Dimethyl ether

Synonyms

DME; Demeon D; Dimethyl oxide; Dymel A; Ether, dimethyl; Ether, methyl; Methane, oxybis-; Methoxymethane; Methyl ether; Methyl oxide; Oxybismethane; Wood ether; UN1033; [ChemIDplus]

Category

Ethers (<C12)

Description

Colorless compressed gas or liquid with a slight ether-like odor; [HSDB]

Sources/Uses

Used as solvent, propellant, refrigerant, chemical intermediate, and polymerization catalyst and stabilizer; [HSDB]

Comments

In animal studies at lethal concentrations, dimethyl ether acts as a general anesthetic. [ChemIDplus] Liquid will cause frostbite. [CHRIS] Dimethyl ether is in the list of "Some volatile substances which may be abused by inhalation" published on the web site of the U.N. International Drug Control Programme, indicating its potential to cause narcosis in workers. [Reference #1] Caused slight intoxication at 50,000 ppm, some incoordination at 82,000 ppm, an unconsciousness at 200,000 ppm (after 17 minutes) in human volunteers; [AIHA]

Reference Link #1

Biomedical References

1000 ppm

4450 mm Hg

LC50 (rat) = 164,000 ppm/4-hr

Explanatory Notes

VP from HSDB;

burn readily

1000 ppm

Acute solvent syndrome

Diseases

Occupational diseases associated with exposure to this agent:

• Solvents, acute toxic effect

Processes

Industrial Processes with risk of exposure:

• Plastic Composites Manufacturing