AMMONIUM SULPHATE (NH₄)₂SO₄)

SYNONYMS
Sulphuric acid diammonium salt.
CHARACTERISTICS
White crystalline solid, crystals or crystalline powder.
INCOMPATIBILITY
Heating produces toxic fumes of ammonia and sulphur. Can react violently with strong oxidising agents and bases.
HEALTH HAZARD DATA
This substance is an eye, skin and respiratory tract irritant. When dissolved in water (or body fluids) it is an acid and becomes corrosive. It can be absorbed into the body by inhalation or ingestion. Acute exposure to the eyes and skin may cause redness and pain. Inhalation may cause sore throat, coughing and shortness of breath. Ingestion may cause sore throat, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting.
HANDLING and GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
Avoid skin and eye contact.
Avoid inhalation or ingestion of the powder.
Keep away from heat.
Keep away from strong bases.
Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Wear protective clothing to avoid skin or eye contact, inhalation or ingestion. A long sleeved laboratory coat or gown, rubber gloves, safety goggles and a face mask as a minimum standard.
TREATMENTS
Skin ­ remove contaminated clothing and immediately wash the affected area with large amounts of water until all evidence of the chemical has been removed (approximately 15 minutes). If irritation or pain persist 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 irritation or pain persist seek immediate medical attention.
Inhalation ­ remove from the area of exposure to fresh air. Keep warm and allow to rest. Seek immediate medical advice.
Ingestion ­ rinse the mouth thoroughly with water and give water to drink. Seek immediate medical advice.
STORAGE
Store in a cool, dry atmosphere away from heat and incompatible substances.
DISPOSAL
Wear rubber gloves, safety glasses and laboratory coat.
SMALL 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 or mix with waste hydrocarbon for incineration.
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. The sludge may be added to land fill or mixed with waste hydrocarbon for incineration.
ENVIRONMENT
No data available.

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