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Glacial Acetic Acid Safety Notes
From 2011.igem.org
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Corrosive, penetrates latex gloves, do not inhale or ingest, use under a hood, flammable or explosive if mixed with air at teperatures over 102 degrees Fahrenheit, special storage conditions
Contents |
Chemical Formula
Glacial acetic acid is a trivial name for water-free (anhydrous) acetic acid. Acetic acid is an organic compound with the chemical formula CH3COOH. It is a colourless liquid that when undiluted is also called glacial acetic acid. Although it is classified as a weak acid, acetic acid is highly dangerous to skin. A common abbreviation for acetic acid is HOAc, where Ac stands for the acetyl group CH3−C(=O)−.
Safe Usage
This chemical penetrates ordinary latex gloves. Use nitrile rubber gloves. Double-gloving is a good precaution. You should wear full protection in addition to non-latex gloves: lab coat, googles or face mask, covered lower extremities. You should ALWAYS use this chemical under a ventilation hood.
Safe Storage
Because of its low conbustion temperature, glacial acetic acid is best stored in a refrigerator or -4 degree Centigrade freezer. This is much safer than storing it in an ordinary lab cabinet, even if it is a locked, metal cabinet. It is generally stored in a small-necked glass container. The small neck reduces splash hazard if there is a spill, and the glass is not affected by the corrosive properties of the acid. It should not be stored near strong oxidizers like sodium peroxide, nitric acid and chromic acid.
Hazardous Properties and Proper Emergency Procedures
Class II Combustible Liquid: Fl.P. at or above 100°F and below 140°F.
Incompatibilities & Reactivities
Strong oxidizers (especially chromic acid, sodium peroxide & nitric acid), strong caustics [Note: Corrosive to metals.]
Exposure Routes
inhalation, skin and/or eye contact
Symptoms
irritation eyes, skin, nose, throat; eye, skin burns; skin sensitization; dental erosion; black skin, hyperkeratosis; conjunctivitis, lacrimation (discharge of tears); pharyngeal edema, chronic bronchitis
Target Organs
Eyes, skin, respiratory system, teeth
