Product Identification

Product Name

Aluminium sulfate

Synonyms

Alum
Aluminum alum
Alunogenite
Cake alum

CAS

10043-01-3

Formula

Al2O12S3

Molecular Weight

342.13

EINECS

233-135-0

RTECS

BD1700000

RTECS Class

Mutagen; Reproductive Effector; Primary Irritant

Merck

12,381

Beilstein/Gmelin

20289 (G)

Physical and Chemical Properties

Appearance

Anhydrous aluminum sulfate is a white crystalline solid.

Solubility in water

870 g/L

Melting Point

770

Vapor Pressure

120 (681 C)

Density

2.672 g/cm3 (22.5 C)

Usage

Tanning leather, sizing paper, mordant in dyeing, purifying water, manufacture lakes, aluminum resinate, fireproofing & waterproofing cloth, clarifying oils & fats, treating sewage, waterproofing concrete, deodorizing & decolorizing petroleum, antiperspirants, agricultural pesticides, manufacture of aluminum salts.

First Aid Measures

Ingestion

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 immediately.

Inhalation

Remove from exposure to fresh air immediately. If not breathing, give artificial respiration. If breathing is difficult, give oxygen. Get medical aid if cough or other symptoms appear.

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

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

Handling and Storage

Storage

Store in a tightly closed container. Keep from contact with oxidizing materials. Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from incompatible substances. Keep away from water. Store protected from moisture.

Handling

Wash thoroughly after handling. Use only in a well ventilated area. Minimize dust generation and accumulation. Avoid contact with eyes, skin, and clothing. Keep container tightly closed. Avoid ingestion and inhalation.

Hazards Identification

Inhalation

May cause respiratory tract irritation. Low hazard for usual industrial handling.

Skin

May cause skin irritation. Low hazard for usual industrial handling.

Eyes

Dust may cause mechanical irritation.

Ingestion

Ingestion of large amounts may cause gastrointestinal irritation. Expected to be a low ingestion hazard.

Hazards

Some may burn but none ignite readily. May polymerize explosively when heated or involved in a fire. Containers may explode when heated. Some may be transported hot.

UN (DOT)

9078

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 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

Aluminum accumulates in brain tissue and is a neurotoxic agent. Ataxia and seizures have been reported following ingestions and in patients with compromised renal function receiving bladder irrigations. Mental status changes, including obtundation, lethargy and confusion, may occur.

Exposure limit(s)

TLV (as Al soluble salt): ppm; 2 mg/m3 (ACGIH 1993-1994)

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. To extinguish fire use water spray, dry chemical, carbon dioxide, or appropriate foam.

Fire Potential

Nonflammable.

Accidental Release Measures

Small spills/leaks

Wash area with soap and water. Clean up spills immediately, using the appropriate protective equipment. Sweep up or absorb material, then place into a suitable clean, dry, closed container for disposal. Avoid generating dusty conditions. Provide ventilation.

Stability and Reactivity

Incompatibilities

Moisture.

Stability

Stable under normal temperatures and pressures.

Decomposition

Oxides of sulfur, aluminum oxide.

Combustion Products

Fire may produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases.

Transport Information

UN Number

9078

Hazard Class

9.2