NIOSH Publication No. 2005-151:

NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards

September 2005

n-Butyl lactate

CAS
138-22-7

CH3CH(OH)COOC4H9

RTECS
OD4025000
Synonyms & Trade Names

Butyl ester of 2-hydroxypropanoic acid, Butyl ester of lactic acid, Butyl lactate
DOT ID & Guide
1993 / 128 (combustible liquid, n.o.s.)

Exposure
Limits

NIOSH REL: TWA 5 ppm (25 mg/m3)
OSHA PEL†: none
IDLH
N.D. See: IDLH INDEX
Conversion
1 ppm = 5.98 mg/m3
Physical Description
Clear, colorless to white liquid with a mild, transient odor.
MW: 146.2
BP: 370°F
FRZ: -45°F
Sol: Slight
VP: 0.4 mmHg
IP: ?

Sp.Gr: 0.98
Fl.P: 160°F
UEL: ?
LEL: 1.15%

Class IIIA Combustible Liquid: Fl.P. at or above 140°F and below 200°F.
Incompatibilities & Reactivities

Strong acids & bases, strong oxidizers, heat, sparks, open flames
Measurement Methods
None available
See: NMAM or OSHA Methods
Personal Protection & Sanitation
(See protection)
Skin: Prevent skin contact
Eyes: Prevent eye contact
Wash skin: When contaminated
Remove: When wet or contaminated
Change: No recommendation
Provide: Eyewash, Quick drench
First Aid
(See procedures)
Eye: Irrigate immediately
Skin: Soap wash immediately
Breathing: Respiratory support
Swallow: Medical attention immediately
Respirator Recommendations
Not available.
Important additional information about respirator selection
Exposure Routes
inhalation, ingestion, skin and/or eye contact
Symptoms
Irritation eyes, skin, nose, throat; drowsiness, headache, central nervous system depression; nausea, vomiting
Target Organs
Eyes, skin, respiratory system, central nervous system
See also: INTRODUCTION