ETHYLENE­DIAMINETETRA­ACETIC­ACID ((HOOCH₂)₂N(CH₂COOH)₂)

SYNONYMS
EDTA.
CHARACTERISTICS
Colourless crystals to white crystalline powder.
INCOMPATIBILITY
Mineral acids will cause the insoluble free acid to precipitate.
HEALTH HAZARD DATA
EDTA is generally regarded as non­hazardous and it is permitted to be used as a food additive. However, if swallowed it may cause kidney damage.
HANDLING and GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
Avoid ingestion.
Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Wear protective clothing. A long sleeved laboratory coat or gown, rubber gloves, safety goggles and a face mask as a minimum standard.
TREATMENTS
Skin ­ immediately remove contaminated clothing and wash the affected area with soap or mild detergent and large amounts of water until all evidence of the chemical has been removed (approximately 15 minutes). 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 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 or develops seek medical attention.
Ingestion ­ wash out the mouth thoroughly with water and give water to drink. Induce vomiting by touching a finger to the back of the throat.
STORAGE
Store in a cool, dry atmosphere.
DISPOSAL
WEAR:
Rubber gloves, self contained breathing apparatus or all purpose canister respirator, and laboratory coat.
SPILLS:
Eliminate all sources of ignition. Turn on the fume hood if the acid is volatile. Cover the spill on bench or floor, with an excess of sodium bicarbonate and vermiculite. Mix and scoop into a large beaker of water. When the reaction is complete discharge to the sewer with a large excess of water. Wash the spill site with soap solution.
PACKAGE LOTS: Either
1 Pour on to an excess of sodium bicarbonate. Mix and scoop into a bucket. Dump into a 200 litre drum and fill with water. After 24 hours slowly discharge to sewer with a large excess of water.
OR
2 Pour on to vermiculite in an open incinerator. Cover with scrap wood and paper. Pour waste alcohol over all and ignite with a torch or fuse. Stay on the upwind side.
OR
3 Dissolve in a flammable solvent such as waste alcohol. Spray into an incinerator equipped with an afterburner and scrubber.
ENVIRONMENT:

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