Chemical Properties
Clear colorless to light yellow liquid
Uses
Diethylbenzene (DEB) can be used to synthesize divinylbenzene (DVB) by dehydrogenation reaction. DVB is used in the production of crosslinked polystyrene. DEB can be also employed as low temperature heat transfer fluid with biphenyls.
General Description
A clear colorless liquid with an aromatic odor. Flash point 140°F. Less dense than water and insoluble in water. Vapors heavier than air.
Air & Water Reactions
Flammable. Insoluble in water.
Reactivity Profile
Vigorous reactions, sometimes amounting to explosions, can result from the contact between aromatic hydrocarbons, such as Diethylbenzene, and strong oxidizing agents. They can react exothermically with bases and with diazo compounds. Substitution at the benzene nucleus occurs by halogenation (acid catalyst), nitration, sulfonation, and the Friedel-Crafts reaction.
Health Hazard
High vapor concentrations produce eye and respiratory tract irritation, dizziness, depression. Liquid irritates and may blister skin, can cause corneal injury to eye.
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.
Flammability and Explosibility
Non flammable
Chemical Reactivity
Reactivity with Water No reaction; Reactivity with Common Materials: No reaction; Stability During Transport: Stable; Neutralizing Agents for Acids and Caustics: Not pertinent; Polymerization: Not pertinent; Inhibitor of Polymerization: Not pertinent.
Safety Profile
hhldly toxic by
ingestion. A skin and eye irritant. Flammable liquid when exposed to heat or flame; can
react with oxidizing materials. To fight fire,
use CO2, dry chemical. When heated to
decomposition it emits acrid smoke and
fumes. See also ETHYL BENZENE.
