Looking Closer: 2,2'-Dithiodibenzoic Acid and Its Material Safety Data Sheets

Identification

Chemical Name: 2,2'-Dithiodibenzoic Acid Synonyms: DTDBA Molecular Formula: C14H10O4S2 CAS Number: 119-80-2 Appearance: Pale yellow to off-white crystalline powder Odor: Odorless Common Uses: Laboratory reagent, coordination chemistry research, intermediate in organic synthesis Solubility: Slightly soluble in water, soluble in organic solvents like dimethyl sulfoxide and acetone Boiling Point: Decomposes before boiling

Hazard Identification

GHS Classification: Eye irritation (Category 2A), Skin irritation (Category 2), Specific target organ toxicity (single exposure, Category 3 for respiratory system) Signal Word: Warning Hazard Statements: Causes serious eye irritation, causes skin irritation, may cause respiratory irritation Precautionary Statements: Avoid breathing dust, wash skin thoroughly after handling, use only in well-ventilated areas, wear protective gloves and eye/face protection Routes of Exposure: Inhalation, skin and eye contact, ingestion Chronic Effects: No chronic toxicity well-documented in humans, but skin/eye sensitization possible with repeated exposure Chemical Reactivity: Dust can irritate the airways, especially in those with pre-existing respiratory conditions

Composition / Information on Ingredients

Component: 2,2'-Dithiodibenzoic Acid Concentration: 98-100% Impurities: Trace related organosulfur compounds possible Formula: C14H10O4S2

First Aid Measures

Inhalation: Remove to fresh air, seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen, provide oxygen if breathing becomes difficult Skin Contact: Wash thoroughly with soap and plenty of water, remove contaminated clothing, seek medical attention if irritation develops Eye Contact: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes, remove contact lenses, continue rinsing, get medical attention if irritation continues Ingestion: Rinse mouth, seek immediate medical advice, do not induce vomiting unless directed by medical personnel Most Important Symptoms: Eye burns, skin irritation, respiratory discomfort, coughing

Fire-Fighting Measures

Suitable Extinguishing Media: Water spray, carbon dioxide, dry chemical powder, foam Specific Hazards: Combustion produces toxic gases—sulfur oxides and carbon oxides can form under fire, which are dangerous Special Protective Equipment: Firefighters should use self-contained breathing apparatus with full protective clothing Firefighting Techniques: Keep containers cool with water spray, remove them from fire area if it can be done without risk, avoid breathing fire fumes

Accidental Release Measures

Personal Precautions: Avoid dust formation, ventilate area, wear appropriate personal protection—including gloves, goggles, particle mask Clean-up Methods: Sweep up and place in tightly closed containers for disposal, avoid creating airborne dust, thoroughly wash affected surfaces Environmental Precautions: Prevent material from entering drains or watercourses, inform local authorities if significant environmental contamination occurs Special Spill Risks: Use non-sparking tools, avoid dry sweeping when dust is present

Handling and Storage

Safe Handling: Use local exhaust ventilation to minimize dust exposure, avoid contact with skin and eyes, never eat, drink, or smoke in areas where chemicals are handled Storage Requirements: Keep in tightly closed containers, store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from incompatible substances, avoid exposure to moisture Incompatibilities: Strong oxidizers, strong acids; prolonged contact with bases can cause degradation Storage Recommendations: Ensure storage area has secondary containment in case of spills, use containers made from chemically resistant materials

Exposure Controls and Personal Protection

Engineering Controls: Laboratory fume hood or local exhaust, dust extraction systems for bulk handling Eye Protection: Chemical safety goggles or face shield Skin Protection: Chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile or neoprene recommended), lab coats, long sleeves Respiratory Protection: Dust mask or respirator if dust generation is possible, especially in bulk handling situations General Hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly after handling, remove contaminated clothing, clean work surfaces frequently Exposure Limits: No established occupational exposure limits; limit exposure by good workplace practice

Physical and Chemical Properties

Physical State: Solid, crystalline powder Color: Pale yellow to off-white Odor: Odorless Molecular Weight: 306.4 g/mol Melting Point: ~235°C (decomposition begins before melting point is fully reached) Boiling Point: Decomposes Vapor Pressure: Not volatile at room temperature Solubility in Water: Slightly soluble Solubility in Other Solvents: Soluble in polar organic solvents pH: Slightly acidic Partition Coefficient (log P): Data limited Flash Point: Not readily flammable

Stability and Reactivity

Chemical Stability: Stable under standard storage conditions Reactivity: May react with oxidizing agents, avoid strong acids and bases Hazardous Decomposition: Sulfur oxides and carbon oxides evolve if heated strongly or burned Conditions to Avoid: Moisture, strong oxidizers, ignition sources Polymerization: Will not undergo hazardous polymerization

Toxicological Information

Acute Toxicity: Data on acute toxicity in humans is limited; rat oral LD50 estimated above 2000 mg/kg, indicating low acute toxicity Skin Contact: Can cause irritation and reversible redness Eye Contact: Causes significant eye irritation, possible corneal damage with large exposures Inhalation: Dust may irritate respiratory tract, coughing or sneezing common symptoms Skin Sensitization: Prolonged or repeated exposure may lead to sensitization Long-Term Risks: Limited data on carcinogenicity or reproductive effects; no clear evidence in animal studies Target Organs: Mucous membranes, eyes, skin, possibly upper respiratory tract

Ecological Information

Ecotoxicity: Data limited, but similar organic disulfides can be toxic to aquatic organisms at elevated concentrations Persistence and Degradability: Organic acids like this tend to degrade in the environment under aerobic conditions, but the disulfide bridge may persist Bioaccumulation Potential: Low to moderate; the compound is not highly lipid-soluble Mobility: Sparingly soluble in water, likely low mobility except where organic solvents are present Impact on Environment: Avoid release to surface waters or soil

Disposal Considerations

Waste Treatment Methods: Chemical waste should go to a licensed hazardous waste disposal facility Container Disposal: Empty containers must be triple rinsed, punctured, and recycled or incinerated in line with local, state, and national regulations Special Instructions: Do not allow material to reach ground water, water bodies, or sewer systems

Transport Information

UN Number: Not classified as hazardous for transport in small quantities Transport Hazard Class: No specific class under current regulations for laboratory or research purposes Packing Group: Not regulated Environmental Hazards: Not listed as marine pollutant Precautions for Transport: Secure uniquely labeled containers, avoid breakage or spillage, keep separate from food or feedstuffs

Regulatory Information

Regulatory Status: Not listed as a hazardous substance under most national and international chemical regulations Inventory Listings: Registered or notified in major chemical inventories but rarely regulated due to low production volume Restrictions: Not assigned specific exposure limits or restrictions in the United States, EU, or Japan Labeling Requirements: Standard chemical safety labeling applies, including hazard pictograms for laboratory use Other Regulations: Users must comply with local environmental and safety rules for laboratory chemicals