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Overview

Dimethylformamide is a clear liquid, miscible with water and majority of organic solvents and it is used as a solvent in the production of fibers, films, and surface coatings (EPA).

Chemical Description

N,N_Dimethylformamide is a colorless liquid at room temperature that is soluble in most solvents and water and is very stable (INCHEM).

Uses and Benefits

Dimethylformamide is used as a commercial solvent during the synthesis of vinyl resins, adhesives, pesticide formulations, and epoxy formulations; for purification and/or separation of acetylene, 1,3-butadiene, acid gases, and aliphatic hydrocarbons; and in the production of polyacrylic or cellulose triacetate fibers and pharmaceuticals (INCHEM).

Health Effects

Acute Effects
Symptoms of acute exposure in humans include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, jaundice, alcohol intolerance, and rashes (EPA).

Chronic Effects
Chronic (long-term) occupational exposure to dimethylformamide by inhalation has resulted in effects on the liver and digestive disturbances in workers. (EPA).

Human Studies have shown a possible link to cancer from chronic, occupational exposure to dimethylformamide.

External Links

• Scorecard for N,N_Dimethylformamide
  
  
• N,N-Dimethylformamide.
  
  
• Dimethylformamide and Testicular Cancer from OSHA
  
  

References

International Programme on Chemical Safety. Concise International Chemical Assessment Document 31 N,N-DIMETHYLFORMAMIDE. Accessed 5-16-07.

Environmental Protection Agency. N,N-Dimethylformamide. Accessed 5-17-07.