Acetone

1Identification

Name

Acetone

IUPAC name

propan-2-one

CAS number

67-64-1

EC number

200-662-2

Molecular formula

C3H6O

Molecular weight

58.08 g/mol

InChIKey

CSCPPACGZOOCGX-UHFFFAOYSA-N

SMILES

CC(=O)C

PubChem CID

180

Synonyms

acetone, 2-propanone, propanone, propan-2-one, Dimethyl ketone, Pyroacetic ether, Methyl ketone, Dimethylformaldehyde, beta-Ketopropane, Dimethylketal, Chevron acetone, Ketone propane, Aceton, Pyroacetic acid

Recommended uses

• Used as a solvent and to produce methacrylates; [LaDou, p. 546] Used as an intermediate and solvent or cleaner (gum waxes, resins, fats, greases, oils, dyes, cellulosics, coatings, plastics, and varnishes); [ACGIH]
  Haz-Map, Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases
• Semiconductor Manufacturing [Category: Industry] Painting (Solvents) [Category: Paint] Silk-Screen Printing [Category: Other]
  Haz-Map, Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases
• Smoking cigarettes [Category: Food & Drugs]
  Haz-Map, Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases
• Propellants, non-motive (blowing agents) Laboratory chemicals Pigment Etching agent Intermediate Sealant (barrier) Not Known or Reasonably Ascertainable Thickening agent Diluent Ion exchange agent Plasticizer Cleaning agent Plating agent Fuel Processing aids not otherwise specified Monomers Binder Other Solvent
  EPA Chemical Data Reporting (CDR)
• Flux agent Absorbent Cleaning agent Sealant (barrier) Not Known or Reasonably Ascertainable Filler Corrosion inhibitor Chelating agent Drier Adhesion/cohesion promoter Etching agent Pigment Intermediate Propellants, non-motive (blowing agents) Laboratory chemicals Solvent Binder Other Lubricating agent Processing aids not otherwise specified Monomers
  EPA Chemical Data Reporting (CDR)

Use categories: Chemical Classes -> Volatile organic compounds · EPA Safer Chemical Functional Use Classes -> Specialized Industrial Chemicals · Safer Chemical Classes -> Yellow triangle - The chemical has met Safer Choice Criteria for its functional ingredient-class, but has some hazard profile issues · Fragrance Ingredients

Description

• Acetone is a manufactured chemical that is also found naturally in the environment. It is a colorless liquid with a distinct smell and taste. It evaporates easily, is flammable, and dissolves in water. It is also called dimethyl ketone, 2-propanone, and beta-ketopropane. Acetone is used to make plastic, fibers, drugs, and other chemicals. It is also used to dissolve other substances. It occurs naturally in plants, trees, volcanic gases, forest fires, and as a product of the breakdown of body fat. It is present in vehicle exhaust, tobacco smoke, and landfill sites. Industrial processes contribute more acetone to the environment than natural processes.
  Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR)
• Acetone appears as a clear colorless liquid with a sweetish odor. Flash point 0 °F. Less dense than water. Vapors are heavier than air. Used as a solvent in paint and nail polish removers.
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Acetone is a methyl ketone that consists of propane bearing an oxo group at C2. It has a role as a polar aprotic solvent, a human metabolite and an EC 3.5.1.4 (amidase) inhibitor. It is a volatile organic compound, a member of propanones, a methyl ketone and a ketone body.
  ChEBI

2Hazard identification

Signal word

Danger

Pictograms

GHS02, GHS07

Classification source

Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council

Precautionary statements

Other reported classifications

6 classification records exist across sources. Differences usually reflect purity, physical form or impurities.

NFPA 704 rating

• 1 - Materials that, under emergency conditions, can cause significant irritation.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• 3 - Liquids and solids that can be ignited under almost all ambient temperature conditions. Materials produce hazardous atmospheres with air under almost all ambient temperatures or, though unaffected by ambient temperatures, are readily ignited under almost all conditions.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• 0 - Materials that in themselves are normally stable, even under fire conditions.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Health hazards

• INHALATION: vapor irritating to eyes and mucous membranes; acts as an anesthetic in very high concentrations. INGESTION: low order of toxicity but very irritating to mucous membranes. SKIN: prolonged excessive contact causes defatting of the skin, possibly leading to dermatitis. (USCG, 1999)
  CAMEO Chemicals
• · Inhalation or contact with material may irritate or burn skin and eyes. · Fire may produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. · Vapors may cause dizziness or asphyxiation, especially when in closed or confined areas. · Runoff from fire control or dilution water may cause environmental contamination.
  Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)

Fire hazards

• Excerpt from ERG Guide 127 [Flammable Liquids (Water-Miscible)]: HIGHLY FLAMMABLE: Will be easily ignited by heat, sparks or flames. CAUTION: Ethanol (UN1170) can burn with an invisible flame. Use an alternate method of detection (thermal camera, broom handle, etc.) Vapors may form explosive mixtures with air. Vapors may travel to source of ignition and flash back. Most vapors are heavier than air. They will spread along the ground and collect in low or confined areas (sewers, basements, tanks, etc.). Vapor explosion hazard indoors, outdoors or in sewers. Those substances designated with a (P) may polymerize explosively when heated or involved in a fire.
  CAMEO Chemicals
• · HIGHLY FLAMMABLE: Will be easily ignited by heat, sparks or flames. CAUTION: Ethanol (UN1170) can burn with an invisible flame. Use an alternate method of detection (thermal camera, broom handle, etc.) · Vapors may form explosive mixtures with air. · Vapors may travel to source of ignition and flash back. · Most vapors are heavier than air. They will spread along the ground and collect in low or confined areas (sewers, basements, tanks, etc.). · Vapor explosion hazard indoors, outdoors or in sewers. · Those substances designated with a (P) may polymerize explosively when heated or involved in a fire. · Runoff to sewer may create fire or explosion hazard.
  Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)
• Highly flammable. Vapour/air mixtures are explosive. Heating will cause rise in pressure with risk of bursting.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

Hazards summary

• Acetone is a manufactured chemical that is also found naturally in the environment. It is a colorless liquid with a distinct smell and taste. It evaporates easily, is flammable, and dissolves in water. It is also called dimethyl ketone, 2-propanone, and beta-ketopropane. Acetone is used to make plastic, fibers, drugs, and other chemicals. It is also used to dissolve other substances. It occurs naturally in plants, trees, volcanic gases, forest fires, and as a product of the breakdown of body fat. It is present in vehicle exhaust, tobacco smoke, and landfill sites. Industrial processes contribute more acetone to the environment than natural processes.
  Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR)
• Can be absorbed by skin or inhalation; Can reach harmful concentrations after spill at room temperature or after spraying; Skin and respiratory tract irritant; Adverse effects on CNS, liver, and kidneys; [Reference #1] TLV Basis is irritation (eyes and upper respiratory tract) and CNS impairment; [ACGIH]
  Haz-Map, Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases

3Composition / information on ingredients

This page describes the pure substance. Commercial products may be solutions or mixtures. Check Section 3 of your supplier's SDS for concentrations and other ingredients.

4First-aid measures

• EYES: First check the victim for contact lenses and remove if present. Flush victim's eyes with water or normal saline solution for 20 to 30 minutes while simultaneously calling a hospital or poison control center. Do not put any ointments, oils, or medication in the victim's eyes without specific instructions from a physician. IMMEDIATELY transport the victim after flushing eyes to a hospital even if no symptoms (such as redness or irritation) develop. SKIN: IMMEDIATELY flood affected skin with water while removing and isolating all contaminated clothing. Gently wash all affected skin areas thoroughly with soap and water.
  CAMEO Chemicals
• General First Aid: · Call 911 or emergency medical service. · Ensure that medical personnel are aware of the material(s) involved, take precautions to protect themselves and avoid contamination. · Move victim to fresh air if it can be done safely. · Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult. · If victim is not breathing: -- DO NOT perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation; the victim may have ingested or inhaled the substance. -- If equipped and pulse detected, wash face and mouth, then give artificial respiration using a proper respiratory medical device (bag-valve mask, pocket mask equipped with a one-way valve or other device).
  Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)
• (General first aid procedures) Eye: Irrigate immediately - If this chemical contacts the eyes, immediately wash (irrigate) the eyes with large amounts of water, occasionally lifting the lower and upper lids. Get medical attention immediately. Skin: Soap wash immediately - If this chemical contacts the skin, immediately wash the contaminated skin with soap and water. If this chemical penetrates the clothing, immediately remove the clothing, wash the skin with soap and water, and get medical attention promptly. Breathing: Respiratory support Swallow: Medical attention immediately - If this chemical has been swallowed, get medical attention immediately.
  The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

Symptoms of exposure

• Sore throat. Cough. Headache. Dizziness. Confusion. Drowsiness. Unconsciousness.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• Dry skin.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• Redness. Pain. Blurred vision.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

5Fire-fighting measures

• If material is on fire or involved in fire: Do not extinguish fire unless flow can be stopped. Use water in flooding quantities as fog. Solid streams of water may be ineffective. Cool all affected containers with flooding quantities of water. Apply water from as far a distance as possible. Use "alcohol" foam, carbon dioxide, or dry chemical.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Flammable. Flashback along vapor trail may occur. Vapor may explode if ignited in an enclosed area. Extinguish with dry chemical, alcohol foam, or carbon dioxide. Water may be ineffective on fire. Cool exposed containers with water.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Suitable extinguishing media: Use water spray, alcohol-resistant foam, dry chemical or carbon dioxide.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

6Accidental release measures

Isolation and evacuation

• Excerpt from ERG Guide 127 [Flammable Liquids (Water-Miscible)]: IMMEDIATE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURE: Isolate spill or leak area for at least 50 meters (150 feet) in all directions. LARGE SPILL: Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 300 meters (1000 feet). FIRE: If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions. (ERG, 2024)
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Immediate precautionary measure · Isolate spill or leak area for at least 50 meters (150 feet) in all directions. Large Spill · Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 300 meters (1000 feet). Fire · If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions.
  Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)

Spill cleanup

• Remove all ignition sources. Personal protection: filter respirator for organic gases and vapours of low boiling point adapted to the airborne concentration of the substance. Ventilation. Collect leaking liquid in sealable containers. Absorb remaining liquid in sand or inert absorbent. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• Accidental release measures. Personal precautions, protective equipment and emergency procedures: Use personal protective equipment. Avoid breathing vapors, mist or gas. Ensure adequate ventilation. Remove all sources of ignition. Evacuate personnel to safe areas. Beware of vapors accumulating to form explosive concentrations. Vapors can accumulate in low areas.; Environmental precautions: Prevent further leakage or spillage if safe to do so. Do not let product enter drains.;
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Environmental considerations- land spill: Dig a pit, pond, lagoon, holding area to contain liquid or solid material. //spr:clup// Dike surface flow using soil, sand bags, foamed polyurethane, or foamed concrete. Absorb bulk liquid with fly ash, cement powder, or commercial sorbents
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Environmental considerations- water spill Use natural barriers or oil spill control booms to limit spill travel. Remove trapped material with suction hoses.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

7Handling and storage

• Fireproof. Separated from : see Chemical Dangers. Store in an area without drain or sewer access.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• Conditions for safe storage, including any incompatibilities: Keep container tightly closed in a dry and well-ventilated place. Containers which are opened must be carefully resealed and kept upright to prevent leakage. Storage class (TRGS 510): Flammable liquids
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Store acetone in closed containers, and keep away from heat, sparks, and flames.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Acetone is stored in steel tanks
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

8Exposure controls / personal protection

Personal protective equipment

• Excerpt from NIOSH Pocket Guide for Acetone: Skin: PREVENT SKIN CONTACT - Wear appropriate personal protective clothing to prevent skin contact. Eyes: PREVENT EYE CONTACT - Wear appropriate eye protection to prevent eye contact. Wash skin: WHEN CONTAMINATED - The worker should immediately wash the skin when it becomes contaminated. Remove: WHEN WET (FLAMMABLE) - Work clothing that becomes wet should be immediately removed due to its flammability hazard (i.e., for liquids with a flash point <100 °F). Change: No recommendation is made specifying the need for the worker to change clothing after the workshift. (NIOSH, 2024)
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Eye/face protection: Face shield and safety glasses. Use equipment for eye protection tested and approved under appropriate government standards such as NIOSH (US) or EN 166(EU).
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Handle with gloves.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Body Protection: Impervious clothing, flame retardant antistatic protective clothing. The type of protective equipment must be selected according to the concentration and amount of the dangerous substance at the specific workplace.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Respirator recommendations

• NIOSH Up to 2500 ppm: (APF = 10) Any chemical cartridge respirator with organic vapor cartridge(s)* (APF = 25) Any powered, air-purifying respirator with organic vapor cartridge(s)* (APF = 50) Any air-purifying, full-facepiece respirator (gas mask) with a chin-style, front- or back-mounted organic vapor canister (APF = 10) Any supplied-air respirator* (APF = 50) Any self-contained breathing apparatus with a full facepiece Emergency or planned entry into unknown concentrations or IDLH conditions: (APF = 10,000) Any self-contained breathing apparatus that has a full facepiece and is operated in a pressure-demand or other positive-pressure mode (APF = 10,000) Any supplied-air respirator that ha…
  The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

9Physical and chemical properties

10Stability and reactivity

Reactivity

• It was reported that a mixture of ACETONE and chloroform, in a residue bottle, exploded. Since addition of acetone to chloroform in the presence of base will result in a highly exothermic reaction, it is thought that a base was in the bottle [MCA Case History 1661. 1970]. Also, Nitrosyl chloride, sealed in a tube with a residue of acetone in the presence of platinum catalyst, gave an explosive reaction [Chem. Eng. News 35(43):60. 1967]. The reaction of nitrosyl perchlorate and acetone ignites and explodes. Explosions occur with mixtures of nitrosyl perchlorate and primary amine [Ann. Chem. 42:2031. 1909]. Reacts violently with nitric acid.
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Highly flammable. Water soluble.
  CAMEO Chemicals

Incompatible materials and hazardous reactions

• Incompatible materials: Bases, Oxidizing agents, Reducing agents, Acetone reacts violently with phosphorous oxychloride.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• A mixture of acetone and chloroform in a residue bottle exploded. Since addition of chloroform to acetone in presence of a base will result in a highly exothermic reaction, it is thought that a base may have been in the bottle.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Acetone may form explosive mixtures with chromic anhydride, chromyl chloride, hexachloromelamine, hydrogen peroxide, nitric acid and acetic acid, nitric acid and sulfuric acid, nitrosyl chloride, nitrosyl perchlorate, nitryl perchlorate, permonosulfuric acid, potassium tert-butoxide, thiodiglycol and hydrogen peroxide.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Chemical stability

• Stable under recommended storage conditions.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

11Toxicological information

Target organs

• Hematological (Blood Forming), Neurological (Nervous System), Ocular (Eyes), Renal (Urinary System or Kidneys), Reproductive (Producing Children), Respiratory (From the Nose to the Lungs)
  Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR)
• Urinary
  EPA Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS)

Short-term exposure effects

• The substance is irritating to the eyes and respiratory tract. Exposure at high levels could cause lowering of consciousness.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

Long-term exposure effects

• The substance defats the skin, which may cause dryness or cracking.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

12Ecological information

Not available in the public sources we compile. Check Section 12 of the supplier's SDS.

13Disposal considerations

• Generators of waste (equal to or greater than 100 kg/mo) containing this contaminant, EPA hazardous waste numbers U002 and F003, must conform with USEPA regulations in storage, transportation, treatment and disposal of waste.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Product: Burn in a chemical incinerator equipped with an afterburner and scrubber but exert extra care in igniting as this material is highly flammable. Offer surplus and non-recyclable solutions to a licensed disposal company. Contact a licensed professional waste disposal service to dispose of this material.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Contaminated packaging: Dispose of as unused product.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

14Transport information

UN number: UN 1090

Shipping name

• UN 1090; Acetone
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• IMO 3.0; Acetone
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

DOT hazard class

• Acetone
  US Code of Federal Regulations, Hazardous Materials, 49 CFR Part 172
• UN1090
  US Code of Federal Regulations, Hazardous Materials, 49 CFR Part 172
• Class 3 Flammable and combustible liquid (49 eCFR § 173.120)
  US Code of Federal Regulations, Hazardous Materials, 49 CFR Part 172

DOT label

• Flammable Liquid
  CAMEO Chemicals

UN classification

• UN Hazard Class: 3; UN Pack Group: II
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

Emergency Response Guidebook

• 1090 127
  Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)

How DOT hazard classes work →

15Regulatory information

• This action promulgates standards of performance for equipment leaks of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) in the Synthetic Organic Chemical Manufacturing Industry (SOCMI). The intended effect of these standards is to require all newly constructed, modified, and reconstructed SOCMI process units to use the best demonstrated system of continuous emission reduction for equipment leaks of VOC, considering costs, non air quality health and environmental impact and energy requirements. Acetone is produced, as an intermediate or a final product, by process units covered under this subpart.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Residues of acetone are exempted from the requirement of a tolerance when used as a solvent, cosolvent in accordance with good agricultural practice as inert (or occasionally active) ingredients in pesticide formulations applied to growing crops or to raw agricultural commodities after harvest.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Residues of acetone are exempted from the requirement of a tolerance when used in accordance with good agricultural practice as inert (or occasionally active) ingredients in pesticide formulations applied to animals. Use: solvent, cosolvent.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Persons in charge of vessels or facilities are required to notify the National Response Center (NRC) immediately, when there is a release of this designated hazardous substance, in an amount equal to or greater than its reportable quantity of 5000 lb or 2270 kg. The toll free number of the NRC is (800) 424-8802. The rule for determining when notification is required is stated in 40 CFR 302.4 (section IV. D.3.b).
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• F003; When acetone is a spent solvent, it is classified as a hazardous waste from a nonspecific source (F003), as stated in 40 CFR 261.31, and must be managed according to State and/or Federal hazardous waste regulations.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• The following substances may be safely used as diluents in color additive mixtures for food use exempt from certification, subject to the condition that each straight color in the mixture has been exempted from certification or, if not so exempted, is from a batch that has previously been certified and has not changed in composition since certification. If a specification for a particular diluent is not set forth in this part 73, the material shall be of a purity consistent with its intended use. ... (b) Special use - (1) Diluents in color additive mixtures for marking food ... (ii) Inks for marking fruit and vegetables. Substance: acetone; Restrictions: No residues.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Overview of SDS regulations (OSHA HazCom, WHMIS, REACH/CLP) →

16Other information

Compiled from PubChem CID 180 and the sources it aggregates (attributed inline). Data retrieved 2026-10-12. This summary describes the pure substance and is not a supplier SDS.