Product Identification

Product Name

Ferrous oxalate

Synonyms

Ferrox
Iron protoxalate
Iron, [ethanedioato(2-)-kO1,kO2]-
Oxalic acid, iron(2+) salt

CAS

516-03-0

Formula

C2FeO4

Molecular Weight

143.86000000000001

EINECS

208-217-4

Merck

12,4099

Beilstein/Gmelin

48411 (G)

Physical and Chemical Properties

Appearance

Odorless yellow powder.

Solubility in water

Slightly soluble.

Density

2.3 g/cm3 (20 C)

Usage

Photographic developer for silver bromide-gelatin plates, for decorative glassware, to impact greenish-brown tintermediate to optical glass (sunglasses, windshields, railroad car windows), pigment for plastics, paints, lacquers.

First Aid Measures

Ingestion

The possible benefit of early removal of some ingested material by cautious gastric lavage must be weighed against potential complications of bleeding or perforation. Activated charcoal activated charcoal binds most toxic agents and can decrease their systemic absorption if administered soon after ingestion. Activated charcoal: administer charcoal as a slurry (240 ml water/30 g charcoal). Usual dose: 25 to 100 g in adults/adolescents.

Inhalation

If symptoms develop, move individual away from exposure and into fresh air. If symptoms persist, seek medical attention. If breathing is difficult, administer oxygen. Keep person warm and quiet; seek immediate medical attention.

Skin

Remove contaminated clothing. Wash exposed area with soap and water. If symptoms persist, seek medical attention. Launder clothing before reuse.

Eyes

If symptoms develop, immediately move individual away from exposure and into fresh air. Flush eyes gently with water for at least 15 minutes while holding eyelids apart; seek immediate medical attention.

Handling and Storage

Storage

Store in a cool, dry location.

Handling

Always wear gloves, mask, goggles and use a hood.

Hazards Identification

Inhalation

Noncardiogenic pulmonary edema may develop with severe intoxication.

Skin

Severe thermal burn with ferrous sulfate slurry has caused classical symptoms of ingested iron poisoning.

Eyes

Irritation.

Ingestion

Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and gastrointestinal hemorrhage may develop.

Hazards

Iron fume or iron oxide fume may form in fire.

Exposure Controls/Personal Protection

Personal Protection

Chemical splash goggles in compliance with OSHA regulations are advised; however, OSHA regulations also permit other type safety glasses. Whre chemical resistant gloves. To prevent repeated or prolonged skin contact, wear impervious clothing and boots.

Respirators

NIOSH/MSHA approved dusk mask.

Exposure Effects

Blood pressure may be decreased following an iron overdose. Lethargy, restlessness or confusion may be seen early in the poisoning. Convulsions and coma may occur in later phases. Case reports of pregnant women who have received early aggressive treatment (decontamination and/or deferoxamine) have described good fetal outcomes.

Poison Class

3

Fire Fighting Measures

Fire Fighting

Wear a self-contained breathing apparatus in pressure-demand, MSHA/NIOSH (approved or equivalent), and full protective gear. During a fire, irritating and highly toxic gases may be generated by thermal decomposition or combustion. Use agent most appropriate to extinguish fire.

Accidental Release Measures

Small spills/leaks

Sweep into suitable container for disposal.

Stability and Reactivity

Stability

Stable.

Incompatibilities

Strong oxidizing agents.

Combustion Products

Iron fume or iron oxide fume may form in fire.