Product Identification

Product Name

Sodium thiocyanate

Synonyms

Sodium rhodanate
Sodium rhodanide
Sodium sulfocyanate

CAS

540-72-7

Formula

CNNaS

Molecular Weight

81.069999999999993

EINECS

208-754-4

RTECS

XL2275000

RTECS Class

Agricultural Chemical and Pesticide; Drug

Merck

12,9463

Beilstein/Gmelin

21942 (G)

Physical and Chemical Properties

Appearance

Odorless white solid.

Solubility in water

624 g/L (25 C)

Melting Point

287

Density

1.735 g/cm3 (20 C)

Usage

Production of other thiocyanates, especially organic. Insecticides.

Refractive Index

1.545

First Aid Measures

Ingestion

Do NOT induce vomiting. If victim is conscious and alert, give 2-4 cupfuls of milk or water. Never give anything by mouth to an unconscious person. Get medical aid.

Inhalation

Remove from exposure to fresh air immediately. If not breathing, give artificial respiration. If breathing is difficult, give oxygen. Get medical aid. DO NOT use mouth-to-mouth respiration. If breathing has ceased apply artificial respiration using oxygen and a suitable mechanical device such as a bag and a mask.

Skin

Flush skin with plenty of soap and water for at least 15 minutes while removing contaminated clothing and shoes. Get medical aid if irritation develops or persists. Wash clothing before reuse.

Eyes

Immediately flush eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes, occasionally lifting the upper and lower eyelids. Get medical aid.

Handling and Storage

Storage

Store in a tightly closed container. Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from incompatible substances. Store protected from moisture. Store protected from light.

Handling

Use with adequate ventilation. Minimize dust generation and accumulation. Avoid prolonged or repeated contact with skin. Avoid contact with eyes. Keep container tightly closed. Avoid ingestion and inhalation. Store protected from light.

Hazards Identification

Inhalation

May cause respiratory tract irritation. May be metabolized to cyanide which in turns act by inhibiting cytochrome oxidase impairing cellular respiration. Inhalation may result in symptoms similar to cyanide poisoning which includes unconsciousness and death.

Skin

May cause skin irritation. May be metabolized to cyanide which in turn acts by inhibiting cytochrome oxidase impairing cellular respiration.

Eyes

May cause eye irritation.

Ingestion

Causes gastrointestinal irritation with nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. May be harmful if swallowed. Metabolism may release cyanide, which may result in headache, dizziness, weakness, collapse, unconsciousness and possible death.

Hazards

Irritating oxides of sulfur and nitrogen may form in fire.

EC Risk Phrase

R 20/21/22 32

EC Safety Phrase

S 13

Exposure Controls/Personal Protection

Personal Protection

Eyes: Wear appropriate protective eyeglasses or chemical safety goggles as described by OSHA's eye and face protection regulations in 29 CFR 1910.133 or European Standard EN166. Skin: Wear appropriate protective gloves and clothing to prevent skin exposure. Clothing: Wear appropriate protective clothing to prevent skin exposure.

Respirators

Follow the OSHA respirator regulations found in 29CFR 1910.134 or European Standard EN 149. Always use a NIOSH or European Standard EN 149 approved respirator when necessary.

Exposure Effects

May be metabolized to cyanide which in turn acts by inhibiting cytochrome oxidase impairing cellular respiration. Chronic exposure to cyanide solutions may lead to the development of a cyanide rash, characterized by itching, and by macular, papular, and vesicular eruptions, and may be accompanied by secondary infections.

Poison Class

4

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. May react with acids or moisture to form explosive hydrogen gas. Extinguishing media: For small fires, use dry chemical, carbon dioxide, water spray or alcohol-resistant foam. Use agent most appropriate to extinguish fire.

Accidental Release Measures

Small spills/leaks

Vacuum or sweep up material and place into a suitable disposal container. Clean up spills immediately, using the appropriate protective equipment. Avoid generating dusty conditions. Provide ventilation.

Stability and Reactivity

Incompatibilities

Moisture, acids, strong bases.

Stability

Stable under normal temperatures and pressures.

Decomposition

Nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, oxides of sulfur, carbon dioxide.

Combustion Products

Irritating oxides of sulfur and nitrogen may form in fire.