DIMETHYLFORMAMIDE

Dimethylformamide
( N, N-Dimethylformamide, DMF)
CAS 68-12-2

(CH₃)₂ NCHO

Colorless, clear liquid
bp 153 °C, mp -61 °C
Miscible with water in all proportions

Faint, ammonia-like odor detectable at 100 ppm

2.5 (air = 1.0)

2.6 mmHg at 20 °C

58 °C

445 °C

LD₅₀ oral (rat) 2800 mg/kg

LD₅₀ skin (rabbit) 4720 mg/kg

LC₅₀ inhal (mouse) 9400 mg/m³; 2 h

PEL (OSHA) 10 ppm (30 mg/m³--skin)

TLV-TWA (ACGIH) 10 ppm (30 mg/m³--skin)

Low acute toxicity; readily absorbed through the skin.

The acute toxicity of DMF is low by inhalation, ingestion, and skin contact. Contact with liquid DMF may cause eye and skin irritation. DMF is an excellent solvent for many toxic materials that are not ordinarily absorbed and can increase the hazard of these substances by skin contact. Exposure to high concentrations of DMF may lead to liver damage and other systemic effects.

Dimethylformamide is listed by IARC in Group 2B ("possible human carcinogen"). It is not classified as a "select carcinogen" according to the criteria of the OSHA Laboratory Standard. No significant reproductive effects have been observed in animal tests. Repeated exposure to DMF may result in damage to the liver, kidneys, and cardiovascular system.

DMF is a combustible liquid (NFPA rating = 2). Vapors are heavier than air and may travel to source of ignition and flash back. DMF vapor forms explosive mixtures with air at concentrations of 2.2 to 15.2% (by volume). Carbon dioxide or dry chemical extinguishers should be used to fight DMF fires.

Though stable at normal temperatures and storage conditions, DMF may react violently with halogens, acyl halides, strong oxidizers, and polyhalogenated compounds in the presence of iron. Decomposition products include toxic gases and vapors such as dimethylamine and carbon monoxide. DMF will attack some forms of plastics, rubber, and coatings.

DMF should be handled in the laboratory using the "basic prudent practices" described in Chapter 5.C. In particular, DMF should be used only in areas free of ignition sources, and quantities greater than 1 liter should be stored in tightly sealed metal containers in areas separate from oxidizers.

In the event of skin contact, immediately wash with soap and water and remove contaminated clothing. Destroy contaminated shoes. In case of eye contact, promptly wash with copious amounts of water for 15 min (lifting upper and lower lids occasionally) and obtain medical attention. If DMF is ingested, do not induce vomiting. Obtain medical attention immediately. If large amounts of this compound are inhaled, move the person to fresh air and seek medical attention at once.

In the event of a spill, remove all ignition sources, soak up the DMF with a spill pillow or absorbent material, place in an appropriate container, and dispose of properly. Respiratory protection may be necessary in the event of a large spill or release in a confined area.

Excess DMF and waste material containing this substance should be placed in an appropriate container, clearly labeled, and handled according to your institution's waste disposal guidelines.

The information in this LCSS has been compiled by a committee of the National Research Council from literature sources and Material Safety Data Sheets and is believed to be accurate as of July 1994. This summary is intended for use by trained laboratory personnel in conjunction with the NRC report Prudent Practices in the Laboratory: Handling and Disposal of Chemicals. This LCSS presents a concise summary of safety information that should be adequate for most laboratory uses of the title substance, but in some cases it may be advisable to consult more comprehensive references. This information should not be used as a guide to the nonlaboratory use of this chemical.

Copyright 1995 National Academy of Sciences. All rights reserved.