Disposal of Ethylene (C₂H₄)

Chemical Formula: C₂H₄

Description: Ethylene is a colourless gas with a faint sweet odour. It is a hydrocarbon and is highly flammable, making it both reactive and hazardous under certain conditions.

Label Information

  • Contents: The canister contains ethylene (C₂H₄).

  • UN Number: 1962

    • Purpose of UN Number: The UN number 1962 is used to identify ethylene for transport and emergency response purposes.

Hazard Symbols

  • Flammable Symbol: The label displays a flammable hazard symbol, indicating that ethylene is highly flammable and can form explosive mixtures with air.

  • Health Hazard Symbol: A health hazard symbol may be included to indicate potential health risks upon exposure, such as respiratory or eye irritation.

Warning Information

  • Respiratory Protection: The label advises the use of proper respiratory protection to prevent inhalation when handling ethylene.

  • Handling Instructions: Ethylene should be handled with extreme caution due to its flammability. Use in well-ventilated areas or within controlled environments equipped with appropriate safety measures.

  • Emergency Procedures: The label may provide first aid instructions for exposure, such as moving to fresh air if inhaled and seeking immediate medical attention if necessary.

Physical and Chemical Properties

  • Appearance: Colourless gas.

  • Odour: Faint sweet odour.

  • Boiling Point: -103.7°C (-154.7°F)

  • Melting Point: -169.4°C (-272.9°F)

  • Density: Lighter than air, with a density of 1.178 g/L at 0°C.

Health Effects

  • Acute Exposure: Inhalation of ethylene can cause mild respiratory irritation and dizziness. Prolonged exposure in confined spaces can lead to asphyxiation due to oxygen displacement. Contact with the eyes or skin can cause irritation.

  • Chronic Exposure: Ethylene is generally considered to have low toxicity, but prolonged exposure in poorly ventilated areas may still pose risks. There is limited evidence of its potential as a human carcinogen.

Reactivity and Compatibility

  • Polymerisation: Ethylene is stable under normal conditions but can polymerise under specific conditions, such as in the presence of a catalyst.

  • Incompatible Materials: Ethylene should not come into contact with strong oxidising agents, as it may react violently.

Environmental Impact

  • Air and Water: Ethylene can contribute to air pollution if released, as it may participate in the formation of ground-level ozone.

  • Ecosystems: The environmental impact of ethylene is generally low, but it can be harmful to aquatic life if released in large quantities.

Safety Measures

  • Storage: Store ethylene in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place away from incompatible materials. Ensure storage areas have appropriate ventilation and spill containment systems.

  • Handling: Use appropriate leak detection methods and regularly inspect equipment. Handle with care to prevent leaks and spills, using ethylene in areas with proper ventilation or within fume hoods.

  • Protective Equipment: Personal protective equipment (PPE) such as respirators, gloves, and eye protection should be used when handling ethylene. Flame-resistant clothing is recommended due to its high flammability. Ensure that personnel are trained in the safe handling of ethylene and emergency response procedures.

Regulatory Information

  • Occupational Exposure Limits: Regulatory bodies have established exposure limits for ethylene to ensure worker safety.

  • Transport Regulations: Ethylene must be properly labelled and packaged according to international transport regulations, including those set by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).