T-BUTYL METHYL ETHER
Solvent
Moderate
CAS Number: 1634-04-4
About T-BUTYL METHYL ETHER
A volatile ether solvent once widely used in fuel formulations but finding limited application in cosmetics, primarily as a processing aid or extractant.
Detailed Analysis
tert-Butyl methyl ether (MTBE, CAS 1634-04-4) is primarily an industrial solvent. In cosmetics it may appear as a residual solvent from manufacturing or in specialty extraction processes. MTBE is classified by the EU as a substance of concern due to groundwater contamination potential from fuel spills, but it is not classified as a skin toxicant or sensitiser under CLP. Not listed on any EU cosmetic annexes but is restricted in certain environmental contexts under REACH.
What It Does
Known Concerns
- ⚠ Primarily an environmental concern rather than a direct skin toxicity issue
- ⚠ Volatile organic compound (VOC) with atmospheric oxidation potential
- ⚠ Residual solvent concern requires purity verification from manufacturers
Safety Score
Moderate
Based on EU regulatory data, published safety research, and ingredient function analysis.
References
EU CosIng Database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry
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