Ethylbenzene

1Identification

Name

Ethylbenzene

IUPAC name

ethylbenzene

CAS number

100-41-4

EC number

202-849-4

Molecular formula

C8H10

Molecular weight

106.16 g/mol

InChIKey

YNQLUTRBYVCPMQ-UHFFFAOYSA-N

SMILES

CCC1=CC=CC=C1

PubChem CID

7500

Synonyms

Phenylethane, Ethylbenzol, Benzene, ethyl-, Ethyl benzene, Ethylenzene, Aethylbenzol, Ethylbenzeen, Etilbenzene, Etylobenzen, alpha-Methyltoluene, RefChem:6429, 1-ethylbenzene, .alpha.-Methyltoluene, Ethylbenzeen [Dutch]

Recommended uses

• Ethylbenzene is used primarily in the production of styrene. It is also used as a solvent, as a constituent of asphalt and naphtha, and in fuels.
  EPA Hazardous Air Pollutants
• Used as a solvent and an intermediate in the production of styrene (90%) and other organic chemicals; The general population may be exposed after contact with gasoline, automobile emissions, domestic products containing solvents, and cigarette smoke. [ACGIH] Used as a solvent for resins and coatings; [HSDB]
  Haz-Map, Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases
• Painting (Solvents) [Category: Paint] Plastic Composites Manufacturing [Category: Industry]
  Haz-Map, Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases
• Sealant (barrier) Diluent Not Known or Reasonably Ascertainable Catalyst Cleaning agent Surface modifier Laboratory chemicals Anti-static agent Adhesion/cohesion promoter Intermediate Binder Other Solvent Chemical reaction regulator Fuel Fuel agents Processing aids not otherwise specified
  EPA Chemical Data Reporting (CDR)
• Solvent Dispersing agent Binder Other Processing aids not otherwise specified Fuel Fuel agents Cleaning agent Filler Not Known or Reasonably Ascertainable Catalyst Intermediate Hardener Adhesion/cohesion promoter Surface modifier
  EPA Chemical Data Reporting (CDR)

Use categories: Chemical Classes -> Hydrocarbons (contain hydrogen and carbon atoms), Volatile organic compounds · SOLVENTS

Description

• Ethylbenzene is a colorless, flammable liquid that smells like gasoline. It is found in natural products such as coal tar and petroleum and is also found in manufactured products such as inks, insecticides, and paints. Ethylbenzene is used primarily to make another chemical, styrene. Other uses include as a solvent, in fuels, and to make other chemicals.
  Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR)
• Ethylbenzene can cause cancer according to The World Health Organization's International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).
  California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA)
• Ethylbenzene appears as a clear colorless liquid with an aromatic odor. Flash point 59 °F. Less dense than water (at 7.2 lb / gal) and insoluble in water. Hence floats on water. Vapors heavier than air. Used as a solvent and to make other chemicals.
  CAMEO Chemicals

2Hazard identification

Signal word

Danger

Pictograms

GHS02, GHS07, GHS08

Classification source

Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council

Precautionary statements

Other reported classifications

8 classification records exist across sources. Differences usually reflect purity, physical form or impurities.

NFPA 704 rating

• 2 - Materials that, under emergency conditions, can cause temporary incapacitation or residual injury.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• 3 - Liquids and solids that can be ignited under almost all ambient temperature conditions. Materials produce hazardous atmospheres with air under almost all ambient temperatures or, though unaffected by ambient temperatures, are readily ignited under almost all conditions.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• 0 - Materials that in themselves are normally stable, even under fire conditions.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Health hazards

• Inhalation may cause irritation of nose, dizziness, depression. Moderate irritation of eye with corneal injury possible. Irritates skin and may cause blisters. (USCG, 1999)
  CAMEO Chemicals
• · May cause toxic effects if inhaled or absorbed through skin. · Inhalation or contact with material may irritate or burn skin and eyes. · Fire will produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. · Vapors may cause dizziness or asphyxiation, especially when in closed or confined areas. · Runoff from fire control or dilution water may cause environmental contamination.
  Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)

Fire hazards

• Special Hazards of Combustion Products: Irritating vapors are generated when heated. Behavior in Fire: Vapor is heavier than air and may travel considerable distance to the source of ignition and flash back. (USCG, 1999)
  CAMEO Chemicals
• · HIGHLY FLAMMABLE: Will be easily ignited by heat, sparks or flames. · Vapors may form explosive mixtures with air. · Vapors may travel to source of ignition and flash back. · Most vapors are heavier than air. They will spread along the ground and collect in low or confined areas (sewers, basements, tanks, etc.). · Vapor explosion hazard indoors, outdoors or in sewers. · Those substances designated with a (P) may polymerize explosively when heated or involved in a fire. · Runoff to sewer may create fire or explosion hazard. · Containers may explode when heated. · Many liquids will float on water.
  Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)
• Highly flammable. Vapour/air mixtures are explosive.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

Hazards summary

• Ethylbenzene is a colorless, flammable liquid that smells like gasoline. It is found in natural products such as coal tar and petroleum and is also found in manufactured products such as inks, insecticides, and paints. Ethylbenzene is used primarily to make another chemical, styrene. Other uses include as a solvent, in fuels, and to make other chemicals.
  Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR)
• Ethylbenzene is mainly used in the manufacture of styrene. Acute (short-term) exposure to ethylbenzene in humans results in respiratory effects, such as throat irritation and chest constriction, irritation of the eyes, and neurological effects such as dizziness. Chronic (long-term) exposure to ethylbenzene by inhalation in humans has shown conflicting results regarding its effects on the blood. Animal studies have reported effects on the blood, liver, and kidneys from chronic inhalation exposure to ethylbenzene. Limited information is available on the carcinogenic effects of ethylbenzene in humans.
  EPA Hazardous Air Pollutants

3Composition / information on ingredients

This page describes the pure substance. Commercial products may be solutions or mixtures. Check Section 3 of your supplier's SDS for concentrations and other ingredients.

4First-aid measures

• EYES: First check the victim for contact lenses and remove if present. Flush victim's eyes with water or normal saline solution for 20 to 30 minutes while simultaneously calling a hospital or poison control center. Do not put any ointments, oils, or medication in the victim's eyes without specific instructions from a physician. IMMEDIATELY transport the victim after flushing eyes to a hospital even if no symptoms (such as redness or irritation) develop. SKIN: IMMEDIATELY flood affected skin with water while removing and isolating all contaminated clothing. Gently wash all affected skin areas thoroughly with soap and water.
  CAMEO Chemicals
• General First Aid: · Call 911 or emergency medical service. · Ensure that medical personnel are aware of the material(s) involved, take precautions to protect themselves and avoid contamination. · Move victim to fresh air if it can be done safely. · Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult. · If victim is not breathing: -- DO NOT perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation; the victim may have ingested or inhaled the substance. -- If equipped and pulse detected, wash face and mouth, then give artificial respiration using a proper respiratory medical device (bag-valve mask, pocket mask equipped with a one-way valve or other device).
  Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)
• (General first aid procedures) Eye: Irrigate immediately - If this chemical contacts the eyes, immediately wash (irrigate) the eyes with large amounts of water, occasionally lifting the lower and upper lids. Get medical attention immediately. Skin: Water flush promptly - If this chemical contacts the skin, flush the contaminated skin with water promptly. If this chemical penetrates the clothing, immediately remove the clothing and flush the skin with water promptly. If irritation persists after washing, get medical attention. Breathing: Respiratory support Swallow: Medical attention immediately - If this chemical has been swallowed, get medical attention immediately.
  The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

Symptoms of exposure

• Cough. Sore throat. Dizziness. Drowsiness. Headache.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• Redness.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• Redness. Pain.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

5Fire-fighting measures

• Suitable extinguishing media: Use water spray, alcohol-resistant foam, dry chemical, or carbon dioxide.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Advice for firefighters: Wear self-contained breathing apparatus for firefighting if necessary.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Use water spray to cool unopened containers.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Hazardous combustion products

• Irritating vapors are generated when heated.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

6Accidental release measures

Isolation and evacuation

• Excerpt from ERG Guide 130 [Flammable Liquids (Water-Immiscible / Noxious)]: IMMEDIATE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURE: Isolate spill or leak area for at least 50 meters (150 feet) in all directions. LARGE SPILL: Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 300 meters (1000 feet). FIRE: If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions. (ERG, 2024)
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Immediate precautionary measure · Isolate spill or leak area for at least 50 meters (150 feet) in all directions. Large Spill · Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 300 meters (1000 feet). Fire · If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions.
  Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)

Spill cleanup

• Personal protection: filter respirator for organic gases and vapours adapted to the airborne concentration of the substance. Ventilation. Do NOT let this chemical enter the environment. Do NOT wash away into sewer. Collect leaking and spilled liquid in covered containers as far as possible. Absorb remaining liquid in sand or inert absorbent. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES: Personal precautions, protective equipment and emergency procedures: Use personal protective equipment. Avoid breathing vapors, mist or gas. Ensure adequate ventilation. Remove all sources of ignition. Evacuate personnel to safe areas. Beware of vapors accumulating to form explosive concentrations. Vapors can accumulate in low areas. Environmental precautions: Prevent further leakage or spillage if safe to do so. Do not let product enter drains. Discharge into the environment must be avoided. Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up: Contain spillage, soak up with non-combustible absorbent material, (e.g.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• 1) Remove all ignition sources. 2) Ventilate area of spill or leak. 3) For small quantities, absorb on paper towels. Evaporate in safe place (such as fume hood). ... Burn paper in suitable location away from combustible materials. Large quantities can be collected & atomized in suitable combustion chamber.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Land spills should be contained; skimming equipment and/or sorbent (polyurethane) foams can be used. Use of activated carbon is recommended.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

7Handling and storage

• Fireproof. Separated from strong oxidants. Provision to contain effluent from fire extinguishing. Store in an area without drain or sewer access.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
• Keep container tightly closed in a dry and well-ventilated place. Containers which are opened must be carefully resealed and kept upright to prevent leakage. Hygroscopic. Storage class (TRGS 510): Flammable liquids.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Outside or detached storage is preferred. Inside storage should be in a standard flammable liquids storage warehouse, room, or cabinet. Separate from oxidizing materials.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Temp: ambient; Venting: open (flame arrester) or pressure-vacuum
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

8Exposure controls / personal protection

Personal protective equipment

• Excerpt from NIOSH Pocket Guide for Ethyl benzene: Skin: PREVENT SKIN CONTACT - Wear appropriate personal protective clothing to prevent skin contact. Eyes: PREVENT EYE CONTACT - Wear appropriate eye protection to prevent eye contact. Wash skin: WHEN CONTAMINATED - The worker should immediately wash the skin when it becomes contaminated. Remove: WHEN WET (FLAMMABLE) - Work clothing that becomes wet should be immediately removed due to its flammability hazard (i.e., for liquids with a flash point <100 °F). Change: No recommendation is made specifying the need for the worker to change clothing after the workshift. (NIOSH, 2024)
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Eye/face protection: Face shield and safety glasses. Use equipment for eye protection tested and approved under appropriate government standards such as NIOSH (US) or EN 166(EU).
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Skin protection: Handle with gloves.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Body Protection: Complete suit protecting against chemicals. Flame retardant antistatic protective clothing. The type of protective equipment must be selected according to the concentration and amount of the dangerous substance at the specific workplace.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Respirator recommendations

• NIOSH/OSHA Up to 800 ppm: (APF = 10) Any chemical cartridge respirator with organic vapor cartridge(s)* (APF = 50) Any air-purifying, full-facepiece respirator (gas mask) with a chin-style, front- or back-mounted organic vapor canister (APF = 25) Any powered, air-purifying respirator with organic vapor cartridge(s)* (APF = 10) Any supplied-air respirator* (APF = 50) Any self-contained breathing apparatus with a full facepiece Emergency or planned entry into unknown concentrations or IDLH conditions: (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 tha…
  The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

9Physical and chemical properties

10Stability and reactivity

Reactivity

• ETHYLBENZENE can react vigorously with strong oxidizing materials (NTP, 1992).
  CAMEO Chemicals
• Highly flammable. Insoluble in water.
  CAMEO Chemicals

Incompatible materials and hazardous reactions

• Incompatible materials: Strong oxidizing agents.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• ... Can react vigorously with oxidizing materials.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Strong oxidizers.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Chemical stability

• Stable under recommended storage conditions.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

11Toxicological information

Target organs

• Developmental (effects during periods when organs are developing) , Hepatic (Liver), Neurological (Nervous System), Renal (Urinary System or Kidneys)
  Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR)
• Developmental Hepatic Urinary
  EPA Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS)

Short-term exposure effects

• The substance is irritating to the eyes, skin and respiratory tract. If this liquid is swallowed, aspiration into the lungs may result in chemical pneumonitis. The substance may cause effects on the central nervous system. Exposure above the OEL could cause lowering of consciousness.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

Long-term exposure effects

• This substance is possibly carcinogenic to humans. The substance may have effects on the kidneys and liver. This may result in impaired functions.
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

12Ecological information

Not available in the public sources we compile. Check Section 12 of the supplier's SDS.

13Disposal considerations

• Generators of waste (equal to or greater than 100 kg/mo) containing this contaminant, EPA hazardous waste number F003, must conform with USEPA regulations in storage, transportation, treatment and disposal of waste.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• SRP: Wastewater from contaminant suppression, cleaning of protective clothing/equipment, or contaminated sites should be contained and evaluated for subject chemical or decomposition product concentrations. Concentrations shall be lower than applicable environmental discharge or disposal criteria. Alternatively, pretreatment and/or discharge to a permitted wastewater treatment facility is acceptable only after review by the governing authority and assurance that "pass through" violations will not occur. Due consideration shall be given to remediation worker exposure (inhalation, dermal and ingestion) as well as fate during treatment, transfer and disposal.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Product: Burn in a chemical incinerator equipped with an afterburner and scrubber but exert extra care in igniting as this material is highly flammable. Offer surplus and non-recyclable solutions to a licensed disposal company. Contact a licensed professional waste disposal service to dispose of this material; Contaminated packaging: Dispose of as unused product.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

14Transport information

UN number: UN 1175

Shipping name

• UN 1175; Ethylbenzene
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• IMO 3; Ethylbenzene
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

DOT hazard class

• Ethylbenzene
  US Code of Federal Regulations, Hazardous Materials, 49 CFR Part 172
• UN1175
  US Code of Federal Regulations, Hazardous Materials, 49 CFR Part 172
• Class 3 Flammable and combustible liquid (49 eCFR § 173.120)
  US Code of Federal Regulations, Hazardous Materials, 49 CFR Part 172

DOT label

• Flammable Liquid
  CAMEO Chemicals

UN classification

• UN Hazard Class: 3; UN Pack Group: II
  ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)

Emergency Response Guidebook

• 1175 130
  Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)

How DOT hazard classes work →

15Regulatory information

• This action promulgates standards of performance for equipment leaks of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) in the Synthetic Organic Chemical Manufacturing Industry (SOCMI). The intended effect of these standards is to require all newly constructed, modified, and reconstructed SOCMI process units to use the best demonstrated system of continuous emission reduction for equipment leaks of VOC, considering costs, non air quality health and environmental impact and energy requirements. Ethylbenzene is produced, as an intermediate or a final product, by process units covered under this subpart.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Toxic pollutant designated pursuant to section 307(a)(1) of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act and is subject to effluent limitations.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Ethylbenzene is designated as a hazardous substance under section 311(b)(2)(A) of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act and further regulated by the Clean Water Act Amendments of 1977 and 1978. These regulations apply to discharges of this substance. This designation includes any isomers and hydrates, as well as any solutions and mixtures containing this substance.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Persons in charge of vessels or facilities are required to notify the National Response Center (NRC) immediately, when there is a release of this designated hazardous substance, in an amount equal to or greater than its reportable quantity of 1000 lb or 454 kg. The toll free number of the NRC is (800) 424-8802. The rule for determining when notification is required is stated in 40 CFR 302.4 (section IV. D.3.b).
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• Pursuant to section 8(d) of TSCA, EPA promulgated a model Health and Safety Data Reporting Rule. The section 8(d) model rule requires manufacturers, importers, and processors of listed chemical substances and mixtures to submit to EPA copies and lists of unpublished health and safety studies. Ethylbenzene is included on this list. Effective date: 6/19/87; Sunset date: 6/19/97.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
• F003; When ethylbenzene is a spent solvent, it is classified as a hazardous waste from a nonspecific source (F003), as stated in 40 CFR 261.31, and must be managed according to State and/or Federal hazardous waste regulations.
  Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)

Overview of SDS regulations (OSHA HazCom, WHMIS, REACH/CLP) →

16Other information

Compiled from PubChem CID 7500 and the sources it aggregates (attributed inline). Data retrieved 2026-10-12. This summary describes the pure substance and is not a supplier SDS.