ABC of Safety in the Biological Sciences
PHOSPHOTUNGSTIC ACID (H3PO4.12WO3.xH2O)
SYNONYMS
Dodecatungstophosphoric acid.
GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
Avoid eye contact.
Avoid inhalation of the dust.
Keep away from heat.
Keep away from reducing substances.
Keep away from metals.
Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
CHARACTERISTICS
White or yellowish crystals or crystalline powder.
HEALTH HAZARD DATA
This substance is an eye irritant and is mildly corrosive.
Inhalation of the dust is harmful. There is no data available on
ingestion although it is assumed to be toxic. There is no data
available on skin contact although as the substance is mildly
corrosive it is assumed that irritation will occur.
TREATMENTS
Skin immediately wash the affected area with large amounts of
water until all evidence of the chemical has been removed
(approximately 15 minutes). If signs of irritation develop seek
medical attention.
Eyes immediately wash the affected eye with large amounts of
water until all evidence of the chemical has been removed
(approximately 20 minutes). If irritation persists seek medical
attention.
Inhalation remove from the area of exposure to fresh air.
In severe cases or if irritation persists seek medical
attention. Ingestion wash the mouth thoroughly with water
followed by Milk of Magnesia to drink. Milk of Magnesia is
available off the shelf in pharmacies. Seek medical advice.
INCOMPATIBILITY
Avoid contact with metals to prevent reduction.
Heating produces highly toxic fumes of phosphorus compounds.
Reducing substances produce instability in this compound.
STORAGE
Store in a cool, dry atmosphere away from heat and incompatible
substances.
HANDLING
Wear protective clothing to avoid skin or eye contact and
inhalation of the dust. A long sleeved laboratory coat or gown,
rubber gloves, safety goggles and a face mask as a minimum
standard.
DISPOSAL
WEAR:
Rubber gloves, laboratory coat and self contained breathing
apparatus. have a body shield available.
SPILLS:
Cover the contaminated surface with sodium bicarbonate or soda
ash-slaked lime mixture (50/50). Mix, and add water if necessary
to form a slurry. scoop up the slurry and discharge to the sewer
with a large excess of water.. wash the spill site with a soda
ash solution.
PACKAGE LOTS:
Add slowly to a large volume of an agitated solution of soda ash
and slaked lime until the solution i
s neutral. Discharge to the sewer with a large excess of water.
ENVIRONMENT:
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