Phenethyl isothiocyanate
Agent Name
Phenethyl isothiocyanate
CAS Number
2257-09-2
Formula
C9-H9-N-S
Major Category
Nitrogen Compounds
Synonyms
2-Phenylethyl isothiocyanate; ; Benzene, (2-isothiocyanatoethyl)-; Phenethyl mustard oil; Phenylaethylsenfoel [German]; Phenylethyl isothiocyanate; Phenylethyl mustard oil; Isothiocyanic acid, phenethyl ester; [ChemIDplus] (2-Isothiocyanatoethyl)benzene; PEITC; [Merck Index] beta-Phenethyl isothiocyanate; beta-Phenylethyl isothiocyanate; [RTECS] UN2206
Category
Isothiocyanates
Description
Colorless to pale yellow liquid; [Merck Index] Clear colorless liquid; [Sigma-Aldrich MSDS]
Sources/Uses
Present in cruciferous vegetables; Used as a flavor (hot/burning taste in horseradish); [Merck Index] Used as a flavoring agent; [FDA]
Comments
Causes inflammation or scarring of the bladder in acute oral studies of rats; [RTECS] Safe when used as a flavoring agent in food; [EFSA] A skin and strong eye irritant; May cause skin and respiratory sensitization; Harmful by ingestion, inhalation, and skin absorption; [Sigma-Aldrich MSDS] See "Methyl isothiocyanate" and "Phenyl isothiocyanate."
Biomedical References
Exposure Assessment
Vapor Pressure
0.011 mm Hg
Explanatory Notes
The Guide in the Emergency Response Guidebook is for "Isocyanate solution, toxic, n.o.s."
Adverse Effects
Skin Sensitizer
Yes
Diseases, Processes, and Activities Linked to This Agent
Diseases
Occupational diseases associated with exposure to this agent: