Hazard identification (GHS)
- Extremely flammable gas (H220).
- Contains gas under pressure; may explode if heated (H280).
- May react, decompose or explode under pressure, heat or shock even without air.
- Forms explosive acetylides with copper, silver and mercury.
First-aid measures
Inhalation: move the person to fresh air at once. If breathing has stopped, give artificial respiration; administer oxygen if trained. Get medical help immediately. Frostbite from escaping gas: flush with lukewarm water, do not rub.
Handling & storage
- Store and use only with adequate explosion-proof ventilation; acetylene is lighter-limit sensitive.
- Keep cylinders upright, valve caps on, below 52 °C (125 °F), away from ignition sources.
- Separate from oxygen and other oxidisers by at least 6 m (20 ft) or a fire-rated wall.
- Never draw off gas faster than 1/7 of cylinder contents per hour; never exceed 15 psig line pressure.
- Use only approved regulators and flashback arrestors; never use copper or copper-alloy piping.
Physical & chemical properties
Stability & reactivity
Unstable if compressed alone; stable dissolved in acetone/DMF over a porous mass as shipped. Avoid heat, shock, and contact with copper, silver, mercury and strong oxidisers. Hazardous decomposition products: carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, hydrogen.
Transport information
Acetylene, dissolved — Class 2.1, UN 1001, Label: Flammable gas.
This is a summary Safety Data Sheet for reference. For the full signed SDS, grades, purity and cylinder options, contact our team.
Frequently asked questions
Reference summary only, compiled by International Industrial Gases Ltd (updated 2026-07-20). Values are for the compressed-gas form. It does not replace the full signed Safety Data Sheet supplied with the product; always follow the SDS provided with your cylinders.