Chemical name: Methyl Jasmonate Chemical formula: C13H20O3 Other names: Jasmonic acid methyl ester Description: Oily liquid, usually colorless to pale yellow, with a distinct, sharp odor often compared to jasmine or tea. Methyl jasmonate is found in many plants, where it acts as a signaling molecule, and commonly used in plant research and commercial fragrance formulations.
GHS Classification: Causes skin and eye irritation. May cause respiratory irritation. Main hazards: Contact can sting and burn skin or eyes. Vapors can irritate the respiratory tract. Significant exposure by inhalation or ingestion may produce headaches, drowsiness, or confusion. Combustible in large quantities, especially as an aerosol. Hazard pictograms: Exclamation mark for irritation. Signal word: Warning
Component: Methyl jasmonate Purity: Often sold at 95% or higher concentration for lab or industrial use. Impurities: Trace amounts of jasmonic acid, solvents, or stabilizers possible depending on source.
Inhalation: Move the person to fresh air. Loosen tight clothing. Seek medical advice if irritation, coughing, or shortness of breath develops. Skin contact: Wash thoroughly using soap and water. Remove contaminated clothing. Eye contact: Rinse cautiously with water for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical attention if pain or vision problems develop. Ingestion: Rinse mouth with water. Do not induce vomiting unless directed by a health professional. Seek medical attention for any concerning symptoms.
Extinguishing media: Use foam, dry powder, or carbon dioxide. Water spray can cool off closed containers. Hazards from combustion: Fumes may include carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide. Respiratory protection and full protective gear recommended for fire responders. Advice for firefighters: Approach from upwind to avoid fumes. Cool containers exposed to fire with water.
Personal safety: Ventilate area well. Avoid inhaling vapors or direct skin contact. Use suitable protective equipment like gloves and eye protection. Environmental precautions: Prevent from entering drains, water bodies, or soil. Spill response: Absorb small spills with sand or inert absorbent. Transfer to a suitable waste container for proper disposal. Wash area with water after material is collected.
Handling: Work in a well-ventilated area, preferably using local exhaust or chemical hood. Use only with equipment rated for chemical compatibility. Avoid getting liquid on hands or in eyes. Storage: Store in a tightly closed container, away from incompatible materials like strong oxidizers. Keep in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated location shielded from direct sunlight.
Engineering controls: Use fume hoods or local exhaust systems. Maintain good general housekeeping in storage and use areas. Personal protection: Gloves resistant to chemicals (nitrile or neoprene suggested), splashproof goggles, and lab coats limit exposure. In settings where vapor or aerosol may be present, use a suitable organic vapor respirator. Wash hands before eating, drinking, or leaving lab areas.
Appearance: Clear, pale yellow oil Boiling point: Approx. 127 °C at reduced pressure Density: Around 1.01-1.02 g/cm³ Solubility: Slightly soluble in water, readily dissolves in most organic solvents (ethanol, acetone, chloroform) Vapor pressure: Low at room temperature Odor: Intense, sweet and floral
Chemical stability: Stable under recommended storage conditions. Reactivity: Can react with strong oxidizing agents. Decomposition products: Can produce irritating or toxic fumes on thermal decomposition or in fire situations.
Toxicity: Generally considered of low acute toxicity but causes irritation to eyes, skin, and upper respiratory tract. Routes of exposure: Inhalation, ingestion, skin and eye contact. Symptoms: Burning, stinging, redness, headache, dizziness with significant vapors. Long-term exposure: Data remains limited, though chronic exposure should be avoided.
Ecotoxicity: Methyl jasmonate breaks down in the environment, but concentrated spills can be harmful to aquatic organisms due to their oily nature and possible persistence. Mobility: Limited in soil and tends to degrade by microbial activity and sunlight. Release to waterways should be prevented. Bioaccumulation: Unlikely at typical environmental concentrations.
Waste handling: Dispose of chemical waste and all contaminated items in accordance with local, regional, or national regulations. Incineration at approved facilities reduces risk of environmental release. Do not pour down the drain or mix with household waste.
Shipping and labeling: In laboratory-scale volumes, not typically considered a regulated hazardous material, but larger shipments can be subject to specific labeling and packaging requirements for flammable or irritant liquids. Transport in sturdy, leak-proof containers and secure upright.
Labeling requirements: Irritant labeling is typically required in most regions under safety regulations for chemicals. Methyl jasmonate often falls under local chemical safety and environmental protection regulations. For workplace use, safety information and safe handling protocols should be visibly posted and reviewed with staff.