Epichlorohydrin, 〖CICH〗_2 〖CHOCH〗_2, an epoxide, is a highly volatile, unstable liquid, with a chloroform- like odor. It is slightly water soluble and has a specific gravity of 1.18, which is heavier than water. Epichlorohydrin is toxic by ingestion, inhalation, and skin absorption. It is a strong irritant and a known carcinogen. The TLV is 2 ppm in air, and the IDLH is 250 ppm. The target organs affected are the respiratory system, skin and kidneys. The four-digit UN identification number is 2023. The NFPA 704 designation is health 3, flammability 3, and reactivity 2. The primary uses are as a raw material for epoxy and phenoxy resins, in the manufacture of glycerol, and as a solvent. The structure and molecular formula for epichlorohydrin are shown in Figure 8.13.