GESTIS Substance Database

Butanone

IDENTIFICATION

Butanone
Ethyl methyl ketone
2-Butanone
Meetco
Butan-2-on
MEK

ZVG No: 13330

CAS No: 78-93-3
EC No: 201-159-0
INDEX No: 606-002-00-3

CHARACTERISATION

SUBSTANCE GROUP CODE

142700 Ketones

STATE OF AGGREGATION
The substance is liquid.

PROPERTIES
colourless
acetone-like odour

CHEMICAL CHARACTERISATION
Highly flammable liquid.
Vapours form explosive mixtures with air.
Freely soluble in water.
Highly volatile.
Acute or chronic health hazards result from the substance.
(see: chapter REGULATIONS).

Substance information in Wikipedia

FORMULA

C4H8O

Molar mass: 72,11 g/mol

Conversion factor (gaseous phase) at 1013 mbar and 20 °C:
1 ml/m³ = 3,00 mg/m³

TOXICOLOGY / ECOTOXICOLOGY

TOXICOLOGICAL DATA
LD50 oral rat
Value: 2740 mg/kg
Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology. Vol. 19, Pg. 699, 1971.

LD50 dermal
Species: Rabbit
Value: 6480 mg/kg
Shell Chemical Company. Vol. MSDS-5390-4,

Reference: 02071

ECOTOXICOLOGICAL DATA

LC50 Fish (96 hours)

Minimum: 3220 mg/l
Maximum: 3220 mg/l
Median: 3220 mg/l
Study number: 1
Reference for median:
Brooke, L.T., D.J. Call, D.L. Geiger, and C.E. Northcott 1984. Acute Toxicities of
Organic Chemicals to Fathead Minnows (Pimephales promelas), Vol. 1. Center for
Lake Superior Environmental Stud., Univ.of Wisconsin-Superior, Superior, WI :414
EC50 Crustaceans (48 hours)
Minimum: 5090 mg/l
Maximum: 5090 mg/l
Median: 5090 mg/l
Study number: 1
Reference for median:
Randall, T.L., and P.V. Knopp 1980. Detoxification of Specific Organic Substances by
Wet Oxidation. J.Water Pollut.Control Fed. 52(8):2117-2130

Reference: 02072

PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES

MELTING POINT
Melting point: -86 °C

BOILING POINT
Boiling Point: 80 °C

DENSITY
DENSITY
Value: 0,805 g/cm³
Temperature: 20 °C

RELATIVE VAPOUR DENSITY

Ratio of the density to dry air at the same temperature and pressure
Value: 2,48

RELATIVE DENSITY OF THE VAPOUR-AIR-MIXTURE

Ratio of the density to dry air at 20 °C and standard pressure
Value: 1,15

VAPOUR PRESSURE
Vapour pressure: 105 hPa
Temperature: 20 °C

Vapour pressure: 370 hPa

Temperature: 50 °C

Vapour pressure: 635 hPa

Temperature: 65 °C
EVAPORATION NUMBER
The evaporation number is the time required for complete evaporation of a substance,
related to the time required for evaporation of diethyl ether.

Evaporation 6
number:

FLASH POINT
Flash point: -7,5 °C
Closed cup

IGNITION TEMPERATURE
Ignition temperature: 475 °C
Temperature class: T1
Minimum ignition energy: 0,27 mJ
Max. exper. safe gap (MESG): 0,85 mm
Explosion group: IIB

EXPLOSION POINT
Lower explosion point:
-10 °C

EXPLOSION LIMITS
Lower explosion limit:
1,5 vol.%
45 g/m³
Upper explosion limit:
11,5 vol.%
Maximum explosion pressure:
9,3 bar

SOLUBILITY IN WATER
Concentration: 292 g/l
Temperature: 20 °C

pH-VALUE
pH-value:
neutral
Temperature: 20 °C
PARTITION COEFFICIENT (octanol/water)
log Kow: 0,29
Recommended value of LOG KOW Databank.

VISCOSITY
Dynamic Viscosity: 0,40 mPa*s
Temperature: 20 °C
Conversion: Viscosity(kin) = Viscosity(dyn) / density

HAZARDOUS REACTIONS
Hazardous chemical reactions:
Air, light or oxidizing agents may cause generation of peroxides.
Risk of explosion in contact with:
hydrogen peroxide / nitric acid
hydrogen peroxide / sulphuric acid
The substance can react dangerously with:
oxidizing agents
trichloromethane / alkali
chromium trioxide

OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND FIRST AID

ROUTES OF EXPOSURE
Main Routes of exposure:
The main intake pathways for butanone, better known as methyl ethyl ketone (MEK),
proceed via the respiratory tract and through the skin.[07619]

Respiratory tract:
MEK is rapidly taken up via the lung. Volunteers and persons exposed occupationally
who inhaled concentrations of 200 - 300 ppm for 4 or 8 hours absorbed 53 - 70
%.[07619]
Based on the solubility relationships, the MEK content in the blood can significantly rise
(blood/air-partition coefficient: 183).[99983]
A steady-state between the outer air concentration and the MEK-concentration in the
blood is achieved only slowly.
Within occupational 8 hour periods this will not generally be realized.[07620]

Skin:
MEK can also be taken up rapidly and to a large degree via the skin.[99983]
Application of MEK to an approx. 90 cm2 skin area on the forearms of volunteers
showed that moist skin is more easily penetrated than dry skin, at least initially.[07866]
Flux of 0.3 - 0.6 mg/cm2 x h were derived from these results.[00083]

Gastrointestinal tract:
The substance is easily absorbed via the gastrointestinal tract.[07869]

TOXIC EFFECTS
Main toxic effects:
Acute:
Irritation to the eyes and airways,
disturbances to the CNS (narcotic effect)
Chronic:
Skin damage,[07619]
increase of the neurotoxic potential of n-hexane and hexan-2-one
(methyl-n-butyl-ketone)[07620]

Acute toxicity:
MEK as a liquid or vapor irritates the mucous membranes.[07619]
Direct contact of the liquid with the eyes causes painful irritation through to damage to
the cornea which, however, was rapidly reversible in the reported cases.[07979]
The skin is generally not irritated if the contact is only short-term.[07869]
On the other hand, persistent exposure to the liquid leads to degreasing and promotes
inflammation.[07656]
No skin-sensitizing action was detectable, neither in tests on volunteers (maximization
test) nor in 2 animal experiments.[99983]
As a result of an dermal animal experiment (LD50, rabbit: > 8 g/kg bw), the dermal
toxicity is considered low.
If exposed inhalatively, some volunteers suffered from slight irritation to the upper
airways at levels as low as 100 ppm. However, several tests on volunteers confirm that
200 ppm for 4 hours is generally well tolerated. In particular, various performance
parameters which were examined were not impaired significantly.[07619]
Irritation to the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose and throat becomes distinct from
300 ppm upwards. Headache and, from 400 - 500 ppm upwards, even more serious
CNS depressive effects can appear.[07869]
The following symptoms were observed after inhalation of an 1 : 1 mixture of MEK and
acetone: nausea, other gastro-intestinal complaints, confusion, unconsciousness,
cramps.[99983]
In a single case, inhalation of MEK and toluene first produced acute effects. During the
following days, symptoms of CNS damage (encephalopathy with dementia and cerebral
ataxia) became noticeable and persisted long-term. However, the effects observed
could not definitely be attributed to MEK.[99996]
3000 ppm was estimated to be the IDLH (immediately dangerous to life or health) value
for MEK.[07930]
Because of immediate severe irritation, concentrations from about 10000 ppm upwards
are unbearable.[99983]
In one case of oral poisoning, a woman was found unconscious following ingestion of
an unknown amount of MEK (concentration of MEK in plasma: 950 mg/l). She suffered
from hyperventilation and severe acidosis. Treatment of acidosis with sodium
hydrogencarbonate led to rapid recovery. No late sequelae occurred.[00083]
In animal experiments, the acute oral toxicity was low (LD50 values for rats/mice
between 2000 and 6000 mg/kg bw).[07619]
However, the danger of aspiration was said to be high.[00083]

Chronic toxicity:
Repeated prolonged contact with the liquid or concentrated vapors causes degreasing,
dryness and cracking open of the skin as well as inflammatory reactions (dermatitis,
formation of eczema), in particular for persons with sensitive skin.[99983]
In a few cases (in 1 case after 3 year occupational exposure), allergic skin reactions
were observed.[07890]
In a single case, respiratory allergy of immediate type (rhinopharyngitis/laryngitis) was
diagnosed. However, on the whole, the findings are insufficient to definitely confirm a
sensitizing potential.[07619]
Studies in workplaces which could be used to assess chronic exposure to MEK are
extremely rare.[99983]
More recent studies on workers exposed to MEK in concentrations of up to 200 ppm
and to further solvents at the same time (without specific toxic effects) did not show any
significant effects to general health. Sporadically reported slight irritation to the mucous
membranes was considered irrelevant because exposure was of mixed nature.
In experiments on rodents, an influence on the liver function became noticeable from
800 ppm upwards. A specific study on printers exposed to about 120 ppm MEK (and
other solvents) for many years did not provide any indication of such an effect. Two
older reports described peripheral nerve damage following possibly high exposures.
However, no causal relation with the exposure to MEK could be confirmed because of
an inaccurate analysis of the exposure situation (possible mixed exposure with
neurotoxic substances).
In animal experiments, no damage to the peripheral nerves as a result of exposure to
MEK could be demonstrated, even in high concentrations.[07619]
However, it seems to be confirmed that MEK increases the specific neurotoxicity of
n-hexane and its oxidation products hexan-2-ol, hexan-2-one and
hexan-2,5-dione.[07620]
In 2 factories, mixtures with the main component MEK and minor portions of
methyl-isobutyl ketone (MiBK) were used. After hexan-2-one was introduced on place
of MiBK a large number of the employees developed peripheral neuropathies. In one of
the factories (79 cases of illness), the concentrations of MEK were at 150 - 520 ppm
but those of hexan-2-one were very low: 6 - 36 ppm.[07619]
If only hexan-2-one is present in the air, corresponding effects are only to be expected
at about 10-fold higher concentrations.[07620]
A potentiating effect of MEK on the neurotoxicity of n-hexane is confirmed by
analogous observations on snifflers (increased incidence of polyneuropathy). The
potentiating effect of MEK on the neurotoxic effect of n-hexane, hexan-2-one and
hexan-2,5-dione was confirmed by means of animal experiments for each of all single
compounds.
Suggestions that toxicity to the liver and kidneys by halogenated hydrocarbons is
increased through MEK are available to date only from animal experiments.[00083]

Reproductive toxicity, Mutagenicity, Carcinogenicity:

For classifying the reproductive toxicity and mutagenic and carcinogenic potential see
list in Annex VI of the CLP regulation or TRGS 905 or List of MAK values.
(see section REGULATIONS).
Reproductive toxicity:
There is no reason to fear a risk of damage to the developing embryo or foetus when
MAK and BAT values are observed.
In inhalative studies on rats and mice, no effects were noticeable up to 1000 ppm
(NOAEL). Only higher, maternally toxic concentrations produced slight fetotoxicity.
Mutagenicity:
Several valid in-vitro tests on bacteria and cell cultures and one cytogenetic test on
exposed rodents provided negative results. The positive result from a less conclusive
microbiological test was considered non-relevant for humans.[07619]
Carcinogenicity:
Insufficient data is available.[99983]

Biotransformation and Excretion:

Once absorbed, MEK is proportionately distributed into the body tissues, based on the
solubility relationships.
About 2 - 3 % of the dose absorbed is exhaled unchanged.
Another small proportion (below 0.1 %) of unchanged MEK is eliminated in the urine.
Although the amount is small, the content of MEK in the urine can be used to assess
the exposure situation.
The largest part of the MEK is biotransformed to 3-hydroxy-2-butanone and
subsequently further to form 2,3-butandiol.
During the following biotransformation steps there is apparently a complete
decomposition to form CO2 and water.
In the urine of persons exposed, the metabolites 3-hydroxy-2-butanone and
2,3-butandiol were detectable in only minor amounts (maximum about 2 % of the dose
taken in). On the other hand, there is no indication that MEK is accumulated in the
body.[07619]
The elimination of MEK from the blood was calculated to proceed with a half life of
about 270 minutes.[07620]

Annotation:
This occupational health information was compiled on 20.05.2005.
It will be updated if necessary.

FIRST AID
Eyes:
Rinse the affected eye with widely spread lids for 10 minutes under running water whilst
protecting the unimpaired eye.
Arrange medical treatment.
[07656]

Skin:
Whilst protecting yourself, relocate the casualty away from the source of danger.
Remove contaminated clothing while protecting yourself.
Cleanse the affected skin areas thoroughly with soap under running water.
For irritation or extensive contact:
Arrange for medical treatment.
[07656, 99999]
Respiratory tract:
Whilst protecting yourself remove the casualty from the hazardous area and take him to
the fresh air.
Lay the casualty down in a quiet place and protect him against hypothermia.
In the case of breathing difficulties have the casualty inhale oxygen.
If the casualty is unconscious but breathing lay him in a stable manner on his side.
If the casualty has stopped breathing give mouth to nose resuscitation. If this is not
possible use mouth to mouth resuscitation. Keep his respiratory tract clear.
In every case, rapidly:
Arrange medical treatment.
[00022]

Swallowing:
Rinse the mouth and spit the fluids out.
Have the casualty slowly drink a glass of water in small sips.
Do not make the casualty vomit.
Arrange medical treatment.
Call a physician to the site of the accident in every case.
During spontaneous vomiting hold the head of the casualty low with the body in a prone
position in order to avoid aspiration.
[07656, 99999]

Information for physicians:

In the poisoning cases reported, butanone (= methyl ethyl ketone; MEK) was mostly
taken in in form of a mixture with other solvents influencing the CNS. The assignment
of symptoms was therefore ambiguous. However, animal experiments also confirm a
primarily depressive action to the CNS for MEK itself.

- Symptoms of acute poisoning:[99983]

Eyes: painful irritation through splashes of the liquid -> corneal damage (in general
rapidly reversible); irritation also through vapors[07979]
Skin: degreasing, following persistent contact also irritation/inflammation;
absorptive-toxic effects less likely[07656]
Inhalation: irritation in particular to the upper[07619] respiratory tract (burning sensation
in the nose/throat, possible tussive irritation); simultaneous onset of systemic effects
(see below); in extreme cases pulmonary damage not to be excluded[00022]
Ingestion: gastrointestinal irritation (nausea, vomiting); following high doses rapid
absorptive-toxic effects;[08013] danger of aspiration following ingestion of even small
amounts[00083]
Absorption: headache, vertigo, nausea, light-headedness, drunkenness, difficulty in
breathing, unconsciousness/coma, cramps;[99983] danger of acidosis, collapse,
respiratory paralysis; consequently (reversible) disturbances to the functions of the
CNS, heart, liver and kidneys as well as secondary infections possible.[08013]
Persistent nervous disorders (central, peripheral) should not be excluded, in particular
following mixed exposure.[99983]

- Medical advice:
Thoroughly rinse eyes contaminated with the liquid, alleviation of pain as necessary;
then consult an ophthalmologist.[00022]
Cleanse contaminated skin with soap and water.[07656]
Apply a dermatocorticoid for irritation. Following extensive contact, the casualty should
be observed for systemic effects.[99999]
Following inhalation of the vapors have the casualty breathe fresh air or oxygen. If
there are distinct signs of irritation to the airways, apply glucocorticoids. Thoroughly
observe the functions of the heart, circulatory system and respiratory organs; for further
treatment see below.[00022]
Following ingestion of small amounts, primary elimination should be avoided. If large
amounts were ingested, carefully draw off the stomach contents using a stomachal
tube or perform gastrolavage using an endotracheal tube. Subsequently administer
charcoal and a salinic laxative.[08013]
Further treatment should be performed symptomatically. If absorptive-toxic effects
appear, all measures for cardiopulmonary resuscitation are indicated.[99999]
However, epinephrine and other catecholamines should not be applied (danger of heart
rhythm disturbances and other interactions). Following hospitalization, observation of
the functions of the heart/circulatory system, CNS and respiratory system and in
particular the observation of liver and kidney functions are necessary, as well as
prophylaxis for infection.[08013]
Long-term observation for damage to the central and peripheral nervous system should
be carried out.[99999]

Recommendations:
Provide the physician information about the substance/product and treatment already
administered.
If poisoning is due to mixtures of solvents, an exact determination of the components of
the mixture is important.[99999]
Following exposure to butanone (MEK) mixed with n-hexane, 2-hexanol, 2-hexanone
(methyl n-butyl ketone) or 2,5-hexandione, damage to the peripheral nervous system
should be expected.[07620]

Annotation:
This first aid information was compiled on 20.05.2005.
It will be updated if necessary.

OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH CHECK

Prophylaxis offer: For activities involving this substance occupational medical
prevention has to be offered.

Deadlines: Occupational medical prevention has to be offered to employees prior to

taking up work. Deadlines for the proposal of regularly recurrent occupational medical
prevention are to gather from the Occupational Health Rule (Arbeitsmedizinische Regel)
“AMR Nummer 2.1”.
SAFE HANDLING

TECHNICAL MEASURES - HANDLING

Workplace:
Provision of very good ventilation in the working area.
Vapour/air mixtures are heavier than air. Adequate ventilation at the floor area must be
ensured as well.
The floor must be solvent resistant.
Washing facility at the workplace required.
Eye bath required. These locations must be signposted
clearly.
When handling excessive amounts of the substance an emergency shower is required.

Equipment:
Use only closed apparatus.
If release of the substance cannot be prevented, then it should be suctioned off at the
point of exit.
Consider emission limit values, a purification of waste gases if necessary.
Label containers and pipelines clearly.

Advice on safer handling:

Take care to maintain clean working place.
The substance must not be present at workplaces in quantities above that required for
work to be progressed.
Do not leave container open.
Use leak-proof equipment with exhaust for refilling or transfer.
Do not transport with/using compressed air.
Avoid splashing.
Fill only into labelled container.
Use solvent resistant utensils.
Avoid any contact when handling the substance.
Use an appropriate exterior vessel when transporting in fragile containers.

Cleaning and maintenance:

Use protective equipment while cleaning if necessary.
Only conduct maintenance and other work on or in the vessel or closed spaces after
obtaining written permission.

TECHNICAL MEASURES - STORAGE

Storage:
Do not use any food containers - risk of mistake.
Containers have to be labelled clearly and permanently.
Store in the original container as much as possible.
Use breakable containers only up to 2 litres content.
Keep container tightly closed.
Storage temperature: Without any limitation.
Keep container in a well-ventilated place.
Store apart from sources if ignition and heat.
Store smaller vessels in cabinets with collecting tubs.
Protect from overheating/heating up.
The maximum permissible stored quantities are to be found in the Technische Regel für
Gefahrstoffe "Lagerung von Gefahrstoffen in ortsbeweglichen Behältern" (TRGS 510).
Storage is not permissible in hallways, thoroughfare, stairways, public hallways and
corridors, on the roof, in attics, and in workrooms.

Conditions of collocated storage:

Storage class 3 (Flammable liquid substances)
Only substances of the same storage class should be stored together.
Collocated storage with the following substances is prohibited:
- Pharmaceuticals, foods, and animal feeds including additives.
- Infectious, radioactive und explosive substances.
- Gases.
- Other explosive substances of storage class 4.1A.
- Flammable solid substances or desensitized substances of storage class 4.1B.
- Pyrophoric substances.
- Substances liberating flammable gases in contact with water.
- Strongly oxidizing substances of storage class 5.1A.
- Ammonium nitrate and preparations containing ammonium nitrate.
- Organic peroxides and self reactive substances.
- Non combustible acutely toxic substances of storage class 6.1B.
Under certain conditions the collocated storage with the following sub-stances is
permitted (For more details see TRGS 510):
- Oxidizing substances of storage class 5.1B.
- Noncombustible toxic or chronically acting substances of storage class 6.1D.
- Combustible solids of storage class 11.
The substance should not be stored with substances with which ha-zardous chemical
reactions are possible.

TECHNICAL MEASURES - FIRE AND EXPLOSION PROTECTION

Technical, constructive measures:
Substance is combustible.
Fire fighting equipment must be available.
Measures required by the "Explosionsschutz-Richtlinie":
- Preventing the formation of an explosive atmosphere (limiting and monitoring the
concentration, making inert, sealing, ventilation, warning systems, etc.)
- Preventing the ignition of an explosive atmosphere (separation into zones, removal of
sources of ignition, explosion-proof electrical installation, explosion-protected electrical
operating systems, pumps, controls, and valves, grounding, etc.)
- Architectural measures to limit the effects of an explosion (explosive-force-proof
construction, release of explosive pressure, explosion suppression, etc.)
Take precautionary measures against static discharges.
Earth all parts which can be electrically charged.
Precaution on handling:
The vapour-air-mixture is explosive.
Area with explosion risk.
Keep at a distance from sources of ignition (e.g. electrical devices, open flames, heat
sources, sparks).
Observe the smoking prohibition!
Absolutely no welding in the working area.
Only work with vessels and lines after these have been thoroughly rinsed.
Work done with fire or open flame should only be carried out with written permission if
the risk of fire or explosion cannot be completely eliminated.
Use caution with empty vessels; explosion is possible in case of ignition.
Do not use any tools that cause sparks.
It must be avoided that gases or vapours can escape into other rooms where sources
of ignition are present.
Creeping gases from afar may cause ignition.

ORGANISATIONAL MEASURES
Instruction on the hazards and the protective measures using instruction manual (
TRGS 555) are required with signature if just more than one minor hazard was
detected.
Instruction must be provided before employment and then at a minimum of once per
annum thereafter.
An escape and rescue plan must be prepared when the location, scale, and use of the
work-site so demand.
It must be assured that the workplace limit values are being maintained. If the limit
values are exceeded, additional protection measures are necessary.
The measurements must be recorded and kept on file.
Observe the restrictions on juvenile employment as defined in the
"Jugendarbeitsschutzgesetz".
Only employees are permitted to enter the work areas. Signposting to this effect must
be displayed.

PERSONAL PROTECTION
Body protection:
Wear an apron or a lab coat.
The protection clothing should be solvent resistant.
Wear flameproof, antistatic protective clothing.

Respiratory protection:
In an emergency (e.g.: unintentional release of the substance, exceeding the
occupational exposure limit value) respiratory protection must be worn. Consider the
maximum period for wear.
Respiratory protection: Gas filter A, Colour code brown.
Use insulating device for concentrations above the usage limits for filter devices, for
oxygen concentrations below 17% volume, or in circumstances which are unclear.

Eye protection:
Sufficient eye protection must be worn.
Wear glasses with side protection.

Hand protection:
Use protective gloves. The glove material must be sufficiently impermeable and
resistant to the substance. Check the tightness before wear. Gloves should be well
cleaned before being removed, then stored in a well ventilated location. Pay attention to
skin care.
Skin protection cremes do not protect sufficiently against the substance.
Textile or leather gloves are completely unsuitable.
Protective gloves of the following materials should not be worn longer than 1 hour
continually (Permeation time >= 1 hour):
Butyl rubber - Butyl (0,5 mm)
Following materials are unsuitable for protective gloves because of degradation, severe
swelling or low permeation time:
Natural rubber/Natural latex - NR
Polychloroprene - CR
Nitrile rubber/Nitrile latex - NBR
Fluoro carbon rubber - FKM
Polyvinyl chloride - PVC
The times listed are suggested by measurements taken at 22 °C and constant contact.
Temperatures raised by warmed substances, body heat, etc. and a weakening of the
effective layer thickness caused by expansion can lead to a significantly shorter
breakthrough time. In case of doubt contact the gloves' manufacturer. A 1.5-times
increase / decrease in the layer thickness doubles / halves the breakthrough time. This
data only applies to the pure substance. Transferred to mixtures of substances, these
figures should only be taken as an aid to orientation.

Occupational hygiene:
Take heed of usual occupational hygiene measures when handling chemical
substances, espacially wash the skin with soap and water before breaks and at the end
of work and apply fatty skin-care products after washing.
Avoid contact with eyes. In case of contact rinse the affected eye(s).
Avoid inhalation of vapour or mist.
Change clothing that has become wet and do not reuse until completely dry.
Increased risk of combustion from wicking.

DISPOSAL CONSIDERATIONS
Hazardous waste according to Waste Catalogue Ordinance (AVV).
If there is no way of recycling it must be disposed of in compliance with the respective
national and local regulations.

Collection of small amounts of substance:

Place in a collection container for halogen-free organic solvents and solutions of
halogen-free organic substances.
Collection vessels must be clearly labelled with a systematic description of their
contents. Store the vessels in a well-ventilated location. Entrust them to the appropriate
authorities for disposal.

ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES

Shut off all sources of ignition.
Evacuate area. Warn affected surroundings.
Wear respiratory protection, eye protection, hand protection and body protection (see
chapter Personal Protection).
Absorb any spilt liquid with an absorbent (e.g. diatomite, vermiculite, sand) and dispose
of according to regulations.
Use non-sparking tools.
Afterwards ventilate area and wash spill site.

Endangerment of watert:
Low hazard to waters. Inform the responsible authorities when very large quantities get
into water, drainage, sewer, or the ground.

FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES

Classes of fires:
B liquid or melting substances

Suitable extinguishing media:

Water (spray - not splash)
Dry extinguishing powder
Carbon dioxide
Fight large fire with alcohol resistant foam or water spray.

Instructions:
Cool surrounding containers with water spray.
If possible, take container out of dangerous zone.
Heating causes a rise in pressure, risk of bursting and
explosion.
Shut off sources of ignition.
Beware of backfire.
Use only explosion proved equipment.
Explosion danger by penetration into sewerage.

Special protective equipment:

In the case of a fire hazardous substances can be released.
Carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide
Wear self-contained breathing apparatus.

REGULATIONS

Classification:
Flammable liquids, Category 2; H225
Eye irritation, Category 2; H319
Specific Target Organ Toxicity (single exposure), Category 3; H336
Signal Word: "Danger"

Hazard Statement - H-phrases:

H225: Highly flammable liquid and vapour.
H319: Causes serious eye irritation.
H336: May cause drowsiness or dizziness.

Supplemental Hazard Statement - EUH-phrases:

EUH066: Repeated exposure may cause skin dryness or cracking.

Precautionary Statement - P-phrases:

P210: Keep away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, open flames and other ignition
sources. No smoking.
P305+P351+P338: IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes.
Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.
P403+P233: Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed.

Manufacturer's specification by Merck

Reference: 01211
State: 2016
Checked: 2016

The substance is listed in appendix VI, table 3.1 of CLP regulation.

The given classification can deviate from the listed classification, since this
classification is to be complemented concerning missing or divergent danger classes
and categories for the respective substance.

Reference: 99999

GHS-CLASSIFICATION OF MIXTURES
The classification of mixtures containing this substance results from Annex 1 of
Regulation (EC) 1272/2008.

Reference: 07500

WORKPLACE LABELLING ACCORDING TO GERMAN ASR A1.3

Prohibition label:
 No open flame; fire, open ignition sources and smoking
prohibited

No admittance for unauthorized persons

Warning label:

Caution - inflammable material

Precept label:

Use safety goggles

Wear safety gloves

GERMAN WATER HAZARD CLASS

Substance No: 150
WGK 1 - low hazard to waters
Classification according to the Administrative Regulation of Substances Hazardous to
Water (VwVwS)

TECHNICAL INSTRUCTIONS ON AIR QUALITY CONTROL (TA LUFT)

Chapter 5.2.5 Organic Substances.
The following values, specified as overall carbon, are in all not allowed to be exceeded
in exhaust gas:
Mass flow: 0,50 kg/hr
or
Mass conc.: 50 mg/m³
At old units with an annual mass flow till 1,5 Mg/a, specified as total carbon, the
emissions in exhaust gas are not allowed to exceed 1,5 kg/h.

TRANSPORT REGULATIONS

UN Number: 1193
Shipping name: Ethyl methyl ketone
Hazard Identification Number: 33
Class: 3 (Flammable Liquids)
Packing Group: II (medium danger)
Danger Label: 3

Tunnel restrictions:
Transports in bulk or in tanks: passage forbidden through tunnels of category D and E.
Other transports: passage forbidden through tunnels of category E.

TRGS 900 - GERMAN OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE LIMIT VALUES

200 ml/m³
600 mg/m³

Peak limitation: Excursion factor 1

Duration 15 min, mean; 4 times per shift; interval 1 hour
Category I - Substances for which local irritant effects determine the exposure limit
value, also respiratory allegens

Risk of percutaneous absorption

There is no reason to fear a risk of damage to the developing embryo or foetus when
AGW and BGW are adhered to.

Source: DFG

EC OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE LIMIT VALUES

Commission Directive 2000/39/EC
Recommended indicative occupational exposure limit value for the European
Community
A national occupational exposure limit value has to be set.
8 hours limit value: 600 mg/m³ (200 ppm)
Short term limit value: 900 mg/m³ (300 ppm)

RECOMMENDATIONS OF MAK-COMMISSION
This data is recommended by scientific experience and is not established law.
200 ml/m³
600 mg/m³

Peak limitation: Excursion factor 1

Duration 15 min, mean; 4 times per shift; interval 1 hour
Category I - Substances for which local irritant effects determine the exposure limit
value, also respiratory allegens

Risk of percutaneous absorption

Pregnancy: Group C
There is no reason to fear a risk of damage to the developing embryo or foetus when
MAK and BAT values are adhered to.

GERMAN BIOLOGICAL EXPOSURE INDICES

Parameter: 2-Butanone
Value: 2 mg/l
Assay material: Urine
Sampling time: end of exposure/end of shift
Reference: 05347

SEVESO III - Directive

Annex I Part 1 Section: P5a
Flammable liquids, Category 2 or 3 maintained at a temperature above their boiling
point
Qualifying Quantity 10 t
Column 2:
Qualifying Quantity 50 t
Column 3:

Annex I Part 1 Section: P5b

Flammable liquids, Category 2 or 3 where particular processing conditions, such as
high pressure or high temperature, may create major-accident hazards
Qualifying Quantity 50 t
Column 2:
Qualifying Quantity 200 t
Column 3:

Annex I Part 1 Section: P5c

Flammable liquids, Category 2 or 3 (not covered by P5a and P5b)
Qualifying Quantity 5000 t
Column 2:
Qualifying Quantity 50000 t
Column 3:
RESTRICTIONS OF USE / BANS OF USE
REACH Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 Annex XVII
Annex XVII, Point 3
1. The putting into circulation and the utilisation of the substance is not allowed in
decorative objects, games and joke articles.
2. Substances labelled with R65 or H304 which can be utilised as fuels in decorative
lamps and are put in circulation in amounts of 15 l or less must not contain a dye and/or
a perfume.
Further information on prohibitions can be taken from the regulation.

Consumer Goods Ordinance

Attachment 1 to § 3, Point 5
The substance must not be utilised for the production or treatment of joke articles.

FURTHER REGULATIONS
TRGS 200
Einstufung und Kennzeichnung von Stoffen, Zubereitungen und Erzeugnissen;
Ausgabe Oktober 2011

TRGS 201
Einstufung und Kennzeichnung bei Tätigkeiten mit Gefahrstoffen; Ausgabe Oktober
2011

TRGS 400
Gefährdungsbeurteilung für Tätigkeiten mit Gefahrstoffen; Ausgabe Dezember 2010;
geändert und ergänzt September 2012

TRGS 555
Betriebsanweisung und Information der Beschäftigten; Ausgabe Januar 2013

TRGS 600
Substitution; Ausgabe August 2008

TRGS 402
Ermitteln und Beurteilen der Gefährdungen bei Tätigkeiten mit Gefahrstoffen: Inhalative
Exposition; Ausgabe Januar 2010, zuletzt geändert und ergänzt Oktober 2016

TRGS 401
Gefährdung durch Hautkontakt, Ermittlung - Beurteilung - Maßnahmen; Ausgabe Juni
2008; zuletzt berichtigt März 2011

TRGS 500
Schutzmaßnahmen; Ausgabe Januar 2008, ergänzt Mai 2008

TRGS 509
Lagern von flüssigen und festen Gefahrstoffen in ortsfesten Behältern sowie Füll- und
Entleerstellen für ortsbewegliche Behälter; Ausgabe September 2014, zuletzt berichtigt,
geändert und ergänzt November 2015
TRGS 510
Lagerung von Gefahrstoffen in ortsbeweglichen Behältern; Ausgabe Januar 2013,
geändert und ergänzt November 2014, berichtigt November 2015

TRGS 800
Brandschutzmaßnahmen; Ausgabe Dezember 2010

LINKS

Statement concerning the rating as carcinogenic, mutagenic or toxic for reproduction (in
german only, source BAuA)
International Limit Values
Suitable analytical methods
The MAK Collection for Occupational Health and Safety

REFERENCES

Reference: 00001
IFA: Erfassungs- und Pflegehandbuch der GESTIS-Stoffdatenbank (nicht öffentlich)
Data acquisition and maintenance manual of the GESTIS substance database
(non-public)

Reference: 00022
G. Hommel "Handbuch der gefährlichen Güter" Loseblattsammlung mit
Ergänzungslieferungen ("Handbook of dangerous goods " loose-leaf collection with
supplement deliveries), Springer-Verlag, Heidelberg

Reference: 00083
Environmental Health Criteria (Serie), WHO, Genf

Reference: 00105
Sorbe "Sicherheitstechnische Kenndaten chemischer Stoffe" ("Safety-related
characteristics of chemical substances"), sicherheitsNet.de, Landsberg

Reference: 00440
Datenbank CHEMSAFE, Version 2016.0, DECHEMA-PTB-BAM

Reference: 01211
GHS-Sicherheitsdatenblatt (GHS Material Safety Data Sheet), Merck

Reference: 02070
LOG KOW Databank, compiled by Dr. James Sangster, Sangster Research
Laboratories, Montreal, Canada, distributed by Technical Database Services (TDS),
New York

Reference: 02071
Toxicological Data, compiled by the National Institute of Health (NIH), USA, selected
and distributed by Technical Database Services (TDS), New York, 2009
Reference: 02072
Ecotoxicological Data, compiled by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA),
selected and distributed by Technical Database Services (TDS), New York, 2009

Reference: 05000
Kühn-Birett-Gruppenmerkblätter

Reference: 05200
Kühn-Birett "Merkblätter Gefährliche Arbeitsstoffe" Loseblattsammlung mit
Ergänzungslieferungen, ecomed Sicherheit, Landsberg

Reference: 05300
TRGS 510 "Lagerung von Gefahrstoffen in ortsbeweglichen Behältern" Ausgabe
Januar 2013, in der Fassung vom 30.11.2015

Reference: 05347
TRGS 903 "Biologische Grenzwerte (BGW)" Ausgabe Februar 2013; zuletzt geändert
und ergänzt November 2015

Reference: 05350
TRGS 900 "Arbeitsplatzgrenzwerte" Ausgabe Januar 2006, zuletzt geändert und
ergänzt November 2016

Reference: 06002
L. Roth, U. Weller "Gefährliche Chemische Reaktionen" Loseblattsammlung mit
Ergänzungslieferungen ("Dangerous chemical reactions" loose-leaf collection with
supplement deliveries), ecomed-Verlag

Reference: 07500
Verordnung (EG) Nr. 1272/2008 des Europäischen Parlaments und des Rates vom 16.
Dezember 2008 über die Einstufung, Kennzeichnung und Verpackung von Stoffen und
Gemischen, zur Änderung und Aufhebung der Richtlinien 67/548/EWG und
1999/45/EG und zur Änderung der Verordnung (EG) Nr.1907/2006
(EG-GHS-Verordnung)

Reference: 07584
Allgemeine Verwaltungsvorschrift zur Änderung der Verwaltungsvorschrift
wassergefährdende Stoffe - VwVwS vom 27. Juli 2005; Bundesanzeiger Jahrgang 57,
Nr. 142a, vom 30. Juli 2005

Reference: 07619
DFG: Toxikologisch-arbeitsmedizinische Begründungen von MAK-Werten; Verlag
Chemie

Reference: 07620
DFG: Arbeitsmedizinisch-toxikologische Begründungen von BAT-Werten; Verlag
Chemie

Reference: 07635
AUERDATA 98

Reference: 07656
D. Walsh (Hrsg.) "Chemical Safety Data Sheets; Vol. I Solvents, Vol. II Metalls, Vol. III
Corrosives and Irritants, Vol. IV Toxic Chemicals, Vol.V Flammable Chemicals"
University of Technology, Loughborough 1990

Reference: 07727
L. Roth "Gefahrstoff-Entsorgung" Loseblattsammlung mit Ergänzungslieferungen,
ecomed-Verlag, Landsberg

Reference: 07795
H. Geerißen "GloSaDa 2000 Plus - Glove Safety Data"

Reference: 07866
G.D. Clayton, F.E. Clayton (edt.) "Patty's Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology" Volume II
"Toxicology", 4. Auflage, John Wiley & Sons, New York 1993

Reference: 07869
European Chemical Industry Ecology and Toxicology Centre (Edt.) "ECETOC Joint
Assessment of Commodity Chemicals" ECETOC, Brüssel

Reference: 07890
F. Klaschka; D. Vossmann: Kontaktallergene: Chemische, klinische und experimentelle
Daten; (Allergen-Liste), Erich Schmidt Verlag, Berlin 1994

Reference: 07902
ADR 2015 - Europäisches Übereinkommen über die internationale Beförderung
gefährlicher Güter auf der Straße (ADR)

Reference: 07930
NIOSH IDLHs "Dokumentation for Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health
Concentrations (IDLHs)" U.S. Department of Health and Human Service, Cincinnati Mai
1994

Reference: 07979
W.M. Grant, J.S. Schuman: Toxicology of the eyes; 4th Edition, Charles C Thomas
Publisher, Springfield, Illinois; 1993

Reference: 08013
Ludewig "Akute Vergiftungen" 9. Auflage, Wissenschaftliche Verlagsgesellschaft,
Stuttgart 1999

Reference: 08104
DFG Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft: MAK- und BAT-Werte-Liste 2016,
Senatskommission zur Prüfung gesundheitsschädlicher Arbeitsstoffe, Mitteilung 52;
VCH

Reference: 99983
Literaturlisten - Standardwerke, erweitert (Bibliographical reference - standard works,
 extended)

Reference: 99996
Projektgebundene Literaturliste Nr. 2 (Project related bibliographical reference No 2)

Reference: 99999
Angabe des Bearbeiters (Indication of the editor)

This substance datasheet was created with greatest care. Nevertheless no liability irrespective of legal basis can
be accepted.