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POTASSIUMICSC: 0716 (April 2006)
Kalium
CAS #: 7440-09-7
UN #: 2257
EC Number: 231-119-8

  ACUTE HAZARDS PREVENTION FIRE FIGHTING
FIRE & EXPLOSION Highly flammable. Many reactions may cause fire or explosion. Gives off irritating or toxic fumes (or gases) in a fire.  Risk of fire and explosion on contact with acids, halogens or water.  NO contact with water, acids or halogens. NO open flames, NO sparks and NO smoking.    Use special powder, dry sand. NO other agents.  Combat fire from a sheltered position. 

   
  SYMPTOMS PREVENTION FIRST AID
Inhalation Cough. Sore throat. Burning sensation.  Use closed system or ventilation.  Fresh air, rest. Half-upright position. Artificial respiration may be needed. Refer for medical attention. 
Skin Pain. Blisters. Serious skin burns.  Protective gloves. Protective clothing.  Remove contaminated clothes. Rinse skin with plenty of water or shower. Refer for medical attention . 
Eyes Severe deep burns. Loss of vision.  Wear face shield.  First rinse with plenty of water for several minutes (remove contact lenses if easily possible), then refer for medical attention. 
Ingestion Burning sensation. Shock or collapse.  Do not eat, drink, or smoke during work.  Rinse mouth. Refer for medical attention . 

SPILLAGE DISPOSAL CLASSIFICATION & LABELLING
Evacuate danger area! Consult an expert! Personal protection: chemical protection suit including self-contained breathing apparatus. Cover the spilled material with dry powder. 

According to UN GHS Criteria

flam;flamecorr
DANGER
In contact with water releases flammable gases which may ignite spontaneously
Causes severe skin burns and eye damage 

Transportation
UN Classification
UN Hazard Class: 4.3; UN Pack Group: I 

STORAGE
Fireproof. Keep under mineral oil. Dry. Well closed. 
PACKAGING
Airtight.
Unbreakable packaging.
Put breakable packaging into closed unbreakable container. 
POTASSIUM ICSC: 0716
PHYSICAL & CHEMICAL INFORMATION

Physical State; Appearance
WHITE-TO-GREY LUMPS. 

Physical dangers
 

Chemical dangers
Reacts violently with water. This generates fire and explosion hazard. Decomposes rapidly under the influence of air and moisture. This produces flammable/explosive gas (hydrogen - see ICSC 0001). 

Formula: K
Atomic mass: 39.1
Boiling point: 765.5°C
Melting point: 63.2°C
Density: 0.856 g/cm³
Solubility in water: reaction
Vapour pressure at 20°C: negligible 


EXPOSURE & HEALTH EFFECTS

Routes of exposure
Serious by all routes of exposure. 

Effects of short-term exposure
See ICSC 0357 (potassium hydroxide). 

Inhalation risk
 

Effects of long-term or repeated exposure
 


OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE LIMITS
 

ENVIRONMENT
 

NOTES
Potassium is always kept under mineral oil.
Reacts violently with fire extinguishing agents such as water and carbon dioxide. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
  EC Classification
Symbol: F, C; R: 14/15-34; S: (1/2)-5-8-45 

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    See Also:
       Toxicological Abbreviations