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POLYVINYL ALCOHOL
ICSC: 1489
Peer-Review Status: 27.10.2004 Validated
Ethenol, homopolymer 
CAS #: 9002-89-5 RTECS #: TR8100000
 		    Formula: (CH2CHOH-)n
Molecular mass: variable (polymer)

TYPES OF
HAZARD /
EXPOSURE 		ACUTE HAZARDS / SYMPTOMS      PREVENTION      FIRST AID / FIRE FIGHTING
FIRE Combustible. Gives off irritating or toxic fumes (or gases) in a fire.  NO open flames.  Use water spray, powder, alcohol-resistant foam, carbon dioxide. 
EXPLOSION Finely dispersed particles form explosive mixtures in air.  Closed system, ventilation, explosion-proof electrical equipment and lighting. Prevent deposition of dust. Prevent build-up of electrostatic charges (e.g., by grounding).   
 
EXPOSURE      
Inhalation Cough.  Avoid inhalation of dust.  Fresh air, rest. 
Skin   Protective gloves.  Remove contaminated clothes. Rinse and then wash skin with water and soap. 
Eyes Redness.  Wear safety goggles.  First rinse with plenty of water for several minutes (remove contact lenses if easily possible), then refer for medical attention. 
Ingestion   Do not eat, drink, or smoke during work.   

SPILLAGE DISPOSAL
 		PACKAGING & LABELLING
Personal protection: particulate filter respirator adapted to the airborne concentration of the substance. Sweep spilled substance into covered suitable containers. Do NOT let this chemical enter the environment.   
EC Classification
 
UN Classification
 
GHS Classification
 

EMERGENCY RESPONSE SAFE STORAGE
NFPA Code: H0; F2; R0.  Separated from strong oxidants and strong acids. 

IMPORTANT DATA
Physical State; Appearance
COLOURLESS-TO-WHITE SOLID IN VARIOUS FORMS. 

Physical dangers
Dust explosion possible if in powder or granular form, mixed with air. As a result of flow, agitation, etc., electrostatic charges can be generated. 

Chemical dangers
Decomposes on heating and on burning. This produces toxic fumes. Reacts with oxidants and strong acids. 

Occupational exposure limits
TLV (NOT-ESTABLISHED):. 

Routes of exposure
 

Inhalation risk
No indication can be given about the rate at which a harmful concentration of this substance in the air is reached on evaporation at 20°C. 

Effects of short-term exposure
May cause mechanical irritation. 

Effects of long-term or repeated exposure
 


PHYSICAL PROPERTIES ENVIRONMENTAL DATA
Decomposes at >200°C
Density: 1.19-1.31 g/cm³
Solubility in water: good
Flash point: 79°C o.c.  		This substance may be hazardous to the environment. Special attention should be given to fish. 

NOTES
Other melting points: 212-267°C 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
 

IPCS
International
Programme on
Chemical Safety 		WHO ILO EC Prepared in the context of cooperation between the International Programme on Chemical Safety and the European Commission
© IPCS 2004-2012
LEGAL NOTICE Neither the EC nor the IPCS nor any person acting on behalf of the EC or the IPCS is responsible for the use which might be made of this information. 
    See Also:
       Toxicological Abbreviations
       Polyvinyl alcohol (WHO Food Additives Series 52)