How to safely store dimethyl oxalate: a detailed guide

Dimethyl oxalate (Dimethyl oxalate) is a chemical commonly used in organic synthesis. It has certain volatility and toxicity, so special attention should be paid to safety during storage and use. This article will analyze how to store dimethyl oxalate safely and provide relevant safe operation suggestions.

THE BASIC PROPERTIES OF DIMETHYL OXALATE

Before discussing how to safely store dimethyl oxalate, we first understand the basic properties of dimethyl oxalate. Dimethyl oxalate is a colorless liquid with a strong irritating odor, soluble in most organic solvents, such as ethanol, ethers, etc. It is highly corrosive and irritating, and contact with the skin or inhalation of its vapor may cause harm to the human body. Dimethyl oxalate may undergo decomposition reaction under high temperature or aerobic conditions, producing toxic gases. Therefore, understanding the dangers of dimethyl oxalate is a crucial step in the storage process.

Storage Environment Requirements

To ensure the safe storage of dimethyl oxalate, it is first necessary to select the appropriate storage environment. The location for storage of dimethyl oxalate shall have the following conditions:

1. Good ventilation: dimethyl oxalate has a certain degree of volatility, if the storage environment air circulation is not smooth, may lead to the accumulation of harmful gases. Therefore, the storage area must ensure good ventilation to avoid excessive gas concentration of dimethyl oxalate and prevent poisoning accidents.

2. Temperature control: Dimethyl oxalate should be stored in a relatively low temperature place, it is best to avoid high temperature environment. Under high temperature, dimethyl oxalate is easy to decompose and produce toxic gas. Therefore, it is recommended to control the storage temperature between 15°C and 25°C and avoid exposure to direct sunlight.

3. Keep away from fire: Dimethyl oxalate is flammable and must be stored away from open flames, sparks or other potential sources of fire. Ideally, the storage area should be equipped with fire protection equipment, such as fire extinguishers, and easy access to it.

Choosing the right storage container

Choosing the right storage container is also an important step to ensure the safe storage of dimethyl oxalate. When storing dimethyl oxalate, containers that meet the requirements for storage of chemicals should be used. Generally, the following types of containers are recommend:

1. Corrosion-resistant materials: Dimethyl oxalate is corrosive, so storage containers should be made of corrosion-resistant materials, such as polyethylene, polypropylene or glass containers. Metal containers may react with dimethyl oxalate, causing leakage or container damage.

2. Sealing: Dimethyl oxalate should be stored in a well-sealed container to prevent the leakage of volatile gas. The container shall be checked regularly for sealing condition to ensure that there is no breakage or leakage.

3. Clear label: the storage container should have a clear identification, indicating the name of the contents, danger and emergency treatment measures and other information. This will not only help operators better identify chemicals, but also take appropriate measures in an emergency.

Leakage prevention and emergency measures

Despite various safe storage measures, leakage of dimethyl oxalate may still occur due to improper operation or other unforeseen reasons. Therefore, the development of contingency plans is essential.

1. Leakage protection: The storage area should be equipped with leakage emergency treatment facilities, such as adsorption materials (such as activated carbon or anhydrous sodium sulfate), so as to deal with the leakage of dimethyl oxalate in time. The storage area shall be provided with anti-leakage fences to avoid leakage of chemicals.

2. Emergency treatment: the storage area of dimethyl oxalate should be equipped with emergency eyewash, spray device and personal protective equipment, such as gas mask, chemical resistant gloves and protective clothing. In case of leakage, personnel shall be evacuated quickly and emergency treatment procedures shall be initiated.

3. Regular inspection: The equipment and containers storing dimethyl oxalate need to be inspected regularly to ensure that they are not damaged or aged to prevent safety accidents caused by container rupture or leakage.

Dimethyl Oxalate Safety Operation Precautions

In addition to storage, dimethyl oxalate also needs to follow strict safety procedures during use to reduce the risk of accidents.

1. Personal protection: Operators should wear appropriate personal protective equipment when contacting dimethyl oxalate, including protective glasses, gloves, respiratory protective equipment, etc. to prevent dimethyl oxalate from contacting with skin or eyes.

2. Avoid inhaling vapors: dimethyl oxalate is highly volatile. Operators should avoid staying in a closed space for a long time and ensure adequate ventilation to prevent inhalation of harmful vapors.

3. Standard operation: all operators should be professionally trained and familiar with the properties and treatment methods of dimethyl oxalate. Handle with care during operation to avoid violent vibration or collision to prevent container rupture or other accidents.

Conclusion: How to safely store dimethyl oxalate

How to safely store dimethyl oxalate is a problem that every chemical storage personnel must pay attention. The risk of dimethyl oxalate storage can be greatly reduced by selecting appropriate storage environment, containers, and taking effective protective and emergency measures. Standardized operating procedures and personal protection are also important links to ensure the safe use of dimethyl oxalate. Only a comprehensive understanding of the characteristics and safety requirements of dimethyl oxalate can ensure its safety during storage and use.