ABSTRACT
Decomposes and ignites on heating to 190°C. Green Cr2O3 is emitted and explosion occurs if confined.3
Physiological Properties and Health Hazards
The dust irritates the respiratory tract and eyes. Swallowing causes internal irritation and damage. Prolonged exposure to the dust may cause ulceration, liver and kidney damage, and ultimately cancer. Avoid inhaling dust. Avoid contact with eyes and skin.4 TLVTWA (as Cr) 0.5 mg/m3.5
Spillage Disposal
Wear nitrile rubber gloves, laboratory coat, and eye protection. Avoid breathing dust. Cover spill with a 1:1:1 mixture by weight of sodium carbonate or calcium carbonate, clay cat litter (bentonite), and sand. Scoop mixture into a container of water. Add 3 M sulfuric acid (prepared by cautiously adding 10 mL of concentrated acid to 50 mL of cold water) to neutralize the solution, and then add a further 20 mL for each 1 g of dichromate (to give a pH of 1). While stirring, add sodium thiosulfate crystals until the solution becomes blue colored and cloudy (approximately 10 g/g dichromate). Slowly and cautiously neutralize the solution with sodium carbonate (approximately 3.2 g/mL of 3 M
spillage area should be washed with soap and water and clothing soaked in the solution should also be washed thoroughly.4
