Product Name: Propylene Glycol Methyl Ether Acetate
Synonyms: 1-Methoxy-2-propyl acetate, PGMEA, PMA
CAS Number: 108-65-6
Recommended Use: Common solvent for paints, coatings, inks, cleaning agents
Supplier: Name and address of chemical distributor
Emergency Contact: Local chemical emergency contact or poison information center
GHS Classification: Flammable liquids (Category 3), Eye irritation (Category 2A), Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure (Category 3)
Pictograms: Flame, Exclamation mark
Signal Word: Warning
Hazard Statements: Liquid and vapor catch fire easily. Causes eye irritation. May cause drowsiness or dizziness.
Precautionary Statements: Keep away from open flames and hot surfaces. Avoid breathing vapors. Use only outdoors or in well-ventilated area. Wear protective goggles.
Chemical Identity: Propylene Glycol Methyl Ether Acetate
Concentration: >99% by weight
Impurities: Trace levels of methanol (<0.1%) and water (<0.05%)
Molecular Formula: C6H12O3
Inhalation: Move to an area with fresh air. If symptoms like dizziness or headache set in, seek medical help.
Skin Contact: Remove affected clothing. Wash skin with plenty of soap and water. If skin irritation persists, speak to a doctor.
Eye Contact: Flush eyes with water for at least 15 minutes, holding eyelids apart. Get medical attention if discomfort keeps going.
Ingestion: Rinse mouth. Do not try to make anyone vomit. Get medical advice without delay.
Suitable Extinguishing Media: Carbon dioxide, dry chemical powder, alcohol-resistant foam
Specific Hazards: Vapors heavier than air, can travel to ignition source and flash back. When burning, the substance produces carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, other toxic gases.
Protective Equipment: Firefighters should gear up with self-contained breathing apparatus and full protective clothing
Advice: Cool storage drums with water spray, stay away from containers if you hear violent venting.
Personal Precautions: Shut off ignition sources. Ventilate the area. Prevent exposure by using proper gloves and goggles.
Environmental Precautions: Prevent the chemical from entering drains, waterways, or soil.
Methods for Cleaning Up: Absorb spill with non-combustible materials like sand or vermiculite. Place used material in proper waste containers. Wash site with water after material removal.
Handling: Work in a ventilated spot. Avoid breathing vapors or mist. Wear recommended personal protection.
Hygiene Measures: Wash hands after handling. Remove contaminated clothing before eating.
Storage: Store in a cool, shaded zone away from heat, sparks, flames, and sunlight. Keep containers tight and upright. Use only suitable containers made of compatible material.
Occupational Exposure Limits: ACGIH TLV: 50 ppm TWA
Engineering Controls: Use local exhaust ventilation to keep vapor levels below limits.
Personal Protection: Wear chemical-resistant gloves, splash-proof goggles, and suitable long-sleeved clothing. If exposure crosses recommended levels, use an approved respirator. Have eye-wash and emergency showers close.
Appearance: Clear, colorless liquid
Odor: Mild, fruity
Boiling Point: 146°C (295°F)
Melting Point: -64°C (-83°F)
Flash Point: 45°C (113°F) (closed cup)
Vapor Pressure: 3.7 mmHg at 20°C
Solubility: Mixes easily with most organic solvents, limited solubility in water
Density: 0.966 g/cm³ at 20°C
Viscosity: Low, flows easily
Evaporation Rate: Moderate, faster than water
Chemical Stability: Stays stable under normal temperatures and pressures.
Reactions to Avoid: Strong oxidizers, strong acids, bases.
Decomposition Products: Carbon oxides and minor toxic vapors on burning.
Hazardous Polymerization: Not known to happen under regular use.
Routes of Exposure: Eyes, skin, inhalation, ingestion
Signs and Symptoms: Eye redness, skin dryness, headaches, dizziness, nausea from breathing high vapor concentrations.
Acute Toxicity: LD50 oral rat: 8,532 mg/kg; low skin and inhalation toxicity in animal studies
Chronic Effects: High repeated exposure may cause effects on the central nervous system; no clear evidence of carcinogenicity in humans.
Sensitization: No strong data on skin or respiratory sensitization in humans
Ecotoxicity: Mild aquatic toxicity.
Persistence and Degradability: Biodegrades in the environment in weeks under aerobic conditions.
Bioaccumulation: Unlikely due to low partition coefficient.
Mobility in Soil: Moves readily in soil and has the chance to reach groundwater if released in large quantities.
Waste Treatment Methods: Collect leftover chemical in labeled, sealed containers. Dispose by incineration or at approved chemical waste facility.
Contaminated Packaging: Containers can hold residue and vapor – handle as hazardous. Rinse and consult local waste regulations.
Precautions: Never pour chemical into drains, groundwater, or open environment.
UN Number: 3272
Transport Hazard Class: 3 (Flammable liquid)
Packing Group: III
Proper Shipping Name: Esters, N.O.S. (contains propylene glycol methyl ether acetate)
Special Precautions: Ship upright, away from food and feed. Follow all labeling and documentation rules set by local and international transport authorities.
TSCA: Listed in the US Toxic Substances Control Act inventory
EINECS/ELINCS: Listed
OSHA: Classified as hazardous
SARA 313: Not subject
California Prop 65: Not listed
Other Regulations: Always check country or local chemical regulations for restrictions or guidelines. Observe workplace safety and environmental laws.
