CHROMIUM CHLORIDE (CrCl₃.6H₂O)

SYNONYMS
Chromic chloride, chromium chloride hexahydrate.
CHARACTERISTICS
Dark green deliquescent crystals.
INCOMPATIBILITY
Chromium chloride is incompatible with moisture and oxidising agents. Heating produces toxic fumes of chlorine.
HEALTH HAZARD DATA
This substance is a severe irritant through all routes of exposure and is toxic. It can be absorbed through the skin in doses large enough to cause toxicity. High concentrations are extremely destructive to tissues of the mucous membranes and upper respiratory tract, eyes and skin. Symptoms of exposure may include burning sensation, coughing, wheezing, laryngitis, shortness of breath, headache, nausea, and vomiting. It may cause allergic skin reactions in some individuals.
HANDLING and GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
Use a fume hood, very toxic.
Avoid skin and eye contact.
Avoid inhalation or ingestion of the powder.
Keep away from heat.
Keep away from moisture.
Keep the container tightly closed.
Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Use a fume hood to keep the level of exposure below the recommended threshold limit, i.e. 0.5 mg/m³ OHSA. If the level of exposure is expected to exceed this limit then a respirator is recommended. Wear protective clothing. 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 persists or an allergic reaction develops seek immediate medical attention. 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 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. Seek medical attention.
Ingestion ­ wash the mouth thoroughly with water and then give water to drink. Induce vomiting by touching a finger to the back of the throat. Seek immediate medical attention.
STORAGE
Store in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dry atmosphere away from moisture, heat and incompatible chemicals.
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. If a spill contains a fluoride, add slaked lime in addition to the above treatment.
PACKAGE LOTS:
Add slowly to a large container of water. Stir in a slight excess of soda ash. If fluoride is present add slaked lime. 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

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