# NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards
Acetylene | CAS 74-86-2
C2H2 | RTECS AO9600000
Synonyms & Trade Names Ethine, Ethyne [Note: A compressed gas used in the welding & cutting of metals.] | DOT ID & Guide 1001 116
Exposure Limits | NIOSH REL: C 2500 ppm (2662 mg/m3)
OSHA PEL: none
IDLH N.D. | Conversion 1 ppm = 1.06 mg/m3
Physical Description Colorless gas with a faint, ethereal odor. [Note: Commercial grade has a garlic-like odor. Shipped under pressure dissolved in acetone.]
MW: 26.0 | BP: Sublimes | FRZ: -119°F (Sublimes) | Sol: 2%
VP: 44.2 atm | IP: 11.40 eV | RGasD: 0.91 |
Fl.P: NA (Gas) | UEL: 100% | LEL: 2.5% |
Flammable Gas
Incompatibilities & Reactivities Zinc; oxygen & other oxidizing agents such as halogens [Note: Forms explosive acetylide compounds with copper, mercury, silver & brasses (containing more than 66% copper).]
Measurement Methods NIOSH Acetylene Crit. Doc.
Personal Protection & Sanitation Skin: Frostbite Eyes: Frostbite Wash skin: No recommendation Remove: When wet (flammable) Change: No recommendation Provide: Frostbite | First Aid (See procedures) Eye: Frostbite Skin: Frostbite Breathing: Fresh air
Respirator Recommendations To be added later
Exposure Routes inhalation, skin and/or eye contact (liquid)
Symptoms Headache, dizziness; asphyxia; liquid: frostbite
Target Organs central nervous system, respiratory system
See also: INTRODUCTION