FERRIC CHLORIDE (FeCl₃)

SYNONYMS
Ferric chloride hexahydrate, iron trichloride, ferric perchloride, iron sesquichloride, iron chloride.
CHARACTERISTICS
Deep yellowish­brown liquid.
INCOMPATIBILITY
Ferric chloride is incompatible with:
Allyl chloride, sodium and potassium. Heating produces toxic hydrogen chloride gas.
HEALTH HAZARD DATA
Moderately toxic by ingestion but a strong irritant to the skin and eyes. It is moderately corrosive and skin contact should be avoided.
HANDLING and GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
Avoid skin and eye contact.
Avoid ingestion.
Keep away from heat.
Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Wear protective clothing to avoid skin or eye contact. A long sleeved laboratory coat or gown, rubber gloves and safety goggles as a minimum standard.
TREATMENTS
Skin ­ remove contaminated clothing then 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. 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. If irritation or pain persist seek medical attention.
Ingestion ­ wash the mouth thoroughly with water and give plenty of water or milk to drink and seek immediate medical attention.
STORAGE
Store in a cool, dry atmosphere away from heat or incompatible substances.
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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