ABC of Safety in the Biological Sciences
ALUMINIUM AMMONIUM SULPHATE (AlNH4(SO4)2.12H2O)
SYNONYMS
Ammonium alum, ammonium aluminium alum, aluminum ammonium
sulphate, burnt ammonium alum, burnt ammonium sulphate,
exsiccated ammonium sulphate, aluminum ammonium sulphate.
CHARACTERISTICS
White odourless colourless crystals or crystalline powder.
INCOMPATIBILITY
Heating produces toxic fumes.
Avoid strong bases - can react violently.
HEALTH HAZARD DATA
This substance is regarded as having a low toxicity. It combines
with moisture in the eyes, respiratory tract and
gastrointestinal tract to form a weak sulphuric acid solution
which can cause burning and irritation. It may be harmful if
ingested, particularly in large amounts, causing
gastrointestinal irritation, stomach burns, nausea, vomiting,
abdominal pain and diarrhoea. Skin contact may cause
sensitisation in some individuals. Recent studies in Britain
have suggested that a line exists between ingestion of aluminium
and senile dementia. Introduction of aluminium compounds
directly into the bloodstream may contribute to the development
of neurological effects resembling senility.
HANDLING and GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
Avoid eye contact.
Avoid inhalation of the powder.
Avoid heat.
Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Cover open sores and cuts.
Wear protective clothing to avoid eye contact and inhalation. A
long sleeved laboratory coat or gown, rubber gloves, safety
goggles and a face mask as a minimum standard.
TREATMENTS
Skin wash the affected area with large amounts of water until
all evidence of the chemical has been removed (approximately 15
minutes). If irritation develops seek medical advice.
Eyes immediately wash the affected eye with large amounts of
water until all evidence of the chemical has been removed
(approximately 15 minutes). If discomfort persists seek medical
attention.
Inhalation remove from the area of exposure to fresh air. If
discomfort or irritation persist seek medical attention.
Ingestion wash out the mouth with water and give plenty of
water to drink. DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING. If ingested in large
amounts seek medical attention.
STORAGE
Store in a cool, dry atmosphere away from heat.
DISPOSAL
Wear rubber gloves, safety glasses and laboratory coat.
SPILLS
Solid - collect in a beaker, dissolve in a large amount of
water. Add soda ash, mix and neutralise with 6M hydrochloric
acid and discharge to sewer with large excess of water.
Solution - cover with soda ash, mix and scoop into a beaker of
water. Neutralise with 6M hydrochloric acid and discharge to
sewer with a large excess of water.
PACKAGE LOTS: Add slowly to a large container of water. Stir in
a slight excess of soda ash. Let stand for 24 hours. Decant or
siphon into another container and neutralise with 6M
hydrochloric acid. Discharge to sewer with a large excess of
water. The sludge may be added to land fill.
ENVIRONMENT
No data available.
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