Ethanol

1Identification

Name

Ethanol

IUPAC name

ethanol

CAS number

64-17-5

EC number

200-578-6

Molecular formula

C2H6O

Molecular weight

46.07 g/mol

InChIKey

LFQSCWFLJHTTHZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N

SMILES

CCO

PubChem CID

702

Synonyms

ethanol, ethyl alcohol, alcohol, grain alcohol, Methylcarbinol, Ethyl hydroxide, Ethyl hydrate, Tecsol, Algrain, Anhydrol, EtOH, Hydroxyethane, Alkohol, Jaysol S

Recommended uses

• CIR ingredient: Alcohol Denat.
  Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR)
• Clear, colorless liquid rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and distributed throughout the body. It has bactericidal activity and is used often as a topical disinfectant. It is widely used as a solvent and preservative in pharmaceutical preparations as well as serving as the primary ingredient in ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES. [ChemIDplus]
  Haz-Map, Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases
• Painting (Solvents) [Category: Paint] Using Disinfectants or Biocides [Category: Clean] Leather Tanning and Processing [Category: Industry] Silk-Screen Printing [Category: Other]
  Haz-Map, Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases
• Surface modifier Laboratory chemicals Adhesion/cohesion promoter Pigment Intermediate Processing aids, specific to petroleum production Sealant (barrier) Anti-stain agent Filler Corrosion inhibitor Not Known or Reasonably Ascertainable Diluent Flux agent Fragrance Cleaning agent Fuel agents Fuel Heat transferring agent Deodorizer Processing aids not otherwise specified Fuels and fuel additives Surfactant (surface active agent) Other CBI Lubricating agent Solvent Flavoring and nutrient Anti-adhesive/cohesive
  EPA Chemical Data Reporting (CDR)
• Surfactant (surface active agent) Fuels and fuel additives Processing aids not otherwise specified Fuel Heat transferring agent Fuel agents Anti-adhesive/cohesive Flavoring and nutrient Anti-freeze agent Dispersing agent Solvent Lubricating agent Other Intermediate Pigment Adhesion/cohesion promoter Laboratory chemicals Cleaning agent Fragrance Diluent Not Known or Reasonably Ascertainable Thickening agent Emulsifier Anti-stain agent Viscosity modifiers
  EPA Chemical Data Reporting (CDR)

Use categories: EPA Safer Chemical Functional Use Classes -> Antimicrobial Actives;Solvents · Safer Chemical Classes -> Green circle - The chemical has been verified to be of low concern · Fragrance Ingredients · Flavouring Agent -> FLAVOURING_AGENTFood Additives -> CARRIER_SOLVENT; EXTRACTION_SOLVENT -> JECFA Functional Classes

Description

• Ethyl alcohol in alcoholic beverages can cause developmental toxicity according to an independent committee of scientific and health experts.
  California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA)
• Ethanol with a small amount of an adulterant added so as to be unfit for use as a beverage.
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Ethanol appears as a clear colorless liquid with a characteristic vinous odor and pungent taste. Flash point 55 °F. Density 6.5 lb / gal. Vapors are heavier than air.
  CAMEO Chemicals

2Hazard identification

Signal word

Danger

Pictograms

GHS02

Classification source

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

Precautionary statements

Other reported classifications

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

NFPA 704 rating

• 2 - Materials that, under emergency conditions, can cause temporary incapacitation or residual 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)
• 0 - Materials that in themselves are normally stable, even under fire conditions.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Health hazards

• Excerpt from ERG Guide 127 [Flammable Liquids (Water-Miscible)]: 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. (ERG, 2024)
  CAMEO Chemicals
• VAPOR: Irritating to eyes, nose and throat. LIQUID: Not harmful. (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
• FLAMMABLE. Flashback along vapor trail may occur. Vapor may explode if ignited in an enclosed area. (USCG, 1999)
  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)

Hazards summary

• Drinking alcoholic beverages is a known human carcinogen listed by the International Agency for Research in Cancer (IARC) and the National Toxicology Program (NTP). Alcohol consumption causes cancers of the oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, oesophagus, colorectum, liver (hepatocellular carcinoma) and female breast. [Reference #2] That ethyl alcohol is unlikely to be an occupational carcinogen is reflected by its classification as 5 by MAC. MAC defines 5 as, Substances with carcinogenic and genotoxic effects, the potency of which is considered to be so low that, provided the MAK and BAT values are observed, no significant contribution to human cancer risk is to be expected.
  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 ERG Guide 127 [Flammable Liquids (Water-Miscible)]: Refer to the "General First Aid" section. Specific First Aid: Wash skin with soap and water. In case of burns, immediately cool affected skin for as long as possible with cold water. Do not remove clothing if adhering to skin. (ERG, 2024)
  CAMEO Chemicals
• 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: Water flush promptly - If this chemical contacts the skin, flush the contaminated skin with water promptly. If this chemical penetrates the clothing, immediately remove the clothing and flush the skin with water promptly. If irritation persists after washing, get medical attention. Breathing: Fresh air 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. Headache. Fatigue. Drowsiness.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• Dry skin.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• Redness. Pain. Burning sensation.
  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 firefighting if necessary.
  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

• 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 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. Ventilation. Do NOT wash away into sewer. Collect leaking and spilled liquid in covered containers as far as possible. Absorb remaining liquid in inert absorbent. Wash away remainder with plenty of water. 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)
• Land spill: Apply appropriate foam to diminish vapor and fire hazard.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Water spill: Use natural barriers or oil spill control booms to limit spill travel. Allow to aerate.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

7Handling and storage

• Fireproof. Separated from : see Chemical Dangers.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• 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. Hygroscopic. Storage class (TRGS 510): Flammable liquids
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Keep tightly closed, cool and away from flame.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Storage temp: ambient. Venting: open (flame arrester) or pressure vacuum.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

8Exposure controls / personal protection

Personal protective equipment

• Excerpt from ERG Guide 127 [Flammable Liquids (Water-Miscible)]: Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Structural firefighters' protective clothing provides thermal protection but only limited chemical protection. (ERG, 2024)
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Excerpt from NIOSH Pocket Guide for Ethyl alcohol: 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)
• Skin protection: Handle with gloves.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Respirator recommendations

• NIOSH/OSHA Up to 3300 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 res…
  The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

9Physical and chemical properties

10Stability and reactivity

Reactivity

• Acetyl chloride reacts violently with ethanol or water, [Rose, (1961)]. Acetyl bromide reacts violently with alcohols or water, [Merck 11th ed., 1989]. Mixtures of alcohols with concentrated sulfuric acid and strong hydrogen peroxide can cause explosions. Example: An explosion will occur if dimethylbenzylcarbinol is added to 90% hydrogen peroxide then acidified with concentrated sulfuric acid. Mixtures of ethyl alcohol with concentrated hydrogen peroxide form powerful explosives. Mixtures of hydrogen peroxide and 1-phenyl-2-methyl propyl alcohol tend to explode if acidified with 70% sulfuric acid, [Chem. Eng. News 45(43):73(1967); J, Org. Chem. 28:1893(1963)].
  CAMEO Chemicals
• ETHANOL reacts violently with acetyl chloride and acetyl bromide [Rose, (1961); Merck 11th ed., 1989]. Mixtures with concentrated sulfuric acid and strong hydrogen peroxide can cause explosions. Mixtures with concentrated hydrogen peroxide form powerful explosives. Reacts readily with hypochlorous acid and with chlorine to give ethyl hypochlorite, which decomposes in the cold and explodes on exposure to sunlight or heat. Base-catalysed reactions with isocyanates should be carried out in inert solvents. Such reactions in the absence of solvents often occur with explosive violence [Wischmeyer(1969)].
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Highly flammable. Water soluble.
  CAMEO Chemicals

Incompatible materials and hazardous reactions

• Incompatible materials: Alkali metals, oxidizing agents, peroxides.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Many explosions have been experienced during the gravimetric determination of either perchlorates or potassium as potassium perchlorate by a standard method involving ethanol extraction. During subsequent heating, formation and explosion of ethyl perchlorate is very probable.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Strong oxidizing agents such as chlorine, nitric acid, permanganate, or chromate in acid solution react, in some cases violently, with it to produce oxidation products.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Chemical stability

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

11Toxicological information

Routes of exposure

• The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation of its vapour and by ingestion.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• inhalation, ingestion, skin and/or eye contact
  The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

Target organs

• Eyes, skin, respiratory system, central nervous system, liver, blood, reproductive system
  The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

Short-term exposure effects

• The substance is severely irritating to the eyes. The vapour at high levels is irritating to the eyes and respiratory tract. The substance may cause effects on the central nervous system.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

Long-term exposure effects

• The substance defats the skin, which may cause dryness or cracking. The substance may have effects on the upper respiratory tract and central nervous system. This may result in irritation, headache, fatigue and lack of concentration.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

Carcinogen classification

• Ethanol in alcoholic beverages
  International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC)
• Group 1: Carcinogenic to humans
  International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC)
• Volume 96: (2010) Alcohol Consumption and Ethyl Carbamate Volume 100E: (2012) Personal Habits and Indoor Combustions
  International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC)
• 2012
  International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC)

12Ecological information

Environmental fate

• Ethanol's production and use as a biofuel or biofuel additive, in alcoholic beverages, as a solvent, in pharmaceuticals, perfumery and organic synthesis may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. It's use as a pesticide (disinfectant, sanitizer, microbiocide, fungicide, plant regulator) will result in its direct release to the environment. Ethanol has been detected in emissions from animal wastes, plants, insects, forest fires, microbes, and volcanoes as well as from the natural fermentation of starch, sugar and other carbohydrates. Ethanol is a volatile component of many plants.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Ecotoxicity

• Toxicity Threshold (Cell Multiplication Inhibition Test) Scenedesmus quadricauda (green algae) 5000 mg/L
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Toxicity Threshold (Cell Multiplication Inhibition Test) Microcystis aeruginosa (algae) 1450 mg/L
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Toxicity Threshold (Cell Multiplication Inhibition Test): Uronema parduczi Chatton-Lwoff (protozoa) 6120 mg/L
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

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: 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. Contaminated packaging: Dispose of as unused product.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• SRP: Wastewater from contaminant suppression, cleaning of protective clothing/equipment, or contaminated sites should be contained and evaluated for subject chemical or decomposition product concentrations. Concentrations shall be lower than applicable environmental discharge or disposal criteria. Alternatively, pretreatment and/or discharge to a permitted wastewater treatment facility is acceptable only after review by the governing authority and assurance that "pass through" violations will not occur. Due consideration shall be given to remediation worker exposure (inhalation, dermal and ingestion) as well as fate during treatment, transfer and disposal.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

14Transport information

UN numbers: UN 1987, UN 1170

Shipping name

• UN 1170; Ethanol or Ethyl alcohol or Ethanol solutions or Ethyl alcohol solutions
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• IMO 3; Ethanol (Ethyl alcohol) or Ethanol solution (Ethyl alcohol solution)
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

DOT hazard class

• Denatured alcohol
  US Code of Federal Regulations, Hazardous Materials, 49 CFR Part 172
• NA1987
  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

• 1170 127
  Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)
• 1987 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. Ethanol is produced, as an intermediate or a final product, by process units covered under this subpart.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Residues of ethyl alcohol 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: solvent, cosolvent. Limit: None.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Residues of the following chemical substances are exempted from the requirement of a tolerance when used in accordance with good manufacturing practice as ingredients in an antimicrobial pesticide formulation, provided that the substance is applied on a semi-permanent or permanent food-contact surface (other than being applied on food packaging) with adequate draining before contact with food. (a) The following chemical substances when used as ingredients in an antimicrobial pesticide formulation may be applied to: Food-contact surfaces in public eating places, dairy-processing equipment, and food-processing equipment and utensils. Ethanol is included on this list. Limits: None.
  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 702 and the sources it aggregates (attributed inline). Data retrieved 2026-10-12. This summary describes the pure substance and is not a supplier SDS.