What is ethylene oxide? Ethylene oxide (EtO) is a flammable, colorless gas at temperatures above 51.3 oF (10.7 oC) that smells like ether at toxic levels. EtO is found in the production of solvents, antifreeze, textiles, detergents, adhesives, polyurethane foam, and pharmaceuticals.

Understanding the Context

Ethylene oxide (EtO) is a flammable, colorless, and reactive gas. It is a synthetic chemical created as a byproduct of human (i.e., anthropogenic) activities or generated as a natural metabolic product of ethylene by microbes, plants, and animals, including humans (i.e., biogenic). Workers may be exposed to EtO if they work in places where EtO is produced or used, such as chemical plants and commercial and hospital sterilizers. These workers may have higher-than-average exposure.

Key Insights

Ethylene oxide (EtO) is a flammable, colorless gas at room temperature with a faint fruit-like odor at high concentrations. EtO is a synthetic/human-made chemical that does not occur naturally in the environment. Very low levels of EtO are present in sterilized packaged foods, spices, and cigarette smoke. Ethylene oxide (EtO) is a colorless and flammable gas with a sweet, fruity odor at room temperature. It dissolves in water, alcohol, and most water-miscible organic solvents.

Final Thoughts

Certain products containing EtO are considered pesticides under federal law because they can be used to kill viruses and bacteria. Ethylene oxide (EtO) is produced in large volumes and is primarily used as an intermediate in the production of several industrial chemicals, the most notable of which is ethylene glycol. Comprehensive up-to-date news coverage, aggregated from sources all over the world by Google News. NPR news, audio, and podcasts. Coverage of breaking stories, national and world news, politics, business, science, technology, and extended coverage of major national and world events.