Fuel oil, residual

Definition

The liquid product from various refinery streams, usually residues. The composition is complex and varies with the source of the crude oil.

General Description

A straw yellow to dark liquid with a petroleum-like odor. Flash point between 73 and 141°F. Less dense than water and insoluble in water. Vapors heavier than air. May irritate the skin, eyes and mucous membranes. Toxic by ingestion or inhalation.

Air & Water Reactions

Flammable. Insoluble in water.

Reactivity Profile

FUEL OIL may be incompatible with strong oxidizing agents like nitric acid. Charring may occur followed by ignition of unreacted material and nearby combustibles. In other settings, mostly unreactive. Not affected by aqueous solutions of acids, alkalis, most oxidizing agents, and most reducing agents. When heated sufficiently or when ignited in the presence of air, oxygen or strong oxidizing agents, burns exothermically. May be ignited by strong oxidizers.

Health Hazard

Inhalation or contact with material may irritate or burn skin and eyes. Fire may produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Vapors may cause dizziness or suffocation. Runoff from fire control or dilution water may cause pollution.

Flammability and Explosibility

Non flammable

Safety Profile

Confirmed carcinogen. When heated to decomposition it emits acrid smoke and irritating vapors.