Ethylene Oxide (EO)

What is it?
Important Physical & Chemical Properties
Ethylene Oxide (C2H4O) is a colorless and flammable gas with a slightly sweet odor at normal temperatures and
pressures.
Melting Point Boiling Point Density

-112 °C 10.4 °C 1.7 times heavier than air

Ethylene Oxide may harm workers, and the harm it may cause varies depending on the situation. Possible harm
can involve how much EO a worker is exposed to, how long the worker is exposed and what the worker is
doing.
Many Industries use ethylene oxide. Some use it to produce ethylene glycol, which industries use to make
antifreeze and polyester.
The most common examples of workers who may come into contact with ethylene oxide are:
• Factory workers in plants that use it to make solvents, antifreeze, textiles, detergents, adhesives or
polyurethane foam.
• Factory workers in plants that produce ethylene oxide.
• Farm workers who use it to control insects in grain bins.
• Hospital Workers who use it to kill germs (sterilize) on medical equipment and supplies.