Reaction mass of (2-methoxymethylethoxy)propanol and [2-(2-methoxymethylethoxy)methylethoxy]propanol and sodium methanolate

Endpoint summary

Description of key information

The reaction mass containing DPM, TPM, and sodium methylate was shown in vitro to be corrosive to skin, and is presumed to be corrosive to the eyes.  This result is supported by the pH range of the material (ph = 12 - 13.5), and the presence of a corrosive component at greater than 10% in the mixture.

Key value for chemical safety assessment

Skin irritation / corrosion

Endpoint conclusion

Endpoint conclusion:

adverse effect observed (corrosive)

Eye irritation

Endpoint conclusion

Endpoint conclusion:

adverse effect observed (irritating)

Respiratory irritation

Endpoint conclusion

Endpoint conclusion:

adverse effect observed (irritating)

Additional information

Skin irritation/corrosion

In an in vitro corrosivity test using reconstituted human epidermis, the test material was classified as corrosive to skin based on the reduction in viablity of reconstituted human epidermal tissue.

Eye irritation/corrosion

Based on the positive findings for corrosivity to skin in the in vitro skin assay, the test material was not tested for eye irritation/corrosion. This is in accord with REACH, annex VII, column 2 requirements.

Effects on skin irritation/corrosion: corrosive

Effects on eye irritation: corrosive

Effects on respiratory irritation: highly irritating

Justification for classification or non-classification

The reaction mass of dipropylene glycol monomethyl ether (DPM), tripropylene glycol monomethyl ether (TPM), and sodium or potassium methanolate catalyst, is corrosive to the skin and eyes due to the presence of the methanolate moiety at greater than 10%.

Under the EU DSD criteria, it would be rated C; R34 (Causes burns) and R41 (Risk of serious damage to eyes). Under the EU CLP criteria (EU Regulation 1272/2008), it would be rated Skin Corrosive, Category 1B and Eye Damage, Category 1.