Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for Silver Mercury Chloride in South Africa

Looking for comprehensive safety and handling information on silver mercury chloride in South Africa? This complete guide provides an SEO-optimized overview of the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for silver mercury chloride, including key identification, hazards, safe storage, handling, emergency procedures, FAQs, problems and solutions, focus keywords, and SEO tags.

1. Product Identification

Product Name: Silver Mercury Chloride
Chemical Formula: AgHgCl
CAS Number: 7783-80-4
Application: Used in chemical research, industrial synthesis, and occasionally in analytical chemistry.

2. Hazards IdentificationHazard TypeDescriptionHealth HazardsToxic by inhalation, ingestion, and skin absorptionEnvironmentalVery toxic to aquatic life; persistent in the environmentPhysical HazardsNon-flammable, but hazardous when heated or decomposedSignal WordsDanger, Toxic, Environmental Hazard

GHS Classification: Acute toxicity (oral, dermal, inhalation), Chronic aquatic toxicity

3. Composition and Ingredients Component Concentration Silver Mercury Chloride99% (typical purity)

4. First Aid Measures

Inhalation: Move person to fresh air. Seek medical attention immediately.
Skin Contact: Remove contaminated clothing. Wash skin thoroughly with soap and water.
Eye Contact: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses if present. Seek medical advice.
Ingestion: Do NOT induce vomiting. Rinse mouth and seek medical help immediately.

5. Fire Fighting Measures

Suitable Extinguishing Media: Use dry chemical, CO₂, or foam for surrounding fire. Product itself is not flammable.
Special Hazards: Heating may produce toxic mercury vapors.
Protective Equipment: Firefighters should wear self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and full protective gear.

6. Accidental Release Measures

Spill Response: Evacuate area. Wear PPE. Avoid creating dust. Collect and contain spill with inert material. Transfer to a sealed container for disposal.
Environmental Precaution: Prevent from entering drains, sewers, or waterways.

7. Handling and Storage

Handling: Use in a fume hood or well-ventilated area. Avoid contact with skin and eyes. Do not breathe dust.
Storage: Store in a tightly closed, labeled container in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place away from incompatible substances.

8. Exposure Controls and Personal ProtectionProtection TypeRequirementRespiratoryApproved respirator if exposure riskSkin/BodyChemical-resistant gloves, lab coatEye/FaceSafety goggles or face shieldHygieneWash hands after handling

9. Physical and Chemical PropertiesPropertyValue/DescriptionAppearanceWhite to off-white crystalline solidOdorOdorlessSolubilityInsoluble in waterMelting PointDecomposes before meltingMolecular Weight360.02 g/mol

10. Stability and Reactivity

Stability: Stable under normal conditions
Incompatibilities: Strong acids, strong bases, ammonia, reducing agents
Decomposition: May emit toxic fumes of mercury and silver compounds when heated

11. Toxicological Information

Acute Toxicity: Highly toxic by all routes of exposure
Chronic Effects: Prolonged exposure may cause kidney, liver, and nervous system damage
Symptoms: Headache, nausea, tremors, skin irritation, respiratory distress

12. Ecological Information

Environmental Impact: Very toxic to aquatic organisms, may cause long-term adverse effects
Persistence: Does not readily degrade

13. Disposal Considerations

Waste Disposal: Dispose of as hazardous chemical waste in accordance with South African and local regulations. Do not release into the environment.

14. Transport Information

UN Number: 2025
Hazard Class: 6.1 (Toxic substances)
Packing Group: II
Proper Shipping Name: Mercury compound, n.o.s. (Silver Mercury Chloride)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is silver mercury chloride legal in South Africa?
A1: It is regulated as a hazardous material. Usage, handling, and disposal require compliance with national and international laws.

Q2: What are the main dangers of silver mercury chloride?
A2: High toxicity to humans and the environment, especially through inhalation or ingestion.

Q3: How should accidental exposure be handled?
A3: Follow the first aid steps outlined in the MSDS and seek immediate medical attention.

Q4: Can silver mercury chloride be disposed of in regular waste?
A4: No. It must be disposed of as hazardous waste according to local regulations.

Q5: What PPE is recommended?
A5: Chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles or face shield, lab coat, and appropriate respiratory protection.

Common Problems and Solutions

Problem: Accidental spills or exposure.
Solution: Evacuate area, use appropriate PPE, clean up with inert materials, and seek medical help if exposed.

Problem: Environmental contamination risk.
Solution: Store and dispose of properly, ensure containment, and prevent release into waterways.

Problem: Procuring compliant packaging and transport.
Solution: Use certified suppliers familiar with hazardous materials regulations for safe transport and packaging.

Problem: Staff unaware of hazards.
Solution: Provide regular training on MSDS, PPE, and emergency procedures.

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Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for Silver Mercury Chloride in South Africa