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Tetraethyl Pyrophosphate

PubChem CID
7873
Structure
Tetraethyl Pyrophosphate_small.png
Tetraethyl Pyrophosphate_3D_Structure.png
Molecular Formula
Synonyms
  • TEPP
  • TETRAETHYL PYROPHOSPHATE
  • Tetraethyl diphosphate
  • 107-49-3
  • Mortopal
Molecular Weight
290.19 g/mol
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Dates
  • Create:
    2005-03-26
  • Modify:
    2025-02-01
Description
Tetraethyl pyrophosphate is an organic phosphate pesticide which acts as an inhibitor of cholinesterase, and as such it is highly toxic by all routes of exposure. It is a water-white to amber liquid, depending on purity. Tetraethyl pyrophosphate is soluble in water and is slowly decomposed by water. It is toxic by inhalation and by skin absorption. It may be found as a liquid or as a dry mixture where the liquid is absorbed onto a dry carrier.
TEPP is an organic diphosphate.
Tetraethyl Pyrophosphate is a synthetic organic diphosphate compound and organophosphate acetylcholinesterase inhibitor that is used as a pesticide. It is characterized as a colorless to amber liquid with a faint, fruity odor, and exposure occurs by inhalation, ingestion, or contact.

1 Structures

1.1 2D Structure

Chemical Structure Depiction
Tetraethyl Pyrophosphate.png

1.2 3D Conformer

2 Names and Identifiers

2.1 Computed Descriptors

2.1.1 IUPAC Name

diethoxyphosphoryl diethyl phosphate
Computed by Lexichem TK 2.7.0 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)

2.1.2 InChI

InChI=1S/C8H20O7P2/c1-5-11-16(9,12-6-2)15-17(10,13-7-3)14-8-4/h5-8H2,1-4H3
Computed by InChI 1.0.6 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)

2.1.3 InChIKey

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

2.1.4 SMILES

CCOP(=O)(OCC)OP(=O)(OCC)OCC
Computed by OEChem 2.3.0 (PubChem release 2024.12.12)

2.2 Molecular Formula

C8H20O7P2
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)

C8H20O7P2

(C2H5O)2-PO-O-PO-(OC2H5)2

2.3 Other Identifiers

2.3.1 CAS

107-49-3
1707-71-7

2.3.2 European Community (EC) Number

2.3.3 UNII

2.3.4 UN Number

2.3.5 ChEBI ID

2.3.6 ChEMBL ID

2.3.7 DSSTox Substance ID

2.3.8 HMDB ID

2.3.9 ICSC Number

2.3.10 KEGG ID

2.3.11 NCI Thesaurus Code

2.3.12 Nikkaji Number

2.3.13 NSC Number

2.3.14 RTECS Number

2.3.15 Wikidata

2.3.16 Wikipedia

2.4 Synonyms

2.4.1 MeSH Entry Terms

  • TEPP
  • tetraethyl pyrophosphate

2.4.2 Depositor-Supplied Synonyms

3 Chemical and Physical Properties

3.1 Computed Properties

Property Name
Molecular Weight
Property Value
290.19 g/mol
Reference
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
XLogP3-AA
Property Value
0.4
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
7
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Rotatable Bond Count
Property Value
10
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Exact Mass
Property Value
290.06842697 Da
Reference
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Monoisotopic Mass
Property Value
290.06842697 Da
Reference
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Topological Polar Surface Area
Property Value
80.3 Ų
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Heavy Atom Count
Property Value
17
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Formal Charge
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Complexity
Property Value
246
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

Tetraethyl pyrophosphate is an organic phosphate pesticide which acts as an inhibitor of cholinesterase, and as such it is highly toxic by all routes of exposure. It is a water-white to amber liquid, depending on purity. Tetraethyl pyrophosphate is soluble in water and is slowly decomposed by water. It is toxic by inhalation and by skin absorption. It may be found as a liquid or as a dry mixture where the liquid is absorbed onto a dry carrier.
Colorless to amber liquid with a faint, fruity odor. [insecticide] [Note: A solid below 32 degrees F.]; [NIOSH]
COLOURLESS HYGROSCOPIC LIQUID.
Colorless to amber liquid with a faint, fruity odor.
Colorless to amber liquid with a faint, fruity odor. [insecticide] [Note: A solid below 32 °F.]

3.2.2 Color / Form

Mobile liquid
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2001., p. 1643
Colorless to amber liquid (Note: A solid below 32 degrees F).
NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards & Other Databases. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Public Health Service, Center for Disease Control & Prevention. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2001-145 (CD-ROM) August 2001.

3.2.3 Odor

Agreeable odor
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2001., p. 1643
AROMATIC
U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Transportation. CHRIS - Hazardous Chemical Data. Volume II. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office, 1984-5.
Faint, fruity odor
NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards & Other Databases. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Public Health Service, Center for Disease Control & Prevention. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2001-145 (CD-ROM) August 2001.

3.2.4 Boiling Point

280 °F at 2.3 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.
82 °C @ 0.05 mm Hg; 124 °C @ 1.1 mm Hg; 138 °C @ 2.3 mm Hg
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2001., p. 1643
280 °F at 2.3 mmHg
Decomposes

3.2.5 Melting Point

32 °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.
Solid below 32 °F
NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards & Other Databases. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Public Health Service, Center for Disease Control & Prevention. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2001-145 (CD-ROM) August 2001.
32 °F

3.2.6 Flash Point

>110 °C c.c.

3.2.7 Solubility

Miscible (decomposes) (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.
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2001., p. 1643
Miscible in water
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2001., p. 1643
Solubility in water: good
Miscible

3.2.8 Density

1.185 at 68 °F (EPA, 1998) - Denser than water; will sink
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.
1.185 @ 20 °C/4 °C
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2001., p. 1643
Density: about 1.2 @ 25 °C; dark amber-colored mobile liquid /Technical product/
Tomlin CDS, ed. TEPP (107-49-3). In: The e-Pesticide Manual, Version 2.2 (2002). Surrey UK, British Crop Protection Council.
1.18 g/cm³
Relative density of the vapour/air-mixture at 20 °C (air = 1): 1.00
1.185
1.19

3.2.9 Vapor Density

Relative vapor density (air = 1): 10

3.2.10 Vapor Pressure

0.00047 mmHg at 86 °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.
0.00015 [mmHg]
2.60X10-4 mm Hg at 25 °C (extrapolated from 4.7X10-4 mm Hg at 30 °C)
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2001., p. 1643
Vapor pressure, Pa at 20 °C: 2
0.0002 mmHg

3.2.11 LogP

2.94

3.2.12 Henry's Law Constant

Henry's Law constant = 2.2X10-10 atm-cu m/mol at 25 °C /Estimated/
US EPA; Estimation Program Interface (EPI) Suite. Ver.3.11. June 10, 2003. Available from, as of Feb 25, 2004: https://www.epa.gov/oppt/exposure/pubs/episuitedl.htm

3.2.13 Stability / Shelf Life

Quickly hydrolyzed by water (half-life at 25 °C about 7 hr in a 50% vol/vol mixt).
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2001., p. 1643
...Hydrolyzed readily in the presence of moisture.
Klaassen, C.D. (ed). Casarett and Doull's Toxicology. The Basic Science of Poisons. 6th ed. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill, 2001., p. 775

3.2.14 Decomposition

When heated to decomposition it emits highly toxic fumes of /phosphorus oxides/.
Lewis, R.J. Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 9th ed. Volumes 1-3. New York, NY: Van Nostrand Reinhold, 1996., p. 3101
Temperatures above 150 °C cause decomposition with formation of flammable gas. ... Toxic gases and vapors (such as phosphoric acid mist and carbon monoxide) may be released when TEPP decomposes.
Mackison, F. W., R. S. Stricoff, and L. J. Partridge, Jr. (eds.). NIOSH/OSHA - Occupational Health Guidelines for Chemical Hazards. DHHS(NIOSH) Publication No. 81-123 (3 VOLS). Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, Jan. 1981., p. 2
Thermal decomposition range: 170-213 °C with copious formation of ethylene.
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2001., p. 1643

3.2.15 Corrosivity

TEPP will attack some forms of plastics, rubber, and coatings.
Mackison, F. W., R. S. Stricoff, and L. J. Partridge, Jr. (eds.). NIOSH/OSHA - Occupational Health Guidelines for Chemical Hazards. DHHS(NIOSH) Publication No. 81-123 (3 VOLS). Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, Jan. 1981., p. 2

3.2.16 Refractive Index

Index of refraction: 1.4196 @ 20 deg C/D
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2001., p. 1643

3.2.17 Kovats Retention Index

Semi-standard non-polar
1549.9 , 1579.2

3.2.18 Other Experimental Properties

Hygroscopic
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2001., p. 1643
Crude: miscible with water and most solvents; practically insoluble in petroleum oils.
Spencer, E. Y. Guide to the Chemicals Used in Crop Protection. 7th ed. Publication 1093. Research Institute, Agriculture Canada, Ottawa, Canada: Information Canada, 1982., p. 540
Quickly hydrolyzed by /water/, half-life at 25 °C about 7 hr in a 50% vol/vol mixt
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2001., p. 1643
Hydroxyl radical reaction rate constant = 7.7X10-11 cu-cm/molecule sec /Estimated/
US EPA; Estimation Program Interface (EPI) Suite. Ver.3.11. June 10, 2003. Available from, as of Feb 25, 2004: https://www.epa.gov/oppt/exposure/pubs/episuitedl.htm

3.3 SpringerMaterials Properties

3.4 Chemical Classes

3.4.1 Pesticides

Insecticides
Active substance -> EU Pesticides database: Not approved
Pesticides -> Organophosphate Insecticides
Pesticide (TEPP) -> USDA PDB

4 Spectral Information

4.1 1D NMR Spectra

1D NMR Spectra
NMR: 7627 (Sadtler Research Laboratories Spectral Collection)

4.1.1 1H NMR Spectra

Instrument Name
Varian A-60
Source of Sample
Stauffer Chemical Company, Victor Chemical Division, Chicago Heights, Illinois
Copyright
Copyright © 2009-2024 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Thumbnail
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4.1.2 31P NMR Spectra

1 of 2
Copyright
Copyright © 2016-2024 W. Robien, Inst. of Org. Chem., Univ. of Vienna. All Rights Reserved.
Thumbnail
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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 5
View All
MoNA ID
MS Category
Experimental
MS Type
GC-MS
MS Level
MS1
Instrument
HITACHI RMU-6E
Instrument Type
EI-B
Ionization Mode
positive
Top 5 Peaks

263 99.99

161 94

235 93

99 93

155 81

Thumbnail
Thumbnail
License
CC BY-NC-SA
2 of 5
View All
NIST Number
164255
Library
Main library
Total Peaks
152
m/z Top Peak
263
m/z 2nd Highest
161
m/z 3rd Highest
235
Thumbnail
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4.2.2 Other MS

1 of 2
Other MS
MASS: 60253 (NIST/EPA/MSDC Mass Spectral Database, 1990 Version)
2 of 2
Authors
MASS SPECTROSCOPY SOC. OF JAPAN (MSSJ)
Instrument
HITACHI RMU-6E
Instrument Type
EI-B
MS Level
MS
Ionization Mode
POSITIVE
Ionization
ENERGY 70 eV
Top 5 Peaks

263 999

161 940

99 930

235 930

155 810

Thumbnail
Thumbnail
License
CC BY-NC-SA

4.3 IR Spectra

IR Spectra
IR: 15007 (Sadtler Research Laboratories IR Grating Collection)

4.3.1 FTIR Spectra

1 of 2
Technique
BETWEEN SALTS
Source of Sample
Pesticides Repository, U.S. Public Health Service
Copyright
Copyright © 1980, 1981-2024 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Thumbnail
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2 of 2
Technique
CAPILLARY CELL: NEAT
Source of Sample
Stauffer Chemical Company, Victor Chemical Division, Chicago Heights, Illinois
Copyright
Copyright © 1980, 1981-2024 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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4.4 Other Spectra

Intense mass spectral peaks: 99 m/z (100%), 155 m/z (96%), 43 m/z (68%), 127 m/z (57%)
Hites, R.A. Handbook of Mass Spectra of Environmental Contaminants. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press Inc., 1985., p. 293

6 Chemical Vendors

7 Drug and Medication Information

7.1 Therapeutic Uses

Formerly used for treatment of glaucoma.
PRC
A maintenance dose of... TEPP... given in two or three divided doses by mouth was effective in treating myasthenia gravis in atropinized patients. ...TEPP administered during a period of 5 hours or more was effective in reaching maximal or near maximal strength in eleven patients who had moderately severe and severe myasthenia gravis. ...The difference that distinguished the dose of TEPP that produced a maximal increase in strength with a minimum of side effects, the dose that produced very little effect, and the dose that produced prohibitive side effects ( including increased weakness) was very narrow (2-4 mg higher or lower than the optimum). In another study of myasthenia gravis... /it was/ also noted that the difference between the dose required to produce a maximal response and the dose that produced toxicity was remarkably small and ranged for 0.5-3 mg.
Bingham, E.; Cohrssen, B.; Powell, C.H.; Patty's Toxicology Volumes 1-9 5th ed. John Wiley & Sons. New York, N.Y. (2001)., p. V7 922

7.2 Drug Warnings

The difference that distinguished the dose of TEPP that produced a maximal increase in strength /in myasthenia gravis patients/ with a minimum of side effects, the dose that produced very little effect, and the dose that produced prohibitive side effects ( including increased weakness) was very narrow (2-4 mg higher or lower than the optimum). In another study of myasthenia gravis... /it was/ also noted that the difference between the dose required to produce a maximal response and the dose that produced toxicity was remarkably small and ranged for 0.5-3 mg.
Bingham, E.; Cohrssen, B.; Powell, C.H.; Patty's Toxicology Volumes 1-9 5th ed. John Wiley & Sons. New York, N.Y. (2001)., p. V7 922

8 Agrochemical Information

8.1 Agrochemical Category

Insecticide
Pesticide active substances -> Insecticides

8.2 EU Pesticides Data

Active Substance
tetraethyl pyrophosphate (tepp)
Status
Not approved [Reg. (EC) No 1107/2009]

8.3 USDA Pesticide Data Program

9 Pharmacology and Biochemistry

9.1 Absorption, Distribution and Excretion

It is absorbed quickly through the skin ...
Crop Protection Handbook. 2003. (Formerly Farm Chemicals Handbook) Willoughby, OH: Meister Publishing Co., 2003., p. C-445
The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation, through the skin, by ingestion and through the eyes.
IPCS,CEC; International Chemical Safety Card on T.E.P.P. (April 1994). Available from, as of February 17, 2004: https://www.inchem.org/documents/icsc/icsc/eics1158.htm
... Skin absorption is... greater at higher ambient temperatures, and is increased by the presence of dermatitis.
Mackison, F. W., R. S. Stricoff, and L. J. Partridge, Jr. (eds.). NIOSH/OSHA - Occupational Health Guidelines for Chemical Hazards. DHHS(NIOSH) Publication No. 81-123 (3 VOLS). Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, Jan. 1981., p. 2

9.2 Metabolism / Metabolites

Plasma and liver esterases are responsible for hydrolysis /of organophosphorus compounds/ to the corresponding phosphoric and phosphonic acids. However, cytochrome P450's are responsible for converting the inactive phosphorothioates containing a phosphorous sulfur (thiono) bond to phosphorates with an phosphorus-oxygen bond, resulting in their activation. /Anticholinesterase agents/
Hardman, J.G., L.E. Limbird, P.B., A.G. Gilman. Goodman and Gilman's The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics. 10th ed. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill, 2001., p. 183
The organophosphorus anticholinesterase agents are hydrolyzed in the body by a group of enzymes known as A-esterases or paraoxonases. These enzymes are found in the plasma and liver and hydrolyze a large number of organophosphorus compounds... by cleaving the phosphoester, anhydride, P-F, or P-CN bonds. /Anticholinesterase agents/
Hardman, J.G., L.E. Limbird, P.B., A.G. Gilman. Goodman and Gilman's The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics. 10th ed. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill, 2001., p. 183

9.3 Mechanism of Action

/Tetraethyl pyrophosphate causes/ an irreversible inhibition of the cholinesterase molecules and consequent accumulation of large amounts of acetylcholine. Small dose at frequent intervals are largely additive.
Lewis, R.J. Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 9th ed. Volumes 1-3. New York, NY: Van Nostrand Reinhold, 1996., p. 3101
The main feature of the toxic mechanism of organophosphorus pesticides is inhibition of the esterase enzyme activity, in particular of cholinesterase, which plays an important physiological part. Organophosphorus pesticides can also indirectly interact with the biochemical receptors of acetylcholine. /Organophosphorus pesticides/
International Labour Office. Encyclopaedia of Occupational Health and Safety. 4th edition, Volumes 1-4 1998. Geneva, Switzerland: International Labour Office, 1998., p. 62.10
At least 3 forms of phenyl valerate esterases are present in hen brain cytoplasmic microtubules. Thermostability studies reveal 2 additional forms in brain homogeantes of cow, mouse, pig, rabbit, and rat. Distribution of these brain esterases is not related to the age of the hens or the susceptibility of the species to organophosphate(OP)-(the insecticides mipafox, paraoxon, DFP, phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride. O,O,O,O-tetrathyl pyrophosphate)- induced delayed neurotoxicity. ... Hen brain and spinal cord lysosomes on in vitro incubation release phenyl valerate esterase(s) and hmw MAP-protestase(s). OP neurotoxicants act in vitro to stabilize rat but not hen brain lysosomes. In vivo studies with hen brain and spinal cord lysosomes indicate that OP-induced delayed neurotoxicity is not initiated by disruption of lysosomal stability.
Seifert J, Casida A; Comp Biochem Physiol C Comp Pharmacol Toxicol 78 (2): 271-6 (1984)

10 Use and Manufacturing

10.1 Uses

Sources/Uses
Commercially available as dust, concentrate, or solution in methyl chloride to kill aphids, spiders, mites, mealy bugs, leafhoppers, and thrips; [ACGIH] Used on vegetable and fruit crops, it is one of the first organophosphate insecticide developed and has been largely replaced by newer products. [HSDB]
ACGIH - Documentation of the TLVs and BEIs, 7th Ed. Cincinnati: ACGIH Worldwide, 2020.
Industrial Processes with risk of exposure
Farming (Pesticides) [Category: Industry]
For tetraethyl pyrophosphate (USEPA/OPP Pesticide Code: 079601) there are 0 labels match. /SRP: Not registered for current 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./
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency/Office of Pesticide Program's Chemical Ingredients Database on Tetraethyl Pyrophosphate (107-49-3). Available from, as of February 10, 2004: https://npirspublic.ceris.purdue.edu/ppis/
Insecticide-acaricide; used on three vegetable crops and three fruit crops; one of first organic phosphate insecticides in the US (1946); largely replaced by other products.
SRI
... /It is/ used in the control of some aphids, spider mites, mealybugs, and leafhoppers and thrips.
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. 4837
Contact poison ... very effective against active stages of mites and other soft bodied insects.
Farm Chemicals Handbook 1981. Willoughby, Ohio: Meister, 1981., p. C-328

10.1.1 Use Classification

Hazard Classes and Categories ->
INSECTICIDES

10.2 Methods of Manufacturing

SRI
/It is/ prepared commercially by controlled hydrolysis of o,o-diethylphosphoric acid chloride: Kosolapoff, US Patent 2,479,939 (1947 to Monsanto)
The Merck Index. 10th ed. Rahway, New Jersey: Merck Co., Inc., 1983., p. 1317
Tepp (crude): (a) by interaction of triethyl phosphate (5 moles) and phosphorus oxychloride (schrader). (b) by interaction of triethyl phosphate (4 moles) and phosphorus pentoxide (woodstock).
Spencer, E. Y. Guide to the Chemicals Used in Crop Protection. 7th ed. Publication 1093. Research Institute, Agriculture Canada, Ottawa, Canada: Information Canada, 1982., p. 540
SITTIG. PESTICIDE MFG & TOX MATER CONTROL ENCYC 1980 p.711

10.3 Impurities

SITTIG. PESTICIDE MFG & TOX MATER CONTROL ENCYC 1980 p.711
Pyridine hydrochloride is an impurity to the hydrolysis of diethylphosphoric acid chloride reaction.
SITTIG. PESTICIDE MFG & TOX MATER CONTROL ENCYC 1980 p.711

10.4 Formulations / Preparations

Technical: 40% plus 60% related ethyl phosphates; Aerosols: (5-10%); Dusts: (0.66-1.2%); Sprays: 10-40%.
U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Transportation. CHRIS - Hazardous Chemical Data. Volume II. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office, 1984-5.
Ethyl polyphosphate contains 12 to 20% tetraethylpyrophosphate
Weast, R.C. (ed.) Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. 67th ed. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, Inc., 1986-87., p. C-126
As an aerosol, solution in methyl chloride is used. Tepp is available as 0.66 to 1.2% dusts and 10-40% emulsifiable concentrates.
Hayes, Wayland J., Jr. Pesticides Studied in Man. Baltimore/London: Williams and Wilkins, 1982., p. 392
Bladan, Fosnex, Gy-Tet 40, HETP, Hexaethyltetraphosphate, Killex, Kilmite, Lethalaire, Liicophosphate, Nifos T, Pyfos, Pyro-Phos, Teep, Tetradusto 100, Tetron, Tetraspa, and Vapotone.
Hayes, Wayland J., Jr. Pesticides Studied in Man. Baltimore/London: Williams and Wilkins, 1982., p. 391
For more Formulations/Preparations (Complete) data for TETRAETHYL PYROPHOSPHATE (19 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

10.5 Consumption Patterns

100% FOR AGRICULTURE (1975)
SRI
(1974) 4.54X10+7 GRAMS (CONSUMPTION)
SRI

10.6 U.S. Production

(1972) 4.5X10+7 GRAMS
SRI

10.7 U.S. Imports

(1972) No Data
SRI
(1975) No Data
SRI

10.8 U.S. Exports

(1972) No Data
SRI
(1975) No Data
SRI

10.9 General Manufacturing Information

The WHO Recommended Classification of Pesticides by Hazard identifies Tetraethyl pyrophosphate (technical grade) as an active ingredient believed to be obsolete or discontinued for use as a pesticide.
WHO (2005) The WHO Recommended Classification of Pesticides by Hazard and Guidelines to Classification 2004, International Programme on Chemical Safety, p.38
TEPP has been found to be the insecticidal component of HETP, and is the material now in production.
Weast, R.C. (ed.) Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. 67th ed. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, Inc., 1986-87., p. C-126
The first organophosphorus ester insecticide to be used commercially was tetraethylpyrophosphate (TEPP); although effective, it was extremely toxic to all forms of life and chemical stability was a major problem in that TEPP hydrolyzed readily in the presence of moisture.
Klaassen, C.D. (ed). Casarett and Doull's Toxicology. The Basic Science of Poisons. 6th ed. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill, 2001., p. 775

10.10 Sampling Procedures

Air samples containing tetraethyl pyrophosphate are taken with 2 glass tubes, 10 cm x 6 mm ID, containing two sections of extracted resin (front=100 mg, back= 50 mg) retained by silylated glass wool plugs. A sampling pump is connected to this tube and accurately calibrated at a flow rate of 0.01 to 0.2 L/min for a total sample size of 3 to 48 liters. Elution is performed with 1 mL of toluene, and allowed to stand for 60 minutes. This technique has an overall precision of 0.086, over a studied range of 0.025 to 0.102 mg/cu m using 48 liter samples.
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. 2504-1

11 Identification

11.1 Analytic Laboratory Methods

SELECTIVE HYDROLYSIS & EXTRACTION OF THE TETRAETHYL PYROPHOSPHATE ... AOAC METHODS, 86, 1955.
Spencer, E. Y. Guide to the Chemicals Used in Crop Protection. 7th ed. Publication 1093. Research Institute, Agriculture Canada, Ottawa, Canada: Information Canada, 1982., p. 540
METHODS FOR DETERMINING RESIDUES ON CROPS ARE DISCUSSED. ONE IS GLC WITH THERMIONIC DETECTION WHICH HAS A LIMIT OF DETECTION OF 0.01 PPM. TLC & CHOLINESTERASE INHIBITION ARE USED IN THE OTHER PROCEDURES, GIVING A LIMIT OF DETECTION OF 0.001 PPM.
CROSSLEY J; J ASSOC, OFFIC ANAL CHEMISTS 53 (5): 1036 (1970)
Determination of organophosphorus pesticide residues in food with two-dimensional gas chromatography using capillary columns and flame photometric detection is described. /Organophosphorus pesticide/
Stan HJ, Mrowetz D; Residue Analysis of Organophosphorus Pesticides in Food with Two-Dimensional Gas Chromatography Using Capillary Columns and Flame Photometric Detection. J High Resolut Chromatogr Commun 6 (5): 255-63 (1983)
Method: EPA-OSW 8141B (by GC-NPD), Organophosphorus Compounds by Gas Chromaography: Capillary Column Technique; Analyte: tetraethyl pyrophosphate; Matrix: water, soil, and waste samples; Detection Level: not provided.
National Environmental Methods Index; Analytical, Test and Sampling Methods. Tetraethyl Pyrophosphate (107-49-3). Available from, as of February 10, 2004: https://www.nemi.gov
For more Analytic Laboratory Methods (Complete) data for TETRAETHYL PYROPHOSPHATE (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

11.2 Clinical Laboratory Methods

ESTIMATION OF CHOLINESTERASE ACTIVITY OF ORGANOPHOSPHORUS INSECTICIDES IN HUMAN RED BLOOD CELLS AND PLASMA BY INCUBATION WITH KNOWN EXCESS OF CHOLINESTERASE & ADDN OF KNOWN EXCESS OF ACETYLCHOLINE. ACETIC ACID PRODUCED DETERMINED FROM CHANGE IN PH (PH METER). PA GIANG & SA HALL, ANAL CHEM 23, 1830 (1951). /ORGANOPHOSPHORUS INSECTICIDES/
Bergmeyer, H.W. (ed.). Methods of Enzymatic Analysis. 2nd English ed. New York City: Academic Press, 1974., p. 2249

11.3 NIOSH Analytical Methods

12 Safety and Hazards

12.1 Hazards Identification

12.1.1 GHS Classification

1 of 6
View All
Pictogram(s)
Acute Toxic
Environmental Hazard
Signal
Danger
GHS Hazard Statements

H300 (100%): Fatal if swallowed [Danger Acute toxicity, oral]

H310 (100%): Fatal in contact with skin [Danger Acute toxicity, dermal]

H400 (100%): Very toxic to aquatic life [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, acute hazard]

Precautionary Statement Codes

P262, P264, P270, P273, P280, P301+P316, P302+P352, P316, P321, P330, P361+P364, P391, P405, 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 41 reports by companies from 1 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.

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.

12.1.2 Hazard Classes and Categories

Acute Tox. 2 (100%)

Acute Tox. 1 (100%)

Aquatic Acute 1 (100%)

Acute Tox. 3 (100%)

Eye Irrit. 2 (100%)

12.1.3 Health Hazards

It is classified as super toxic. Probable oral lethal dose in humans is less than 5 mg/kg (a taste) for a 150 lb. person. A small drop in the eye may cause death. Small doses at frequent intervals are additive. Poisonings always develop at a rapid rate. It is a cholinesterase inhibitor. (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.

12.1.4 Fire Hazards

Extremely toxic fumes of unburned material and phosphoric acid are formed in fires. Incompatible with strong oxidizers. (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.
Combustible. Liquid formulations containing organic solvents may be flammable. Gives off irritating or toxic fumes (or gases) in a fire. Risk of fire and explosion if formulations contain flammable/explosive solvents.

12.1.5 Hazards Summary

Many deaths have been reported, most after suicidal ingestion. Several cases of severe poisoning and death have been reported after spills in which workers clothing was contaminated. [ACGIH] The average of two baseline respective cholinesterase activity determinations three days apart, with no exposures to enzyme inhibiting pesticides for at least 30 days, is recommended for each worker prior to exposure to cholinesterase inhibitors because of large inter-individual differences in published baseline values. To be established at least once a year. Removal from workplace exposures is recommended until the cholinesterase activity returns to within 20% of baseline. [TLVs and BEIs]
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.

12.1.6 Skin, Eye, and Respiratory Irritations

Contact with liq causes irritation of eyes & skin.
U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Transportation. CHRIS - Hazardous Chemical Data. Volume II. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office, 1984-5.
Potential symptoms of overexposure are eye pain, blurred vision, lacrimation, rhinorrhea... .
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2001., p. 1643

12.1.7 EPA Hazardous Waste Number

P111; An acute hazardous waste when a discarded commercial chemical product or manufacturing chemical intermediate or an off-specification commercial chemical product or a manufacturing chemical intermediate.

12.2 Safety and Hazard Properties

12.2.1 Acute Exposure Guideline Levels (AEGLs)

The compound is currently at the Holding Status AEGLs which have been reviewed by the NAC/AEGL Committee and are on hold due to insufficient data to develop AEGL values.
12.2.1.1 AEGLs Notes
AEGLs Status: Holding

12.2.2 Flammable Limits

Flammability
Noncombustible Liquid

12.2.3 Lower Explosive Limit (LEL)

Not combustible. (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.

12.2.4 Upper Explosive Limit (UEL)

Not combustible. (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.

12.2.5 OSHA Standards

Permissible Exposure Limit: Table Z-1 8-hr Time-Weighted Avg: 0.05 mg/cu m. Skin Designation.
29 CFR 1910.1000; U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of February 10, 2004: https://www.ecfr.gov

12.2.6 NIOSH Recommendations

Recommended Exposure Limit: 10 Hr Time-Weighted Avg: 0.05 mg/cu m, skin.
NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards & Other Databases. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Public Health Service, Center for Disease Control & Prevention. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2001-145 (CD-ROM) August 2001.

12.3 First Aid Measures

Inhalation First Aid
Remove immediately from exposure. Fresh air, rest. Half-upright position. Artificial respiration may be needed. Refer immediately for medical attention.
Skin First Aid
Remove contaminated clothes. Rinse and then wash skin with water and soap. Refer immediately for medical attention.
Eye First Aid
Rinse with plenty of water for several minutes (remove contact lenses if easily possible). Refer immediately for medical attention.
Ingestion First Aid
Rinse mouth. Do NOT induce vomiting. Give a slurry of activated charcoal in water to drink, but NOT if convulsions occur. Refer immediately for medical attention.

12.3.1 First Aid

Warning: Effects may be delayed up to 12 hours. Caution is advised.

Note: TEPP is a cholinesterase inhibitor.

Signs and Symptoms of TEPP Exposure: Acute exposure to TEPP may produce the following signs and symptoms: sweating, pinpoint pupils, blurred vision, headache, dizziness, profound weakness, muscle spasms, seizures, and coma. Mental confusion and psychosis may occur. Excessive salivation, nausea, vomiting, anorexia, diarrhea, and abdominal pain may also occur. The heart rate may decrease following oral exposure or increase following dermal exposure. Chest pain may be noted. Hypotension (low blood pressure) may be observed, although hypertension (high blood pressure) is not uncommon. Respiratory symptoms include dyspnea (shortness of breath), pulmonary edema, respiratory depression, and respiratory paralysis.

Emergency Life-Support Procedures: Acute exposure to TEPP 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 TEPP.

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 100% humidified 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. RUSH to a health care facility!

Dermal/Eye Exposure:

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

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 100% humidified oxygen or other respiratory support.

3. Remove contaminated clothing as soon as possible.

4. If eye exposure has occurred, eyes must be flushed with lukewarm water for at least 15 minutes.

5. Wash exposed skin areas three times 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. RUSH 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 100% humidified 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. Vomiting may be induced with syrup of Ipecac. If elapsed time since ingestion of TEPP is unknown or suspected to be greater than 30 minutes, do not induce vomiting and proceed to Step

4. Ipecac should not be administered to children under 6 months of age.Warning: Ingestion of TEPP may result in sudden onset of seizures or loss of consciousness. Syrup of Ipecac should be administered only if victims are alert, have an active gag reflex, and show no signs of impending seizure or coma. If ANY uncertainty exists, proceed to Step

4.The following dosages of Ipecac are recommended: children up to 1 year old, 10 mL (1/3 oz); children 1 to 12 years old, 15 mL (1/2 oz); adults, 30 mL (1 oz). Ambulate (walk) the victims and give large quantities of water. If vomiting has not occurred after 15 minutes, Ipecac may be readministered. Continue to ambulate and give water to the victims. If vomiting has not occurred within 15 minutes after second administration of Ipecac, administer activated charcoal.

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. Promote excretion 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. RUSH 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.

(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 - If this chemical has been swallowed, get medical attention immediately.

12.4 Fire Fighting

Wear self-contained breathing apparatus and full protective clothing.

Move container from fire area if you can do it without risk. Fight fire from maximum distance. Dike fire control water for later disposal; do not scatter the material. Extinguish with dry chemical, carbon dioxide, water spray, fog, or foam. (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.
Use water in large amounts, powder, alcohol-resistant foam, carbon dioxide. In case of fire: keep drums, etc., cool by spraying with water.

12.4.1 Fire Fighting Procedures

/To fight fire use:/ Powder, alcohol-resistant foam, water in large amounts, carbon dioxide.
IPCS,CEC; International Chemical Safety Card on T.E.P.P. (April 1994). Available from, as of February 17, 2004: https://www.inchem.org/documents/icsc/icsc/eics1158.htm
Fire Fighting: Self-contained breathing apparatus with a full facepiece operated in pressure-demand or other positive-pressure mode.
Mackison, F. W., R. S. Stricoff, and L. J. Partridge, Jr. (eds.). NIOSH/OSHA - Occupational Health Guidelines for Chemical Hazards. DHHS(NIOSH) Publication No. 81-123 (3 VOLS). Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, Jan. 1981., p. 5
If material is on fire or involved in a fire: Do not extinguish fire unless flow can be stopped. Use water in flooding quantities as fog. Solid streams of water may be ineffective. Cool all affected containers with flooding quantities of water. Apply water from as far a distance as possible. Use foam, carbon dioxide, or dry chemical. Use water to absorb vapors. /Tetraethyl pyrophosphate, liquid/
Bureau of Explosives; Emergency Handling of Haz Matl in Surface Trans p.493 (1981)

12.5 Accidental Release Measures

12.5.1 Isolation and Evacuation

Excerpt from ERG Guide 152 [Substances - Toxic (Combustible)]:

IMMEDIATE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURE: Isolate spill or leak area in all directions for at least 50 meters (150 feet) for liquids and at least 25 meters (75 feet) for solids.

SPILL: 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 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions. (ERG, 2024)

12.5.2 Spillage Disposal

Personal protection: complete protective clothing including self-contained breathing apparatus. Do NOT let this chemical enter the environment. Collect leaking and spilled liquid in sealable non-metallic containers as far as possible. Absorb remaining liquid in sand or inert absorbent. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations.

12.5.3 Cleanup Methods

Spills of pesticides at any stage of their storage or handling should be treated with great care. Liquid formulations may be reduced to solid phase by evaporation. Dry sweeping of solids is always hazardous: These should be removed by vacuum cleaning or by dissolving them in water or other solvent in the factory environment. /Pesticides/
International Labour Office. Encyclopaedia of Occupational Health and Safety. 4th edition, Volumes 1-4 1998. Geneva, Switzerland: International Labour Office, 1998., p. 62.15
1. Ventilate area of spill or leak. 2. Collect for reclamation or absorb in vermiculite, dry sand, earth, or similar material.
Mackison, F. W., R. S. Stricoff, and L. J. Partridge, Jr. (eds.). NIOSH/OSHA - Occupational Health Guidelines for Chemical Hazards. DHHS(NIOSH) Publication No. 81-123 (3 VOLS). Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, Jan. 1981., p. 4
Environmental considerations-Land spill: Dig a pit, pond, lagoon, or holding area to contain liquid or solid material. /SRP: If time permits, pits, ponds, lagoons, soak holes, or holding areas should be sealed with a impermeable flexible membrane liner./ Dike surface flow using soil, sand bags, foamed polyurethane, or foamed concrete. Absorb bulk liquid with fly ash, or cement powder. /Tetraethyl pyrophosphate, liquid/
Bureau of Explosives; Emergency Handling of Haz Matl in Surface Trans p.494 (1981)
Environmental consideration-Water spill: Neutralize with agricultural lime (slaked lime), crushed limestone, or sodium bicarbonate). Adjust pH to neutral (pH 7). Use mechanical dredges or lifts to remove immobilized masses of pollutants and precipitates. /Tetraethyl pyrophosphate, liquid/
Bureau of Explosives; Emergency Handling of Haz Matl in Surface Trans p.494 (1981)
For more Cleanup Methods (Complete) data for TETRAETHYL PYROPHOSPHATE (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

12.5.4 Disposal Methods

[40 CFR 240-280, 300-306, 702-799 (7/1/2004)] Generators of waste (equal to or greater than 100 kg/mo) containing this contaminant, EPA hazardous waste number P111, must conform with USEPA regulations in storage, transportation, treatment and disposal of waste.
Potential candidate for rotary kiln incineration with a temperature range of 820 to 1600 °C with residence times for liquids and solids; seconds; solids: hours. Also, a potential candidate for liquid injection incineration with a liquid injection with a temperature range of 650 to 1600 °C with residence times of 0.1 to 2 seconds. Also, a potential candidiate for fluidized bed incineration range of 450 to 980 °C with residence times for liquids and gases, seconds; solids, longer.
USEPA; Engineering Handbook for Hazardous Waste Incineration p.3-10 (1981) EPA 68-03-3025
Group I Containers: Combustible containers from organic or metallo-organic pesticides (except organic mercury, lead, cadmium, or arsenic compounds) should be disposed of in pesticide incinerators or in specified landfill sites. /Organic or metallo-organic pesticides/
40 CFR 165 (7/1/86)
Group II Containers: Non-combustible containers from organic or metallo-organic pesticides (except organic mercury, lead, cadmium, or arsenic compounds) must first be triple-rinsed. Containers that are in good condition may be returned to the manufacturer or formulator of the pesticide product, or to a drum reconditioner for reuse with the same type of pesticide product, if such reuse is legal under Department of Transportation regulations (eg 49 CFR 173.28). Containers that are not to be reused should be punctured ... and transported to a scrap metal facility for recycling, disposal, or burial in a designated landfill. /Organic or metallo-organic pesticides/
40 CFR 165 (7/1/86)
Tepp /tetraethylpyrophosphate/ is 50% hydrolyzed in water in 6.8 hr at 25 °C, and 3.3 hr at 39 °C; 99% hydrolysis requires 45.2 hr at 25 °C, or 21.9 hr at 38 °C. Hydrolysis of tepp yields nontoxic products. Recommendable methods: Incineration & hydrolysis. Peer review: Large amt - incinerate at high temp in a unit with effluent gas scrubbing. (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. 276

12.5.5 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.
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.
Skin that becomes contaminated with TEPP should be immediately washed or showered to remove any TEPP.
Mackison, F. W., R. S. Stricoff, and L. J. Partridge, Jr. (eds.). NIOSH/OSHA - Occupational Health Guidelines for Chemical Hazards. DHHS(NIOSH) Publication No. 81-123 (3 VOLS). Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, Jan. 1981., p. 3
Eating and smoking should not be permitted in areas where TEPP is handled, processed, or stored. Employees who handle TEPP should wash their hands thoroughly before eating, smoking or using toilet facilities.
Mackison, F. W., R. S. Stricoff, and L. J. Partridge, Jr. (eds.). NIOSH/OSHA - Occupational Health Guidelines for Chemical Hazards. DHHS(NIOSH) Publication No. 81-123 (3 VOLS). Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, Jan. 1981., p. 3
For more Preventive Measures (Complete) data for TETRAETHYL PYROPHOSPHATE (17 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

12.6 Handling and Storage

12.6.1 Nonfire Spill Response

Excerpt from ERG Guide 152 [Substances - Toxic (Combustible)]:

ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames) from immediate area. Do not touch damaged containers or spilled material unless wearing appropriate protective clothing. Stop leak if you can do it without risk. Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas. Cover with plastic sheet to prevent spreading. Absorb or cover with dry earth, sand or other non-combustible material and transfer to containers. DO NOT GET WATER INSIDE CONTAINERS. (ERG, 2024)

12.6.2 Safe Storage

Store only in original container. Separated from food and feedstuffs. Keep in a well-ventilated room. Dry. Store in an area without drain or sewer access. Provision to contain effluent from fire extinguishing.

12.6.3 Storage Conditions

It should be stored in moisture-proof containers in a cool well-ventilated area. Empty drums should be decontaminated; never re-use containers.
Farm Chemicals Handbook 1981. Willoughby, Ohio: Meister, 1981., p. C-328
Ambient temperature
U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Transportation. CHRIS - Hazardous Chemical Data. Volume II. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office, 1984-5.
Provision to contain effluent from fire extinguishing /is necessary/. /Keep/ separated from food and feedstuffs. Dry. Keep in a well-ventilated room.
IPCS,CEC; International Chemical Safety Card on T.E.P.P. (April 1994). Available from, as of February 17, 2004: https://www.inchem.org/documents/icsc/icsc/eics1158.htm

12.7 Exposure Control and Personal Protection

Exposure Summary
Biological Exposure Indices (BEI) [ACGIH] - Acetylcholinesterase activity in red blood cells = 70% of individual's baseline; Butylcholinesterase activity in serum or plasma = 60% of individual's baseline; Sample at end of shift; [TLVs and BEIs]
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.
Maximum Allowable Concentration (MAK)
0.06 [mg/m3]

12.7.2 Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL)

0.05 [mg/m3]
PEL-TWA (8-Hour Time Weighted Average)
0.05 mg/m³
TWA 0.05 mg/m3 [skin]

12.7.3 Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH)

5 mg/m3 (NIOSH, 2024)
5.0 [mg/m3]
5 mg/cu m
NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards & Other Databases. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Public Health Service, Center for Disease Control & Prevention. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2001-145 (CD-ROM) August 2001.
5 mg/m³

5 mg/m3

See: 107493

12.7.4 Threshold Limit Values (TLV)

0.01 [mg/m3], inhalable fraction and vapor
8 hr Time Weighted Avg (TWA): 0.01 mg/cu m (inhalable fraction and vapor), skin
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. 55
Excursion Limit Recommendation: Excursions in worker exposure levels may exceed 3 times the TLV-TWA for no more than a total of 30 minutes during a work day, and under no circumstances should they exceed 5 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
Biological Exposure Index (BEI): Determinant: cholinesterase activity in red blood cells; Sampling Time: discretionary; BEI: 70% of individual's baseline. The determinant is nonspecific, since it is also observed after exposure to other chemicals. /Acetylcholinesterase inhibiting pesticides/
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. 102
(inhalable fraction): 0.01 mg/m
TLV-TWA (Time Weighted Average)
0.01 mg/m³ [2006]

12.7.5 Occupational Exposure Limits (OEL)

MAK (Maximale Arbeitsplatz Konzentration)
0.060 mg/m

12.7.6 Inhalation Risk

A harmful contamination of the air can be reached rather quickly on evaporation of this substance at 20 °C , on spraying much faster.

12.7.7 Effects of Short Term Exposure

The substance is irritating to the eyes and skin. The substance may cause effects on the nervous system by a cholinesterase inhibiting effect. See Acute Hazards/Symptoms. This may result in convulsions, respiratory failure, heart failure and death. Medical observation is indicated.

12.7.8 Effects of Long Term Exposure

Cholinesterase inhibition. Cumulative effects are possible. See Acute Hazards/Symptoms.

12.7.9 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Excerpt from NIOSH Pocket Guide for TEPP:

Skin: PREVENT SKIN CONTACT - Wear appropriate personal protective clothing to prevent skin contact.

Eyes: PREVENT EYE CONTACT - Wear appropriate eye protection to prevent eye contact.

Wash skin: WHEN CONTAMINATED - The worker should immediately wash the skin when it becomes contaminated.

Remove: WHEN WET OR CONTAMINATED - Work clothing that becomes wet or significantly contaminated should be removed and replaced.

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

Provide:

• EYEWASH - Eyewash fountains should be provided in areas where there is any possibility that workers could be exposed to the substances; this is irrespective of the recommendation involving the wearing of eye protection.

• QUICK DRENCH - Facilities for quickly drenching the body should be provided 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)

Mask with canister approved for organic phosphate pesticides; Goggles or face shield; Rubber gloves & other clothing to prevent contact with skin.
U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Transportation. CHRIS - Hazardous Chemical Data. Volume II. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office, 1984-5.
Employees should be provided with and required to use impervious clothing, gloves, face shields (eight-inch minimum), and other appropriate protective clothing necessary to prevent any possibility of skin contact with TEPP. Employees should be provided with and required to use splash-proof safety goggles where there is any possibility of TEPP contacting the eyes.
Mackison, F. W., R. S. Stricoff, and L. J. Partridge, Jr. (eds.). NIOSH/OSHA - Occupational Health Guidelines for Chemical Hazards. DHHS(NIOSH) Publication No. 81-123 (3 VOLS). Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, Jan. 1981., p. 3
Wear appropriate personal protective clothing to prevent skin contact.
NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards & Other Databases. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Public Health Service, Center for Disease Control & Prevention. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2001-145 (CD-ROM) August 2001.
Wear appropriate eye protection to prevent eye contact.
NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards & Other Databases. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Public Health Service, Center for Disease Control & Prevention. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2001-145 (CD-ROM) August 2001.
For more Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) (Complete) data for TETRAETHYL PYROPHOSPHATE (12 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

(See personal protection and sanitation codes)

Skin: Prevent skin contact - Wear appropriate personal protective clothing to prevent skin contact.

Eyes: Prevent eye contact - Wear appropriate eye protection to prevent eye contact.

Wash skin: When contaminated

Remove: When wet or contaminated

Change: No recommendation

Provide: Eyewash, Quick drench

12.7.10 Respirator Recommendations

NIOSH/OSHA

Up to 0.5 mg/m3 :

(APF = 10) Any supplied-air respirator

Up to 1.25 mg/m3 :

(APF = 25) Any supplied-air respirator operated in a continuous-flow mode

Up to 2.5 mg/m3 :

(APF = 50) Any supplied-air respirator that has a tight-fitting facepiece and is operated in a continuous-flow mode

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

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

Up to 5 mg/m3 :

(APF = 1000) Any supplied-air respirator operated in a pressure-demand or other positive-pressure mode

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 organic vapor canister having an N100, R100, or P100 filter.

Click here for information on selection of N, R, or P filters.

Any appropriate escape-type, self-contained breathing apparatus

Important additional information about respirator selection

12.7.11 Preventions

Fire Prevention
NO open flames.
Exposure Prevention
AVOID ALL CONTACT! AVOID EXPOSURE OF ADOLESCENTS AND CHILDREN! FIRST AID: USE PERSONAL PROTECTION. IN ALL CASES CONSULT A DOCTOR!
Inhalation Prevention
Use ventilation, local exhaust or breathing protection.
Skin Prevention
Protective gloves. Protective clothing.
Eye Prevention
Wear face shield or eye protection in combination with breathing protection.
Ingestion Prevention
Do not eat, drink, or smoke during work. Wash hands before eating.

12.8 Stability and Reactivity

12.8.1 Air and Water Reactions

Hygroscopic. Dissolves in water, then is slowly hydrolyzed with formation of mono-, di-, and triethyl orthophosphates and phosphoric acid. Water solutions attack metal surfaces.

12.8.2 Reactive Group

Esters, Sulfate Esters, Phosphate Esters, Thiophosphate Esters, and Borate Esters

Anhydrides

12.8.3 Reactivity Profile

TETRAETHYL PYROPHOSPHATE reacts slowly with water to form HPO3; corrosive to aluminum; slowly corrosive to copper, brass, zinc and tin; incompatible with strong oxidizers (NTP, 1992). Organophosphates, such as TETRAETHYL PYROPHOSPHATE, are susceptible to formation of highly toxic and flammable phosphine gas in the presence of strong reducing agents such as hydrides. Partial oxidation by oxidizing agents may result in the release of toxic phosphorus oxides.
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.

12.8.4 Hazardous Reactivities and Incompatibilities

Incompatibilities: ... it is incompatible with alkaline materials.
Farm Chemicals Handbook 1981. Willoughby, Ohio: Meister, 1981., p. C-328
Strong oxidizers, alkalis, water [Note: Hydrolyzes quickly in water to form pyrophosphoric acid].
NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards & Other Databases. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Public Health Service, Center for Disease Control & Prevention. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2001-145 (CD-ROM) August 2001.
/Tetraethyl pyrophosphate/ .... attacks some forms of plastic, rubber and coatings corrosive to most metals.
IPCS,CEC; International Chemical Safety Card on T.E.P.P. (April 1994). Available from, as of February 17, 2004: https://www.inchem.org/documents/icsc/icsc/eics1158.htm

12.9 Transport Information

12.9.1 DOT Emergency Guidelines

/GUIDE 152: SUBSTANCES - TOXIC (COMBUSTIBLE)/ Health: Highly toxic, may be fatal if inhaled, swallowed or absorbed through skin. Contact with molten substance may cause severe burns to skin and eyes. Avoid any skin contact. Effects of contact or inhalation may be delayed. Fire may produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Runoff from fire control or dilution water may be corrosive and/or toxic and cause pollution. /Tetraethyl pyrophosphate, liquid; Tetraethyl pyrophosphate, solid/
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 152: SUBSTANCES - TOXIC (COMBUSTIBLE)/ Fire or Explosion: Combustible material: may burn but does not ignite readily. Containers may explode when heated. Runoff may pollute waterways. Substance may be transported in a molten form. /Tetraethyl pyrophosphate, liquid; Tetraethyl pyrophosphate, solid/
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 152: SUBSTANCES - TOXIC (COMBUSTIBLE)/ Public Safety: CALL Emergency Response Telephone Number ... . As an immediate precautionary measure, isolate spill or leak area in all directions for at least 50 meters (150 feet) for liquids and at least 25 meters (75 feet) for solids. Keep unauthorized personnel away. Stay upwind. Keep out of low areas. /Tetraethyl pyrophosphate, liquid; Tetraethyl pyrophosphate, solid/
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 152: SUBSTANCES - TOXIC (COMBUSTIBLE)/ Protective Clothing: Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Wear chemical protective clothing that is specifically recommended by the manufacturer. It may provide little or no thermal protection. Structural firefighters' protective clothing provides limited protection in fire situations ONLY; it is not effective in spill situations where direct contact with the substance is possible. /Tetraethyl pyrophosphate, liquid; Tetraethyl pyrophosphate, solid/
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 TETRAETHYL PYROPHOSPHATE (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

12.9.2 DOT ID and Guide

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

NA 2783; Tetraethyl pyrophosphate, liquid
IMO 6.1; Tetraethyl pyrophosphate, liquid
UN 1705; Tetraethyl pyrophosphate and compressed gas mixture
IMO 2.3; Tetraethyl pyrophosphate and compressed gas mixture

12.9.4 Standard Transportation Number

49 214 86; Tetraethyl pyrophosphate, liquid
49 214 88; Tetraethyl pyrophosphate mixture, liquid
49 214 87; Tetraethyl pyrophosphate mixture, dry
49 205 45; Tetraethyl pyrophosphate and compressed gas mixture

12.9.5 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; U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of February 5, 2004: https://www.ecfr.gov
Marine pollutant
172.101; U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of February 10, 2004: https://www.ecfr.gov

12.9.6 DOT Label

Poison

12.9.7 Packaging and Labelling

Do not transport with food and feedstuffs. Marine pollutant.

12.9.8 EC Classification

Symbol: T+, N; R: 27/28-50; S: (1/2)-36/37/39-38-45-61

12.9.9 UN Classification

UN Hazard Class: 6.1; UN Pack Group: I

12.10 Regulatory Information

12.10.1 Clean Water Act Requirements

Tetraethyl pyrophosphate is designated as a hazardous substance under section 311(b)(2)(A) of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act and further regulated by the Clean Water Act Amendments of 1977 and 1978. These regulations apply to discharges of this substance. This designation includes any isomers and hydrates, as well as any solutions and mixtures containing this substance.
40 CFR 116.4; U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of February 10, 2004: https://www.ecfr.gov

12.10.2 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; In the Washington D.C. metropolitan area (202) 426-2675. The rule for determining when notification is required is stated in 40 CFR 302.4 (section IV. D.3.b).
40 CFR 302.4; U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of February 10, 2004: 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. Tetraethyl pyrophosphate is an extremely hazardous substance (EHS) subject to reporting requirements when stored in amounts in excess of its threshold planning quantity (TPQ) of 100 lbs.
40 CFR 355; U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of February 10, 2004: https://www.ecfr.gov

12.10.3 RCRA Requirements

P111; As stipulated in 40 CFR 261.33, when tetraethyl pyrophosphate, 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 container or inner liner used to hold this waste or 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(e)).
40 CFR 261.33; U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of February 10, 2004: https://www.ecfr.gov

12.11 Other Safety Information

12.11.1 Toxic Combustion Products

Highly toxic gases & vapors of unburned material & phosphoric acid are formed in fires.
U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Transportation. CHRIS - Hazardous Chemical Data. Volume II. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office, 1984-5.

12.11.2 Special Reports

Govt Reports Announcements & Index (GR&I) 24: 172 (1985) NTIS/AD-A157 923/4
USEPA; Chemical Hazard Information Profile: Tetraethylpyrophosphate (Draft) (1985).

13 Toxicity

13.1 Toxicological Information

13.1.1 NIOSH Toxicity Data

13.1.2 Exposure Routes

The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation, through the skin and by ingestion.
inhalation, skin absorption, ingestion, skin and/or eye contact

13.1.3 Symptoms

Inhalation Exposure
Dizziness. Pupillary constriction, muscle cramp, excessive salivation. Sweating. Laboured breathing. Cough. Weakness. Abdominal cramps. Diarrhoea. Nausea. Vomiting. Incoordination. Convulsions. Unconsciousness.
Skin Exposure
EASILY ABSORBED! Redness. Pain. Further see Inhalation.
Eye Exposure
Redness. Pain. Blurred vision.
Ingestion Exposure
See Inhalation.
Eye pain, blurred vision, lacrimation (discharge of tears); rhinorrhea (discharge of thin nasal mucus); headache, chest tightness, cyanosis; anorexia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea; lassitude (weakness, exhaustion), twitching, paralysis, Cheyne-Stokes respiration, convulsions; low blood pressure, cardiac irreg; sweating

13.1.4 Target Organs

Eyes, respiratory system, central nervous system, cardiovascular system, gastrointestinal tract, blood cholinesterase

13.1.6 Adverse Effects

Other Poison - Organophosphate

13.1.7 Acute Effects

13.1.8 Toxicity Data

LC50 (rat) = 7 mg/m3/4H; [ACGIH]

13.1.9 Interactions

Eserine was bound to the catalytic site of squid head ganglia acetylcholinesterase, in vitro, while atropine was bound to a second site distinct from the active center. TEPP diminished the binding of eserine but had little effect on atropine. ...
Kato G et al; Biochem Biophys Res Commun 40 (1): 15-21 (1970)

13.1.10 Antidote and Emergency Treatment

Airway protection. Insure that a clear airway exists. Intubate the patients and aspirate the secretions with a large-bore suction device if necessary. Administer oxygen by mechanically assisted pulmonary ventilation if respiration is depressed. Improve tissue oxygenation as much as possible before administering atropine, so as to minimize the risk of ventricular fibrillation. In severe poisonings, it may be necessary to support pulmonary ventilation mechanically for several days. /Organophosphate pesticides/
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency/Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances. Reigart, J.R., Roberts, J.R. Recognition and Management of Pesticide Poisonings. 5th ed. 1999. EPA Document No. EPA 735-R-98-003, and available in electronic format at: https://www.epa.gov/pesticides/safety/healthcare, p. 40
Atropine sulfate. Administer atropine sulfate intravenously, or intramuscularly if intravenous injection is not possible. Remember that atropine can be administered through an endotracheal tube if initial IV access if difficult to obtain. Depending on the severity of poisoning, doses of atropine ranging from very low to ...high ...may be required, or even continuous infusion. The objective of atropine antidotal therapy is to antagonize the effects of excessive concentrations of acetylcholine at end-organs having muscarinic receptors. Atropine does not reactivate the cholinesterase enzyme or accelerate disposition of organophosphate. Recrudescence of poisoning may occur if tissue concentrations of organophosphate remain high when the effect of atropine wears off. Atropine is effective against muscarinic manifestations, but it is ineffective against nicotinic actions, specifically muscle weakness and twitching, and respiratory depression. Despite the limitations, atropine is often a life-saving agent in organophosphate poisonings. Favorable response to a test dose of atropine... can help differentiate poisoning by anticholinesterase agents from other conditions. However, lack of response, with no evidence of atropinization (atropine refractoriness) is typical of more severe poisonings. The adjunctive use of nebulized atropine has been reported to improve respiratory distress, decrease bronchial secretions, and increase oxygenation. ...Do not administer atropine or pralidoxime prophylactically to workers exposed to organophosphate pesticides. Prophylactic dosage with either atropine or pralidoxime may mask early signs and symptoms of organophosphate poisoning and thus allow the worker to continue exposure and possibly progress to more severe poisoning. Atropine itself may enhance the health hazards of the agricultural work setting: impaired heat loss due to reduced sweating and impaired ability to operate mechanical equipment due to blurred vision. This can be caused by mydriasis, one of the effects of atropine. /Organophosphate pesticides/
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency/Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances. Reigart, J.R., Roberts, J.R. Recognition and Management of Pesticide Poisonings. 5th ed. 1999. EPA Document No. EPA 735-R-98-003, and available in electronic format at: https://www.epa.gov/pesticides/safety/healthcare, p. 41
Glycopyrolate has been studied as an alternative to atropine and found to have similar outcomes using continuous infusion. Ampules of... glycopyrolate were added to ...saline and this infusion was titrated to the desired effects of dry mucous membranes and heart rate above 60 beats/min. During this study, atropine was used as a bolus for a heart rate less than 60 beats/min. The other apparent advantage to this regimen was a decreased number of respiratory infections. This may represent an alternative when there is a concern for respiratory infection due to excessive and difficult to control secretions, and in the presence of altered level of consciousness where the distinction between atropine toxicity or relapse of organophosphate poisoning is unclear. /Organophosphate pesticides/
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency/Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances. Reigart, J.R., Roberts, J.R. Recognition and Management of Pesticide Poisonings. 5th ed. 1999. EPA Document No. EPA 735-R-98-003, and available in electronic format at: https://www.epa.gov/pesticides/safety/healthcare, p. 41
Pralidoxime. Before administration of pralidoxime, draw a blood sample (heparinized) for cholinesterase analysis (since pralidoxime tends to reverse the cholinesterase depression). Administration pralidoxime (Protopam, 2-PAM), a cholinesterase reactivator, in cases of severe poisoning by organophosphate pesticides in which respiratory depression, muscle weakness, and/or twitching are severe. When administered early (usually less than 48 hours after poisoning) pralidoxime relieves the nicotinic as well as the muscarinic effects of poisoning. Pralidoxime works by reactivating the cholinesterase and also by slowing the "aging" process of phosphorylated cholinesterase to a non-reactivatable form. ... Dosage of pralidoxime may be repeated in 1-2 hours, then at 10-12 hour intervals if needed. In very severe poisonings, dosage rates may be doubled. Repeated doses of pralidoxime are usually required. In cases that involve continuing absorption of organophosphate (as after ingestion of large amounts), or continuing transfer of highly lipophilic organophosphate from fat into blood, it may be necessary to continue administration of pralidoxime for several days beyond the 48 hour post-exposure interval usually cited as the limit of its effectiveness. ... Blood pressure should be monitored during administration because of the occasional occurrence of hypertensive crisis. Administration should be slowed or stopped if blood pressure rises to hazardous levels. Be prepared to assist pulmonary ventilation mechanically if respiration is depressed during or after pralidoxime administration. If intravenous injection is not possible, pralidoxime may be given by deep intramuscular injection. /Organophosphate pesticides/
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency/Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances. Reigart, J.R., Roberts, J.R. Recognition and Management of Pesticide Poisonings. 5th ed. 1999. EPA Document No. EPA 735-R-98-003, and available in electronic format at: https://www.epa.gov/pesticides/safety/healthcare, p. 41
For more Antidote and Emergency Treatment (Complete) data for TETRAETHYL PYROPHOSPHATE (17 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

13.1.11 Medical Surveillance

Recommended medical surveillance: The following procedures should be made available to each employee who is exposed to TEPP at potentially hazardous levels: Initial Medical Examination: A complete history and physical examination: The purpose is to detect pre-existing conditions that might place the exposed employee at increased risk, and to establish a baseline for future health monitoring. Examination of the respiratory system, nervous system, cardiovascular system, and attention to the cholinesterase levels in the blood should be stressed. The skin should be examined for evidence of chronic disorders. Cholinesterase determination: TEPP causes depressed levels of activity of cholinesterase in the serum and erythrocytes. The cholinesterase activity in the serum and erythrocytes should be determined by using medically acceptable biochemical tests prior to any new period of exposure. Periodic Medical Examination: The aforementioned medical examinations should be the cholinesterase determination which should be performed quarterly or at any time overexposure is suspected or signs and symptoms of toxicity occur.
Mackison, F. W., R. S. Stricoff, and L. J. Partridge, Jr. (eds.). NIOSH/OSHA - Occupational Health Guidelines for Chemical Hazards. DHHS(NIOSH) Publication No. 81-123 (3 VOLS). Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, Jan. 1981., p. 1
...Workers /should/ undergo an annual medical exam... . Contraindications for work with organophosporous pesticides are organic diseases of the CNS, mental disorders and epilepsy, pronounced endocrine disorders... . Blood cholinesterase /SRP: both plasma and RBC/ must be determined before work starts. In the event of prolonged work periods, this activity should be determined at intervals of 3-4 days. Persons exhibiting a fall in choinesterase activity of 25% or more must be transferred to other work where they are not exposed... until /cholinesterase activity/ is... restored. /Organophosphorous pesticides/
International Labour Office. Encyclopedia of Occupational Health and Safety. Vols. I&II. Geneva, Switzerland: International Labour Office, 1983., p. 1646
Measurement of whole blood-AChE is the most widely adopted method for monitoring the effects of occupational exposure to organophosphorus insecticides. Physiological variations in blood ChE levels occur in a healthy person and are seen among a population. It has been estimated that the coefficient of variation for AChE activity in samples from an individual is 8-11%, and that a decrease of 23% below pre-exposure level may, therefore, be considered significant. If the average of several pre-exposure values were available, then a decrease of 17% would be significant. It has been recommended that, if measured activity is reduced by 30% or more of the pre-exposure value, AChE measurements should be repeated at appropriate intervals to confirm the results. Depressions of AChE or ChE in excess of 20-25% are considered diagnostic of exposure but not, necessarily, indicative of hazard. Depressions of 30-50% or more are considered indicators for removal of an exposed individual from further contact with pesticides until levels return to normal. /Organophosphorus Pesticides/
WHO; Environ Health Criteria 63: Organophosphorus pesticides (1986). Available from, as of July 22,2003: https://www.inchem.org/pages/ehc.html
...Organophosphorus pesticides may undergo hydrolysis in vivo to yield substituted phosphoric acids that are subsequently excreted in urine. Advances in gas chromatography and combined gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) have made it possible to analyse the urine of exposed persons for the presence of appropriate metabolites. It is usually necessary to preserve the sample by the addition of chloroform, to concentrate or extract the metabolite(s), and to convert them to suitably-volatile derivatives that can be detected by GC. Obviously, access to a well-equipped analytical laboratory, capable of the quick processing of samples, is a necessary factor if monitoring by urine analysis is proposed. However, in some cases, simpler and sensitive colorimetric tests are available for screening the urine of exposed persons. Thus, 4-nitrophenol can be measured directly in the urine of workers exposed to parathion. Consideration of the concentration of metabolite(s) in the urine can be helpful in determining patterns of exposure, and these concentrations can be calibrated against the effects on AChE for a particular pesticide. However, the time-course and peak of excretion of metabolites appears to vary according to dose, so that serial sampling and analyses of urine are desirable. Levels of metabolite alone cannot be considered a guide to hazard. This is obvious when it is realized that pesticides that have very different toxicities may yield identical acidic metabolites. Thus, the level of metabolites in urine, after exposure to sufficient amounts of the very toxic parathion-methyl to depress blood-AChE to 50%, will be much lower than that of the identical metabolites, following exposure to the related fenitrothion, which is about 40 times less toxic. /Organophosphorus Pesticides/
WHO; Environ Health Criteria 63: Organophosphorus pesticides (1986). Available from, as of July 22,2003: https://www.inchem.org/pages/ehc.html

13.1.12 Human Toxicity Excerpts

/HUMAN EXPOSURE STUDIES/ Numerous instances of occupational and accidental poisonings from TEPP, including cases where percutaneous absorption was the principal route of exposure, have been described. Death can ensue within minutes to hours but can be delayed for several days. Under controlled conditions with atropine, however , humans have survived ingestion of up to 41 mg/kg when given in divided doses
American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists. Documentation of Threshold Limit Values for Chemical Substances and Physical Agents and Biological Exposure Indices for 2001. Cincinnati, OH. 2001., p. 1
/HUMAN EXPOSURE STUDIES/ Intramuscular or intravascular administration of 1 mg TEPP or more (about 0.0143 mg/kg) resulted in rapid depression of plasma cholinesterase and /red blood cell/ (RBC) acetylcholinesterase. Approximately four times as large a dose was required to produce a similar effect when the compound was administered orally. (From a graph presented in the study, an intramuscular dose of about 0.5 mg (about 0.007 mg/kg) reduced plasma cholinesterase and RBC acetylcholinesterase to about 20% and 75% of control, respectively.) Thus, a no-effect-level for RBC acetylcholinesterase inhibition following intramuscular administration is probably <0.007 mg/kg. Maximum depression of plasma cholinesterase occurred within 1 hr of dosing, and the maximum depression of RBC acetylcholinesterase occurred within 2 hr of dosing, regardless of the route of administration. Overt cholinergic symptoms (anorexia, vomiting, sweating, salivation, giddiness, uneasiness, headache, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, etc.) occurred after a single parenteral dose of 5 mg, after 3.6 mg for 2 days, or after 2.4 mg for 3 days. Similar results were obtained following oral dosing of 7.2 mg every 3 hours, 3-5 times. When symptoms appeared, they usually began suddenly about 30 minutes after the last dose of TEPP.
Bingham, E.; Cohrssen, B.; Powell, C.H.; Patty's Toxicology Volumes 1-9 5th ed. John Wiley & Sons. New York, N.Y. (2001)., p. V7 922
/HUMAN EXPOSURE STUDIES/ ... Research into the effects of TEPP on the eyes of pilots /was reported/. If an unequal amount of TEPP is in each eye, depth perception is affected. When a 2-yr-old son of one of the pilots was taken to the hospital /because of/ convulsions, a connection /was suggested/ between the father's occupation and the child's condition, and recommended therapy with pralidoxime (2-PAM). Recovery ensued and later it was discovered that the child had eaten some contaminated dirt from the driveway where his father had parked the spray tank truck. ...
Milliman LH; Agr Chem 22 (2): 64-6 (1967)
/HUMAN EXPOSURE STUDIES/ ...A small drop of /TEPP/ in the eye might be sufficient to kill a human.
Clarke, M. L., D. G. Harvey and D. J. Humphreys. Veterinary Toxicology. 2nd ed. London: Bailliere Tindall, 1981., p. 153
For more Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for TETRAETHYL PYROPHOSPHATE (14 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

13.1.13 Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ The muscarinic signs, which are usually the first to become manifest, consist of hypersalivation, lacrimation, sweating, and nasal discharge. Miosis, dyspnea, vomiting, diarrhea, and frequency of urination also occur. The nicotinic effects consist of fasciculation of muscles, weakness, and paralysis. The central /nervous system/ effects include nervousness, apprehension, ataxia, convulsions, and coma. Death is due to respiratory failure, or sometimes cardiac arrest. There is little difference between signs produced by different organophosphorus compounds, but route of absorption may influence one system more than another. /Organophosphorus insecticides/
Humphreys, D.J. Veterinary Toxicology. 3rd ed. London, England: Bailliere Tindell, 1988., p. 157
/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ Tepp is very toxic to warm-blooded animals. ... Its vapors are also highly toxic.
Crop Protection Handbook. 2003. (Formerly Farm Chemicals Handbook) Willoughby, OH: Meister Publishing Co., 2003., p. C-445
/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ ...TEPP... produced a depression of erythrocyte counts in the blood and the effects increased with increasing /compound/ concentration. The leucopenia involved a reduction of both neutrophils and lymphocytes. The frogs initially showed a moderate avoidance reaction upon immersion in the... solution. /TEPP/... did not produce any visible hemorrhage or salivation and the eyes always remained clear. Hypotonia, often leading to flaccid paralysis of the limbs, was characteristic, although spasticity of the limbs was evident in some instances.
Kaplan HM, Glasczenski SS; Life Sci 4 (12): 1213-9 (1965)
/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Neurotoxicity/ Neuromuscular transmission in frog, blocked by DFP, TEPP or Sarin, can be restored by 0.01-0.1 mM /sodium fluoride/ (NaF). The potency of NaF in restoring transmission is less than that of P-2-AM, the effect of 0.02 mM NaF being equivalent to that of 0.001 mM P-2-AM. The analysis of end-plate potential indicates that the restoration of transmission is due to the dual actions of fluoride, namely, (1) sensitization of end-plate membrane and (2) reactivation of phosphorylated ChE. A similar conclusion is obtained from the analysis of the effects of TEPP and Sarin as well as of NaF on the post-synaptic potential of frog's sympathetic ganglion cell. A similar effect of NaF is also demonstrated with regard to Renshaw cell activity of cat's spinal cord.
Koketsu K; Neuropharmacology 5 (3): 247-254 (1966)
For more Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for TETRAETHYL PYROPHOSPHATE (7 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

13.1.14 Non-Human Toxicity Values

LD50 Rat (male) dermal 2.4 mg/kg
Bingham, E.; Cohrssen, B.; Powell, C.H.; Patty's Toxicology Volumes 1-9 5th ed. John Wiley & Sons. New York, N.Y. (2001)., p. V7 921
LC50 Rat inhalation 23.5 mg/cu m/1 hr; 6.75 mg/cu m/4 hr
Bingham, E.; Cohrssen, B.; Powell, C.H.; Patty's Toxicology Volumes 1-9 5th ed. John Wiley & Sons. New York, N.Y. (2001)., p. V7 921
LD50 Rat ip 0.65 mg/kg
Bingham, E.; Cohrssen, B.; Powell, C.H.; Patty's Toxicology Volumes 1-9 5th ed. John Wiley & Sons. New York, N.Y. (2001)., p. V7 921
LD50 Rat iv 0.3 mg/kg
Bingham, E.; Cohrssen, B.; Powell, C.H.; Patty's Toxicology Volumes 1-9 5th ed. John Wiley & Sons. New York, N.Y. (2001)., p. V7 921
For more Non-Human Toxicity Values (Complete) data for TETRAETHYL PYROPHOSPHATE (13 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

13.1.15 Populations at Special Risk

Persons with a history of reduced pulmonary function, convulsive disorders, or recent exposure to anticholinesterase agents would be expected to be at increased risk from exposure to TEPP.
Mackison, F. W., R. S. Stricoff, and L. J. Partridge, Jr. (eds.). NIOSH/OSHA - Occupational Health Guidelines for Chemical Hazards. DHHS(NIOSH) Publication No. 81-123 (3 VOLS). Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, Jan. 1981., p. 1
Work ... must not be carried out by young persons under 18 yr, expectant or nursing mothers, or persons for whom work with toxic chemicals is contraindicated on account of their state of health; the same applies to alcoholics. Contraindications for work with organophosphorus pesticides are organic diseases of the CNS, mental disorders & epilepsy, pronounced endocrine & vegetative disorders, pulmonary tuberculosis, bronchial asthma, chronic respiratory diseases, cardiovascular diseases and circulatory disorders, gastrointestinal diseases (peptic ulcer), gastroenterocolitis, diseases of the liver & kidneys, eye diseases (chronic conjunctivitis and keratitis). /Organophosphorus pesticides/
International Labour Office. Encyclopedia of Occupational Health and Safety. Vols. I&II. Geneva, Switzerland: International Labour Office, 1983., p. 1646

13.2 Ecological Information

13.2.1 EPA Ecotoxicity

Pesticide Ecotoxicity Data from EPA

13.2.2 Ecotoxicity Values

LD50 Anas platyrhynchos (mallard) oral 3.56 mg/kg, 3-4 month old males /40% Tepp, 60% other ethyl phosphates/
U.S. Department of the Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service. Handbook of Toxicity of Pesticides to Wildlife. Resource Publication 153. Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, 1984., p. 78
LD50 Phasianus colchicus (pheasant) oral 4.22 mg/kg, 3-4 month old males (95% confidence limit: 2.93-6.09 mg/kg) /40% Tepp, 60% other ethyl phosphates/
U.S. Department of the Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service. Handbook of Toxicity of Pesticides to Wildlife. Resource Publication 153. Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, 1984., p. 78
LD50 Alectoris chuckar (chukar) oral 10.1 mg/kg, 3-4 month old (95% confidence limit: 7.28-14.0 mg/kg) /40% Tepp, 60% other ethyl phosphates/
U.S. Department of the Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service. Handbook of Toxicity of Pesticides to Wildlife. Resource Publication 153. Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, 1984., p. 78
LD50 Rana catesbeiana (bullfrog) oral 89.1 mg/kg (95% confidence limit: 46.3-171 mg/kg), males /40% Tepp, 60% other ethyl phosphates/
U.S. Department of the Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service. Handbook of Toxicity of Pesticides to Wildlife. Resource Publication 153. Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, 1984., p. 78
For more Ecotoxicity Values (Complete) data for TETRAETHYL PYROPHOSPHATE (20 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

13.2.3 ICSC Environmental Data

The substance is very toxic to aquatic organisms. This substance may be hazardous to the environment. Special attention should be given to mammals, birds and bees. This substance does enter the environment under normal use. Great care, however, should be taken to avoid any additional release, for example through inappropriate disposal.

13.2.4 Environmental Fate / Exposure Summary

Tetraethyl pyrophosphate's former production and use as an insecticide resulted in its direct release to the environment. If released to air, a vapor pressure of 2.60X10-4 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates tetraethyl pyrophosphate will exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase tetraethyl pyrophosphate 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 5.0 hours. If released to soil, tetraethyl pyrophosphate is expected to have very high mobility based upon an estimated Koc of 2.2. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces is not expected to be an important fate process based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 2.2X10-10 atm-cu m/mole. Tetraethyl pyrophosphate is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces based upon its vapor pressure. If released into water, tetraethyl pyrophosphate is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment based upon the estimated Koc. Biodegradation data for this substance were not located in the literature. Volatilization from water surfaces is not expected to be an important fate process based upon this compound's estimated Henry's Law constant. An estimated BCF of 3.2 suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low. Hydrolysis half-lives for this substance have been measured to be 6.8 and 7.5 hours at 25 °C. Occupational exposure and general population exposure should be low or non-existent since tetraethyl pyrophosphate is no longer produced or used. In the past, tetraethyl pyrophosphate was applied directly to crops as an insecticide and exposure to this compound was primarily by loading crop duster airplanes and application to fields. (SRC)

13.2.5 Artificial Pollution Sources

Tetraethyl pyrophosphate's production and use as an insecticide(1) may have resulted in its direct release to the environment(SRC).
(1) O'Neil MJ, ed; The Merck Index. 13th ed. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co Inc p. 1643 (2001)
Air emmissions of TEPP manufacture have been reported to consist of 0.5 kg hydrocarbon and 0.05 kg TEPP per metric ton of pesticide produced.
SITTIG. PESTICIDE MFG & TOX MATER CONTROL ENCYC 1980 p.711
Application as a contact insecticide on agricultural and ornamental crops, including use in greenhouses; formulation of insecticides; manufacture of TEPP.
Mackison, F. W., R. S. Stricoff, and L. J. Partridge, Jr. (eds.). NIOSH/OSHA - Occupational Health Guidelines for Chemical Hazards. DHHS(NIOSH) Publication No. 81-123 (3 VOLS). Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, Jan. 1981., p. 3

13.2.6 Environmental Fate

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 2.2(SRC), determined from a water solubility of 1.00X10+6 mg/L(2) and a regression-derived equation(3), indicates that tetraethyl pyrophosphate is expected to have very high mobility in soil(SRC). Volatilization of tetraethyl pyrophosphate from moist soil surfaces is not expected to be an important fate process(SRC) given an estimated Henry's Law constant of 2.2X10-10 atm-cu m/mole(SRC) derived from its vapor pressure, 2.60X10-4 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), and water solubility(2). Tetraethyl pyrophosphate is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon its vapor pressure(2). Biodegradation data for this substance were not located in the literature.
(1) Swann RL et al; Res Rev 85: 17-28 (1983)
(2) O'Neil MJ, ed; The Merck Index. 13th ed. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co Inc p.1643 (2001)
(3) Lyman WJ et al; Handbook of Chemical Property Estimation Methods. Washington, DC: Amer Chem Soc pp. 4-9 (1990)
AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 2.2(SRC), determined from a water solubility of 1.00X10+6 mg/L(2) and a regression-derived equation(3), indicates that tetraethyl pyrophosphate is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment(SRC). Volatilization from water surfaces is not expected(3) based upon an estimated Henry's Law constant of 2.2X10-10 atm-cu m/mole(SRC), derived from its vapor pressure, 2.60X10-4 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), and water solubility(2). Using this Henry's Law constant and an estimation method(3). According to a classification scheme(4), an estimated BCF of 3.2(SRC), from an estimated log Kow(5) and a regression-derived equation(6), suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC). Biodegradation data for this substance were not located in the literature.
(1) Swann RL et al; Res Rev 85: 17-28 (1983)
(2) O'Neil MJ, ed; The Merck Index. 13th ed. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co Inc p.1643 (2001)
(3) Lyman WJ et al; Handbook of Chemical Property Estimation Methods. Washington, DC: Amer Chem Soc pp. 4-9, 15-1 to 15-29 (1990)
(4) Franke C et al; Chemosphere 29: 1501-14 (1994)
(5) Meylan WM, Howard PH; J Pharm Sci 84: 83-92 (1995)
(6) 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), tetraethyl pyrophosphate, which has a vapor pressure of 2.60X10-4 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), is expected to exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase tetraethyl pyrophosphate 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 5.0 hours(SRC), calculated from its rate constant of 7.7X10-11 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(SRC) that was derived using a structure estimation method(3).
(1) Bidleman TF; Environ Sci Technol 22: 361-367 (1988)
(2) O'Neil MJ, ed; The Merck Index. 13th ed. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co Inc p.1643 (2001)
(3) Meylan WM, Howard PH; Chemosphere 26: 2293-99 (1993)
Aquatic or Terrestrial Fate: ... Rapidly hydrolyzed in the presence of moisture.
Doull, J., C.D.Klassen, and M.D. Amdur (eds.). Casarett and Doull's Toxicology. 3rd ed., New York: Macmillan Co., Inc., 1986., p. 527

13.2.7 Environmental Abiotic Degradation

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of tetraethyl pyrophosphate with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals has been estimated as 7.7X10-11 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(SRC) using a structure estimation method(1). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 5.0 hours at an atmospheric concentration of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(1). The hydrolysis half-life of tetraethyl pyrophosphate has been measured to be 7.5 hours at 25 °C based on a rate constant of 9.3X10-2 hr-1(2). Measured hydrolysis half-lives from another study were 6.8 hours at 25 °C and 3.3 hours at 38 °C(3). Tetraethyl pyrophosphate is not expected to directly photolyze due to the lack of absorption in the environmental UV spectrum (>290 nm)(4).
(1) Meylan WM, Howard PH; Chemosphere 26: 2293-99 (1993)
(2) Ellington JJ et al; Measurement of Hydrolysis Rate Constants for Evaluation of Hazardous Waste Land Disposal: Vol 3 Data on 70 Chemicals, NTISPB88-234 042/AS; USEPA/600/S3-88/028 (1988A)
(3) Muhlmann R, Schrader G; Z Naturforschg B 12: 196-208 (1957)
(4) Lyman WJ et al; Handbook of Chemical Property Estimation Methods. Washington, DC: Amer Chem Soc pp. 7-4, 7-5 (1990)

13.2.8 Environmental Bioconcentration

An estimated BCF of 3.2 was calculated for tetraethyl pyrophosphate(SRC), using an estimated log Kow of 0.45(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), provided the compound is not altered physically or chemically once released into the environment.
(1) Meylan WM, Howard PH; J Pharm Sci 84: 83-92 (1995)
(2) Meylan WM et al; Environ Toxicol Chem 18: 664-72 (1999)
(3) Franke C et al; Chemosphere 29: 1501-14 (1994)

13.2.9 Soil Adsorption / Mobility

The Koc of tetraethyl pyrophosphate is estimated as 2.2(SRC), using a water solubility of 1.00X10+6 mg/L(1) and a regression-derived equation(2). According to a classification scheme(3), this estimated Koc value suggests that tetraethyl pyrophosphate is expected to have very high mobility in soil.
(1) O'Neil MJ, ed; The Merck Index. 13th ed. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co Inc p.1643 (2001)
(2) Lyman WJ et al; Handbook of Chemical Property Estimation Methods. Washington, DC: Amer Chem Soc pp. 4-9 (1990)
(3) Swann RL et al; Res Rev 85: 17-28 (1983)

13.2.10 Volatilization from Water / Soil

The Henry's Law constant for tetraethyl pyrophosphate is estimated as 2.2X10-10 atm-cu m/mole(SRC) derived from its vapor pressure, 2.60X10-4 mm Hg(1), and water solubility, 1.00X10+6 mg/L(1). This Henry's Law constant indicates that tetraethyl pyrophosphate is not expected to volatilize from water or moist soil surfaces(2). Tetraethyl pyrophosphate is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon its vapor pressure(1).
(1) O'Neil MJ, ed; The Merck Index. 13th ed. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co Inc p.1643 (2001)
(2) Lyman WJ et al; Handbook of Chemical Property Estimation Methods. Washington, DC: Amer Chem Soc pp. 15-1 to 15-29 (1990)

13.2.11 Environmental Water Concentrations

SURFACE WATER: Tetraethyl pyrophosphate has been detected during studies of pesticides in Dutch surface water resources(1).
(1) Oskam G et al; Water Supply 11: 1-17 (1993)

13.2.12 Food Survey Values

Tetraethyl pyrophosphate was detected in foods sampled by the Food and Drug Administration during regulatory monitoring from 1978-1982(1). The concentrations of tetraethyl pyrophosphate and the types of food in which it was detected were not given.
(1) Yess NJ et al; J Assoc Off Anal Chem 74: 265-72 (1991)

13.2.13 Probable Routes of Human Exposure

Inhalation, eye, or skin contact.
Mackison, F. W., R. S. Stricoff, and L. J. Partridge, Jr. (eds.). NIOSH/OSHA - Occupational Health Guidelines for Chemical Hazards. DHHS(NIOSH) Publication No. 81-123 (3 VOLS). Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office, Jan. 1981., p. 1
... PERCENTAGE OF TOXIC DOSE RECEIVED PER HOUR OF WORK WAS 44.2% FOR WORKERS WHO LOADED AIRPLANES WITH 1% TEPP DUST.
Doull, J., C.D.Klassen, and M.D. Amdur (eds.). Casarett and Doull's Toxicology. 3rd ed., New York: Macmillan Co., Inc., 1986., p. 526
Occupational exposure and general population exposure should be low or non-existent since tetraethyl pyrophosphate is no longer produced or used(SRC). In the past, tetraethyl pyrophosphate was applied directly to crops as an insecticide and exposure to this compound was primarily by loading crop duster airplanes and application to fields(1).
(1) Wolfe HR; pp. 137-63 in Air Pollut Pest and Agric Processes. Lee RI Jr, ed, Cleveland, OH: CRC Press (1976)
Potential exposure (dermal, oral) to tetraethyl pyrophosphate has been determined for piloting airplane dusting of fruit orchards (24 mg/hr, 0.17 mg/hr), for flagging for airplane application to fruit orchards (16 mg/hr, 0.07 mg/hr), and for loading for airplane application to fruit orchards(73 mg/hr, 0.15 mg/hr)(1).
(1) Wolfe HR; pp. 137-63 in Air Pollut Pest and Agric Processes. Lee RI Jr, ed, Cleveland, OH: CRC Press (1976)

14 Associated Disorders and Diseases

Associated Occupational Diseases with Exposure to the Compound

15 Literature

15.1 Consolidated References

15.2 NLM Curated PubMed Citations

15.3 Springer Nature References

15.4 Thieme References

15.5 Chemical Co-Occurrences in Literature

15.6 Chemical-Gene Co-Occurrences in Literature

15.7 Chemical-Disease Co-Occurrences in Literature

16 Patents

16.1 Depositor-Supplied Patent Identifiers

16.2 WIPO PATENTSCOPE

16.3 Chemical Co-Occurrences in Patents

16.4 Chemical-Disease Co-Occurrences in Patents

16.5 Chemical-Gene Co-Occurrences in Patents

17 Interactions and Pathways

17.1 Chemical-Target Interactions

18 Biological Test Results

18.1 BioAssay Results

19 Classification

19.1 MeSH Tree

19.2 NCI Thesaurus Tree

19.3 ChEBI Ontology

19.4 KEGG: Pesticides

19.5 ChemIDplus

19.6 CAMEO Chemicals

19.7 UN GHS Classification

19.8 NORMAN Suspect List Exchange Classification

19.9 EPA DSSTox Classification

19.10 EPA Substance Registry Services Tree

19.11 MolGenie Organic Chemistry Ontology

20 Information Sources

  1. CAMEO Chemicals
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    CAMEO Chemical Reactivity Classification
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  5. EPA Acute Exposure Guideline Levels (AEGLs)
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    CompTox Chemicals Dashboard Chemical Lists
    https://comptox.epa.gov/dashboard/chemical-lists/
  7. European Chemicals Agency (ECHA)
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    https://www.fda.gov/about-fda/about-website/website-policies#linking
  9. Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
  10. ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
  11. NJDOH RTK Hazardous Substance List
  12. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
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    TETRAETHYL PYROPHOSPHATE (TEPP)
    https://www.osha.gov/chemicaldata/68
  13. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
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    https://www.cdc.gov/Other/disclaimer.html
    Pyrophosphoric acid, tetraethyl ester
    https://www.cdc.gov/niosh-rtecs/UX682428.html
  14. Haz-Map, Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases
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    http://ctdbase.org/about/legal.jsp
  19. EPA Pesticide Ecotoxicity Database
  20. EU Pesticides Database
  21. USDA Pesticide Data Program
  22. Hazardous Chemical Information System (HCIS), Safe Work Australia
  23. NITE-CMC
    Tetraethyl pyrophosphate (TEPP) - FY2014 (Revised classification)
    https://www.chem-info.nite.go.jp/chem/english/ghs/14-mhlw-2063e.html
  24. Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council
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    https://eur-lex.europa.eu/content/legal-notice/legal-notice.html
    TEPP (ISO); tetraethyl pyrophosphate
    https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2008/1272/oj
  25. MassBank Europe
  26. Human Metabolome Database (HMDB)
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    http://www.hmdb.ca/citing
  27. Japan Chemical Substance Dictionary (Nikkaji)
  28. KEGG
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    https://www.kegg.jp/kegg/legal.html
  29. MassBank of North America (MoNA)
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    https://mona.fiehnlab.ucdavis.edu/documentation/license
  30. NIST Mass Spectrometry Data Center
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    https://www.nist.gov/srd/public-law
    Tetraethyl pyrophosphate
    http://www.nist.gov/srd/nist1a.cfm
  31. SpectraBase
    DIPHOSPHORIC ACID, TETRAETHYL ESTER
    https://spectrabase.com/spectrum/A2Dz0JeAuhl
  32. NIOSH Manual of Analytical Methods
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  33. USGS Columbia Environmental Research Center
  34. Springer Nature
  35. SpringerMaterials
  36. Thieme Chemistry
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  41. GHS Classification (UNECE)
  42. NORMAN Suspect List Exchange
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    NORMAN Suspect List Exchange Classification
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  43. EPA Substance Registry Services
  44. MolGenie
    MolGenie Organic Chemistry Ontology
    https://github.com/MolGenie/ontology/
  45. PATENTSCOPE (WIPO)
  46. NCBI
CONTENTS