The synthesis of diethyl ether consists of the heating ethanol (alcohol) and sulfuric acid. Valerius Cordus, a German botanist and chemist, was the first person to synthesize diethyl ether in 1540. He called it, "sweet oil of vitriol." In 1561, a description of the preparation of diethyl ether was provided by Valerius Cordus' editor, Conrad Gesner. A contemporary to Valerius, Paracelsus, noticed that the "oil" induced the chickens to go to sleep when added to their food. This discovery lead to using diethyl ether as a surgical anesthetic (1842). However, today it is no longer used as an anesthetic because it is extremely flammable. Diethyl ether is mainly used as a solvent for other chemicals (bromine and iodine), fatty substances, volatile oils, pure rubber, and alkaloids. Additionally it is used as a volatile starting fluid for diesel and gasoline engines (in cold weather).
When exposed to diethyl ether, it is mildly irritating to the skin, eyes (in some cases), and mucous membranes. When inhaled, it goes into a person's bloodstream and lungs. When handling this chemical, precautions should be taken because it is very flammable. This is why the use of this substance as an anesthetic was discontinued. The vapor and liquid form is heavier than air so it can spread distances, and it can accumulate static charge by flow or agitation. In the presence of light and air, it slowly forms explosive peroxides. So, when storing this chemical, it should be kept in the following conditions:
When exposed to diethyl ether, it is mildly irritating to the skin, eyes (in some cases), and mucous membranes. When inhaled, it goes into a person's bloodstream and lungs. When handling this chemical, precautions should be taken because it is very flammable. This is why the use of this substance as an anesthetic was discontinued. The vapor and liquid form is heavier than air so it can spread distances, and it can accumulate static charge by flow or agitation. In the presence of light and air, it slowly forms explosive peroxides. So, when storing this chemical, it should be kept in the following conditions:
- cool, dry area
- out of direct sunlight
- away from heat/ignition
- lighted matches/cigarettes should not be near storage areas
- store away from oxidizers, corrosives, and incompatible materials (which increases the risk of fire and explosion), rather store with compatible materials