Tertiary butyl alcohol is a flammable and potentially toxic industrial solvent used to raise octane levels in gasoline, produce perfume, shellac, artificial leather, and photographic film. Safety measures must be observed when using it, as it can be toxic if inhaled, ingested, or gets on the skin. Workers manufacturing pharmaceutical products may be at risk of exposure. Fires and explosions can occur when it comes in contact with hydrochloric acid or oxidizing compounds. Exposure can cause eye and skin irritation, and inhaling or swallowing can be fatal. Safety measures should be in place when using it and its metabolized substance, methyl tertiary butyl ether.
Tertiary butyl alcohol is a flammable and potentially toxic substance used in industrial processes. Molecularly it contains a methyl group, carbon, oxygen and hydrogen. The compound is often used as an industrial solvent and to raise octane levels in gasoline. It is also used for the production of perfume, shellac, artificial leather and photographic film. Safety measures must be observed when using tertiary butyl alcohol; it can be toxic if someone inhales or ingests the substance or gets it on the skin.
Workers manufacturing pharmaceutical products may be at risk of exposure to the substance. Manufacture of safety glass, rubber and plastic cement, and paint strippers are often other industrial uses of tertiary butyl alcohol. It is typically flammable, whether from a spark, high temperatures, or direct exposure to flame. The boiling point is usually 180°F (82.4°C), and explosions can only occur from a trace vapor.
Fires and explosions related to tertiary butyl alcohol can occur when it comes in contact with hydrochloric acid or oxidizing compounds. It can also decompose into toxic gases, so the compound should usually be stored in closed containers for safety reasons. Areas where it is frequently used should be ventilated and protective clothing and equipment should generally be made available. A Tertiary Butyl Alcohol Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) also advises against using the compound with copper, alkali metals, or aluminum.
Exposure to tertiary butyl alcohol often causes eye irritation and skin irritation is also possible. Washing the affected area is sometimes enough to get rid of the alcohol and resolve the problem, but medical attention may be needed. Inhaling and swallowing are generally dangerous and can be fatal. Exposure can be acute where eye irritation, sore throat, headache and dizziness can occur. Skin infections and other problems can occur with chronic exposure.
A substance called methyl tertiary butyl ether can be metabolized into tertiary butyl alcohol. Safety measures should generally be in place for both when either is used. Alcohol is usually stored in vented containers or closed drums, while inert gases can be vented over the containers to reduce the flammability of the air. Empty containers can also have explosive residue, and water is often ineffective at extinguishing fires involving tertiary butyl alcohol. Carbon dioxide or dry chemicals are often used to put out such a fire.
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