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Ethylene oxide

CAS Number
75-21-8
EC Number
200-849-9
Chemical Formula
C2H4O
Molecular Weight
44.05 g/mol

Description

Ethylene oxide (CAS 75-21-8 ), also known by the abbreviation ETO and the chemical name Oxirane, is a high-volume reactive monomer and sterilizing agent central to multiple industrial supply chains. It functions as a building block for polymerization reactions, a sterilant for heat-sensitive materials, and a chemical intermediate in the synthesis of downstream derivatives for various sectors. In plastics and polymers, ETO is the primary monomer for producing ethylene glycols, polyethylene glycols, and ethoxylated surfactants used across detergent, textile, and personal care manufacturing. Pharmaceutical and medical device manufacturers rely on ETO gas sterilization to process single-use equipment, packaging, and instruments that cannot withstand heat or radiation during production. In agriculture, ETO serves as a fumigant and sterilant for spices, herbs, and certain grain products where microbial load control is required before final processing and distribution to consumers. Biotechnology and life sciences operations use ETO to sterilize laboratory consumables and culture media components at scale, ensuring the integrity of sensitive research and development environments. Ethylene oxide is supplied as a liquefied gas under pressure, typically in cylinders, drums, or bulk tank quantities. It is available in technical and pharmaceutical grades for diverse needs. Pharmaceutical-grade material meets USP and EP specifications for sterilization applications. Grade selection is a critical procurement decision given the regulatory requirements tied to each sector. Contact us for supply of Ethylene oxide Request Quote

Other Names (Synonyms)

Oxirane | 1,2-Epoxyethane | Anprolene | Oxyfume | Dimethylene oxide | LS 54 (EO-PO Block Copolymer) | ETO

Key Technical Features

  • High Purity Grade standard
  • Consistent Batch Quality
  • Full Regulatory & REACH Support
  • Global Logistics Network enabled

Physical Properties

Melting Point-111 °C
Boiling Point10.7 °C @ Press: 760 Torr
Density0.882 g/cm³ @ Temp: 10 °C
Flash Point<-17.7°C
AppearanceEthylene oxide is a colorless, compressed, liquefied gas or liquid (below 11℃). Sweet odor
the odor threshold is 50 ppm.
OdorSweet odor detectable at 257 to 690 ppm
FormColorless gas
Vapor Pressure1095 mmHg at 20 °C
Refractive Indexn 20/D 1.3597(lit.)
Log P-0.30

Safety & Handling

Danger
GHS02· FlammableGHS05· CorrosiveGHS06· ToxicGHS08· Health HazardGHS04· Compressed GasGHS07· IrritantGHS09· Environment

Hazard Statements

H220Extremely flammable gas
H230May react explosively even in the absence of air
H280Contains gas under pressure; may explode if heated
H301Toxic if swallowed
H302Harmful if swallowed
H314Causes severe skin burns and eye damage
H315Causes skin irritation
H317May cause an allergic skin reaction
H318Causes serious eye damage
H319Causes serious eye irritation
H331Toxic if inhaled
H335May cause respiratory irritation
H336May cause drowsiness or dizziness
H340May cause genetic defects
H350May cause cancer
H360May damage fertility or the unborn child
H370Causes damage to organs
H372Causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure
H373May causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure
H402Harmful to aquatic life
H411Toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects
H412Harmful to aquatic life with long lasting effects

Precautionary Statements

P203Obtain, consult and follow expert instructions for use.
P210Keep away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, open flames and other ignition sources. No smoking.
P222Do not allow contact with air.
P260Do not breathe dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P261Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P264Wash … thoroughly after handling.
P270Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product.
P271Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.
P272Contaminated work clothing should not be allowed out of the workplace.
P273Avoid release to the environment.
P280Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection.
P316Get emergency medical help immediately.
P317Get emergency medical help.
P318IF exposed or concerned, get medical advice.
P319Get medical advice/attention if you feel unwell.
P321Specific treatment (see … on this label).
P330Rinse mouth.
P337If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention.
P363Wash contaminated clothing before reuse.
P377Leaking gas fire: Do not extinguish, unless leak can be stopped safely.
P381In case of leakage, eliminate all ignition sources.
P391Collect spillage.
P403Store in a well-ventilated place.
P405Store locked up.
P501Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations.
P265Wash … thoroughly after handling.
P316Get emergency medical help immediately.
P317Get emergency medical help.
P352IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water.
P340IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing.
P316Get emergency medical help immediately.
P317Get emergency medical help.
P317Get emergency medical help.
P317If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention. Get emergency medical help.
P364Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse.
P233Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed.
P403Protect from sunlight. Store in a well-ventilated place.
P331Rinse mouth. Do NOT induce vomiting.
P354IF ON SKIN: Take off immediately all contaminated clothing. Rinse skin with water/shower.
P338IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.
P338IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.

Trade & Regulatory

HS Code29101000
UN Number2037
ADR Class2.3
Storage Class6.1C - Combustible acute toxic Cat.3 toxic compounds or compounds which causing chronic effects
WGK (Germany)2