Nitrous oxide (N2O)

Health Effects
Nitrous oxide is an asphyxiant at high concentrations; lower concentrations affect the central nervous system, cardiovascular, hepatic, hematopoietic systems, reproduction.
RTECS Description:   Tumorigen, Drug, Mutagen, Reproductive Effector
Carcinogenicity:          IARC/NTC Not listed as carcinogenic.

Exposure Limits:
ACGIH:          TLV =             50 ppm
NIOSH           REL =             25 ppm
IDLH =           20 ppm
OSHA:            none

Steri-Trac® N2O Monitor
Availability:                            Special Order
Specifications:*                              
Sensor Type                Infrared
Range:                         0 – 1000 ppm
Resolution:                  10 ppm
Temp Range:               -20 to +50 oC
Response time (t90):     <30 s

Properties and Applications:
Nitrous oxide is a strong oxidizing agent at high temperature and is used as a rocket propellant but shows little of this behavior at room temperature. Nitrous oxide finds application as an analgesic, an anesthetic carrier gas and in food processing (whipped cream) and in diving to reduce nitrogen narcosis.

*Specifications subject to change