Agent Name
beta-Propiolactone
Major Category
Other Classes
Synonyms
1,3-Propiolactone; 2-Oxetanone; 3-Hydroxypropionic acid lactone; 3-Propanolide; 3-Propiolactone; BPL; Betaprone; Hydracrylic acid beta-lactone; Propanoic acid, 3-hydroxy-, beta-lactone; Propanolide; Propiolactona [INN-Spanish]; Propiolactonum [INN-Latin]; Propiolattone [DCIT]; Propionic acid, 3-hydroxy-, beta-lactone; beta-Propanoic acid lactone; beta-Propiolactone; beta-Propiolakton [Czech]; beta-Propionolactone; beta-Proprolactone; [ChemIDplus] UN2810
Description
Colorless liquid with a slightly sweet odor; [NIOSH]
Sources/Uses
Used as a sterilant in medicine for biological pharmaceuticals and surgical instruments; also used as a disinfectant and chemical intermediate; [ACGIH]
Comments
Causes permanent corneal opacification when tested in the rabbit eye and scarring when tested on mouse skin; Avoid contact because of its carcinogenic potential; [ACGIH] Causes second degree burns after a few minutes of skin exposure; [CHRIS] Corrosive to the eyes; [ICSC] Irritating to the skin and eyes; Very toxic by inhalation; Inhalation of high concentration may cause chemical pneumonitis; [MSDSonline] Causes liver injury in high-dose animal studies; [HSDB]
Restricted
Regulated as a carcinogen: See 29CFR1910.1013 (Code of Federal Regulations pertaining to the manufacturing, processing, repackaging, releasing, handling, and storing of this chemical).
Skin Designation (ACGIH)
Insufficient data
Lethal Concentration
LC50 (rat) = 25 ppm/6h
Explanatory Notes
Flash point = 74 deg C; VP from HSDB;
Half Life
No reports found; [TDR, p. 1048]
NFPA
high ambient temp required
Hepatotoxin
Hepatoxic (a) from occupational exposure (secondary effect) or (b) in animal studies or in humans after ingestion
IARC Carcinogen
Possible (2b)
NTP Carcinogen
Anticipated human carcinogen
ACGIH Carcinogen
Confirmed Animal
Processes
Industrial Processes with risk of exposure: