Chemical Properties
white powder(s); uncertain composition; preparation: passing steam over mixture of CaO and As2O3; uses: insecticide, germicide [MER06] [HAW93]
Uses
As insecticide, germicide, molluscicide.
General Description
A white granular powder. Insoluble in water. Contact may cause irritation to skin, eyes, and mucous membranes. Poisonous by ingestion and inhalation.
Air & Water Reactions
Insoluble in water.
Reactivity Profile
Has only weak oxidizing or reducing power but redox reactions can still occur. Soluble in dilute acids. [Hawley]. Produces toxic fumes of arsenic when heated to decomposition .
Health Hazard
INHALATION: Irritation of nose, laryngitis, bronchitis, huskiness of voice. Chronic exposure - perforation of nasal septum may occur. EYES: Irritation of conjunctiva, edema of eyelids may occur. Chronic exposure - conjunctivitis. SKIN: Skin eruptions and inflammation. Chronic exposure - irritation and occasionally ulceration. INGESTION: Dryness and irritation of mouth, difficulty in swallowing followed by vomiting, severe abdominal pain and diarrhea. Pain in limbs, headache, convulsions, muscular weakness and unconsciousness. Chronic exposure - weakness, loss of appetite, gastrointestinal disturbances, peripheral neuritis, occasionally hepatitis, and skin disorders such as keratitis and pigmentation.
Fire Hazard
Non-combustible, substance itself does not burn but may decompose upon heating to produce corrosive and/or toxic fumes. Containers may explode when heated. Runoff may pollute waterways.
Hazard
A confirmed human carcinogen
