ABC of Safety in the Biological Sciences

 


 

ALUMINIUM NITRATE (Al(NO3)3)

SYNONYMS
Aluminium trinitrate, aluminum nitrate, aluminum nitrate nonahydrate.
CHARACTERISTICS
White, odourless crystals, deliquescent. Will absorb atmospheric moisture.
INCOMPATIBILITY
Can react violently with some metals and may be explosive. Keep away from combustible materials. When combined with moisture will corrode some metals.
HEALTH HAZARD DATA
Will cause irritation and burning of eyes. Skin contact can cause redness and pain especially if the skin is moist. Irritating to the nose and throat. Inhalation may cause sore throat, coughing and shortness of breath. Ingestion may cause dizziness, stomach irritation, abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, weakness, convulsion and collapse. The nitrogen component can cause damage to the oxygen transport system of the body. Introduction of aluminium compounds directly into the bloodstream may contribute to the development of neurological effects resembling senility.
HANDLING and GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
Avoid skin and eye contact.
Avoid inhalation or ingestion of the powder.
Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Cover open sores and cuts.
Keep away from moisture.
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 ­ Remove contaminated clothing, shoes and wristband. Wash the affected area with large amounts of water until all evidence of the chemical has been removed (approximately 15 minutes). If necessary seek medical attention. Wash contaminated clothing before re-use.
Eyes ­ immediately wash the affected eye with large amounts of water until all evidence of the chemical has been removed (approximately 15 minutes). If irritation or burning persists seek immediate medical attention.
Inhalation ­ remove from the area of exposure to fresh air. If breathing has ceased apply artificial respiration, Keep warm and allow to rest. If irritation persists seek medical attention.
Ingestion ­ wash out the mouth thoroughly with water and seek immediate medical attention. DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING.
STORAGE
Store in a cool, dry atmosphere away from incompatible substances. Keep the lid tightly closed. Keep away from heat and ignition sources.
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 if local laws allow, 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 if local laws allow, 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. If local laws allow, 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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