. "Appendix B: Laboratory Chemical Safety Summaries." Prudent Practices in the Laboratory: Handling and Disposal of Chemicals. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press, 1995.
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Prudent Practices in the Laboratory: Handling and Disposal of Chemicals
LABORATORY CHEMICAL SAFETY SUMMARY: DIETHYL ETHER
Substance
Diethyl ether
(Ethyl ether, ether)
CAS 60-29-7
Formula
(CH3CH2)2O
Physical Properties
Colorless liquid
bp 35 °C, mp -116 °C
Slightly soluble in water (8 g/100 mL)
Odor
Pungent odor detectable at 0.33 ppm
Vapor Density
2.6 (air = 1.0)
Vapor Pressure
442 mmHg at 20 °C
Flash Point
-45 °C
Autoignition Temperature
160 °C
Toxicity Data
LD50 oral (rat)
1215 mg/kg
LC50 inhal (rat)
73,000 ppm (2 h)
PEL (OSHA)
400 ppm
TLV-TWA (ACGIH)
400 ppm
STEL (ACGIH)
500 ppm
Major Hazards
Extremely flammable liquid and vapor; forms explosive peroxides upon storage in contact with air.
Toxicity
The acute toxicity of diethyl ether is low. Inhalation of high concentrations can cause sedation, unconsciousness, and respiratory paralysis. These effects are usually reversible upon cessation of exposure. Diethyl ether is mildly irritating to the eyes and skin, but does not generally cause irreversible damage. Repeated contact can cause dryness and cracking of the skin due to removal of skin oils. The liquid is not readily absorbed through the skin, in part because of its high volatility. Diethyl ether is slightly toxic by ingestion. Diethyl ether is regarded as having adequate warning properties.
There is no evidence for carcinogenicity of diethyl ether, and no reproductive effects have been reported. Chronic exposure to diethyl ether vapor may lead to loss of appetite, exhaustion, drowsiness, dizziness, and other central nervous system effects.
Flammability and Explosibility
Diethyl ether is extremely flammable (NFPA rating = 4) and is one of the most dangerous fire hazards commonly encountered in the laboratory, owing to its volatility and extremely low ignition temperature. Ether vapor may be ignited by hot surfaces such as hot plates
