OECD experts conclude that DMSO is safe for human health and the environment

Mo, 19 May 2008

On behalf of the DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide) World Producers Association, Arkema, one of DMSO world leader, has collated the physical-chemical, toxicological and ecotoxicological data available on this substance, and submitted a SIDS to OECD experts committee as part of the voluntary program of the ICCA (International Council of Chemical Associations) on chemical substances produced in large quantities (High Production Volume).

Following a meeting held from April 16 to 18 2008 (SIAM 26),the OECD experts concluded that DMSO does not represent a significant hazard for human health or the environment, and therefore does not require further toxicological or ecotoxicological studies. These conclusions are in accordance with the absence of DMSO classification as dangerous material based on European regulations criteria, and the absence of specific transport regulations.

Hence DMSO is confirmed as the sustainable reference solvent to replace solvents that are hazardous to health such as N-methylpyrrolidone (NMP), dimethylformamide (DMF), and dimethylacetamide.

DMSO is used as a polar aprotic solvent in a wide range of applications, including pharmaceutical synthesis, agrochemical synthesis and formulations, electronics (photoresist stripping and cleaning), polymer applications,and paint stripping.