International Chemical Safety Cards

POTASSIUM OXIDE ICSC: 0769
POTASSIUM OXIDE
Potassium monoxide
K2O
Molecular mass: 94.2
CAS # 12136-45-7
RTECS # TT3790000
ICSC # 0769
UN # 2033
TYPES OF
HAZARD/
EXPOSURE 		ACUTE HAZARDS/
SYMPTOMS 		PREVENTION FIRST AID/
FIRE FIGHTING
FIRE Not combustible.

Powder, carbon dioxide, NO hydrous agents.
EXPLOSION


EXPOSURE
PREVENT DISPERSION OF DUST! AVOID ALL CONTACT!

  • INHALATION
    		• Sore throat. Cough. Burning sensation. Shortness of breath. Symptoms may be delayed (see Notes).
    		Local exhaust or breathing protection.
    		Fresh air, rest. Half-upright position. Artificial respiration if indicated. Refer for medical attention.
  • SKIN
    		• Pain. Blisters.
    		Protective gloves. Protective clothing.
    		Rinse skin with plenty of water or shower. Refer for medical attention.
  • EYES
    		• Redness. Pain. Severe deep burns.
    		Safety goggles, or eye protection in combination with breathing protection if powder.
    		First rinse with plenty of water for several minutes (remove contact lenses if easily possible), then take to a doctor.
  • INGESTION
    		• Burning sensation. Abdominal pain. Shock or collapse.
    		Do not eat, drink, or smoke during work.
    		Rinse mouth. Do NOT induce vomiting. Refer for medical attention.
    SPILLAGE DISPOSAL STORAGE PACKAGING & LABELLING
    Sweep spilled substance into containers; if appropriate, moisten first to prevent dusting. Carefully collect remainder, then remove to safe place (extra personal protection: chemical suit with breathing apparatus).
    		Separated from strong acids, food and feedstuffs. Dry.
    		Airtight. Do not transport with food and feedstuffs.
    UN Hazard Class: 8
    UN Packing Group: II
    SEE IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON BACK
    ICSC: 0769 Prepared in the context of cooperation between the International Programme on Chemical Safety & the Commission of the European Communities © IPCS CEC 1993

    International Chemical Safety Cards

    POTASSIUM OXIDE ICSC: 0769

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    PHYSICAL STATE; APPEARANCE:
     COLOURLESS CRYSTALLINE, HYGROSCOPIC POWDER.

    PHYSICAL DANGERS:

    CHEMICAL DANGERS:
     The solution in water is a strong base, it reacts violently with acid and is corrosive. Reacts violently with water producing potassium hydroxide. Attacks many metals in presence of water.

    OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE LIMITS (OELs):
     TLV not established.


    		ROUTES OF EXPOSURE:
     The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation and by ingestion.

    INHALATION RISK:
     Evaporation at 20░C is negligible; a harmful concentration of airborne particles can, however, be reached quickly.

    EFFECTS OF SHORT-TERM EXPOSURE:
     Corrosive. The substance is corrosive to the eyes, the skin and the respiratory tract. Inhalation of dusts may cause lung oedema (see Notes). The effects may be delayed. Medical observation is indicated.

    EFFECTS OF LONG-TERM OR REPEATED EXPOSURE:
    PHYSICAL
    PROPERTIES
    Melting point (decomposes): 350░C
    Relative density (water = 1): 2.3
    		 Solubility in water: reaction
    ENVIRONMENTAL
    DATA
    N O T E S
    Reacts violently with fire extinguishing agents such as water. 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 spray, by a doctor or a person authorized by him/her, should be considered. Also consult ICSC # 0357 on potassium hydroxide.
    Transport Emergency Card: TEC (R)-80G09
    ADDITIONAL INFORMATION


    ICSC: 0769 POTASSIUM OXIDE
    © IPCS, CEC, 1993
    IMPORTANT LEGAL NOTICE: Neither the CEC or the IPCS nor any person acting on behalf of the CEC or the IPCS is responsible for the use which might be made of this information. This card contains the collective views of the IPCS Peer Review Committee and may not reflect in all cases all the detailed requirements included in national legislation on the subject. The user should verify compliance of the cards with the relevant legislation in the country of use.