CAS Number: 77-78-1. A clear, oily liquid with a faint
onion odor. Used as a methylating agent in the manufacture of
many organic chemicals, dyes and perfumes, for the separation
of mineral oils, and for the analysis of auto fluids. Chemical
formula = C2H6O4S. Molecular weight = 126.13 g/mol.
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Exposure to dimethyl sulfate is primarily occupational. Acute
(short-term) exposure of humans to the vapors of dimethyl sulfate
may cause severe inflammation and necrosis of the eyes, mouth,
and respiratory tract. Acute oral or inhalation exposure to
dimethyl sulfate primarily damages the lungs but also injures the
liver, kidneys, heart, and central nervous system (CNS), while
dermal contact with dimethyl sulfate may produce severe
blistering in humans. Human data on the carcinogenic effects of
dimethyl sulfate are inadequate. Tumors have been observed in
the nasal passages, lungs, and thorax of animals exposed to
dimethyl sulfate by inhalation. EPA has classified dimethyl
sulfate as a Group B2, probable human carcinogen.