UN 2560 — Methylpentanol
Placard: Flammable. ERG Guide 129. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
Methylpentanol is a flammable alcohol liquid shipped as UN 2560. The main response issues are vapor ignition, flashback and possible drain or confined-space accumulation.
Hazard overview: Vapors can form explosive mixtures with air and travel to ignition sources. Spill control should prevent entry into drains, sewers and low spaces where vapor can accumulate.
Response guidance: Eliminate ignition sources, isolate the spill and ventilate only with monitoring. Use alcohol-resistant foam, dry chemical or CO2 for fire control; cool containers with water spray from a safe position.
Firefighter training notes: Train crews on alcohol flammable liquid response, vapor monitoring and drain protection. Emphasize flashback and low-area hazards.
Regulatory context: UN 2560 is transported as Methylpentanol, Class 3 flammable liquid. Confirm exact isomer, packing group and emergency contact information.
Storage & handling: Store in grounded, closed containers in a flammable liquid area away from heat, sparks, oxidizers and open flame.
UN 2560 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 2560
- Methylpentanol is a flammable liquid; vapor can ignite from heat, sparks, static or flame.
- Vapors may form explosive mixtures with air in confined or poorly ventilated spaces.
- Vapor can travel along surfaces to ignition sources and flash back.
- Runoff to drains or sewers can create fire or explosion hazards.
- Containers may rupture when heated.
- Liquid contact may irritate skin and eyes.
- Fire may produce irritating smoke and carbon oxides.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
Methylpentanol is a colorless liquid with a characteristic alcohol odor. It is slightly soluble in water and its vapor is heavier than air.
| Also known as | tert-Butylethanol2-Methyl-2-pentanoltert-Hexyl alcoholDimethylethylcarbinol1,1-Dimethyl-1-butanol |
| CAS Number | 590-36-3 |
| Appearance | Colorless liquid with a characteristic alcohol odor. Lighter than water and volatile at room temperature. |
| Flash Point | 41°C (106°F) |
| Boiling Point | 121-122°C (250-252°F) |
| Vapor Density | 3.5 (heavier than air) |
| Water Reactivity | No significant reaction with water; slightly soluble in water |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 2560
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Use SCBA in confined spaces, fire or high vapor conditions. Wear chemical-resistant gloves, splash protection and protective clothing.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 2560 Incident
- Call 911 and the emergency response number on the shipping papers.
- Keep unauthorized personnel away and remove ignition sources if safe.
- Stay upwind, uphill and upstream; avoid low vapor-collection areas.
- Avoid breathing vapor and prevent skin or eye contact.
- Do not touch damaged containers or spilled liquid without PPE.
- Ventilate confined spaces only if trained, equipped and monitored.
- Use ERG 129, SDS and shipping papers to confirm foam selection, isolation and cleanup.
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 2560 — MethylpentanolUse 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.