Briefly, what do I need to know about benzene in an emergency situation?
Benzene is a clear, colourless liquid with a characteristic, aromatic hydrocarbon odour. It is a EXTREMELY FLAMMABLE LIQUID as well as its VAPOUR. Benzene can accumulate static charge by flow or agitation. Since benzene's vapour is heavier than air and may spread long distances, distant ignition and flashback are possible. Liquid can float on water and may travel to distant locations and/or spread fire. Benzene can decompose at high temperatures forming toxic gases. It is harmful if inhaled or swallowed and is a central nervous system depressant. The vapour may cause headache, nausea, dizziness, drowsiness and confusion. Benzene may cause blood and bone marrow effects, based on animal data. It can cause skin and eye irritation. It is also an aspiration hazard because swallowing or vomiting of the liquid may result in aspiration into the lungs. Benzene is considered a CANCER HAZARD - can cause cancer and a MUTAGEN - may cause genetic damage.
Where do you find benzene?
Benzene is produced from petroleum and coal sources. It is used mainly in the manufacture of ethyl benzene (55%), cumene (24%), cyclohexane (12%), nitrobenzene (5%), detergent alkylate, chlorobenzenes and maleic anhydride. Benzene is a very minor component of gasoline. Its commercial use as a solvent has practically been eliminated because of its toxicity. However, it continues to be used as a solvent and reactant in laboratories.
What should I know about the composition and purity of benzene?
Can contain small amounts of toluene and xylene.
What are some synonyms for benzene?
Benzene is also known as benzol, carbon oil, coal naphtha, cyclohexatriene, and phenyl hydride.
With so many names for benzene, is there a unique identifier for this chemical?
Its CAS Registry Number is 71-43-2. This number is assigned by the Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) in the United States and is used as a unique identifier number world-wide.
