MCO

Chemical properties

Colorless liquid. Soluble in alcohol; slightly soluble in water. Combustible.

The Uses of MCO

Chemical intermediate, dehydrohalogenating agent.

General Description

A clear colorless liquid. Flash point 135°F. Less dense than water and insoluble in water. Hence floats on water. Vapors heavier than air. Produces toxic oxides of nitrogen during combustion. Used to make other chemicals.

Air & Water Reactions

Flammable. Insoluble in water.

Reactivity Profile

MCO neutralizes acids in exothermic reactions to form salts plus water. These acid-base reactions are exothermic. Incompatible with isocyanates, halogenated organics, peroxides, phenols (acidic), epoxides, anhydrides, and acid halides. May generate flammable gaseous hydrogen in combination with strong reducing agents such as hydrides.

Health Hazard

Inhalation or contact with material may irritate or burn skin and eyes. Fire may produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Vapors may cause dizziness or suffocation. Runoff from fire control or dilution water may cause pollution.