant difference between treated animals and controls in the following: mortality (increased for both sexes at 100 ppm), body weight (decreased in males at 100 ppm and females at 100 and 33 ppm), mononuclear cell leukemia (increased in all treated female groups), peritoneal mesothelioma (increased in males at 100 and 33 ppm), cumulative percentage of pituitary adenoma (increased in females at 100 ppm), number of neoplasms/neoplasm bearing rats (increased for all treated rats, especially females), and number of rats with malignant neoplasms (increased in females at 100 and 33 ppm). There were no statistically significant differences in the following: chromosomal aberrations, ophthalmic lesions, urinalysis, hematology, serum clinical chemistry, or histopathology of the testes in males.
Bushy Run Research Center; Ethylene Oxide Two-Year Inhalation Study on Rats, Final Report. (1981), EPA Document No. 878212152, Fiche No. 206028
For more TSCA Test Submissions (Complete) data for ETHYLENE OXIDE (7 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

14.1.27 Populations at Special Risk

Inherited genetic traits co-determine the susceptibility of an individual to a toxic chemical. ... The human polymorphic GST catalyzing conjugation of halomethanes, dihalomethanes, ethylene oxide and a number of other industrial compounds could be characterized as a class theta enzyme (GSTT1) by means of molecular biology. "Conjugator" and "non-conjugator" phenotypes are coincident with the presence and absence of the GSTT1 gene. There are wide variations in the frequencies of GSTT1 deletion (GSTT1*0/0) among different ethnicities. Human phenotyping is facilitated by the GST activity towards methyl bromide or ethylene oxide in erythrocytes which is representative of the metabolic GSTT1 competence of the entire organism. ...
Thier R et al; Int J Hyg Environ Health 206 (3): 149-71 (2003)

14.2 Ecological Information

14.2.1 Ecotoxicity Values

LC50; Species: Artemia sp. (Brine shrimp); Conditions: saltwater, static; Concentration: 350000 ug/L for 24 hr /formulated product/
Conway RA et al; Environ Sci & Technol 17 (2): 107-12 (1983) Available from, as of June 23, 2008
LC50; Species: Artemia sp. (Brine shrimp); Conditions: saltwater, static; Concentration: 490000 ug/L for 48 hr /formulated product/
Conway RA et al; Environ Sci & Technol 17 (2): 107-12 (1983) Available from, as of June 23, 2008
LC50; Species: Daphnia magna (Water flea); Conditions: freshwater, static; Concentration: 260000 ug/L for 24 hr /formulated product/
Conway RA et al; Environ Sci & Technol 17 (2): 107-12 (1983) Available from, as of June 23, 2008
LC50; Species: Daphnia magna (Water flea); Conditions: freshwater, static; Concentration: 137000 ug/L for 48 hr (95% confidence interval: 83000-179000 ug/L) /formulated product/
Conway RA et al; Environ Sci & Technol 17 (2): 107-12 (1983) Available from, as of June 23, 2008
For more Ecotoxicity Values (Complete) data for ETHYLENE OXIDE (10 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

14.2.2 US EPA Regional Screening Levels for Chemical Contaminants

Resident Soil (mg/kg)
2.00e-03
Industrial Soil (mg/kg)
2.50e-02
Resident Air (ug/m3)
3.40e-04
Industrial Air (ug/m3)
4.10e-03
Tapwater (ug/L)
6.70e-04
MCL (ug/L)
7.00e+02
Risk-based SSL (mg/kg)
1.4e-07
Oral Slope Factor (mg/kg-day)-1
3.10e-01
Inhalation Unit Risk (ug/m3)-1
3.00e-03
Chronic Inhalation Reference Concentration (mg/m3)
3.00e-02
Volatile
Volatile
Mutagen
Mutagen
Fraction of Contaminant Absorbed in Gastrointestinal Tract
1
Soil Saturation Concentration (mg/kg)
1.21e+05

14.2.3 US EPA Regional Removal Management Levels for Chemical Contaminants

Resident Soil (mg/kg)
2.00e-01
Industrial Soil (mg/kg)
2.50e+00
Resident Air (ug/m3)
3.40e-02
Industrial Air (ug/m3)
4.10e-01
Tapwater (ug/L)
6.70e-02
MCL (ug/L)
7.00e+02
Oral Slope Factor (mg/kg-day)-1
3.10e-01
Inhalation Unit Risk (ug/m3)-1
3.00e-03
Chronic Inhalation Reference Concentration (mg/m3)
3.00e-02
Volatile
Volatile
Mutagen
Mutagen
Fraction of Contaminant Absorbed in Gastrointestinal Tract
1
Soil Saturation Concentration (mg/kg)
1.21e+05

14.2.4 ICSC Environmental Data

The substance is harmful to aquatic organisms.

14.2.5 Environmental Fate / Exposure Summary

Ethylene oxide's production and use as a chemical intermediate and medical and foodstuff sterilizing agent may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. Its use as an agricultural fumigant will result in its direct release to the environment. If released to air, a vapor pressure of 1,310 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates ethylene oxide will exist solely as a gas in the atmosphere. Gas-phase ethylene oxide will be degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals; the half-life for this reaction in air is estimated to be 57 days. Ethylene oxide does not contain chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm and therefore is not expected to be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight. If released to soil, ethylene oxide is expected to have very high mobility based upon a Koc of 2.2. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon a Henry's Law constant of 1.48X10-4 atm-cu m/mole. Since ethylene oxide hydrolyzes to ethylene glycol which is readily biodegraded, the importance of biodegradation of ethylene oxide in aquatic environments is not able to be accurately assessed. If released into water, ethylene oxide is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment based upon the Koc. Volatilization from water surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon this compound's Henry's Law constant. Estimated volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 6 hours and 4 days, respectively. An estimated BCF of 3 suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low. Hydrolysis half-lives of 12-14 days for pH's between 5-7 in fresh water and 9-11 days in salt water indicate that hydrolysis may be an important environmental fate process. Occupational exposure to ethylene oxide may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where ethylene oxide is produced or used. (SRC)

14.2.6 Artificial Pollution Sources

Ethylene oxide's production and use as a chemical intermediate and medical and foodstuff sterilizing agent(1) may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams(SRC). Its use as an agricultural fumigant(2) will result in its direct release to the environment(SRC).
(1) Van Agteren MH et al; Handbook on biodegradation and biological treatment of hazardous organic compounds. Norwell, MA: Kluwer Acad Publ p. 39-45 (1998)
(2) O'Neil MJ, ed; The Merck Index. 14th ed Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., p. 651 (2006)

14.2.7 Environmental Fate

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), a Koc value of 2.2(2), indicates that ethylene oxide is expected to have very high mobility in soil(SRC). Volatilization of ethylene oxide from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process(SRC) given a Henry's Law constant of 1.48X10-4 atm-cu m/mole(3). Ethylene oxide is expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon a vapor pressure of 1.31X10+3 mm Hg(4). Since ethylene oxide hydrolyzes to ethylene glycol which is readily biodegraded, the importance of biodegradation of ethylene oxide in the environment is not able to be accurately assessed(3).
(1) Swann RL et al; Res Rev 85: 17-28 (1983)
(2) Chu W, Chan KH; Sci Total Environ 248: 1-10 (2000)
(3) Conway RA et al; Environ Sci Technol 17: 107-112 (1983)
(4) Daubert TE, Danner RP; Physical and Thermodynamic Properties of Pure Chemicals Data Compilation. Washington, DC: Taylor and Francis (1985)
AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), a Koc value of 2.2(2), indicates that ethylene oxide is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment(SRC). Volatilization from water surfaces is expected(3) based upon a Henry's Law constant of 1.48X10-4 atm-cu m/mole(4). Using this Henry's Law constant and an estimation method(3), volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 6 hours and 4 days, respectively(SRC). According to a classification scheme(5), an estimated BCF of 3(SRC), from its log Kow of -0.30(6) and a regression-derived equation(7), suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC). Since ethylene oxide hydrolyzes to ethylene glycol which is readily biodegraded, the importance of biodegradation of ethylene oxide in the environment is not able to be accurately assessed(4).
(1) Swann RL et al; Res Rev 85: 17-28 (1983)
(2) Chu W, Chan KH; Sci Total Environ 248: 1-10 (2000)
(3) Lyman WJ et al; Handbook of Chemical Property Estimation Methods. Washington, DC: Amer Chem Soc pp. 15-1 to 15-29 (1990)
(4) Conway RA et al; Environ Sci Technol 17: 107-112 (1983)
(5) Franke C et al; Chemosphere 29: 1501-14 (1994)
(6) Hansch C et al; Exploring QSAR. Hydrophobic, Electronic, and Steric Constants. ACS Prof Ref Book. Heller SR, consult. ed., Washington, DC: Amer Chem Soc p. 4 (1995)
(7) Meylan WM et al; Environ Toxicol Chem 18: 664-72 (1999)
ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), ethylene oxide, which has a vapor pressure of 1.13X10+3 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), is expected to exist solely as a gas in the ambient atmosphere. Gas-phase ethylene oxide is degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals(SRC); the half-life for this reaction in air is estimated to be 57 days(SRC), calculated from its rate constant of 7.6X10-14 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(3). Ethylene oxide does not contain chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm(4) and therefore is not expected to be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight(SRC). In a smog chamber experiment, 20% of the ethylene oxide degraded in 5.3 hr(5).
(1) Bidleman TF; Environ Sci Technol 22: 361-367 (1988)
(2) Daubert TE, Danner RP; Physical and Thermodynamic Properties of Pure Chemicals Data Compilation. Washington, DC: Taylor and Francis (1985)
(3) Atkinson R; J Chem Phys Ref Data Monograph 1 (1989)
(4) Lyman WJ et al; Handbook of Chemical Property Estimation Methods. Washington, DC: Amer Chem Soc pp. 8-12 (1990)
(5) Joshi SB et al; Atmos Environ 16: 1301-10 (1979)

14.2.8 Environmental Biodegradation

AEROBIC: In a dilution bottle test, ethylene oxide 3-5% degradation was observed after 5 days and 52% degradation was observed after 20 days(1,2). In a river die-away test, half-life measurements for ethylene oxide in sterile and natural river water were not appreciably different, owing to the hydrolytic degradation of ethylene oxide being more rapid than biodegradation in aqueous media(4). Since ethylene oxide hydrolyzes to ethylene glycol which is readily biodegraded, the importance of biodegradation of ethylene oxide in aquatic environments is not able to be accurately assessed(2). Ethylene oxide biodegradation rate constants measured at a full-scale wastewater treatment plant were 0.38 and 0.59 ug/min-g biomass(3).
(1) Bridie AL et al; Water Res 13:627-30 (1979)
(2) Conway RA et al; Environ Sci Technol 17: 107-12 (1983)
(3) Green D, Eklund B; Field assessment of the fate of volatile organics in aerated wastewater systems. pp. 478-86 in USEPA/9-87-015. (1987)
(4) ATSDR; Toxicological Profile for Ethylene Oxide. Atlanta, GA: Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, US Public Health Service. Dec, 1990. Available at https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxprofiles/tp137.html#bookmark07 as of July 10, 2008.
AEROBIC: Several bacteria were observed to transform ethene to ethylene oxide but cannot degrade the latter(1). Mycobacterium E20 and M. E44 acclimated to ethene converted ethylene oxide into acetyl-coenzyme A by an uncharacterized enzyme complex(1).
(1) Van Agteren MH et al; Handbook on biodegradation and biological treatment of hazardous organic compounds. Norwell, MA: Kluwer Acad Publ, p. 39-45 (1998)

14.2.9 Environmental Abiotic Degradation

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of ethylene oxide with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals is 7.6X10-14 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(1). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 57 days at an atmospheric concentration of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(1). A base-catalyzed second-order hydrolysis rate constant of 1.7X10-2 L/mole-sec(SRC) was estimated using a structure estimation method(2); this corresponds to a half-life of 13 years at pH 7(2). Ethylene oxide hydrolyzes slowly in fresh and salt water to give ethylene glycol and ethylene chlorohydrin(3). The half-life for this reaction is 12-14 days for pH's between 5-7 in fresh water(3-5) and 9-11 days in salt water(3). The ratio of chlorohydrin to glycol formed was found to be 0.11 and 0.23 in 1% and 3% sodium chloride solutions respectively(3). The hydrolysis rate is increased considerably in acidic or basic solutions(4). Ethylene oxide does not contain chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm(6) and therefore is not expected to be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight(SRC). Earlier smog chamber experiments with both natural and artificial illumination are consistent with a slowly degrading compound(8). In one smog chamber experiment, 20% of the ethylene oxide degraded in 5.3 hr(7).
(1) Atkinson R; J Chem Ref Data, Monograph 1 (1989)
(2) Mill T et al; Environmental Fate and Exposure Studies Development of a PC-SAR for Hydrolysis: Esters, Alkyl Halides and Epoxides. EPA Contract No. 68-02-4254. Menlo Park, CA: SRI International (1987)
(3) Conway RA et al; Environ Sci Technol 17:107-12 (1983)
(4) Bogyo DA et al; Investigation of selected environmental contaminants: Epoxides. USEPA-560/11-80-005 p 69-96 (1980)
(5) Mabey W, Mill T; J Phys Chem Ref Data 7:383-415 (1978)
(6) Lyman WJ et al; Handbook of Chemical Property Estimation Methods. Washington, DC: Amer Chem Soc pp. 8-12 (1990)
(7) Joshi SB et al; Atmos Environ 16: 1301-10 (1979)
(8) Cupitt LT; Atmospheric persistence of Eight Air Toxics. USEPA-600/S3-87/004 (1987)

14.2.10 Environmental Bioconcentration

An estimated BCF of 3 was calculated in fish for ethylene oxide(SRC), using a log Kow of -0.30(1) and a regression-derived equation(2). According to a classification scheme(3), this BCF suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC).
(1) Hansch C et al; Exploring QSAR. Hydrophobic, Electronic, and Steric Constants. ACS Prof Ref Book. Heller SR, consult. ed., Washington, DC: Amer Chem Soc p. 4 (1995)
(2) Meylan WM et al; Environ Toxicol Chem 18: 664-72 (1999)
(3) Franke C et al; Chemosphere 29: 1501-14 (1994)

14.2.11 Soil Adsorption / Mobility

Koc of ethylene oxide was reported to be 2.20(1). According to a classification scheme(2), this estimated Koc value suggests that ethylene oxide is expected to have very high mobility in soil(SRC).
(1) Chu W, Chan KH; Sci Total Environ 248: 1-10 (2000)
(2) Swann RL et al; Res Rev 85: 17-28 (1983)

14.2.12 Volatilization from Water / Soil

The Henry's Law constant for ethylene oxide is 1.48X10-4 atm-cu m/mole(1). This Henry's Law constant indicates that ethylene oxide is expected to volatilize from water surfaces(2). Based on this Henry's Law constant, the volatilization half-life from a model river (1 m deep, flowing 1 m/sec, wind velocity of 3 m/sec)(2) is estimated as 6 hours(SRC). The volatilization half-life from a model lake (1 m deep, flowing 0.05 m/sec, wind velocity of 0.5 m/sec)(2) is estimated as 4 days(SRC). Ethylene oxide is expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon a vapor pressure of 1.31X10+3 mm Hg(3). Although no data on the volatilization of ethylene oxide from soil could be found, a study of the dissipation of ethylene oxide from fumigated commodities gave half-life values of 4 hr to 17.5 days(4).
(1) Conway RA et al; Environ Sci Technol 17:107-112 (1983)
(2) Lyman WJ et al; Handbook of Chemical Property Estimation Methods. Washington, DC: Amer Chem Soc pp. 15-1 to 15-29 (1990)
(3) Daubert TE, Danner RP; Physical and Thermodynamic Properties of Pure Chemicals Data Compilation. Washington, DC: Taylor and Francis (1985)
(4) Bogyo DA et al; Investigations of Selected Potential Environmental Contaminants: Epoxides. USEPA-560/11-80-005 p. 70-90 (1980)

14.2.13 Effluent Concentrations

Ethylene oxide was detected, not quantified in an effluent sample in Brandenburg, KY in Feb 1974, from an unspecified chemical production facility(1,2). It is estimated that in ethylene oxide production, between 0.25 and 47.5 kg of ethylene oxide is emitted to the air for each kg produced(3).
(1) Shackelford WM, Keith LH; Frequency of Organic Compounds Identified in Water. USEPA-600/4-76-062 p 129 (1976)
(2) Bogyo DA et al; Investigation of Selected Potential Environmental Contaminants: Epoxides. USEPA-560/11-80-005 p 17 (1980)
(3) Carpenter CE et al; Toxic Subst J 10: 323-71 (1990)
Ethylene oxide may be present in vent gas and fugitive emissions from its production and use as a chemical intermediate in the manufacture of ethylene glycol, ethoxylates, glycol ethers and ethanolamines(1). It may also be present in aqueous effluent associated with its production and use as a chemical intermediate and as fugitive emissions from its use as a fumigant and sterilant of food, cosmetics and hospital supplies(1,3-4) in auto and diesel exhaust/combustion product of hydrocarbon fuels(1,2), and tobacco smoke(1). While its use as a fumigant and sterilant constitute only 2%, emissions from these uses are proportionately higher than other applications and result in greater exposure(3,4).
(1) Bogyo DA et al; Investigations of Selected Potential Environmental Contaminants. Epoxides USEPA-560/11-80-005 p. 60-9 (1980)
(2) Graedel TE; Chemical Compounds in the Atmosphere Academic Press, NY p. 272 (1978)
(3) Chemical & Engineering News p. 12 (1983)
(4) Cawse JN et al; in Kirk-Othmer Encycl Chem Tech 3rd ed. NY,NY: Wiley-Interscience 9: 432-71 (1980)

14.2.14 Atmospheric Concentrations

URBAN/SUBURBAN: Ethylene oxide was targeted but not detected at 25 sites throughout Minnesota tested over an 8 year span from 1991-1998(1).
(1) Pratt GC et al; Environ Health Perspect 108: 815-25 (2000)

14.2.15 Food Survey Values

According to a 1970-76 FDA Monitoring Program, ethylene oxide was detected, not quantified in 1 out of 2,372 samples of eggs in 1975(1).
(1) Duggan RE et al; Pesticide residue levels in foods in the US from July 1 to June 30, 1976. Food and Drug Admin. page 10-18 (1983)

14.2.16 Fish / Seafood Concentrations

According to a 1970-1976 FDA Food Monitoring Program, ethylene oxide was detected, not quantified in 1 out of 3,262 samples of fish (1975) and not found in 443 samples of shellfish for this period(1).
(1) Duggan RE et al; Pesticide Residue Levels in Foods in the US from July 1 to June 30, 1976. Food and Drug Administration p 10-18 (1983)

14.2.17 Probable Routes of Human Exposure

NIOSH (NOES Survey 1981-1983) has statistically estimated that 270,683 workers (120.086 of these were female) were potentially exposed to ethylene oxide in the US(1). The NOES Survey does not include farm workers. Occupational exposure to ethylene oxide may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where ethylene oxide is produced or used(SRC).
(1) NIOSH; NOES. National Occupational Exposure Survey conducted from 1981-1983. Estimated numbers of employees potentially exposed to specific agents by 2-digit standard industrial classification (SIC). Available at https://www.cdc.gov/noes/ as of Jul 10, 2008.
OSHA estimates that approximately 80,000 and 144,000 workers were directly and indirectly exposed to ethylene oxide in ethylene oxide production, chemical synthesis by ethoxylation, health care facilities (sterilization), medical products (sterilization) and miscellaneous manufacturers (e.g., spice sterilization)(1). The number of workers exposed directly (indirectly) in the various industries were: production and synthesis 3676; sterilization - health care facilities 62,370 (25,000); sterilization - medical products manufacture 14,000 (116,900); sterilization - spice manufacturers 160(1). Typical exposures were usually high during short periods in which sterilizer doors are opened, typically 5-10 ppm for 20 minutes(1). Some typical survey results are: Medical products manufactures 0.1.1-2.0 ppm 8 hr TWA; Hospital sterilizer chamber operators 2.5 ppm TWA; 121 use sites in Southern California <5 ppm (TWA) in 114/121 sites; 2 hospitals 3-6 ppm and <5 ppm resp; survey of 27 hospitals TWA exposures less than or equal to 1, <4 and >10 ppm in 9/27, 16/27 and 5/27, respectively(1). Union Carbide production plant in Texas City 5-33 ppm and 7.25 and 10.25 ppm avg in 2 control rooms and 0-56 ppm, 11.6 ppm avg throughout plant(2). In-depth survey of 2 Union Carbide production facilities in West Virginia: 2 of 48 and 4 of 41 samples positive, TWA exposure of positive samples 1.5-82 ppm(4,5). Production and maintenance workers in the 1960's avg exposure levels: 0.6-60 ppm(3).
(1) OSHA; Occupational Exposure to Ethylene Oxide; Proposed Rule. 48 FR 17283-17319 4,21 (1983)
(2) Joyner RE; Arch Environ Health 8:700-10 (1964)
(3) Hogstedt C et al; Brit J Ind Med 36:276-80 (1979)
(4) Oser JL; In-depth Industrial Hygiene Report of Ethylene Oxide Exposure at Union Carbide Corp., WV NIOSH IWS-67.17B 47 p (1978)
(5) Oser JL; In-depth Industrial Hygiene Report of Ethylene Oxide Exposure at Union Carbide Corp., South Charleston, WV NIOSH IWS-67.10 25 p (1979)
Ethylene oxide concentrations in a Rochester, MN hospital were highest (50 ppm) in an area where the ethylene oxide tanks were located, followed by the area directly in front and approximately 12 feet away from a sterilization door (40 ppm), and thirdly were areas where ethylene oxide-sterilized items were opened (30-40 ppm)(1). Levels generally did not exceed the 4 to 10 ppm in areas where employees assembled and sterilized materials during approximately 45 minutes after completion of the sterilization procedure. Concentrations of 1 to 10 ppm generally dissipated within 15 minutes in the area of an aeration cabinet and supervisor's office. Levels in the surgical suite ranged from 5 to 15 ppm upon opening the sterilization door but dissipated to 0 ppm within 10 minutes(1). Personal breathing zone measurements in the central processing department of an Indianapolis, IN hospital indicated that staff were exposed to low concentrations of ethylene oxide(2).
(1) Nevenheim A; Test measure ethylene oxide risk to hospital's central supply staff. Hospitals, J.A.H.A. March 16, pp. 147-50 (1979)
(2) Cook CK, Zimmer A; Health Hazard Evaluation Report. St. Vincent Hospital, Indianapolis, IN. HETA 92-273-2312. NTIS PB94-118 338 (1994)
A 1989 survey of 1,448 Danish work environments identified 150 potential ethylene oxide exposure events in manufacture of basic metals, 2,000 in manufacture of fabricated metal products, 170 in electrical machinery and apparatus, 330 in manufacture of transport equipment, and 15 potential ethylene exposure exposure events to painters and carpenters(1). Also identified were 3,300 potential exposure events in construction, 940 in wholesale trade, 1,700 in manufacture of textiles and leather, 280 in manufacture of wood and furniture, 450 in manufacture of chemicals, 40 in manufacture of non-metallic mineral products, 170 in manufacture of precision and optical instruments, 760 in manufacture of plastic and boat building and repair, 21,000 in personal services, cleaning and hair dressing, 1,100 in agriculture, hunting, and forestry, and 11,000 ethylene pxide exposure events in health services and pharmacies(1).
(1) Brandorff NP et al; Occup Environ Med 52: 454-63 (1995)

15 Associated Disorders and Diseases

Associated Occupational Diseases with Exposure to the Compound

Spontaneous abortions [Category: Reproduction and Development]

Cataract, chemical or radiation induced [Category: Chronic Poisoning]

Contact dermatitis, allergic [Category: Skin Disease]

Fumigants, acute toxic effect [Category: Acute Poisoning]

Pneumonitis, toxic [Category: Acute Poisoning]

Asthma, occupational [Category: Airway Disease]

Neuropathy, toxic [Category: Chronic Poisoning]

16 Literature

16.1 Consolidated References

16.2 NLM Curated PubMed Citations

16.3 Springer Nature References

16.4 Thieme References

16.5 Wiley References

16.6 Chemical Co-Occurrences in Literature

16.7 Chemical-Gene Co-Occurrences in Literature

16.8 Chemical-Disease Co-Occurrences in Literature

17 Patents

17.1 Depositor-Supplied Patent Identifiers

17.2 WIPO PATENTSCOPE

17.3 Chemical Co-Occurrences in Patents

17.4 Chemical-Disease Co-Occurrences in Patents

17.5 Chemical-Gene Co-Occurrences in Patents

18 Interactions and Pathways

18.1 Protein Bound 3D Structures

18.2 Chemical-Target Interactions

18.3 Pathways

19 Biological Test Results

19.1 BioAssay Results

20 Taxonomy

The LOTUS Initiative for Open Natural Products Research: frozen dataset union wikidata (with metadata) | DOI:10.5281/zenodo.5794106

21 Classification

21.1 MeSH Tree

21.2 NCI Thesaurus Tree

21.3 ChEBI Ontology

21.4 KEGG: Drug

21.5 KEGG: Risk Category of Japanese OTC Drugs

21.6 KEGG: OTC drugs

21.7 KEGG: Animal Drugs

21.8 ChemIDplus

21.9 CAMEO Chemicals

21.10 ChEMBL Target Tree

21.11 UN GHS Classification

21.12 EPA CPDat Classification

21.13 NORMAN Suspect List Exchange Classification

21.14 EPA DSSTox Classification

21.15 International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) Classification

21.16 Consumer Product Information Database Classification

21.17 EPA TSCA and CDR Classification

21.18 LOTUS Tree

21.19 EPA Substance Registry Services Tree

21.20 MolGenie Organic Chemistry Ontology

22 Information Sources

  1. Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR)
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    https://cameochemicals.noaa.gov/help/reference/terms_and_conditions.htm?d_f=false
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    https://cameochemicals.noaa.gov/browse/react
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  8. LOTUS - the natural products occurrence database
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  31. ChEMBL
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    Access to the web interface of ChEMBL is made under the EBI's Terms of Use (http://www.ebi.ac.uk/Information/termsofuse.html). The ChEMBL data is made available on a Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/).
    http://www.ebi.ac.uk/Information/termsofuse.html
  32. ClinicalTrials.gov
    LICENSE
    The ClinicalTrials.gov data carry an international copyright outside the United States and its Territories or Possessions. Some ClinicalTrials.gov data may be subject to the copyright of third parties; you should consult these entities for any additional terms of use.
    https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/about-site/terms-conditions#Use
  33. Comparative Toxicogenomics Database (CTD)
    LICENSE
    It is to be used only for research and educational purposes. Any reproduction or use for commercial purpose is prohibited without the prior express written permission of NC State University.
    http://ctdbase.org/about/legal.jsp
  34. Crystallography Open Database (COD)
    LICENSE
    All data in the COD and the database itself are dedicated to the public domain and licensed under the CC0 License. Users of the data should acknowledge the original authors of the structural data.
    https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/zero/1.0/
  35. The Cambridge Structural Database
  36. EPA Chemical and Products Database (CPDat)
  37. Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA)
    LICENSE
    Permission from WHO is not required for the use of WHO materials issued under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0 Intergovernmental Organization (CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 IGO) licence.
    https://www.who.int/about/policies/publishing/copyright
  38. EPA Regional Screening Levels for Chemical Contaminants at Superfund Sites
  39. EU Pesticides Database
  40. Hazardous Chemical Information System (HCIS), Safe Work Australia
  41. NITE-CMC
    Ethylene oxide - FY2006 (New/original classication)
    https://www.chem-info.nite.go.jp/chem/english/ghs/06-imcg-0012e.html
    Ethylene oxide - FY2011 (Revised classification)
    https://www.chem-info.nite.go.jp/chem/english/ghs/11-mhlw-2005e.html
  42. Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council
    LICENSE
    The copyright for the editorial content of this source, the summaries of EU legislation and the consolidated texts, which is owned by the EU, is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International licence.
    https://eur-lex.europa.eu/content/legal-notice/legal-notice.html
  43. FDA Substances Added to Food
    LICENSE
    Unless otherwise noted, the contents of the FDA website (www.fda.gov), both text and graphics, are not copyrighted. They are in the public domain and may be republished, reprinted and otherwise used freely by anyone without the need to obtain permission from FDA. Credit to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as the source is appreciated but not required.
    https://www.fda.gov/about-fda/about-website/website-policies#linking
  44. SpectraBase
  45. MassBank Europe
  46. Human Metabolome Database (HMDB)
    LICENSE
    HMDB is offered to the public as a freely available resource. Use and re-distribution of the data, in whole or in part, for commercial purposes requires explicit permission of the authors and explicit acknowledgment of the source material (HMDB) and the original publication (see the HMDB citing page). We ask that users who download significant portions of the database cite the HMDB paper in any resulting publications.
    http://www.hmdb.ca/citing
  47. International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC)
    LICENSE
    Materials made available by IARC/WHO enjoy copyright protection under the Berne Convention for the Protection of Literature and Artistic Works, under other international conventions, and under national laws on copyright and neighbouring rights. IARC exercises copyright over its Materials to make sure that they are used in accordance with the Agency's principles. All rights are reserved.
    https://publications.iarc.fr/Terms-Of-Use
    IARC Classification
    https://www.iarc.fr/
  48. NTP Technical Reports
  49. Japan Chemical Substance Dictionary (Nikkaji)
  50. KEGG
    LICENSE
    Academic users may freely use the KEGG website. Non-academic use of KEGG generally requires a commercial license
    https://www.kegg.jp/kegg/legal.html
    Therapeutic category of drugs in Japan
    http://www.genome.jp/kegg-bin/get_htext?br08301.keg
    Risk category of Japanese OTC drugs
    http://www.genome.jp/kegg-bin/get_htext?br08312.keg
    Classification of Japanese OTC drugs
    http://www.genome.jp/kegg-bin/get_htext?br08313.keg
  51. Natural Product Activity and Species Source (NPASS)
  52. MassBank of North America (MoNA)
    LICENSE
    The content of the MoNA database is licensed under CC BY 4.0.
    https://mona.fiehnlab.ucdavis.edu/documentation/license
  53. NIST Mass Spectrometry Data Center
    LICENSE
    Data covered by the Standard Reference Data Act of 1968 as amended.
    https://www.nist.gov/srd/public-law
  54. Metabolomics Workbench
  55. NIOSH Manual of Analytical Methods
    LICENSE
    The information provided using CDC Web site is only intended to be general summary information to the public. It is not intended to take the place of either the written law or regulations.
    https://www.cdc.gov/Other/disclaimer.html
  56. NMRShiftDB
  57. NORMAN Suspect List Exchange
    LICENSE
    Data: CC-BY 4.0; Code (hosted by ECI, LCSB): Artistic-2.0
    https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
    Ethylene Oxide
    NORMAN Suspect List Exchange Classification
    https://www.norman-network.com/nds/SLE/
  58. Pistoia Alliance Chemical Safety Library
    Ethylene oxide + Trimethylamine
    https://safescience.cas.org/
  59. Springer Nature
  60. SpringerMaterials
  61. Thieme Chemistry
    LICENSE
    The Thieme Chemistry contribution within PubChem is provided under a CC-BY-NC-ND 4.0 license, unless otherwise stated.
    https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/
  62. Wikidata
  63. Wikipedia
  64. Wiley
  65. Medical Subject Headings (MeSH)
    LICENSE
    Works produced by the U.S. government are not subject to copyright protection in the United States. Any such works found on National Library of Medicine (NLM) Web sites may be freely used or reproduced without permission in the U.S.
    https://www.nlm.nih.gov/copyright.html
  66. PubChem
  67. GHS Classification (UNECE)
  68. EPA Substance Registry Services
  69. MolGenie
    MolGenie Organic Chemistry Ontology
    https://github.com/MolGenie/ontology/
  70. PATENTSCOPE (WIPO)
  71. NCBI
CONTENTS