Silver Nitrate Hazards
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Silver Nitrate hazards classifications change on 1 December 2010. Prior to this date,. Silver Nitrate is classified under CHiP REgulations which stand for 'Chemicals (Hazard Information and Packaging) for Supply Regulations 2009. After 1 December 2010, Silver Nitrate hazards are classified according to CLP Regulations (EC) No 1727/2008.
Silver Nitrate is an organic compound and in its solid state appears as a crystalline powder which is colourless to white and which has a transparency. In liquid form, Silver Nitrate solutions are colourless and odourless and are made in a wide range of strengths which are known as ‘molarities’ and these are standardised and certified by the manufacturer.
Prior to 1 December 2010, Silver Nitrate classifications under CHiP Regulations are as follows:-
- Oxidising; O; R8; Contact with combustible material may cause fire
- Corrosive; C; R34; Causes burns
- Hazardous to the environment; N; R50/53; Very toxic to aquatic organisms, may cause long term advser effects in the aquatic environment
From 1 December 2010, Silver Nitrate classifiications under CLP Regulations are as follows:-
- Skin Corrosion Category 1B; H314; Causes severe skin burns and eye damage
- Hazardous to the aquatic environment; Acute Hazard Category 1
- Hazarous to the aquatic environment; Chronic Hazard Category 1
- H40; Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects
Silver Nitrate has the following toxicological properties:-
- Inhalation - irritation of the mucous membranes, coughing
- Skin contact - burns. Will cause the skin to darken on exposed areas and cause burns after sustained contact
- Eye contact - can cause serious burns with possible blindness
- Ingestion - will cause burns to the throat, mouth, oesophagus and gastrointestinal tract, large amounts may even be fatal
Silver Nitrate solids cause burns and are very Toxic to aquatic organisms, causing long-term adverse effects in aquatic environments. For this reason, Silver Nitrate must never be allowed to enter water systems or drains. The Environment Agency or other regulatory body should be informed in the case of large spillages to land or water. If Silver Nitrate has entered the foul drain, the local water tratement company should be informed when the amounts are sufficient to present a hazard.
Silver Nitrate solids may cause permanent damage to eyes if not immediately irrigated. Contact lenses should be removed before eye irrigation. Medical attention should be sought immediately.
Silver Nitrate solutions are irritating to skin and eyes and can cause burns, whilst ingestion of Silver Nitrate solutions can cause stomach pain, vomiting and diarrhoae.
Although Silver Nitrate solids are not combustible, they may ignite surrounding combustible materials so for this reason, Silver Nitrate solids should always be stored away from combustible materials. In the case of fire, Toxic gases may be formed so self-contained breathing apparatus and full protection clothing should be worn in the event of fire. Silver Nitrate solutions are non-combustible but heating may produce toxic vapours or gases and so protective clothing, including breathing apparatus, should be worn.
Inhalation of Silver Nitrate solids causes Irritation to the respiratory system and may damage the sensitive mucous membranes in the nose, throat, lungs and bronchial system.
Ingestion of Silver Nitrate solids may cause severe internal injury, causing burns to the mouth, throat, oesophagus and gastro-intestinal tract. If large amounds of Silver Nitrate solids are ingested, this can cause vomiting, diarrhoea and even death.
Silver Nitrate hazards exist both in solid form and as a liquid even when fairly small volumes are involved. As Silver Nitrate is extremely light-sensitive, it is imperative that both the solid crystals and the liquid solutions are kept away from any form of light. As Silver Nitrate is used to test for Chlorides by the titration method, when Silver Nitrate crystals are dissolved, it is essential that extremely pure water is used. Even the slightest trace of Chlorine in the water will cause the whole solution to turn black.
Due to its extreme light-sensitivity, Silver Nitrate must be stored in opaque containers, usually black or blue and made of either plastic or glass. Solid Silver Nitrate salts will also turn black if they come into contact with any Chlorides and the salts must be kept dry.
UN approved packaging is essential for transporting Silver Nitrate and the ADR Regulations govern correct Silver Nitrate packaging, Silver Nitrate labelling and transporting Silver Nitrate.
For further information on other aspects of Silver Nitrate, including Silver Nitrate manufacture, labelling and packaging, please refer to the relevant pages of this website. Silver Nitrate synonyms include AgNO3 and Lunar Caustic.
http://www.silver-nitrate.co.uk/silver-nitrate-hazards | Saved Thursday, November 17th, 2011 - 11:38 AM