1.Description
3-pentanone, also known as diethyl ketone or ethyl propionyl, is a member of the class of compounds known as ketones. Ketones are organic compounds in which a carbonyl group is bonded to two carbon atoms R2C=O (neither R may be a hydrogen atom). Ketones that have one or more alpha-hydrogen atoms undergo keto-enol tautomerization, the tautomer being an enol. Thus, 3-pentanone is considered to be an oxygenated hydrocarbon lipid molecule. 3-pentanone is soluble (in water) and an extremely weak acidic compound (based on its pKa). 3-pentanone is an acetone and ethereal tasting compound and can be found in a number of food items such as strawberry guava, ceylon cinnamon, beech nut, and pak choy, which makes 3-pentanone a potential biomarker for the consumption of these food products.
2.Hazards Summary
The major hazards encountered in the use and handling of 3-pentanone stem from its toxicologic properties and flammability. Toxic by all routes (ie, inhalation, ingestion, and dermal contact), exposure to this colorless acetone-smelling liquid may occur from its use in organic syntheses. Effects from exposure may include contact burns to the skin and eyes, tachycardia, nausea, shortness of breath, headache, dizziness, fainting, coma and death. Both the OSHA PEL and the ACGIH TLV have been set at a TWA of 200 ppm. In activities or situations where over-exposure may occur, wear a self-contained breathing apparatus and chemical protective clothing. If contact should occur, immediately flush affected skin or eyes with running water for at least 15 minutes. Remove contaminated clothing and shoes at the site. 3-Pentanone may be easily ignited by heat, sparks, or flame (Flash point: 13 °C, open cup). Its heavier than air vapor and may travel to a source of ignition and flash back, or result in a build-up of explosive concentrations in enclosed spaces such as sewers. Also, containers may explode in the heat of a fire. 3-Pentanone fires may produce poisonous gases. Therefore, if a tank car or truck is involved in the fire, isolate the area for 1/2 mile in all directions. 3-Pentanone fires may be extinguished with dry chemical, CO2, Halon, standard or alcohol foam, and water spray or fog (solid streams of water may spread the fire). Fight the fire from as far a distance as possible and dike the fire control water. 3-Pentanone should be stored away from sources of ignition and oxidizing materials. 3-Pentanone may be shipped via air, rail, road, and water. Small spills of 3-pentanone may be taken up with sand or other noncombustible absorbent and placed into containers for later disposal. Before implementing land disposal of waste 3-pentanone, consult with environmental regulatory agencies for guidance.
3.TSCA Requirements
Pursuant to section 8(d) of TSCA, EPA promulgated a model Health and Safety Data Reporting Rule. The section 8(d) model rule requires manufacturers, importers, and processors of listed chemical substances and mixtures to submit to EPA copies and lists of unpublished health and safety studies. 3-Pentanone is included on this list. Effective date 9/29/2006, Sunset date 11/28/2006.
