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Prudent Practices in the Laboratory: Handling and Disposal of Chemicals
LABORATORY CHEMICAL SAFETY SUMMARY: DIMETHYLFORMAMIDE
Substance
Dimethylformamide
(N,N-Dimethylformamide, DMF)
CAS 68-12-2
Formula
(CH3)2NCHO
Physical Properties
Colorless, clear liquid
bp 153 °C, mp -61 °C
Miscible with water in all proportions
Odor
Faint, ammonia-like odor detectable at 100 ppm
Vapor Density
2.5 (air = 1.0)
Vapor Pressure
2.6 mmHg at 20 °C
Flash Point
58 °C
Autoignition Temperature
445 °C
Toxicity Data
LD50 oral (rat)
2800 mg/kg
LD50 skin (rabbit)
4720 mg/kg
LC50 inhal (mouse)
9400 mg/m3; 2 h
PEL (OSHA)
10 ppm (30 mg/m3—skin)
TLV-TWA (ACGIH)
10 ppm (30 mg/m3—skin)
Major Hazards
Low acute toxicity; readily absorbed through the skin.
Toxicity
The acute toxicity of DMF is low by inhalation, ingestion, and skin contact. Contact with liquid DMF may cause eye and skin irritation. DMF is an excellent solvent for many toxic materials that are not ordinarily absorbed and can increase the hazard of these substances by skin contact. Exposure to high concentrations of DMF may lead to liver damage and other systemic effects.
Dimethylformamide is listed by IARC in Group 2B ("possible human carcinogen"). It is not classified as a "select carcinogen" according to the criteria of the OSHA Laboratory Standard. No significant reproductive effects have been observed in animal tests. Repeated exposure to DMF may result in damage to the liver, kidneys, and cardiovascular system.
Flammability and Explosibility
DMF is a combustible liquid (NFPA rating = 2). Vapors are heavier than air and may travel to source of ignition and flash back. DMF vapor forms explosive mixtures with air at concentrations of 2.2 to 15.2% (by volume). Carbon dioxide or dry chemical extinguishers should be used to fight DMF fires.
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