51-79-6 Urethane

Name: Urethane
Synonyms: Ethylaminoformate;Ethyl carbamate;Ethylurethane;Leucethane;O-Ethylurethane;Pracarbamine;
CAS Number:51-79-6
Molecular Formula:C₃H₇NO₂
Molecular Weight:89.11
EINECS:200-123-1
Density:1.10
Boiling Point:182-184 ºC
Flash Point:92 ºC
Safety Description:Confirmed carcinogen with experimental carcinogenic, neoplastigenic, and tumorigenic data. A transplacental carcinogen. Moderately toxic by ingestion, intraperitoneal, subcutaneous, intramuscular, parenteral, and intravenous routes. An experimental teratogen. Experimental reproductive effects. Human mutation data reported. Causes depression of bone marrow and occasionally focal degeneration in the brain. Can also produce central nervous system depression, nausea and vomiting. Has been found in over 1000 beverages sold in the United States. The most heavily contaminated liquors are bourbons, sherries, and fruit brandies (some had 1000 to 12,000 ppb urethane). Many whiskeys, table and dessert wines, brandies, and liqueurs contain potentially hazardous amounts of urethane. The allowable limit for urethane in alcoholic beverages is 125 ppb. It is formed as a side product during processing.

Hot aqueous acids or alkalies decompose urethane to ethanol, carbon dioxide, and ammonia. Reacts with phosphorus pentachloride to form an explosive product. When heated it emits toxic fumes of NO_x. Used as an intermediate in the manufacture of pharmaceuticals, pesticides, and fungicides. See also CARBAMATES.
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