Carbon Dioxide

1Identification

Name

Carbon Dioxide

IUPAC name

carbon dioxide

CAS number

124-38-9

EC number

204-696-9

Molecular formula

CO2

Molecular weight

44.009 g/mol

InChIKey

CURLTUGMZLYLDI-UHFFFAOYSA-N

SMILES

C(=O)=O

PubChem CID

280

Synonyms

carbon dioxide, carbonic anhydride, carbonic acid gas, Carbonic acid anhydride, methanedione, Carbonica, Kohlendioxyd, Carbon oxide, di-, Kohlensaure, Khladon 744, After-damp, AER Fixus, Anhydride carbonique, Dioxido de carbono

Recommended uses

• Used in carbonated beverages, fire extinguishers, dry ice, and propellants; A product of fermentation; [ACGIH] A product of animal metabolism and released when organic materials burn; a constituent of the earth's atmosphere at about 0.03% by volume; [Merck Index # 1809] Used in the deliming stage of leather production; [PMID 21938525]
  Haz-Map, Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases
• Aluminum Producing [Category: Industry] Welding [Category: Weld] Mining [Category: Industry] Sewer and Wastewater Treatment [Category: Industry] Firefighting [Category: Other] Leather Tanning and Processing [Category: Industry] Farming (Respiratory Hazards) [Category: Industry]
  Haz-Map, Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases
• Smoking cigarettes [Category: Food & Drugs]
  Haz-Map, Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases
• Intermediate Processing aids, specific to petroleum production Propellants, non-motive (blowing agents) Fixing agent (mordant) Soil amendments (fertilizers) Not Known or Reasonably Ascertainable Processing aids not otherwise specified Chemical reaction regulator Other
  EPA Chemical Data Reporting (CDR)
• Other pH regulating agent Stabilizing agent
  EPA Chemical Data Reporting (CDR)

Use categories: Food additives · Food Additives -> EXTRACTION_SOLVENT; FOOD_ADDITIVE; FREEZING_AGENT; PRESERVATIVE; PROPELLANT -> JECFA Functional Classes · Cosmetics -> Propellant

Description

• Carbon dioxide appears as a colorless odorless gas at atmospheric temperatures and pressures. Relatively nontoxic and noncombustible. Heavier than air and may asphyxiate by the displacement of air. Soluble in water. Forms carbonic acid, a mild acid. Under prolonged exposure to heat or fire the container may rupture violently and rocket. Used to freeze food, to control chemical reactions, and as a fire extinguishing agent.
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Carbon dioxide, refrigerated liquid appears as a colorless liquid. Relatively heavier than air and can asphyxiate by the displacement of air. Under prolonged exposure to heat or fire the container may rupture violently and rocket. Used as a refrigerant and in making carbonated beverages. Used to freeze food, to control chemical reactions and as a fire extinguishing agent.
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Carbon dioxide, solid appears as an odorless, white solid. Can cause damaging frostbite. Noncombustible and nontoxic. Liquefies at -109 °F. Can asphyxiate by displacement of air. Used as a refrigerant.
  CAMEO Chemicals

2Hazard identification

Signal word

Warning

Pictograms

GHS04

Classification source

European Chemicals Agency (ECHA)

Precautionary statements

Other reported classifications

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

Health hazards

• Inhalation causes increased respiration rate, headache, subtle physiological changes for up to 5% concentration and prolonged exposure. Higher concentrations can cause unconsciousness and death. Solid can cause cold contact burns. Liquid or cold gas can cause freezing injury to skin or eyes similar to a burn. (USCG, 1999)
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Excerpt from ERG Guide 120 [Gases - Inert (Including Refrigerated Liquids)]: Vapors may cause dizziness or asphyxiation without warning, especially when in closed or confined areas. Vapors from liquefied gas are initially heavier than air and spread along ground. Contact with gas, liquefied gas or cryogenic liquids may cause burns, severe injury and/or frostbite. (ERG, 2024)
  CAMEO Chemicals
• · Vapors may cause dizziness or asphyxiation without warning, especially when in closed or confined areas. · Vapors from liquefied gas are initially heavier than air and spread along ground. · Contact with gas, liquefied gas or cryogenic liquids may cause burns, severe injury and/or frostbite.
  Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)

Fire hazards

• Behavior in Fire: Containers may explode when heated. (USCG, 1999)
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Excerpt from ERG Guide 120 [Gases - Inert (Including Refrigerated Liquids)]: Non-flammable gases. Containers may explode when heated. Ruptured cylinders may rocket. (ERG, 2024)
  CAMEO Chemicals
• · Non-flammable gases. · Containers may explode when heated. · Ruptured cylinders may rocket.
  Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)

Hazards summary

• Possible frostbite from contact with liquid; [NIOSH] Simple asphyxiant; [ICSC]
  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

• Excerpt from NIOSH Pocket Guide for Carbon dioxide: Eye: FROSTBITE - If eye tissue is frozen, seek medical attention immediately; if tissue is not frozen, immediately and thoroughly flush the eyes with large amounts of water for at least 15 minutes, occasionally lifting the lower and upper eyelids. If irritation, pain, swelling, lacrimation, or photophobia persist, get medical attention as soon as possible. Skin: FROSTBITE - If frostbite has occurred, seek medical attention immediately; do NOT rub the affected areas or flush them with water. In order to prevent further tissue damage, do NOT attempt to remove frozen clothing from frostbitten areas.
  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: Frostbite - If eye tissue is frozen, seek medical attention immediately; if tissue is not frozen, immediately and thoroughly flush the eyes with large amounts of water for at least 15 minutes, occasionally lifting the lower and upper eyelids. If irritation, pain, swelling, lacrimation, or photophobia persist, get medical attention as soon as possible. Skin: Frostbite - Compressed gases may create low temperatures when they expand rapidly. Leaks and uses that allow rapid expansion may cause a frostbite hazard. Wear appropriate personal protective clothing to prevent the skin from becoming frozen. Breathing: Respiratory support
  The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

Symptoms of exposure

• Dizziness. Headache. Elevated blood pressure. Increased heart rate. Palpitations. Suffocation. Unconsciousness.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• ON CONTACT WITH GAS OR DRY ICE: FROSTBITE.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• ON CONTACT WITH LIQUID: FROSTBITE.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

5Fire-fighting measures

• Suitable extinguishing media: Use water spray, alcohol-resistant foam, dry chemical or carbon dioxide.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Advice for firefighters: Wear self contained breathing apparatus for fire fighting if necessary.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Fire fighting: self-contained breathing apparatus with a full facepiece operated in pressure-demand or other positive pressure mode.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Hazardous combustion products

• Special hazards arising from the substance or mixture: Carbon oxides
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

6Accidental release measures

Isolation and evacuation

• Excerpt from ERG Guide 120 [Gases - Inert (Including Refrigerated Liquids)]: IMMEDIATE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURE: Isolate spill or leak area for at least 100 meters (330 feet) in all directions. LARGE SPILL: Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 100 meters (330 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 100 meters (330 feet) in all directions. Large Spill · Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 100 meters (330 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

• Personal protection: self-contained breathing apparatus. Shut off cylinder if possible. Ventilation.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• Accidental release measures. Personal precautions, protective equipment and emergency procedures: Avoid breathing vapors, mist or gas. Ensure adequate ventilation. Evacuate personnel to safe areas.; Environmental precautions: Do not let product enter drains.; Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up: Clean up promptly by sweeping or vacuum.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• 1) Ventilate area of leak to disperse gas. 2) Stop flow of gas. If source of leak is cylinder & leak cannot be stopped in place, remove...to safe place in open air, & repair leak or allow cylinder to empty.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Water spray may be used to convert any form of carbon dioxide to carbonic acid which may then be neutralized with alkali.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

7Handling and storage

• Fireproof if in building. Cool. Ventilation along the floor.
  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. Contents under pressure. Avoid heating above: 50 °C.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Fireproof if in building. Cool. Ventilation along the floor.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Dry ice should not be kept in container that is not designed to withstand pressure. Containers of other substances stored over dry ice for extended periods generally absorb carbon dioxide unless they have been carefully sealed. When such containers are removed from storage and allowed to come rapidly to room temperature, the carbon dioxide may develop sufficient pressure to burst the container with explosive violence. On removal of such containers from storage, the stopper should be loosened or the container itself should be wrapped in towels and kept behind a shield.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

8Exposure controls / personal protection

Personal protective equipment

• Excerpt from NIOSH Pocket Guide for Carbon dioxide: Skin: FROSTBITE - Compressed gases may create low temperatures when they expand rapidly. Leaks and uses that allow rapid expansion may cause a frostbite hazard. Wear appropriate personal protective clothing to prevent the skin from becoming frozen. Eyes: FROSTBITE - Wear appropriate eye protection to prevent eye contact with the liquid that could result in burns or tissue damage from frostbite. Wash skin: No recommendation is made specifying the need for washing the substance from the skin (either immediately or at the end of the work shift).
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Eye/face protection: 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. 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/OSHA Up to 40000 ppm: (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 has a full facepiece and is operated in a pressure-demand or other positive-pressure mode in combination with an auxiliary self-contained positive-pressure breathing apparatus Escape: Any appropriate escape-type, self-contained breathing apparatus Important additional information about re…
  The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

9Physical and chemical properties

10Stability and reactivity

Reactivity

• Dusts of magnesium, lithium, potassium, sodium, zirconium, titanium, and some magnesium-aluminum alloys, and heated aluminum, chromium, and magnesium when suspended in carbon dioxide are ignitable and explosive. This is especially true in the presence of strong oxidizers, such as peroxides. The presence of carbon dioxide in solutions of aluminum hydride in ether can cause violent decomposition on warming the residue, [J. Amer. Chem. Soc., 1948, 70, 877]. Dangers arising from the use of carbon dioxide in the fire prevention and extinguishing systems of confined volumes of air and flammable vapors are examined.
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Contact of very cold liquid/solid carbon dioxide with water may result in vigorous or violent boiling of the product and extremely rapid vaporization due to the large temperature differences involved. If the water is hot, there is the possibility that a liquid "superheat" explosion may occur. Pressures may build to dangerous levels if liquid gas contacts water in a closed container. With water forms weak carbonic acid in nonhazardous reaction. Dusts of magnesium, lithium, potassium, sodium, zirconium, titanium, and some magnesium-aluminum alloys, and heated aluminum, chromium, and magnesium when suspended in carbon dioxide are ignitable and explosive.
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Water soluble. Forms carbonic acid, a mild acid in water.
  CAMEO Chemicals

Incompatible materials and hazardous reactions

• Incompatible with acrylaldehyde, aziridine, metal acetylides, sodum peroxide.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Dusts of various metals, such as magnesium, zirconium, titanium, aluminum, chromium & manganese are ignitable and explosive when suspended in carbon dioxide. Forms carbonic acid in water.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• When heated, cesium monoxide burns in ... carbon dioxide.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Chemical stability

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

11Toxicological information

Target organs

• respiratory system, cardiovascular system
  The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

Short-term exposure effects

• Rapid evaporation of the liquid may cause frostbite. Inhalation of high levels may cause effects on multiple organs. This may result in acidosis and impaired functions. Exposure at high concentrations could cause asphyxiation.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

Long-term exposure effects

• The substance may have effects on the metabolism. This may result in impaired functions.
  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

• SRP: Recycle any unused portion of the material for its approved use or return it to the manufacturer or supplier. Ultimate disposal of the chemical must consider: the material's impact on air quality; potential migration in air, soil or water; effects on animal, aquatic and plant life; and conformance with environmental and public health regulations. If it is possible or reasonable use an alternative chemical product with less inherent propensity for occupational harm/injury/toxicity or environmental contamination.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Product: 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 numbers: UN 1013, UN 1845, UN 2187

Shipping name

• UN 1013; Carbon dioxide
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• UN 1845; Carbon dioxide, solid or dry ice
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

DOT hazard class

• Carbon dioxide
  US Code of Federal Regulations, Hazardous Materials, 49 CFR Part 172
• UN1013
  US Code of Federal Regulations, Hazardous Materials, 49 CFR Part 172
• Div 2.2 Non-flammable compressed gas (49 eCFR § 173.115)
  US Code of Federal Regulations, Hazardous Materials, 49 CFR Part 172

DOT label

• Non-Flammable Gas
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Class 9
  CAMEO Chemicals

UN classification

• UN Hazard Class: 2.2
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

Emergency Response Guidebook

• 1845 120
  Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)
• 1013 120
  Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)

How DOT hazard classes work →

15Regulatory information

• Residues of carbon dioxide 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 growing crops or to raw agricultural commodities after harvest. Use: propellant. Limit: none.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• The insecticide carbon dioxide is exempted from the requirement of a tolerance when used after harvest in modified atmospheres for stored insect control on food commodities.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Substance added directly to human food affirmed as generally recognized as safe (GRAS).
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

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

16Other information

Compiled from PubChem CID 280 and the sources it aggregates (attributed inline). Data retrieved 2026-10-12. This summary describes the pure substance and is not a supplier SDS.