Chemical Properties
Sulfur dioxide is a noncombustible colorless gas at ambient temperatures with a characteristic, strong, suffocating odor. The Odor Threshold is 1.1ppm. Shipped as a liquefied compressed gas.
Potential Exposure
Sulfur dioxide is used in the manufacture of sodium sulfite, sulfuric acid; sulfuryl chloride; thionyl chloride; organic sulfonates; disinfectants, fumigants, glass, wine, ice, industrial and edible protein; and vapor pressure thermometers. It is also used in the bleaching of beet sugar, flour, fruit, gelatin, glue, grain, oil, straw, textiles, wicker ware; wood pulp; and wool; in the tanning of leather; in brewing and preserving; and in the refrigeration industry. Exposure may also occur in various other industrial processes as it is a by-product of ore smelting, coal and fuel oil combustion; paper manufacturing and petroleum refining.
First aid
If this chemical gets into the eyes, remove any contact lenses at once and irrigate immediately for at least 15 minutes, occasionally lifting upper and lower lids. Seek medical attention immediately. If this chemical contacts the skin, remove contaminated clothing and wash immediately with soap and water. Seek medical attention immediately. If this chemical has been inhaled, remove from exposure, begin rescue breathing (using universal precautions, including resuscitation mask) if breathing has stopped and CPR if heart action has stopped. Transfer promptly to a medical facility. When this chemical has been swallowed, get medical attention. 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. If frostbite has occurred, seek medical attention immediately; do NOT rub the affected areas or flush them with water. In order to prevent further tissue damage, do NOT attempt to remove frozen clothing from frostbitten areas. If frostbite has NOT occurred, immediately and thoroughly wash contaminated skin with soap and water.
Shipping
UN1079 Sulfur dioxide, Hazard Class: 2.3; Labels: 2.3-Poisonous gas, 8-Corrosive material, Inhalation Hazard Zone C. Cylinders must be transported in a secure upright position, in a well-ventilated truck. Protect cylinder and labels from physical damage. The owner of the compressed gas cylinder is the only entity allowed by federal law (49CFR) to transport and refill them. It is a violation of transportation regulations to refill compressed gas cylinders without the express written permission of the owner
Incompatibilities
Reacts with water to form sulfurous acid, a medium-strong acid. Reacts violently with ammonia, acrolein, acetylene; alkali metals; such as sodium, potassium, magnesium, and zinc; chlorine, ethylene oxide; amines, butadiene. Attacks many metals including aluminum, iron, steel, brass, copper, nickel; especially in presence of water or steam. Incompatible with halogens. Attacks plastics, rubber and coatings.
Waste Disposal
Return refillable compressed gas cylinders to supplier. Pass into soda ash solution, then add calcium hypochlorite; neutralize and flush to sewer with water (A-38).
