Ethylbenzene

Ethylbenzene is an aromatic hydrocarbon compound with the molecular formula C8H10 and CAS number 100-41-4. It consists of a benzene ring with an ethyl group attached, forming a colorless liquid with a molecular weight of 106.16 g/mol. This chemical is classified as a flammable liquid and poses several health hazards including acute toxicity and aspiration toxicity. It is widely used in industrial applications as a chemical intermediate and solvent.

Ethylbenzene is a colorless liquid at room temperature with a sweet, gasoline-like odor. It has limited solubility in water but is miscible with most organic solvents including alcohols, ethers, and hydrocarbons. The compound has a boiling point of approximately 136°C and a melting point of -95°C. Its density is lower than water at about 0.87 g/cm³, and it exhibits typical aromatic compound characteristics with high chemical stability under normal conditions.

Ethylbenzene is primarily used as a chemical intermediate in the production of styrene, which is essential for manufacturing polystyrene plastics and synthetic rubber. It serves as a solvent in various industrial processes including paint thinners, varnishes, and inks. Additionally, ethylbenzene is used in the production of diethylbenzene and acetophenone. The compound also finds applications in the petroleum industry as a component in gasoline and as a solvent for aluminum chloride in Friedel-Crafts reactions.

Ethylbenzene requires careful handling due to its flammable nature and health hazards. Workers must wear appropriate personal protective equipment including chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and respiratory protection in poorly ventilated areas. Work should be conducted in well-ventilated spaces away from ignition sources, sparks, and open flames. Emergency eyewash stations and safety showers should be readily available. Due to its acute toxicity and aspiration hazard classification, avoid inhalation and skin contact at all times.

Ethylbenzene must be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heat sources, sparks, and open flames due to its Flam. Liq. 2 classification. Use only approved containers and ensure proper grounding to prevent static electricity buildup. Store away from strong oxidizing agents and incompatible materials. Maintain temperatures below 25°C when possible and ensure storage areas have appropriate fire suppression systems. Regular inspection of containers for leaks or damage is essential for safe storage.

Ethylbenzene exposure requires immediate action due to its acute toxicity. For skin contact, remove contaminated clothing and rinse affected areas with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. In case of eye contact, flush immediately with clean water for 15-20 minutes and seek medical attention. If inhaled, move the person to fresh air immediately and provide oxygen if breathing is difficult. For ingestion, do NOT induce vomiting due to aspiration hazard - seek immediate medical attention and provide supportive care.

Ethylbenzene disposal must comply with local and national hazardous waste regulations due to its classification as dangerous goods. The substance cannot be disposed of in regular waste streams or sewage systems. Approved methods include incineration at licensed hazardous waste facilities or recovery/recycling through authorized chemical waste management companies. Small quantities should be collected in appropriate containers and labeled for hazardous waste pickup. Always consult local environmental authorities for specific disposal requirements and authorized waste management facilities.

Ethylbenzene is classified under ADR Class 3 (Flammable Liquids), Packing Group II, requiring specific transport protocols. Packages must bear proper hazard labels including GHS02, GHS07, and GHS08 pictograms with 'Danger' signal word. Transport vehicles need appropriate placarding and drivers require ADR certification. Use UN-approved packaging designed for flammable liquids and ensure proper documentation including transport emergency cards. Vehicle equipment must include fire extinguishers and emergency response materials suitable for flammable liquid incidents.

Ethylbenzene is subject to comprehensive European chemical regulations including REACH registration requirements and CLP classification as Flam. Liq. 2; Acute Tox. 4; Asp. Tox. 1; STOT RE 2. While not currently listed as a Substance of Very High Concern (SVHC), it requires safety data sheets and appropriate hazard communication. Industrial users must comply with workplace exposure limits and occupational health regulations. Transport falls under ADR dangerous goods requirements, and disposal must follow hazardous waste legislation across EU member states.

Ethylbenzene is available through OYSI, a leading European distributor of industrial chemicals serving customers across the continent. OYSI provides reliable supply chains for laboratory and industrial quantities with proper documentation including safety data sheets and certificates of analysis. As a specialized chemical distributor, OYSI ensures compliance with European regulations including REACH and CLP requirements. Contact OYSI directly for availability, specifications, and delivery options to your location within Europe for professional and industrial applications.