Benzo[a]pyrene

  • Benz(a)pyrene
  • 3,4-Benzopyrene
  • Benzo[def]chrysene
Formula C20H12
Structure
Description Pale yellow monoclinic needles from benzene & methanol. Faint aromatic odor.
Uses Used extensively as a positive control in a variety of laboratory mutagenicity & carcinogenicity short-term tests.

Registry Numbers and Inventories.
CAS 50-32-8
EC (EINECS/ELINCS) 200-028-5
EC Index Number 601-032-00-3
EC Class Carcinogenic Category 2; Mutagenic Category 2; Toxic for reproduction Category 2; Dangerous for the Environment
RTECS DJ3675000
RTECS class Tumorigen; Mutagen; Reproductive Effector; Primary Irritant
UN (DOT) 2811
Merck 12,1134
Beilstein/Gmelin 1911333
Beilstein Reference 4-05-00-02687
RCRA U022
Swiss Giftliste 1 G-1248
Canada DSL/NDSL DSL
US TSCA Listed
New Zealand Listed

Properties.
Formula C20H12
Formula mass 252.32
Melting point, °C 176 - 178
Boiling point, °C 495
Vapor pressure, mmHg 2E-9 (25 C)
Vapor density (air=1) 8.7
Density 1.351 g/cm3
Solubility in water 3 mg/L
Partition coefficient, pKow 6.12
Heat of fusion 15.1 kJ/mol
Heat of vaporization 73.4 kJ/mol

Hazards and Protection.
Storage Store in a tightly closed container. Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from incompatible substances.
Handling Wash thoroughly after handling. Use with adequate ventilation. Minimize dust generation and accumulation. Avoid contact with eyes, skin, and clothing. Keep container tightly closed. Avoid ingestion and inhalation.
Protection Eyes: Wear appropriate protective eyeglasses or chemical safety goggles as described by OSHA's eye and face protection regulations in 29 CFR 1910.133 or European Standard EN166. Skin: Wear appropriate protective gloves to prevent skin exposure. Clothing: Wear appropriate protective clothing to prevent skin exposure.
Respirators A respiratory protection program that meets OSHA's 29 CFR 1910.134 and ANSI Z88.2 requirements or European Standard EN 149 must be followed whenever workplace conditions warrant a respirator's use. Wear a NIOSH/MSHA or European Standard EN 149 approved full-facepiece airline respirator in the positive pressure mode with emergency escape provisions.
Small spills/leaks Clean up spills immediately, using the appropriate protective equipment. Sweep up, then place into a suitable container for disposal. Avoid generating dusty conditions. Provide ventilation.
Stability Stable under normal temperatures and pressures.
Incompatibilities Strong oxidizing agents.
Decomposition Carbon monoxide, irritating and toxic fumes and gases, carbon dioxide, acrid smoke and fumes.

Fire.
Flash Point,°C 228
Fire fighting Wear a self-contained breathing apparatus in pressure-demand, MSHA/NIOSH (approved or equivalent), and full protective gear. During a fire, irritating and highly toxic gases may be generated by thermal decomposition or combustion. To extinguish fire, use water, dry chemical, chemical foam, or alcohol-resistant foam. Use agent most appropriate to extinguish fire. In case of fire use water spray, dry chemical, carbon dioxide, or appropriate foam.
Fire potential This material is nonflammable
Hazards Contact with metals may evolve flammable hydrogen gas.
Combustion products Fire may produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases.
NFPA Health 0
  Flammability 1  
  Reactivity 0  

Health.
Exposure limit(s) TLV: ppm; mg/m3 A2 (ACGIH 1997). MAK: TRK List 0.002 mg/m3; (1996)
Carcinogin G-A2, I-2A, N-2, CP65
Poison_Class 1*
Exposure effects May cause cancer in humans.
   Ingestion May cause irritation of the digestive tract. The toxicological properties of this substance have not been fully investigated.
   Inhalation May cause respiratory tract irritation. The toxicological properties of this substance have not been fully investigated.
   Skin May cause skin irritation.
   Eyes May cause eye irritation.

First aid
 
   Ingestion Never give anything by mouth to an unconscious person. Get medical aid. Do NOT induce vomiting. If conscious and alert, rinse mouth and drink 2-4 cupfuls of milk or water.
   Inhalation Remove from exposure to fresh air immediately. If not breathing, give artificial respiration. If breathing is difficult, give oxygen. Get medical aid.
   Skin Get medical aid. Flush skin with plenty of soap and water for at least 15 minutes while removing contaminated clothing and shoes. Wash clothing before reuse.
   Eyes Flush eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes, occasionally lifting the upper and lower eyelids. Immediately flush eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes, occasionally lifting the upper and lower eyelids. Get medical aid.

Transport.
UN number 2811
Response guide 154
Hazard class 6.1
Packing Group I; II; III  
USCG CHRIS Code BPY  
Std. Transport # 4963340