BARIUM CARBONATE (BaCO₃)

SYNONYMS
Carbonic acid, barium salt.
CHARACTERISTICS
White powder, insoluble in water.
INCOMPATIBILITY
with strong oxidising agents and acids.
HEALTH HAZARD DATA
This is a very toxic substance causing lung and kidney damage, heart disorders and nervous system disorders with possible paralysis and death. It is a skin, eye and respiratory tract irritant. Acute exposure to the skin and eyes causes redness and pain. Inhalation causes sore throat, coughing, shortness of breath and possible paralysis. Ingestion causes abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, trembling, faintness, convulsions and paralysis of arms and legs.
HANDLING and GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
Use a fume hood, very toxic.
Avoid skin and eye contact.
Avoid inhalation or ingestion of the powder.
Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
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 persists seek medical advice. Wash contaminated clothing before re­use.
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. If breathing has ceased apply artificial respiration. Keep warm and allow to rest. Seek immediate medical attention.
Ingestion ­ rinse the mouth thoroughly with water then give plenty of water to drink. Induce vomiting by touching a finger to the back of the throat. Seek immediate medical attention. Never give anything by mouth or induce vomiting in a patient who is not conscious.
STORAGE
Store in a cool, dry atmosphere away from acids and oxidising agents.
DISPOSAL
Wear rubber gloves, safety glasses and a laboratory coat.
PACKAGE LOTS AND RECOVERED SPILLS: Dissolve the waste in 6M hydrochloric acid and filter. Neutralise the filtrate with 6M ammonium hydroxide (use litmus) then precipitate with excess sodium carbonate. Filter, wash and dry the precipitate. Dispose of by Waste Disposal Contractor. The sludge may be added to land fill.
ENVIRONMENT
No data available.

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