Potassium Carbonate Toxicity

Identification and uses :

CAS number : 584-08-7

Molecular formula : K₂CO₃

Uses and emission sources :

-Manufacture of organic and inorganic materials.

-Ceramics

Toxicology :

This product is absorbed by the respiratory and digestive tracts.

I-Acute Effects :

Irritation and corrosion of the skin, the eyes, the respiratory and digestive tracts.

Eyes :

It causes ocular irritation. It causes an irritating and caustic effect similar to that of potassium hydroxide.

Skin :

It causes an irritating and caustic effect similar to that of potassium hydroxide.

Ingestion :

It can cause severe irritation of the gastro-intestinal tract with nausea, vomiting and burns. Harmful by ingestion.

Inhalation :

It causes irritation of the respiratory tract.

II-Chronic Effects :

No known effects.

Effects on Development :

A study of several animal species suggests an absence of effects on antenatal development.

Effects on Reproduction :

No data concerning the effects on reproduction has been found in the consulted documentary sources.

Data on mother's milk: There is no data pertaining to its excretion or detection in milk.

Cancinogenic Effects :

No data concerning a cancerogenic effect has been found in the consulted documentary sources.

Mutagenic Effects :

Available data do not make it possible to make an adequate evaluation of its mutagenic effect.

First aid :

I-Ocular Contact :

Abundantly rinse the eyes with water during at least 15 minutes and see a doctor.

II-Skin Contact :

Quickly withdraw contaminated clothing. Rinse skin with much water. Consult a doctor.

III-Ingestion :

In the case of ingestion, make the person drink water, do not induce vomiting, call a doctor.

IV-Inhalation :

In the case of inhalation of vapors or dust, bring the person into a ventilated place. If he does not breathe, give artificial respiration. Call a doctor.

Handling :

Wash yourself well after use. Minimize the production of dust and its accumulation. Avoid contact with the eyes, skin and clothing. Avoid ingesting and inhaling. Use adequate ventilation.

Storage :

Store in a tightly closed container, in a cool, dry, well ventilated room away from incompatible materials.

References :

1-Occupational Medicine,Carl Zenz, last edition.

2-Clinical Environmental Health and Toxic Exposures, Sullivan & Krieger; last edition.

3-Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials, Lewis C., last edition.

4-Toxicologie Industrielle et Intoxications Professionnelles, Lauwerys R.R. last edition.

5-Chemical Hazards of the Workplace, Proctor & Hughes, 4th edition

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Typecodes	Article by Edouard Bastarache Edouard Bastarache is a well known doctor that has written many articles on the subject of toxicity of ceramic materials and books on technical aspects of ceramics. He writes in both English and French.
Materials	Pearl Ash
Materials	Potassium Nitrate
URLs	http://www.ilo.org/public/english/protection/safework/cis/products/icsc/dtasht/_icsc15/icsc1588.htm Potassium Carbonate at ilo.org

By Edouard Bastarache

Potassium Carbonate Toxicity

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