E2648-ETO
Rev 11.05.2021
Ethylene oxide
Ethylene oxide is a highly reactive, toxic, and flammable colorless gas and one of the most
important raw materials used in large-scale chemical production. It is used also as a
sterilant and fungicide.
Other names: epoxyethane, ethylene oxide, dimethylene oxide, oxacyclopropane, 1,2-Epoxy
ethane. Proper IUPAC name: oxirane.
Chemical formula
C
2
H
4
O
Molar weight
44
Relative gas density (to air)
1.52
Conversion
1 ppm = 1.80 mg/m
3
Boiling point
10.7 °C
Low explosive limit (LEL), % vol. in air
3
Upper explosive limit (UEL), % vol. in air
100
Odor
Pungent, ether-like
Odor threshold
430 ppm
Hazards
Flammable.
Gas/air mixtures are explosive. Ethylene oxide is a slow
poison with carcinogenic, mutagenic, irritating, and
anesthetic effect
Exposure routes are inhalation, ingestion, (liquid), skin,
and/or eye contact.
Exposure limits
(OSHA)
TWA
1 ppm
STEL
5 ppm
Conversion of ppm to mg/m
3
is calculated for 25°C and 1 atm.
3
