UN 2842 — Nitroethane
Placard: Flammable. ERG Guide 129. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
UN 2842 is Nitroethane, a highly flammable nitroalkane assigned to ERG Guide 129. Vapor flashback and decomposition risk require control.
Hazard overview: HIGHLY FLAMMABLE nitroalkane liquid; vapors may ignite and form explosive mixtures with air. Vapors are heavier than air and may travel to ignition sources and flash back. Vapor explosion hazard exists in drains, sewers, basements and confined spaces.
Response guidance: For UN 2842, isolate the area, eliminate ignition sources and use SCBA. Keep vapors out of drains, cool containers from protection and use foam, dry chemical or CO2 per SDS.
Firefighter training notes: Training for UN 2842 should emphasize exposure routes, SCBA use, vapor/dust monitoring, fire behavior, decontamination, runoff containment and SDS verification. Use ERG 129, SDS and local SOP.
Regulatory context: Nitroethane is regulated as a hazardous material for transport and emergency response. Storage, exposure, spill reporting, waste and fire-code duties depend on quantity, concentration and jurisdiction; verify shipping papers, SDS and local authority requirements.
Storage & handling: Nitroethane should be stored in approved flammable-liquid containers with ventilation, secondary containment and separation from heat, ignition sources, oxidizers and incompatible materials.
UN 2842 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 2842
- HIGHLY FLAMMABLE nitroalkane liquid; vapors may ignite and form explosive mixtures with air.
- Vapors are heavier than air and may travel to ignition sources and flash back.
- Vapor explosion hazard exists in drains, sewers, basements and confined spaces.
- Heating, confinement or contamination may increase decomposition or pressure risk.
- Fire may produce nitrogen oxides and irritating/toxic smoke.
- Runoff to sewers may create fire or explosion hazards.
- Containers may rupture or explode when heated.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
Colorless to pale yellow liquid with a fruity, sweet odor. Oily consistency at room temperature.
| Also known as | NitroethaneNEAEthane, nitro-1-NitroethaneNitrous ether |
| CAS Number | 79-24-3 |
| Appearance | Colorless to pale yellow liquid with a fruity, sweet odor. Oily consistency at room temperature. |
| Flash Point | -17°C (1°F) |
| Boiling Point | 114°C (237°F) |
| Vapor Density | 2.6 (heavier than air) |
| Water Reactivity | Slightly soluble in water with no significant reaction under normal conditions |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 2842
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Use positive-pressure SCBA for vapor, dust, mist, fire or confined-space exposure. Wear chemical-resistant gloves, boots, eye/face protection and protective clothing.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 2842 Incident
- Call 911 and the emergency response number on the shipping paper, if available.
- Keep unauthorized personnel away and establish incident command.
- Stay upwind, uphill and upstream.
- Eliminate ignition sources if this can be done safely.
- Avoid breathing vapor, dust, mist, smoke or fumes and avoid skin or eye contact.
- Do not touch damaged containers or spilled material without proper training and PPE.
- Prevent contaminated liquid, dust, runoff and decontamination waste from spreading.
- Ventilate confined spaces only after monitoring and only if properly trained and equipped.
- Use ERG Guide 129, SDS, shipping papers and monitoring to set isolation, evacuation and entry decisions.
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 2842 — NitroethaneUse for: Quick radio or face-to-face size-up. Short, structured, field-ready.
Use for: Incident command briefing, staging area whiteboard, or pre-entry team brief.
Use for: Quick text to command or incoming units. Fits in a single SMS.