Definition
Formed when arsenic and metal oxide particles are driven off during the roasting and converting of copper concentrates and matte in the production of anode copper.
General Description
A grayish-colored powder. Insoluble in water. Toxic by inhalation (dust) and by ingestion.
Air & Water Reactions
Insoluble in water.
Reactivity Profile
ARSENIC reacts incandescently with bromine trifluoride, even at 10°C [Mellor 2:113 1946-47]. Causes bromoazide to explode upon contact. Ignites if ground up together with solid potassium permanganate [Mellor 12:322 1946-47]. Is oxidized by sodium peroxide with incandescence [Mellor 2:490-93 1946-47]. A combination of finely divided arsenic with finely divided bromates (also chlorates and iodates) of barium, calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, or zinc can explode by heat, percussion, and friction [Mellor 2:310 1946-47]. Bromine pentafluoride reacts readily in the cold with arsenic. Ignition usually occurs. Reacts vigorously with fluorine at ordinary temperatures [Mellor 9:34 1946-47].
Health Hazard
Highly toxic, may be fatal if inhaled, swallowed or absorbed through skin. Contact with molten substance may cause severe burns to skin and eyes. Avoid any skin contact. Effects of contact or inhalation may be delayed. Fire may produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Runoff from fire control or dilution water may be corrosive and/or toxic and cause pollution.
Fire Hazard
Combustible material: may burn but does not ignite readily. Containers may explode when heated. Runoff may pollute waterways. Substance may be transported in a molten form.
Safety Profile
Confirmed human
carcinogen with experimental tumorigenic
data. Poison by inhalation and ingestion. See
also ARSENIC COMPOUNDS.
