ARCOPURE® High Purity MTBE is used as a reaction, extraction, and crystallization solvent.
Benefits and Applications
It can be used by pharmaceutical and fine chemical manufacturers as a replacement for methylene chloride, diethyl ether and some aromatics. ARCOPURE MTBE can also be used as a solvent or cosolvent for Grignard synthesis and other organometallic reactions, as a cationic polymerization solvent, or as a solvent for chromotographic techniques.
Properties
ARCOPURE MTBE is finding acceptance as an effective replacement for methylene chloride, aromatics, and other ethers. Unlike most other ethers, ARCOPURE MTBE minimizes handling and storage concerns associated with peroxide formation. It exhibits excellent oxidative stability, resisting peroxide formation without added inhibitors. Furthermore, ARCOPURE MTBE's stability under acidic conditions is far superior to formaldehyde-based diether solvents.
Strong solvating properties for a wide range of polar and non-polar organic compounds make ARCOPURE MTBE a versatile replacement solvent. It is only slightly soluble in water and separates cleanly from aqueous phases. ARCOPURE MTBE's volatility and low boiling point facilitate solvent recovery with low residuals. All of these qualities make ARCOPURE MTBE highly attractive as a reaction, extraction, and recrystallization solvent for use in agricultural, pharmaceutical, and chemical manufacturing.
Finally, ARCOPURE MTBE is non-ozone-depleting and non-corrosive.
Toxicology/Regulatory
MTBE has been extensively tested by Lyondell and has a low order of acute and chronic toxicity. Short-term (acute) effects of MTBE have been studied in many species of animals. This data suggests that MTBE is not likely to pose a significant health risk to humans.
The inhalation LC50 of MTBE is approximately 35,000 parts per million. Since the primary route of entry is through inhalation exposure, the high inhalation of LC50 provides a large margin of safety when handling ACROPURE MTBE.
The findings from all species studies indicate that ARCOPURE MTBE can be irritating to the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes with an oral LD50 of 3.5 grams/kilogram body weight. Since MTBE is only slightly absorbed through the skin, no definitive lethal dose can be determined by this route of administration.
No evidence exists to suggest that ARCOPURE MTBE causes adverse effects on mating, reproduction and the development of newborn offspring in humans, thereby providing significant advantages over other solvents.
MTBE has a low odor threshold in humans, ranging from about 50 to 200 parts per billion in air. This means that individuals can smell MTBE when its present in very low concentrations, thus providing and additional level of protection against overexposure.
This toxicology information is intended to serve only as a summary and is incomplete in some descriptive aspects. Lyondell's Material Safety Data Sheet and Product Safety Bulletin should be requested for detailed information pertaining to toxicology and safe handling of MTBE.
Storage and Handling
Information and recommendations pertaining to the safe handling of ARCOPURE MTBE are contained in Lyondell's Material Data Sheet and Product Safety Bulletin, which should be consulted prior to handling the product.
ARCOPURE MTBE should be handled and stored with care as a flammable liquid. With a flash point of 14°F, it will emit flammable vapors under ambient conditions. Precautions should be taken to avoid exposure to flames, static electricity and other possible ignition sources. All storage and transfer lines should be adequately grounded. MTBE's higher autoignition temperature and narrower flammability range makes it safer to use and store than many other ethers.
When firefighting spills, dry chemical or CO2 may be used. Tank fires require an AFFF-AR alcohol resistant-type fire foam. This type of foam is manufactured in the U.S. by several companies (e.g. National Foam, Ansul and 3M). The foam manufacturer should be contacted directly for specific recommendations. Water may be ineffective in firefighting because of the low flash point of MTBE. Water fog/spray may be used for cooling.
MTBE is a slight skin/eye irritant. Protective equipment may include chemical splash goggles and/or face shield and protective clothing including gloves, apron, sleeves, boots, and head protection. Materials must be selected with regard to the chemical properties of MTBE. Factors to consider include chemical resistance, strength, flexibility, thermal limits, cleanability and durability. Contact material suppliers of protective equipment and clothing for specific information.