Dimethyl Ether
- Other solvents
- CAS 115-10-6
- IUPAC: Methoxymethane
CarCareTruth tracks Dimethyl Ether (CAS 115-10-6) as a car-care ingredient. It is classified as a VOC.
AIHA TWA 1,000 ppm (1,880 mg/m³). Acts primarily as a central nervous system depressant at high inhalation concentrations (narcotic). Propellant concentrations in aerosol cans are sufficient to cause cardiac sensitization (like propane) in confined-space abuse scenarios. No Prop 65 listing. Flash point approximately −41°C — extremely flammable.
Dimethyl ether (DME, CAS 115-10-6) is a simple ether used as an aerosol propellant and co-solvent. It is extremely flammable (flash point −41°C) and extremely volatile, which makes it effective at reducing can pressure and aiding atomization in aerosol undercoating sprays. Unlike chlorofluorocarbon propellants, DME does not deplete the ozone layer and is the standard modern choice for non-flammable-gas aerosol propellant systems. At 1–5% in an undercoating formula, it contributes to VOC content and flammability classification.
Health & environment profile
- VOC
- yes
- Prop 65 listed
- no
- Asthmagen
- no
- EPA Safer Choice
- no
- Aquatic toxicity
- no
- Biodegradable
- yes
- Bioaccumulative
- no
- Persistent
- no
- Ozone depleting
- no
- Microplastic
- no
- PFAS
- no
- Env. score
- 5/5
Common questions about Dimethyl Ether
- What is Dimethyl Ether used for in car care?
- Co-solvent and aerosol propellant; very volatile ether used to lower viscosity and aid atomization in aerosol coatings
- Is Dimethyl Ether a VOC?
- Yes. Dimethyl Ether is classified as a volatile organic compound (VOC).
- Is Dimethyl Ether on California's Proposition 65 list?
- No. Dimethyl Ether is not on California's Proposition 65 list.
- Is Dimethyl Ether biodegradable?
- Yes. Dimethyl Ether has a confirmed biodegradable profile.
No products on file contain this (yet)
Related
Health and environment notes translate the manufacturer Safety Data Sheet, the GHS classification, and authoritative regulatory listings (California Prop 65, EPA). Not medical advice. They describe the ingredient itself; whether a hazard applies to a finished product depends on its concentration and how it's used.