Solvents
REACH
Dimethyl sulfoxide
CAS Number
67-68-5
EC Number
200-664-3
FEMA Number
FEMA 3875
Abbreviation
DMSO
What is Dimethyl sulfoxide?
Dimethyl sulfoxide (CAS 67-68-5), commonly known as DMSO, is a high-purity polar aprotic solvent. Also marketed as Syntexan.
Where is Dimethyl sulfoxide used?
- Pharmaceutical manufacturing: reaction solvent and crystallization medium
- Biotechnology and life sciences: cryopreservation of cell lines and carrier solvent in compound libraries
- Topical drug formulations: penetration enhancer improving transdermal delivery of active compounds
- Food and beverage formulations: mild, slightly sulfurous flavoring note
- It dissolves a broad range of compounds and enhances membrane permeability.
Good to know: Approved as a flavoring agent (FEMA 3875). Pharmaceutical-grade material meets USP and Ph. Eur. specifications.
Commercial specifications
- Bulk drums, IBCs, and smaller laboratory packaging
- Technical grade for industrial solvent use; food-grade supply aligned with FEMA-recognized use
Other Names (Synonyms)
Syntexan|sulfinylbis(methane)|S(O)Me2|Rimso-50|Domoso|DMSO|dimetil sulfoxido
What are the physical properties of Dimethyl sulfoxide?
Melting Point 18.5 °C
Boiling Point 189 °C
Density 1.100 g/cm³ @ Temp: 20 °C
Flash Point 192 °F
Appearance colourless liquid
Color clear colorless
Odor Mild garlic odor
Form liquid (temperature dependent)
Water Solubility Soluble in water, methanol, acetone, ether, benzene, chloroform.
Vapor Pressure 0.42 mm Hg ( 20 °C)
Refractive Index n 20/D 1.479(lit.)
Log P -1.35
How is Dimethyl sulfoxide classified and handled safely? Learn More
Warning
GHS07· Irritant GHS08· Health Hazard
Hazard Statements
H227 Combustible liquid
H315 Causes skin irritation
H319 Causes serious eye irritation
H335 May cause respiratory irritation
H371 May cause damage to organs
Precautionary Statements
P210 Keep away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, open flames and other ignition sources. No smoking.
P260 Do not breathe dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling.
Which trade and regulatory codes apply to Dimethyl sulfoxide?
HS Code 29309070
Packing Group III
Storage Class 10 - Combustible liquids
WGK (Germany) 1