AHCES Blog

  Definition of DOT Class 4: Flammable Solids, Spontaneously Combustible, and Dangerous When Wet Materials Class 4 covers flammable solids, as well as spontaneously combustible and dangerous when wet materials. The formal definition can be found at 49 CFR 173.124 . Class 4 Divisions Class 4 materials are divided into three divisions. Division 4.1 Division 4.1 materials are referred to under the name of Flammable Solids, and come in four groups. Desensitized Explosives Self-Reactive Materials, which are thermally unstable and capable of exothermic decomposition without oxygen Readily Combustible Solids Polymerizing Materials, which are liable to undergo an exothermic reaction under conditions normally found in transportation Division 4.2 Division 4.2 materials are referred to under the name of Spontaneously Combustible Material. This includes both pyrophoric material and self-heating material. Division 4.3 Division 4.3 materials are referred to under the name of Dangerous When Wet M...

  What is Benzaldehyde? Benzaldehyde, also known as benzoic aldehyde, is an organic compound with a distinct almond odor. It can be found naturally in plants of the genus Prunus, including the bitter almond. Both natural and synthetic benzaldehyde is used as an almond fragrance and flavoring. Benzaldehyde has the CAS Number 100-52-7. The CAS Number is used to identify benzaldehyde on documents including safety data sheets and chemical labels. When looking for benzaldehyde in a product, check for the CAS number on the associated safety documents. Notable Properties of Benzaldehyde Benzaldehyde is liquid at room temperature and has an almond scent. Benzaldehyde is clear when fresh, though readily yellows with age, and should be stored in an air-tight, opaque contained to limit yellowing. What Makes Benzaldehyde Hazardous? Benzaldehyde is an irritant; it can cause skin, eye, and respiratory irritation. Benzaldehyde can cause allergic reactions in those allergic to some compounds found...

  Definition of DOT Class 3: Flammable Liquids Class 3 covers flammable liquids. This also includes material classified as combustible liquids. These are liquids that have a flash point of not more than 60 °C (140 °F), as well as solids heated to liquid phase with a flash point at or above 37.8 °C (100 °F). Note that if a flammable material would fit the definition of a gas as defined in the Class 2 definition, even if in a liquid state due to pressure and/or refrigeration, it is treated as a Class 2 material. The formal definitions can be found at 49 CFR 173.120 . Difference between Flammable Liquids and Combustible Liquids Combustible liquids generally have similar transportation concerns as flammable liquids and are also covered under Class 3, though are not treated as a separate division. Combustible liquids may be a liquid which does not have any other hazard classes and has a flash point above 60 °C (140 °F) and below 93 °C (200 °F). A flammable liquid which does not have any...

  What is Menthol? Menthol, also known as menthyl alcohol and 2-isopropyl-5-methylcyclohexanol, is a naturally occurring alcohol produced by plants including the peppermint Mentha x piperita . Menthol is a major component in peppermint essential oil and is used for a wide range of applications across multiple industries, from peppermint fragrances and flavorings to topical pain relievers and cough suppressants. Menthol has the CAS Number 1490-04-6. The CAS Number is used to identify menthol as an ingredient on safety data sheets (SDS) and other safety documentation. When looking for menthol as an ingredient in products like peppermint flavoring and fragrances, look for the CAS Number in the composition table. Notable Properties of Menthol Menthol is a solid at room temperature, forming white crystals that smell distinctly of peppermint. Menthol is highly soluble in ethanol and volatile oils, which are often used as carriers when menthol is more useful in liquid form. Wh...