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POTASSIUM SULFIDEICSC: 0549 (September 1997)
Dipotassium monosulfide
Dipotassium sulfide
Potassium monosulfide
CAS #: 1312-73-8
UN #: 1382
EC Number: 215-197-0

  ACUTE HAZARDS PREVENTION FIRE FIGHTING
FIRE & EXPLOSION Highly flammable. Gives off irritating or toxic fumes (or gases) in a fire.  Finely dispersed particles form explosive mixtures in air.  NO open flames, NO sparks and NO smoking.  Do NOT expose to friction or shock. Closed system, dust explosion-proof electrical equipment and lighting. Prevent deposition of dust.  Use water in large amounts, water spray.  In case of fire: keep drums, etc., cool by spraying with water. 

 PREVENT DISPERSION OF DUST! AVOID ALL CONTACT! IN ALL CASES CONSULT A DOCTOR! 
  SYMPTOMS PREVENTION FIRST AID
Inhalation Sore throat. Cough. Burning sensation. Shortness of breath. Headache. Dizziness. Nausea. Symptoms may be delayed. See Notes.  Use local exhaust or breathing protection.  Fresh air, rest. Half-upright position. Artificial respiration may be needed. Refer for medical attention. 
Skin Pain. Blisters. Skin burns.  Protective gloves. Protective clothing.  Remove contaminated clothes. Rinse skin with plenty of water or shower. Refer for medical attention . Wear protective gloves when administering first aid. 
Eyes Pain. Redness. Severe deep burns.  Wear safety goggles or eye protection in combination with breathing protection.  First rinse with plenty of water for several minutes (remove contact lenses if easily possible), then refer for medical attention. 
Ingestion Burning sensation. Sore throat. Abdominal cramps. Nausea. Diarrhoea. Vomiting. See Inhalation.  Do not eat, drink, or smoke during work.  Rinse mouth. Do NOT induce vomiting. Refer for medical attention . 

SPILLAGE DISPOSAL CLASSIFICATION & LABELLING
Personal protection: chemical protection suit including self-contained breathing apparatus. Do NOT wash away into sewer. Sweep spilled substance into covered containers. 

According to UN GHS Criteria

 

Transportation
UN Classification
UN Hazard Class: 4.2; UN Pack Group: II 

STORAGE
Fireproof. Separated from strong oxidants and strong acids. Dry. 
PACKAGING
Airtight. 
POTASSIUM SULFIDE ICSC: 0549
PHYSICAL & CHEMICAL INFORMATION

Physical State; Appearance
HYGROSCOPIC WHITE CRYSTALS WITH CHARACTERISTIC ODOUR. TURNS RED OR BROWN ON EXPOSURE TO AIR. 

Physical dangers
Dust explosion possible if in powder or granular form, mixed with air. 

Chemical dangers
May decompose explosively on shock, friction or concussion. The substance may ignite spontaneously on contact with air. On combustion, forms hydrogen sulfide and sulfur oxides. Decomposes on contact with acids. This produces highly toxic and flammable hydrogen sulfide (see ICSC 0165). The solution in water is a strong base. It reacts violently with acid and is corrosive. Reacts with oxidants. This produces sulfur dioxide. 

Formula: K2S
Molecular mass: 110.3
Melting point: 840°C
Relative density (water = 1): 1.8
Solubility in water: very good 


EXPOSURE & HEALTH EFFECTS

Routes of exposure
The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation and by ingestion. 

Effects of short-term exposure
The substance is corrosive to the eyes, skin and respiratory tract. Inhalation may cause lung oedema. See Notes. Exposure at high levels could cause death. The effects may be delayed. Medical observation is indicated. 

Inhalation risk
Evaporation at 20°C is negligible; a harmful concentration of airborne particles can, however, be reached quickly. 

Effects of long-term or repeated exposure
 


OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE LIMITS
 

ENVIRONMENT
The substance is harmful to aquatic organisms. 

NOTES
The symptoms of lung oedema often do not become manifest until a few hours have passed and they are aggravated by physical effort.
Rest and medical observation are therefore essential.
Immediate administration of an appropriate inhalation therapy by a doctor, or by an authorized person, should be considered. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
  EC Classification
Symbol: C, N; R: 31-34-50; S: (1/2)-26-45-61 

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    See Also:
       Toxicological Abbreviations