The hydrolysis of produces insoluble and (
methanol). Even at low concentrations inhalation causes lung lesions, and at slightly higher concentrations eye contact with the vapor causes blindness. At low concentrations (200 ppm per 15 min) the damage is often insidious, with onset of symptoms hours after exposure. The mode of action is the precipitation of
silica in the eyes and/or lungs. Contrary to common information, including several erroneous
MSDS sheets, the methanol produced is only a risk through chronic exposure and is a comparatively small concern. The mechanisms of
methanol toxicity are well established, methanol causes blindness via conversion to
formaldehyde, then to toxic
formic acid in the liver; methanol splashes to the eye cause only moderate and reversible eye irritation. ==References==