2-nitrooxyethyl nitrate

2-nitrooxyethyl nitrate is an explosive nitrate ester compound with the molecular formula C2H4N2O6 and CAS number 628-96-6. This chemical substance has a molecular weight of 152.06 g/mol and belongs to the category of unstable explosives. It contains two nitrate functional groups attached to an ethylene backbone, making it highly energetic and potentially dangerous. The compound is classified as acutely toxic and poses significant health hazards requiring specialized handling procedures.

2-nitrooxyethyl nitrate is a nitrate ester compound that typically appears as a colorless to pale yellow liquid at room temperature. Due to its explosive nature and high energy content, it exhibits significant instability under normal conditions. The compound has a molecular weight of 152.06 g/mol and contains multiple oxygen-rich functional groups. Its physicochemical properties are dominated by the presence of two nitrate ester groups, which contribute to its explosive characteristics and high reactivity.

2-nitrooxyethyl nitrate is primarily used in specialized explosive applications and energetic material research. Due to its unstable explosive classification and high toxicity, its commercial applications are extremely limited and highly regulated. The compound may be utilized in pyrotechnic formulations, propellant research, or as an intermediate in the synthesis of other explosive materials. However, its extreme hazard profile restricts its use to specialized facilities with appropriate safety measures and regulatory compliance.

2-nitrooxyethyl nitrate requires extreme caution during handling due to its unstable explosive and acute toxicity properties. Personnel must wear full protective equipment including chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and respiratory protection. Work should be conducted in well-ventilated areas or fume hoods, away from heat sources, friction, and impact. Only trained professionals should handle this substance, following strict protocols to prevent accidental detonation. Minimize quantities handled and ensure emergency procedures are readily available.

2-nitrooxyethyl nitrate must be stored in specialized explosive storage facilities designed for unstable materials. The storage area should be temperature-controlled, dry, and isolated from incompatible materials such as reducing agents, metals, and organic compounds. Containers should be explosion-proof and properly labeled with GHS pictograms (GHS01, GHS06, GHS08). Storage quantities must comply with local explosive storage regulations, and regular inspections should be conducted to monitor the material's condition and prevent deterioration.

2-nitrooxyethyl nitrate exposure requires immediate emergency response due to its acute toxicity classification. In case of skin contact, immediately remove contaminated clothing and flush affected areas with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. For eye contact, rinse continuously with water and seek immediate medical attention. If inhaled, move the person to fresh air and provide artificial respiration if necessary. Due to the compound's high toxicity (Acute Tox. 1 and 2), immediate medical intervention is essential for any exposure.

2-nitrooxyethyl nitrate disposal requires specialized hazardous waste procedures due to its explosive and toxic nature. The material must be handled by licensed hazardous waste disposal companies experienced with explosive materials. Disposal methods may include controlled detonation or specialized chemical treatment under controlled conditions. Never attempt disposal through normal waste streams or sewage systems. All disposal activities must comply with local explosive and hazardous waste regulations, and proper documentation must be maintained throughout the disposal process.

2-nitrooxyethyl nitrate transport requires compliance with ADR (European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road) regulations for explosive materials. Due to its unstable explosive classification, special packaging, labeling, and vehicle requirements apply. Transportation must be performed by certified carriers with appropriate permits and training. Vehicles must display proper hazard placards, and specific routing restrictions may apply. Documentation including safety data sheets and transport permits must accompany all shipments.

2-nitrooxyethyl nitrate is subject to extensive regulatory oversight under multiple frameworks including REACH, CLP, and explosive materials regulations. The compound's classification as an unstable explosive and acute toxicant triggers strict handling, storage, and transport requirements. While not currently listed as an SVHC (Substance of Very High Concern), its hazard profile requires compliance with occupational safety regulations, explosive licensing requirements, and environmental protection measures. Users must obtain appropriate permits and follow national explosive materials regulations.

2-nitrooxyethyl nitrate is available through specialized chemical distributors in Europe, including OYSI, which supplies technical chemicals to professional users. Due to the compound's explosive nature and high toxicity, purchases require appropriate licensing, permits, and compliance with explosive materials regulations. Buyers must demonstrate legitimate use, proper storage facilities, and safety protocols. OYSI can provide guidance on regulatory requirements and ensure proper documentation for compliant procurement of this highly regulated substance.