NIOSH Publication No. 2005-151:

NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards

September 2005

Propionic acid

CAS
79-09-4

CH3CH2COOH

RTECS
UE5950000
Synonyms & Trade Names

Carboxyethane, Ethanecarboxylic acid, Ethylformic acid, Metacetonic acid, Methyl acetic acid, Propanoic acid
DOT ID & Guide
1848 / 132

Exposure
Limits

NIOSH REL: TWA 10 ppm (30 mg/m3) ST 15 ppm (45 mg/m3)
OSHA PEL†: none
IDLH
N.D. See: IDLH INDEX
Conversion
1 ppm = 3.03 mg/m3
Physical Description
Colorless, oily liquid with a pungent, disagreeable, rancid odor. [Note: A solid below 5°F.]
MW: 74.1
BP: 286°F
FRZ: 5°F
Sol: Miscible
VP: 3 mmHg
IP: 10.24 eV

Sp.Gr: 0.99
Fl.P: 126°F
UEL: 12.1%
LEL: 2.9%

Class II Combustible Liquid: Fl.P. at or above 100°F and below 140°F.
Incompatibilities & Reactivities

Alkalis, strong oxidizers (e.g., chromium trioxide) [Note: Corrosive to steel.]
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: Water flush immediately
Breathing: Respiratory support
Swallow: Medical attention immediately
Respirator Recommendations
Not available.
Important additional information about respirator selection
Exposure Routes
inhalation, skin absorption, ingestion, skin and/or eye contact
Symptoms
Irritation eyes, skin, nose, throat; blurred vision, corneal burns; skin burns; abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting
Target Organs
Eyes, skin, respiratory system
See also: INTRODUCTION   See ICSC CARD: 0806