MSDS for Dihydrocaffeic Acid: A Commentary on Safety, Risks, and Responsible Handling

Identification

Name: Dihydrocaffeic Acid
Chemical Formula: C9H10O4
Appearance: Solid powder, usually tan to light brown
Odor: Mild or nearly odorless
Synonyms: 3,4-dihydroxyhydrocinnamic acid
Common Uses: Found in various plant extracts, used in research studying antioxidants, present in foods as a phenolic compound

Hazard Identification

Main Hazards: Mild irritation to eyes, skin, and respiratory system
Environmental Hazard: May cause moderate waterway impact if released in significant quantities
GHS Labeling: Not classified as hazardous under most regulatory systems, though caution remains wise for pure material
Risk Phrases: May cause local irritation; not expected to provoke more serious toxic effects under typical lab or research exposures

Composition / Information on Ingredients

Ingredient: Dihydrocaffeic Acid
Purity: Typically offered at ≥98% for laboratory and research use, with trace plant-based impurities when isolated from natural sources
Chemical Family: Phenolic acids
CAS Number: 28647-11-2

First Aid Measures

Inhalation: Move individual to fresh air, keep at rest, seek medical advice if cough or discomfort persists
Skin Contact: Wash area thoroughly with soap and water, remove contaminated clothing, avoid scrubbing to limit irritation
Eye Contact: Flush with plenty of clean water for several minutes, consult a healthcare professional if irritation remains
Ingestion: Rinse mouth, drink water to dilute, do not induce vomiting, get professional assistance if significant amount swallowed

Fire-Fighting Measures

Suitable Extinguishing Methods: Carbon dioxide, dry chemical, foam, or water spray can all be used to control a fire
Unusual Hazards: On decomposition, it may yield carbon oxides such as carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide
Firefighter Protection: Protective equipment needed, including self-contained breathing apparatus; stay upwind of smoke
Combustibility: Not considered highly flammable but fine particulates may present a minor dust explosion risk in unventilated conditions

Accidental Release Measures

Spill Response: Collect spilled material carefully to limit dust, sweep or pick up with dampened material to avoid airborne particles
Environmental Protection: Prevent entry into waterways or sewer systems; handle waste with attention to local regulations
Cleanup Advice: Wash area with water after bulk is removed; ventilate affected spaces

Handling and Storage

Handling Practices: Use in areas with good airflow; limit direct contact with skin or eyes; avoid creating dust clouds
Storage Conditions: Keep in closed containers, stored in cool, dry settings; limit exposure to heat and strong oxidizers
Shelf Life: Stable under recommended storage, although moisture may cause gradual degradation

Exposure Controls and Personal Protection

Ventilation: Local ventilation suffices for small amounts; general ventilation recommended for larger quantities
Personal Protective Equipment: Protective gloves, lab coat, safety goggles let users avoid skin and eye contact
Respiratory Protection: NIOSH or equivalent mask advised if dust becomes significant; not needed under normal use
Hygiene: Wash hands after handling, do not eat or drink in areas where the compound is handled

Physical and Chemical Properties

Molecular Weight: 182.17 g/mol
Melting Point: Reported between 115–120°C for reagent grade
Solubility: Moderately soluble in water, soluble in organic solvents such as ethanol
Color: Off-white to light brown powder
Stability: Not volatile, stable when dry and protected from light

Stability and Reactivity

Chemical Stability: Stable under normal indoor temperatures and pressures; breakdown may occur with exposure to sunlight, high heat, or moisture
Reactive Scenarios: Strong oxidizers or acids can prompt decomposition or unwanted reactions
Hazardous Decomposition Products: Carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide produced with overheating or burning
Polymerization: Not expected under standard use or storage

Toxicological Information

Acute Toxicity: Data limited, but minor irritation observed through ingestion or skin contact in research settings
Sensitization: Not confirmed to provoke allergic reactions, but repeated exposure raises risk of mild hypersensitivity
Chronic Effects: Long-term effects unknown in humans; dietary exposure in plant-rich foods considered low concern
Mutagenicity or Carcinogenicity: Studies lacking consensus; not designated as carcinogen by major health agencies

Ecological Information

Degradability: Readily biodegradable in soil and aquatic systems, breaking down through microbial action
Toxicity to Aquatic Life: Not acutely toxic at low concentrations, but monitoring recommended for spills
Bioaccumulation: Low potential based on structure and solubility
Mobility: Moderate in surface water; not expected to accumulate in sediments

Disposal Considerations

Recommended Methods: Collect as solid waste for landfill or incineration in line with local regulations
Do Not: Flush large quantities down drain or into open soil
Recycling: Not practical for small-scale or research uses
Best Practices: Minimize waste by managing stock and using only needed amounts for research or development

Transport Information

DOT/IATA Status: Non-hazardous for ground or air shipping at typical research volumes
Packing Guidelines: Use sealed containers within secondary containment to prevent powder leakage
Labeling Advice: Mark with proper chemical identity, ensure packaging protects from humidity and pressure
Precautions: Take care with larger shipments to prevent bulk spills

Regulatory Information

Status: Not subject to special restrictions by US OSHA, EU REACH, or similar regulatory bodies
Reporting Requirements: Voluntary reporting for research use, no special taxes or registration required for small-scale quantities
User Responsibility: Researchers and handlers make the biggest safety impact by staying current on best practices and never assuming “not dangerous” means “risk-free”