n-Propyl ether

Chemical properties

CLEAR COLOURLESS LIQUID

The Uses of n-Propyl ether

Di-n-propyl ether, is used as a solvent and intermediate for organic chemical synthesis.

General Description

A colorless liquid with a strong odor. Less dense than water and slightly soluble in water. Flash point of 70°F. Vapors are heavier than air. In high concentrations the vapors may be narcotic.

Air & Water Reactions

Highly flammable. Ethers tend to form unstable peroxides when exposed to oxygen. Ethyl, isobutyl, ethyl tert-butyl, and ethyl tert-pentyl ether are particularly hazardous in this respect. Ether peroxides can sometimes be observed as clear crystals deposited on containers or along the surface of the liquid. Slightly soluble in water.

Reactivity Profile

Ethers, such as DIPROPYL ETHER, can act as bases. They form salts with strong acids and addition complexes with Lewis acids. The complex between diethyl ether and boron trifluoride is an example. Ethers may react violently with strong oxidizing agents. In other reactions, which typically involve the breaking of the carbon-oxygen bond, ethers are relatively inert.

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 may cause pollution.

Fire Hazard

HIGHLY FLAMMABLE: Will be easily ignited by heat, sparks or flames. Vapors may form explosive mixtures with air. Vapors may travel to source of ignition and flash back. Most vapors are heavier than air. They will spread along ground and collect in low or confined areas (sewers, basements, tanks). Vapor explosion hazard indoors, outdoors or in sewers. Runoff to sewer may create fire or explosion hazard. Containers may explode when heated. Many liquids are lighter than water.

Safety Profile

Poison by intravenous route. Moderately toxic by inhalation. Possibly narcotic. A flammable liquid and dangerous fire hazard when exposed to heat, flame, or oxidizers. Forms explosive peroxides. Dangerous upon exposure to heat or flame; can react vigorously with oxidizing materials. When heated to decomposition it emits acrid smoke and irritating fumes. See also ETHERS.

Purification Methods

Purify the ether by drying with CaSO4, by passage through an alumina column (to remove peroxides), and by fractional distillation. [Beilstein 1 III 2146, 1 IV 1422.]