Acetone, a colorless, volatile liquid with a distinctly sweet odor, is a widely used chemical found in many household and industrial products. Known scientifically as 2-propanone or dimethyl ketone, it functions as an effective solvent capable of dissolving other substances. It is commonly found in products like nail polish remover, paint thinners, and as a solvent in the manufacturing of plastics, lacquers, and textiles.
Understanding Acetone’s Properties and Dangers
Acetone is highly flammable. This liquid and its vapors can ignite easily at room temperature, with a flash point around -20°C (-4°F). Acetone vapors are heavier than air and can travel along surfaces for considerable distances to an ignition source, potentially causing a flashback. The concentration of acetone vapor in the air that can lead to an explosive mixture ranges from approximately 2.5% to 12.8% by volume.
Exposure can pose several health hazards. Inhaling high concentrations of acetone vapors can irritate the nose, throat, and respiratory system, potentially affecting the nervous system. Symptoms may include headaches, dizziness, nausea, drowsiness, confusion, and in severe cases, unconsciousness.
Skin contact can lead to mild irritation, dryness, redness, or cracking due to its defatting effect, potentially causing dermatitis with prolonged exposure. Eye contact, whether with liquid or vapor, can cause moderate to severe irritation, redness, pain, and tearing, requiring prompt attention. If large quantities are accidentally ingested, the effects can mirror those of inhalation, including gastrointestinal irritation and central nervous system depression.
Safe Handling and Personal Protection
Adequate ventilation is crucial to prevent vapor accumulation and reduce exposure risks. Working in a well-ventilated area, opening windows, or utilizing exhaust fans can help disperse vapors effectively. For larger applications or in enclosed spaces, local exhaust ventilation systems are recommended to capture vapors at the source and keep them out of the breathing zone.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) provides a barrier against exposure. Chemical-resistant gloves, such as those made from milled butyl rubber or nitrile, are effective for hand protection, while latex gloves are not suitable. Safety glasses or chemical goggles should be worn to protect the eyes from splashes and irritating vapors, and a face shield offers additional protection. Wearing long-sleeved clothing and pants helps minimize skin exposure, and a rubber apron offers further body protection.
Controlling ignition sources is crucial due to acetone’s high flammability. Eliminate all potential ignition sources, including open flames, sparks, hot surfaces, and static electricity, from areas where acetone is present. Posting “No Smoking” signs and ensuring electrical equipment is bonded and grounded during liquid transfer helps prevent accidental ignition. Use the smallest amount of acetone necessary for any task to reduce exposure and fire risk.
Proper Storage and Waste Management
Proper storage is essential. Acetone should be kept in its original, tightly sealed containers to prevent evaporation and spills. For quantities exceeding one gallon, approved safety cans are recommended, and containers made of stainless steel or glass are preferable for their properties. Storage areas should be cool, dry, and well-ventilated, away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and ignition sources.
Storing acetone away from incompatible materials prevents adverse chemical reactions. It should not be stored near strong oxidizers, acids, hydrogen peroxide, nitric acid, or sulfur dichloride, as contact with these substances can lead to dangerous reactions. Ensuring containers are properly labeled with safety information and kept out of reach of children and pets helps prevent accidental exposure.
Disposal of acetone and contaminated materials requires specific guidelines. For very small, diluted amounts, local regulations should be consulted, as some may permit disposal down a drain with plenty of water. However, larger quantities or pure acetone must be managed as hazardous waste. Contacting local waste management facilities or household hazardous waste collection sites is the method for disposal. Materials like rags or absorbents soaked with acetone should be allowed to air dry in a safe, well-ventilated area before disposal, or sealed in a non-combustible container to prevent vapor release.
What to Do in an Emergency
In the event of an acetone spill, take immediate action. For small spills, contain the liquid using non-combustible absorbent materials such as sand or cat litter, ensuring adequate ventilation. The contaminated absorbent material should then be placed into labeled containers for disposal. Large spills require evacuating the area, containing the liquid with dikes to prevent runoff, and immediately contacting emergency services, such as the fire department or a hazmat team, for assistance.
Should an acetone fire occur, use specific extinguishing agents. For small fires, carbon dioxide (CO2), dry chemical, or alcohol-resistant foam extinguishers are appropriate. Water may be ineffective or spread the fire, but a water spray or fog can be used to cool fire-exposed containers. For large fires, immediate evacuation is necessary, followed by contacting emergency services.
First aid varies by exposure route. If acetone vapors are inhaled, move the affected person to fresh air; if breathing has stopped, artificial respiration should be administered, and seek medical attention promptly, especially for large exposures or persistent symptoms.
For skin contact, thoroughly wash the affected area with soap and water for at least 5 to 15 minutes and remove any contaminated clothing. Seek medical attention if irritation or pain persists.
In case of eye contact, immediately flush the eyes with large amounts of water for 15 to 20 minutes, holding the eyelids open, and remove contact lenses if present. Seek prompt medical attention for eye exposures.
If acetone is ingested, do not induce vomiting. Rinse the mouth with water and seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center. Keep local emergency contact numbers readily available.