Ethyl nitrite

Description

The chemical compound ethyl nitrite is an alkyl nitrite. It may be prepared from ethanol
Ethyl nitrite is the main ingredient in a traditional ethanol-based South African remedy for colds and flu known as Witdulsies and sold in pharmacies. It is known as a traditional Afrikaans remedy and may have Dutch roots, as the same remedy is apparently made by the Germano-Dutch Amish people in the USA. However FDA has blocked over-the-counter sales of this same remedy, known in the USA as sweet nitrite or sweet spirit of nitre since 1980 .

Chemical properties

Yellowish volatile liquid.Soluble in alcohol and ether; decomposes in water. Narcotic in high concentration.

Chemical properties

Ethyl nitrite has a characteristic ether-like odor.

The Uses of Ethyl nitrite

Ethyl Nitrite is an S-nitrosylating agent that improve tissue oxygenation in humans and sheep at normoxia and at reduced fraction of inspired oxygen during microvasculature. Ethyl Nitrite is also used as a therapeutic gas utilized in neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

The Uses of Ethyl nitrite

Organic reactions, synthetic flavoring.

Preparation

From sodium nitrite in aqueous solution by displacing the acid with H2SO4 in the presence of ethyl alcohol; it forms azeotropic mixtures with isopentane (85%), amyl bromide (40%) and carbon disulfide (96%).

Definition

ChEBI: Ethyl nitrite is a nitroso compound.

World Health Organization (WHO)

Ethyl nitrite was formerly available in over-the-counter preparations for use as a diaphoretic, a diuretic and an intestinal antispasmodic. In the 1970s its use was associated with cases of methaemoglobinaemia, some of which were fatal. This led to its withdrawal in 1980 by the United States Food and Drug Administration. WHO has no information regarding its current availability in pharmaceutical preparations.

General Description

A clear colorless to yellow liquid with a pleasant odor. Flammable over a wide range of vapor-air concentrations. Flash point -31°F. Less dense than water and insoluble in water. Vapors are heavier than air and narcotic in high concentrations. Produces toxic oxides of nitrogen during combustion.

Air & Water Reactions

Highly flammable. Vapors may ignite spontaneously and the reaction may reach explosive violence. Insoluble in water. Decomposes in water.

Reactivity Profile

ETHYL NITRITE is a powerful oxidizing agent. Highly dangerous in contact with acid or acid fumes. Dangerous when heated. Decomposes spontaneously at 194°F. Decomposed by light.

Hazard

Highly flammable, dangerous, explodes.

Health Hazard

Inhalation or ingestion causes headache, increased pulse rate, decreased blood pressure, and unconsciousness. Contact with liquid irritates eyes and skin.

Chemical Reactivity

Reactivity with Water: No reaction; Reactivity with Common Materials: No reaction; Stability During Transport: Stable if stored in a cool place and not exposed to strong light; Neutralizing Agents for Acids and Caustics: Not pertinent; Polymerization: Not pertinent; Inhibitor of Polymerization: Not pertinent.

Safety Profile

Poison by inhalation and ingestion. Narcotic in high concentrations. Lowers blood pressure. Methemoglobinemia has been reported. A very dangerous fire and severe explosion hazard when exposed to heat or flame. A powerful oxidizer. May explode when heated above 90℃. Highly dangerous when heated to decomposition or on contact with acid or acid fumes. To fight fire, use foam, CO2, dry chemical, or water spray. When heated to decomposition it emits toxic fumes of NOx. See also NITRITES and ETHERS.