Product Identification

Product Name

Potassium oxalate

Synonyms

Dipotassium oxalate
Ethanedioic acid, dipotassium salt
Potassium neutral oxalate

CAS

583-52-8

Formula

C2K2O4

Molecular Weight

166.22

EINECS

209-506-8

RTECS

RO2885000

RTECS Class

Human Data

Merck

12,7820

Beilstein/Gmelin

3706608

Beilstein Reference

4-02-00-01819

Physical and Chemical Properties

Appearance

Odorless white crystals.

Solubility in water

330 g/L

Density

2.13 g/cm3 (20 C)

Usage

Reagent in analytical chemistry, source of oxalic acid, bleaching and cleaning, removing stains from textiles, photography.

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. Seek medical attention immediately.

Inhalation

Remove victim to fresh air; if exposure to dust is severe, get medical attention.

Skin

Flush with water.

Eyes

Flush with water and seek medical attention.

Handling and Storage

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place. Keep containers closed when not in use. Protect product from moisture. Product is sensitive to light.

Handling

All chemicals should be considered hazardous. Avoid direct physical contact. Use appropriate, approved safety equipment. Untrained individuals should not handle this chemical or its container. Handling should occur in a chemical fume hood.

Hazards Identification

Inhalation

May cause irritation of the respiratory tract with burning pain in the nose and throat, coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath and pulmonary oedma. May cause effects similar to those described for ingestion.

Skin

May cause skin irritation. Harmful by subcutaneous contact.

Eyes

May cause conjunctivitis. May cause eye irritation and possible burns.

Ingestion

The accidental ingestion of soluble oxalic acid salts produces general intoxication by hypocalcemia (shivers, convulsions, coma, coagulation disorders etc.) and mostly acute nephritis with precipitation of insoluble calcium oxalate in renal tubes. May cause gastrointestinal irritation with nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. May cause corrosion and permanent tissue destruction of the oesophagus and digestive tract. May cause kidney and liver damage, severe shock, convulsions, collapse, and possible death if ingested in large amounts.

Exposure Controls/Personal Protection

Personal Protection

Wear plastic or rubber gloves, eye goggles and other suitable protective clothing to minimise exposure.

Respirators

Wear breathing apparatus in dusty atmospheres.

Exposure Effects

May cause kidney damage. Chronic inhalation and ingestion may cause effects similar to those of acute inhalation and ingestion.

Poison Class

2

Fire Fighting Measures

Fire Fighting

Fire-fighters should wear full protective clothing including self-contained breathing apparatus. In case of fire use carbon dioxide, foam, powder or water spray. DO NOT use water in a jet (will spread product).

Fire Potential

Nonflammable.

Accidental Release Measures

Small spills/leaks

Clean-up personnel should wear full protective clothing including self-contained breathing apparatus for dusty conditions. Prevent material from entering drains and sewers.

Stability and Reactivity

Incompatibilities

Oxidizing agents, bases, acid chlorides, alkali metals, steel, moisture and metals.

Stability

Stable at normal handling and storage temperatures.

Decomposition

Oxides of carbon.