beta-Propiolactone
Synonyms & Trade Names
BPL, Hydroacrylic acid, β-lactone, 3-Hydroxy-β-lactone, 3-Hydroxy-propionic acid, β-Lactone, 2-Oxetanone, 3-PropiolactonePhysical Description
Colorless liquid with a slightly sweet odor.Molecular Weight
72.1Boiling Point
323°F (Decomposes)Freezing Point
-28°FSolubility
37%Vapor Pressure
(77°F): 3 mmHgIonization Potential
?Specific Gravity
1.15Flash Point
165°FUpper Exposive Limit
?Lower Explosive Limit
2.9%
Class IIIA Combustible Liquid: Fl.P. at or above 140°F and below 200°F.
Incompatibilities & Reactivities
Acetates, halogens, thiocyanates, thiosulfates [Note: May polymerize upon storage.]Exposure Routes
inhalation, skin absorption, ingestion, skin and/or eye contactSymptoms
Skin irritation, blistering, burns; corneal opacity; frequent urination; dysuria; hematuria (blood in the urine); [potential occupational carcinogen]Target Organs
Kidneys, skin, lungs, eyesCancer Site
[in animals: tumors of the liver, skin & stomach]Personal Protection/Sanitation
(See protection codes)Skin:Prevent skin contact
Eyes:Prevent eye contact
Wash skin:When contaminated/Daily
Remove:When wet or contaminated
Change:Daily
Provide:Eyewash, Quick drench
First Aid
(See procedures)Eye:Irrigate immediately
Skin:Soap wash immediately
Breathing:Respiratory support
Swallow:Medical attention immediately
Respirator Recommendations
NIOSH
At concentrations above the NIOSH REL, or where there is no REL, at any detectable concentration:
(APF = 10,000) Any self-contained breathing apparatus that has a full facepiece and is operated in a pressure-demand or other positive-pressure mode
(APF = 10,000) Any supplied-air respirator that has a full facepiece and is operated in a pressure-demand or other positive-pressure mode in combination with an auxiliary self-contained positive-pressure breathing apparatus
Escape:
(APF = 50) Any air-purifying, full-facepiece respirator (gas mask) with a chin-style, front- or back-mounted organic vapor canister
Any appropriate escape-type, self-contained breathing apparatus
- Page last reviewed:April 11, 2016
- Page last updated:April 11, 2016
- Content source:
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Education and Information Division