Dimethylformamide is unstable (especially at high temperatures) in the presence of a strong base such as sodium hydroxide or a strong acid such as hydrochloric acid or sulfuric acid, and is hydrolyzed to formic acid and dimethylamine.
| Appearance: | Transparent colorless liquid |
| Density: | 0.945 |
| Melting point: | -61°C |
| Boiling point: | 153°C |
| Refractive index: | 1.429-1.432 |
| Flash point: | 58°C |
| Vapor pressure: | 3.7 mm Hg at 77 °F ; 2.7 mm Hg at 68° F (NTP, 1992) |
| Corrosiveness: | Pure dimethylformamide is essentially noncorrosive to metals. However, copper, tin and their alloys should be avoided. |
| Decomposition: | When heated to decomposition it emits toxic fumes of /nitrogen oxides/. |
| Flammability: | DMF is a combustible liquid (NFPA rating = 2). Vapors are heavier than air and may travel to source of ignition and flash back. DMF vapor forms explosive mixtures with air at concentrations of 2.2 to 15.2% (by volume). Carbon dioxide or dry chemical extinguishers should be used to fight DMF fires. |
| Storage: | Storage precautions Store in a cool, ventilated warehouse. The warehouse temperature should not exceed 37°C. Keep away from fire and heat sources. Keep the container sealed. It should be stored separately from oxidants, reducing agents, halogens, etc., and must not be mixed. Use explosion-proof lighting and ventilation facilities. It is prohibited to use mechanical equipment and tools that are prone to sparks. The storage area should be equipped with leakage emergency treatment equipment and appropriate containment materials. |
