Delayed appearance of symptoms may permit unnoticed exposure to lethal quantities of dimethyl sulfate. Decreased body weight and increased mortality have been observed in rats and mice chronically exposed to dimethyl sulfate by inhalation. Human data on the carcinogenic effects of dimethyl sulfate are inadequate, with two studies available. The first study did not report a statistically significant increase in cancer among workers exposed to dimethyl sulfate, and the second study lacked adequate exposure information. Tumors have been observed in the nasal passages, lungs, and thorax of animals exposed to dimethyl sulfate by inhalation.
Dimethyl sulfate is a colorless, oily liquid that is slightly soluble in water.
Uses Dimethyl sulfate is used as a methylating agent in the manufacture of many organic chemicals. It is also used in the manufacture of dyes and perfumes, for the separation of mineral oils, and for the analysis of auto fluids. Formerly, dimethyl sulfate was used as a war gas. References U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. National Library of Medicine, National Toxicology Information Program, Bethesda, MD. 1993.