ISOBUTYLENE - C4H8

SECTION 2: Hazards identification

EMERGENCY OVERVIEW: Isobutylene is a colorless, liquefied, flammable gas with an unpleasant odor similar to burning coal. The liquefied gas rapidly turns into a gas at standard atmospheric temperatures and pressures. Isobutylene is an asphyxiant and presents a significant health hazard by displacing the oxygen in the atmosphere. Rapid evaporation of liquid from the cylinder may cause frostbite. Both the liquid and gas pose a serious fire hazard when accidentally released. The gas is heavier than air and may travel to a source of ignition and flash back to a leak or open container. Flame or high temperature impinging on a localized area of a cylinder of Isobutylene can cause the cylinder to rupture without activating the cylinder’s relief devices. Provide adequate fire protection during emergency response situations. SYMPTOMS OF OVEREXPOSURE BY ROUTE OF EXPOSURE: The most significant route of overexposure for this gas is by inhalation. HAZARDOUS MATERIAL INFORMATION The following paragraphs describe symptoms of exposure by route of SYSTEM exposure. INHALATION: High concentrations of this gas can cause an oxygen- (BLUE) 1 deficient environment. Individuals breathing such an atmosphere may experience symptoms which include headaches, ringing in ears, dizziness, drowsiness, unconsciousness, nausea, vomiting, and overexposure, death may occur. Isobutylene also has some degree of depression of all the senses. Under some circumstances of (RED) 4 anesthetic action and can be mildly irritating to the mucous membranes. The effects associated with various levels of oxygen are as follows: CONCENTRATION (YELLOW) 0 SYMPTOMS OF EXPOSURE 12-16% Oxygen: Breathing and pulse rate increased, muscular coordination slightly disturbed. 10-14% Oxygen: Emotional upset, abnormal fatigue, PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT B disturbed respiration. 6-10% Oxygen: Nausea and vomiting, collapse or loss of consciousness. EYES RESPIRATORY HANDS BODY Below 6%: Convulsive movements, possible respiratory collapse, and death. See OTHER POTENTIAL HEALTH EFFECTS: Contact with liquid or rapidly expanding gases (which are released under high pressure) For routine industrial applications may cause frostbite. Symptoms of frostbite include change in skin color to white or grayish-yellow. The pain after such contact can See Section 16 for Definition of Ratings quickly subside.

Potential health effects

OR RISKS FROM EXPOSURE An Explanation in Lay Terms. Overexposure to Isobutylene may cause the following health effects: ACUTE: The most significant hazard associated with this gas is inhalation of oxygen-deficient atmospheres. Symptoms of oxygen deficiency include respiratory difficulty, headache, dizziness, and nausea. At high concentrations, unconsciousness or death may occur. Contact with liquefied gas or rapidly expanding gases may cause frostbite. CHRONIC: There are currently no known adverse health effects associated with chronic exposure to Isobutylene. TARGET ORGANS: Respiratory system. What should I do if a hazardous situation occurs?