MSDS Information for Acetanilide

Made in 1886 as a synthetic drug, acetanilide was used as a fever reducer and pain reliever. It was an alternative for aspirin for headache and PMS symptoms.

Acetanilide is a solid, white crystalline powder, stable at room temperature. Other names for acetanilide include: N-Phenylacetamide, acetamidobenzene, acetic acid anilide, acetanil, cetylaminobenzene, acetanil, acetamide, antifebrin, phenalgene and phenalgin. Its CAS number is 103-84-4

Acetanilide's Physical Properties

Acetanilide's chemical formula is CH3CONHC6H5 or alternately, C8H9NO.
Its melting point is 239 degrees Fahrenheit (115 degrees Celsius); its boiling point is 579 degrees Fahrenheit (304 degrees Celsius); and its flash point (open-cup) is 345 degrees Fahrenheit (174 degrees Celsius).

It has a molecular weight of 135.17 grams per mole (5.23 times 10^22 atoms) and a specific gravity of 1.219 (water is 1.0).

Handling

Always wear approved personal protective equipment (PPE) including goggles, gloves and lab coats, even in adequate ventilation. In enclosed areas, always wear approved respirators (positive pressure or pressure demand) in addition to gloves, goggles and lab coats. Wear whole-body suits and splash-proof goggles when cleaning up accidental spills.

Storage

Keep acetanilide away from open flames and heat. Store acetanilide in tightly closed containers in a cool, dry, ventilated area. Empty containers may contain acetanilide residue; always wear personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling these containers.

Medical Hazards

Acetanilide is harmful if swallowed or inhaled, or if it gets into the eyes. Exposure effects include skin or eye irritation (redness, pain and itching), skin eruptions, respiratory collapse, paleness, weak pulse, anemia and cyanosis (blue discoloration of lips and tongue). Long-term exposure may effect the blood's ability to carry oxygen.

Fire and Chemical Hazards

Acetanilide is a combustible solid that produces carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrogen oxides (NO and NO2) when aflame. Extinguish acetanilide fires with dry chemical powder, water spray, water fog, water foam or CO2. Avoiding using water jets.

Acetanilide is incompatible with caustic chemicals, strong bases and strong oxidizers.

Emergency and First Aid

In all cases, contact emergency personnel first. This allows you to perform first aid while authorities are on their way.

If acetanilide gets into the eyes, remove contact lenses and rinse eyes with warm water for at least 15 minutes.

For skin exposure, remove contaminated clothing, wash the exposed area with soap and water, cover the exposed area with an emollient (skin moisturizer). Wash contaminated clothing and shoes before re-use.

If inhaled, move the victim to fresh air. If the victim is not breathing, administer CPR. Give oxygen if the victim has difficulty breathing. Contact emergency personnel.

If swallowed, call emergency personnel and do not induce vomiting unless directed to do so. Never give an unconscious person anything by mouth. Loosen clothing, collars, belts and ties. Administer CPR if needed. Contact emergency personnel.

Accidental Release

In cases of an accidental release of acetanilide, contact appropriate authorities first. Remove all ignition sources and ventilate the spill area. Wear personal protective equipment (PPE) when cleaning up spills. Moisten the area with water spray. Recover acetanilide by placing it in a disposable container. Dispose of acetanilide according to local and federal laws.

References

• Britannica: Acetanilide
• JT Baker: Acetanilide MSDS Sheet
• ChemOx: Acetanilide
• Science Lab: MSDS for Acetanilide