Carbon Disulfide

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Carbon Disulfide (CS₂) is a volatile, flammable, and highly toxic organic solvent composed of carbon and sulfur. At 99% purity, it is a clear to pale yellow liquid with a pungent, sweet, ether-like odor. Carbon Disulfide is produced primarily by the reaction of carbon (charcoal) with sulfur vapors at high temperatures. Due to its excellent solvent properties and reactivity, it is used across multiple industries, including the production of rayon, cellophane, rubber chemicals, and pesticides. Despite its utility, Carbon Disulfide requires careful handling because of its toxicity, flammability, and environmental hazards.

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Categories: Solvents(paint), Solvents (Cleaning) Tags: and resins, Carbon disulfide, Colorless to pale yellow liquid, Industrial solvent, Rubber accelerator manufacturing, Solvent for oils, Sulfur compound, waxes

Description

Table of Contents

Carbon Disulfide

Primary Uses

Chemical Industry

Intermediate in Viscose Rayon & Cellophane Production: Used to convert alkali cellulose into cellulose xanthate.
Production of Carbon Tetrachloride and other sulfur-containing organic chemicals.
Reagent in Synthesis of Rubber Accelerators, pesticides, and flotation agents.

Rubber & Tire Industry

Used as a solvent and chemical intermediate in the manufacture of vulcanization accelerators and antioxidants.

Mining & Metallurgy

Ore Flotation Agent: Used in mineral processing to separate valuable minerals from ore.
Assists in the recovery of precious metals via flotation processes.

Pharmaceuticals & Agrochemicals

Raw material for the synthesis of fungicides (e.g., dithiocarbamates), pesticides, and soil fumigants.

Laboratory Use

Used as a non-polar solvent for fats, resins, sulfur, iodine, and phosphorus.
Employed in organic synthesis for creating sulfur-containing compounds.

Secondary Uses

Oil & Gas Industry

Used in petrochemical analysis and as a component in specialty extraction processes.

Explosives

Occasionally used in controlled formulations of explosives and pyrotechnics.

Perfumes & Fragrance

Historically used in perfume formulations due to its volatility (rare today due to toxicity).

Microelectronics

Explored as a sulfurizing agent in the production of semiconductors and solar cell precursors.

Entomology/Fumigation (Historic Use)

Formerly used as a fumigant and insecticide (now mostly obsolete due to health risks).

KEY PRODUCT FEATURES

1. Basic Identification Attributes

Chemical Name (IUPAC): Carbon disulfide
Common/Trade Name: Carbon Disulfide
CAS Number: 75-15-0
HS Code: 2903.13.00
Molecular Formula: CS₂
Molecular Weight: 76.14 g/mol
Synonyms:
- Carbon bisulfide
- Dithiocarbonic anhydride
- CS₂

2. Physical & Chemical Properties

Physical State: Liquid
Color & Odor: Colorless to pale yellow; sweet, ether-like odor
Melting Point: -111.5°C
Boiling Point: 46.3°C
Density: 1.263 g/cm³ at 20°C
Vapor Pressure: 352 mmHg at 25°C
Flash Point: -30°C (closed cup)
Autoignition Temperature: ~100°C
Explosion Limits: 1.3–50% (v/v in air)
Solubility:
- Insoluble in water
- Soluble in ethanol, ether, benzene, and chloroform
Stability: Stable under inert conditions; sensitive to light, air, and heat

3. Safety & Hazard Attributes

Hazard Class (GHS):
- Flammable Liquid (Category 2)
- Acute Toxicity (Oral, Inhalation, Dermal – Categories 3, 2, 2)
- Specific Target Organ Toxicity (Repeated Exposure) – Category 1
NFPA Ratings:
- Health: 3
- Flammability: 4
- Reactivity: 0
Exposure Limits:
- OSHA PEL: 20 ppm (skin)
- ACGIH TLV: 1 ppm (TWA), 3 ppm (STEL)
Toxicity:
- Highly toxic via inhalation, ingestion, and dermal exposure
- Affects central nervous system, liver, kidneys, and reproductive system
Reactivity: Reactive with strong oxidizers and bases; forms explosive mixtures with air

4. Storage & Handling Attributes

Storage Conditions:
- Store in cool, well-ventilated areas away from sunlight and ignition sources
- Keep under inert gas (e.g., nitrogen) in tightly sealed containers
Container Type: Stainless steel drums or specially lined carbon steel containers
Shelf Life: 1–2 years under proper conditions
Special Handling:
- Use only with proper ventilation and explosion-proof equipment
- Ground and bond containers during transfer to prevent static discharge

5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes

FDA Status: Not approved for direct food or pharmaceutical use
REACH Status: Registered
IARC Classification: Group 3 (not classifiable as to carcinogenicity in humans)
Transportation:
- UN Number: UN1131
- Hazard Class: 3 (Flammable Liquid)
- Packing Group: I (high danger)
Waste Disposal:
- Dispose of as hazardous waste
- Use incineration or chemical treatment under controlled conditions
- Follow local, national, and international regulations

6. Environmental & Health Impact

Ecotoxicity: Toxic to aquatic organisms; may cause long-term adverse effects
Persistence: Moderately persistent in air; degrades by photolysis and oxidation
Bioaccumulation: Low potential
Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not conclusively identified as carcinogenic; may cause mutagenic effects at high exposures
Biodegradability: Slowly biodegradable; more persistent in anaerobic environments

SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

Safety Handling Precautions

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

Chemical-resistant gloves (e.g., butyl rubber)
Full-face respirator with organic vapor cartridge
Chemical splash goggles or face shield
Flame-resistant lab coat or protective suit

Handling Measures:

Handle only in fume hoods or explosion-proof environments
Avoid breathing vapors or skin contact
Use spark-proof tools and non-sparking equipment

Storage Measures:

Store in tightly closed, properly labeled containers
Keep away from heat, sparks, and flames
Segregate from oxidizing agents and strong bases

Hygiene Practices:

Wash thoroughly after handling
Remove contaminated clothing and wash before reuse
Do not eat, drink, or smoke near storage or usage areas

First Aid Measures

Inhalation: Move to fresh air immediately. Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult. Seek emergency medical attention.
Skin Contact: Remove contaminated clothing. Wash with soap and water. Seek medical help for irritation or burns.
Eye Contact: Rinse cautiously with water for 15–20 minutes. Remove contact lenses if present. Seek medical attention.
Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting. Rinse mouth with water. Seek immediate medical attention.

Firefighting Measures

Fire Hazards: Extremely flammable; forms explosive mixtures with air
Extinguishing Media: Dry chemical, carbon dioxide (CO₂), foam; do not use water directly
Special Precautions:
- Firefighters should wear self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and chemical-resistant gear
- Use water spray to cool surrounding containers
Decomposition Products: Carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), and carbon dioxide (CO₂)