74-87-3 Methyl chloride

Name: Methyl chloride
Synonyms: chloromethane;
CAS Number:74-87-3
Molecular Formula:CH₃Cl
Molecular Weight:50.49
EINECS:200-817-4
Density:0.894 g/cm³
Boiling Point:-24.2 ºC
Flash Point:-46 ºC
Safety Description:Suspected carcinogen. Very mildly toxic by inhalation. An experimental teratogen. Other experimental reproductive effects. Human mutation data reported. Human systemic effects by inhalation: convulsions, nausea or vomiting, and unspecified effects on the eye.

Methyl chloride has slight irritant properties and may be inhaled without noticeable discomfort. It has some narcotic action, but this effect is weaker than that of chloroform. Acute poisoning, characterized by the narcotic effect, is rare in industry. In exposures to high concentrations, dizziness, drowsiness, incoordination, confusion, nausea and vomiting, abdominal pains, hiccoughs, diplopia, and dimness of vision are followed by delirium, convulsions, and coma. Death may be immediate; however, if the exposure is not fatal, recovery is usually slow. Degenerative changes in the central nervous system are not uncommon. The liver, kidneys, and bone marrow may be affected, with resulting acute nephritis and anemia. Death resulting from degenerative changes in the heart, liver, and especially the kidneys may occur several days after exposure. Repeated exposure to low concentrations causes damage to the central nervous system and, less frequently, to the liver, kidneys, bone marrow, and cardiovascular system. Hemorrhages into the lungs, intestinal tract, and dura have been reported. Sprayed on the skin, chloromethane produces anesthesia through freezing of the tissues as it evaporates.

Flammable gas. Very dangerous fire hazard when exposed to heat, flame, or powerful oxidizers. Moderate explosion hazard when exposed to flame and sparks. Explodes on contact with interhalogens (e.g., bromine trifluoride, bromine pentafluoride), magnesium and alloys, potassium and alloys, sodium and alloys, zinc. Potentially explosive reaction with aluminum when heated to 152° in a sealed container. Mixtures with aluminum chloride + ethylene react exothermically and then explode when pressurized to above 30 bar. May ignite on contact with aluminum chloride or powdered aluminum. To fight fire, stop flow of gas and use CO₂, dry chemical, or water spray. When heated to decomposition it emits highly toxic fumes of Cl⁻. See also CHLORINATED HYDROCARBONS, ALIPHATIC.

Analytical Methods:

   

For occupational chemical analysis use NIOSH: Methyl Chloride, 1001.
liansport Information:UN 1993 3