Oxidizers & Peroxides
REACH
Nitrous oxide
CAS Number
10024-97-2
EC Number
233-032-0
E Number
E941
FEMA Number
FEMA 2779
What is Nitrous oxide?
Nitrous oxide (CAS 10024-97-2), also known as E942 and commonly referenced as N2O, is a compressed gas used in pharmaceutical manufacturing and food processing as an aerosol propellant and packaging medium.
Where is Nitrous oxide used?
- Pharmaceutical manufacturing: carrier gas and propellant in metered-dose inhalers and topical aerosol formulations
- Food industry: pressurizing agent in whipped cream dispensers and pressurized food-grade packaging, dissolving into fat-based products without off-flavors
- Medical and dental facilities use it as an inhalation analgesic for procedural sedation.
- Specialty oxidizer in analytical and combustion processes
Good to know: Rapid solubility and inert behavior under pressure suit contamination control. Grade selection affects documentation; confirm intended application before specifying supply.
Commercial specifications
- Fill quantities from small laboratory cylinders to large-volume industrial supply
- Grades: pharmaceutical (Ph. Eur., USP), food-grade (FCC, E942-compliant), technical
- Pharmaceutical-grade supply requires purity documentation and safety certifications
Other Names (Synonyms)
N2O|NOS|laughing gas|nitrous|R-744A|nitrogen protoxide|nitro|nitrious oxide|E942
How is Nitrous oxide classified and handled safely? Learn More
Danger
GHS03· Oxidizing GHS04· Compressed Gas GHS07· Irritant GHS08· Health Hazard
Hazard Statements
H270 May cause or intensify fire; oxidizer [Danger Oxidizing gases]
H336 May cause drowsiness or dizziness [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure; Narcotic effects]
H360 May damage fertility or the unborn child [Danger Reproductive toxicity]
H372 Causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure [Danger Specific target organ toxicity, repeated exposure]
H280 Contains gas under pressure; may explode if heated [Warning Gases under pressure]