Chemical Properties
white granular crystals
Definition
ChEBI: An inoganic sodium salt with formula with formula NaAsO2.
Uses
Technical grade in manufacture of arsenical soap for use on skins, for treating vines against certain scale diseases; as insecticide especially for termites.
General Description
A white or grayish-white powder. Denser than water. Contact may irritate skin, eyes and mucous membranes. May be toxic by ingestion, inhalation and skin absorption.
Air & Water Reactions
Soluble in water. Slowly converted in solution to arsenates by atmospheric oxygen; in dry state Sodium m-arsenite is decomposed by carbon dioxide. [EPA, 1998].
Reactivity Profile
Salts, basic, such as SODIUM ARSENITE, are generally soluble in water. The resulting solutions contain moderate concentrations of hydroxide ions and have pH's greater than 7.0. They react as bases to neutralize acids. These neutralizations generate heat, but less or far less than is generated by neutralization of the bases in reactivity group 10 (Bases) and the neutralization of amines. They usually do not react as either oxidizing agents or reducing agents but such behavior is not impossible.
Health Hazard
Extremely toxic: probable oral lethal dose (human) 5-50 mg/kg, between 7 drops and one teaspoon for 70 kg person (150 lb.). Poisonous if swallowed or inhaled. Human suspected carcinogen.
Fire Hazard
Sodium m-arsenite may burn but does not ignite readily. When heated Sodium m-arsenite emits toxic fumes of arsenic and sodium oxide. Slowly converted in solution to arsenates by atmospheric oxygen; in dry state Sodium m-arsenite is decomposed by carbon dioxide.
Hazard
Toxic by ingestion and inhalation.
Potential Exposure
This material is used in manufacturing of arsenical soap for use on skin; treating vines against certain scale diseases; wood preservation; as a reagent in preparation of Methylene iodide; corrosion inhibitor; and for herbicidal and pesticidal purposes
First aid
Move victim to fresh air. Call 911 or emergency medical service. Give artificial respiration if victim is not breathing. Do not use mouth-to-mouth method if victim ingested or inhaled the substance; give artificial respiration with the aid of a pocket mask equipped with a one-way valve or other proper respiratory medical device. Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult. Remove and isolate contaminated clothing and shoes. In case of contact with substance, immediately flush skin or eyes with running water for at least 20 minutes. For minor skin contact, avoid spreading material on unaffected skin. Keep victim warm and quiet. Effects of exposure (inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact) to substance may be delayed. Ensure that medical personnel are aware of the material(s) involved and take precautions to protect themselves. Medical observation is recommended for 24 to 48 hours after breathing overexposure, as pulmonary edema may be delayed. As first aid for pulmonary edema, a doctor or authorized paramedic may consider administering a drug or other inhalation therapy. Antidotes and Special Procedures: For severe poisoning, BAL has been used. For milder poisoning penicillamine (not penicillin) has been used, both with mixed success. Side effects occur with such treatment and it is never a substitute for controlling exposure. It can only be done under strict medical care.
Shipping
UN2027 Sodium arsenite, solid, Hazard Class: 6.1; Labels: 6.1-Poisonous materials. UN1686 Sodium arsenite, aqueous solutions, Hazard Class: 6.1; Labels: 6.1-Poisonous materials.
Incompatibilities
Chemically active metals. Arsine, a very deadly gas, can be released in the presence of acid, acid mists, or hydrogen gas.
Waste Disposal
The arsenic may be precipitated as calcium arsenite. It should be stored until recycled. In accordance with 40CFR165, follow recommendations for the disposal of pesticides and pesticide containers. Must be disposed properly by following package label directions or by contacting your local or federal environmental control agency, or by contacting your regional EPA office.