Epichlorohydrin

1Identification

Name

Epichlorohydrin

IUPAC name

2-(chloromethyl)oxirane

CAS number

106-89-8

EC number

203-439-8

Molecular formula

C3H5ClO

Molecular weight

92.52 g/mol

InChIKey

BRLQWZUYTZBJKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N

SMILES

C1C(O1)CCl

PubChem CID

7835

Synonyms

2-(Chloromethyl)oxirane, Epichlorhydrin, 1-Chloro-2,3-epoxypropane, Glycidyl chloride, Epichlorhydrine, Chloromethyloxirane, Oxirane, (chloromethyl)-, Chloropropylene oxide, 2,3-Epoxypropyl chloride, Epichloorhydrine, (CHLOROMETHYL)OXIRANE, 1,2-Epoxy-3-chloropropane, 3-Chloro-1,2-epoxypropane, Glycerol epichlorhydrin

Recommended uses

• The primary use of epichlorohydrin is in the production of epoxy resins used in coatings, adhesives, and plastics. Epichlorohydrin is also used in the manufacture of synthetic glycerine, textiles, paper, inks and dyes, solvents, surfactants, and pharmaceuticals.
  EPA Hazardous Air Pollutants
• Used primarily in the manufacture of epoxy and phenoxy resins; [ACGIH]
  Haz-Map, Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases
• Semiconductor Manufacturing [Category: Industry] Painting (Pigments, Binders, and Biocides) [Category: Paint] Working with Glues and Adhesives [Category: Other] Plastic Composites Manufacturing [Category: Industry]
  Haz-Map, Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases
• Filler Not Known or Reasonably Ascertainable Stabilizing agent Intermediate Flocculating agent Monomers Processing aids not otherwise specified
  EPA Chemical Data Reporting (CDR)
• Flocculating agent Adhesion/cohesion promoter Intermediate Monomers
  EPA Chemical Data Reporting (CDR)

Description

• Epichlorohydrin can cause cancer according to an independent committee of scientific and health experts. It can cause male reproductive toxicity according to The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
  California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA)
• 1-chloro-2,3-epoxypropane appears as a clear colorless liquid with an irritating chloroform-like odor. Density 9.8 lb / gal. Flash point 87 °F. Polymerizable. If polymerization takes place inside a closed container, the container is subject to violent rupture. Irritates the skin and respiratory system. Toxic by ingestion. A confirmed carcinogen. Vapors heavier than air. Used to make plastics and as a solvent.
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Epichlorohydrin is an epoxide that is 1,2-epoxypropene in which one of the methyl hydrogens is substituted by chlorine. It is an epoxide and an organochlorine compound. It is functionally related to a 1,2-epoxypropane.
  ChEBI

2Hazard identification

Signal word

Danger

Pictograms

GHS02, GHS05, GHS06, GHS08

Classification source

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

Precautionary statements

Other reported classifications

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

NFPA 704 rating

• 3 - Materials that, under emergency conditions, can cause serious or permanent injury.
  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)
• 2 - Materials that readily undergo violent chemical changes at elevated temperatures and pressures.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Health hazards

• This compound is caustic as both a liquid and gas. Irritation of the eyes and skin, and skin sensitization has been observed. Exposure to epichlorohydrin has caused inflammation of the lungs, asthmatic bronchitis, and liver and kidney damage. In acute poisonings, death may be caused by respiratory paralysis. (EPA, 1998)
  CAMEO Chemicals
• · TOXIC; may be fatal if inhaled, ingested or absorbed through skin. · Inhalation or contact with some of these materials will irritate or burn skin and eyes. · Methyl chloroacetate (UN2295) is an eye irritant/lachrymator (causes flow of tears). · Fire will 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

• When heated to decomposition, this compound evolves highly toxic fumes of phosgene and carbon monoxide. Reactive and incompatible with strong oxidizers, strong acids, caustics, zinc, aluminum, chlorides of iron and aluminumand compounds with an active hydrogen atom, including water. Unstable, avoid heat, contaminants, strong acids and bases, certain curing agents such as ethylenediamine. Hazardous polymerization may occur. (EPA, 1998)
  CAMEO Chemicals
• · HIGHLY FLAMMABLE: Will be easily ignited by heat, sparks or flames. CAUTION: Methanol (UN1230) will 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 and poison 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)
• Flammable. Gives off irritating or toxic fumes (or gases) in a fire. Above 31 °C explosive vapour/air mixtures may be formed.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

Hazards summary

• Epichlorohydrin is mainly used in the production of epoxy resins. Acute (short-term) inhalation exposure to epichlorohydrin in the workplace has caused irritation to the eyes, respiratory tract, and skin of workers. At high levels of exposure, nausea, vomiting, cough, labored breathing, inflammation of the lung, pulmonary edema, and renal lesions may be observed in humans. Chronic (long-term) occupational exposure of humans to epichlorohydrin in air is associated with high levels of respiratory tract illness and hematological effects.
  EPA Hazardous Air Pollutants
• Can cause severe skin burns and a skin sensitizer; Inhalation of vapor can cause lung edema and asthma-like reactions; [ICSC] In high-dose animal studies, epichlorohydrin causes testicular damage and sterility. [Frazier, p. 340] Animals exposed in subchronic inhalation studies at 50 ppm show kidney damage and liver effects. TLV Basis is respiratory tract irritant; [ACGIH] Suspected germ cell mutagen (3B); [MAK] Destructive to mucous membranes and upper respiratory tract; [Sigma-Aldrich MSDS] Epichlorohydrin (UN2023) has warning of explosive polymerization; [ERG 2016]
  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

• Warning: Effects may be delayed for several hours. Caution is advised. Signs and Symptoms of Acute Epichlorohydrin Exposure: Acute exposure to epichlorohydrin may result in nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Liver and kidney effects may be observed. The respiratory tract may become irritated, dyspnea (shortness of breath) may occur, and in acute cases, respiratory paralysis has been observed. Central nervous system and respiratory depression have been noted. Facial swelling, mucosal irritation, dermatitis (red, inflamed skin), and eye irritation may also occur following exposure to epichlorohydrin.
  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

• Cough. Sore throat. Burning sensation. Headache. Laboured breathing. Nausea. Shortness of breath. Vomiting. Tremor. Symptoms may be delayed.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• MAY BE ABSORBED! Redness. Pain. Burning sensation. Blisters. Serious skin burns.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• Pain. Redness. Loss of vision. Severe deep burns.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

5Fire-fighting measures

• Avoid use of dry chemical if fire occurs in container with confined vent. Containers may explode in fire because of polymerization.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Approach fire from upwind to avoid hazardous vapors and toxic decomposition products. Fight fire from protected location or maximum possible distance. Use water spray, dry chemical, "alcohol resistant" foam, or carbon dioxide. Use water spray to keep fire-exposed containers cool.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• If material 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, dry chemical or carbon dioxide.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Hazardous combustion products

• Combustion may produce irritants and toxic gases. Combustion by-products include hydrogen chloride.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

6Accidental release measures

Isolation and evacuation

• Excerpt from ERG Guide 131 [Flammable Liquids - Toxic; polymerization hazard]: IMMEDIATE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURE: Isolate spill or leak area for at least 50 meters (150 feet) in all directions. SPILL: Increase the immediate precautionary measure distance, in the downwind direction, as necessary. 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. Spill · For highlighted materials: see Table 1 - Initial Isolation and Protective Action Distances. · For non-highlighted materials: increase the immediate precautionary measure distance, in the downwind direction, as necessary. 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

• Evacuate danger area! Consult an expert! Personal protection: chemical protection suit including self-contained breathing apparatus. Do NOT let this chemical enter the environment. Do NOT wash away into sewer. Collect leaking and spilled liquid in sealable containers as far as possible. Absorb remaining liquid in sand or inert absorbent. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• Remove all ignition sources. Ventilate area of spill or leak.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• For small quantities, absorb on paper towels. Evaporate in a safe place (such as a fume hood). Allow sufficient time for evaporating vapors to completely clear the hood ductwork. Burn the paper in suitable location away from combustible materials.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• ... It should not be allowed to enter a confined space, such as a sewer, because of the possibility of an explosion. Sewers designed to preclude the formation of explosive concentrations of epichlorhydrin vapors are permitted.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

7Handling and storage

• Fireproof. Separated from strong oxidants, acids, bases, aluminium, zinc, amines and food and feedstuffs. Well closed.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• Separate from acids, alkalies, salts, water, and oxidizers. Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated location. Inside storage should be in a standard flammable liquids storage warehouse, room, or cabinet.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• /Store at/ ambient temperature
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": Storage site should be as close as practical to lab in which carcinogens are to be used, so that only small quantities required for ... expt need to be carried. Carcinogens should be kept in only one section of cupboard, an explosion-proof refrigerator or freezer (depending on chemicophysical properties ...) that bears appropriate label. An inventory ... should be kept, showing quantity of carcinogen & date it was acquired ... Facilities for dispensing ... should be contiguous to storage area. /Chemical Carcinogens/
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

8Exposure controls / personal protection

Personal protective equipment

• Excerpt from NIOSH Pocket Guide for Epichlorohydrin: 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.
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Skin, eye, and respiratory contact must be avoided & protective clothing including PVC suits, plastic gloves, goggles or face shield, hat, & neoprene or PVC boots should be worn. Air concn should not exceed recommended limits of exposure. Where more exposure ... expected, positive pressure respirator ... worn.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Gloves made of butyl rubber, when exposed to epichlorhydrin, protected the hands better than surgical rubber, polyethylene, polyvinyl alcohol, saranex-lamenated tyvek, neoprene and others.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": ... Dispensers of liq detergent /should be available./ ... Safety pipettes should be used for all pipetting. ... In animal laboratory, personnel should ... wear protective suits (preferably disposable, one-piece & close-fitting at ankles & wrists), gloves, hair covering & overshoes. ... In chemical laboratory, gloves & gowns should always be worn ... however, gloves should not be assumed to provide full protection. Carefully fitted masks or respirators may be necessary when working with particulates or gases, & disposable plastic aprons might provide addnl protection. ... Gowns ...
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Respirator recommendations

• NIOSH At concentrations above the NIOSH REL, or where there is no REL, at any detectable concentration: (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: (APF = 50) Any air-purifying, full-facepiece respirator (gas mask) with a chin-style, front- or back-mounted organic vapor and acid gas canister Any appropriate escape-type, self-contained breathing apparatus Import…
  The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

9Physical and chemical properties

10Stability and reactivity

Reactivity

• 1-CHLORO-2,3-EPOXYPROPANE may polymerize exothermically if heated or contaminated. Reacts explosively with aniline. Ignites on contact with potassium tert-butoxide. Reacts with trichloroethylene to give the explosive dichloroacetylene. Violent reaction with sulfuric acid or isopropylamine. Exothermic polymerization on contact with strong acids or bases, zinc, aluminum, aluminum chloride, iron, ferric chloride [Sax, 9th ed., 1996, p. 1469].
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Highly flammable. Water soluble.
  CAMEO Chemicals

Incompatible materials and hazardous reactions

• Strong oxidizers, strong acids, certain salts, caustics, zinc, aluminum, water [Note: May polymerize in presence of strong acids and bases particularly when hot.].
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Epichlorohydrin can violently react with compounds carrying an active hydrogen atom, including water.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Epichlorohydrin liberates heat in the presence of ... alkalis, and certain salts ...
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Chemical stability

• Epichlorohydrin can be oxidized by free radical process in liquid or gas phases; these reactions may occur as photochemically initiated atmospheric reactions.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

11Toxicological information

Target organs

• Respiratory
  EPA Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS)
• Eyes, skin, respiratory system, kidneys, liver, reproductive system
  The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

Short-term exposure effects

• The substance is corrosive to the eyes, skin and respiratory tract. Corrosive on ingestion. Inhalation of the vapour may cause lung oedema. The effects may be delayed. Medical observation is indicated. Inhalation of the vapour may cause asthma-like reactions. The substance may cause effects on the central nervous system, kidneys and liver. This may result in convulsions, kidney impairment and liver impairment. Exposure at high levels could cause death.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

Long-term exposure effects

• Repeated or prolonged contact may cause skin sensitization. The substance may have effects on the kidneys, liver and lungs. This may result in impaired functions. May cause heritable genetic damage to human germ cells. This substance is probably carcinogenic to humans.
  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

• [40 CFR 240-280, 300-306, 702-799 (7/1/2008)] Generators of waste (equal to or greater than 100 kg/mo) containing this contaminant, EPA hazardous waste number U014, must conform with USEPA regulations in storage, transportation, treatment and disposal of waste.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Epichlorohydrin is a waste chemical stream constituent which may be subjected to ultimate disposal by controlled incineration. Incineration, preferably after mixing with another combustible fuel. Care must be exercised to assure complete combustion to prevent the formation of phosgene. An acid scrubber is necessary to remove the halo acids produced.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• A potential candidate for liquid injection incineration at a temperature range of 650 to 1,600 °C and a residence time of 0.1 to 2 seconds. A potential candidate for rotary kiln incineration at a temperature range of 820 to 1,600 °C and residence times of seconds for liquids and gases, and hours for solids. A potential candidate for fluidized bed incineration at a temperature range of 450 to 980 °C and residence times of seconds for liquids and gases, and longer for solids.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

14Transport information

UN number: UN 2023

Shipping name

• UN 2023; Epichlorohydrin
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• IMO 6.1; Epichlorohydrin
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

DOT hazard class

• 1-Chloro-2,3-Epoxypropane
  US Code of Federal Regulations, Hazardous Materials, 49 CFR Part 172
• Marine pollutant
  US Code of Federal Regulations, Hazardous Materials, 49 CFR Part 172
• Epichlorohydrin
  US Code of Federal Regulations, Hazardous Materials, 49 CFR Part 172

DOT label

• Poison Flammable Liquid
  CAMEO Chemicals

UN classification

• UN Hazard Class: 6.1; UN Subsidiary Risks: 3; UN Pack Group: II
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

Emergency Response Guidebook

• 2023 131P
  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. Epichlorohydrin is produced, as an intermediate or a final product, by process units covered under this subpart.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Epichlorohydrin is designated as a hazardous substance under section 311(b)(2)(A) of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act and further regulated by the Clean Water Act Amendments of 1977 and 1978. These regulations apply to discharges of this substance. This designation includes any isomers and hydrates, as well as any solutions and mixtures containing this substance.
  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 100 lb or 45.4 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)
• 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. Oxirane, (chloromethyl)- is included on this list. Effective date 10/4/82; Sunset date: 10/4/92.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• U041; As stipulated in 40 CFR 261.33, when epichlorohydrin, as a commercial chemical product or manufacturing chemical intermediate or an off-specification commercial chemical product or a manufacturing chemical intermediate, becomes a waste, it must be managed according to Federal and/or State hazardous waste regulations. Also defined as a hazardous waste is any residue, contaminated soil, water, or other debris resulting from the cleanup of a spill, into water or on dry land, of this waste. Generators of small quantities of this waste may qualify for partial exclusion from hazardous waste regulations (40 CFR 261.5).
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

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

16Other information

Compiled from PubChem CID 7835 and the sources it aggregates (attributed inline). Data retrieved 2026-10-12. This summary describes the pure substance and is not a supplier SDS.