International Chemical Safety Cards

SELENIUM TRIOXIDE ICSC: 0949
SELENIUM TRIOXIDE
Selenic anhydride
SeO3
Molecular mass: 126.9
CAS # 13768-86-0
RTECS # NONE
ICSC # 0949
UN # 2928
EC # 034-002-00-8
TYPES OF
HAZARD/
EXPOSURE 		ACUTE HAZARDS/
SYMPTOMS 		PREVENTION FIRST AID/
FIRE FIGHTING
FIRE Not combustible but enhances combustion of other substances. Many reactions may cause fire or explosion. Gives off irritating or toxic fumes (or gases) in a fire.
NO contact with combustible substances.
In case of fire in the surroundings: preferably no water-based extinguishers.
EXPLOSION


 
EXPOSURE
PREVENT DISPERSION OF DUST! STRICT HYGIENE!

INHALATION Burning sensation. Cough. Laboured breathing. Sore throat.
Ventilation. Breathing protection.
Fresh air, rest. Half-upright position. Artificial respiration if indicated. Refer for medical attention.
SKIN MAY BE ABSORBED! Redness. Pain.
Protective gloves. Protective clothing.
Remove contaminated clothes. Rinse skin with plenty of water or shower. Refer for medical attention.
EYES Redness. Pain. Blurred vision. Puffy eyelids.
Face shield or eye protection in combination with breathing protection.
First rinse with plenty of water for several minutes (remove contact lenses if easily possible), then take to a doctor.
INGESTION Abdominal cramps. Confusion. Nausea. Sore throat. Weakness. Low blood pressure.
Do not eat, drink, or smoke during work.
Rinse mouth. Induce vomiting (ONLY IN CONSCIOUS PERSONS!). Give plenty of water to drink. Refer for medical attention.
SPILLAGE DISPOSAL STORAGE PACKAGING & LABELLING
Evacuate danger area! Sweep spilled substance into closed containers, then remove to safe place (extra personal protection: complete protective clothing including self-contained breathing apparatus).
Separated from combustible substances, food and feedstuffs. Cool. Dry. Keep in a well-ventilated room.
Do not transport with food and feedstuffs.
T symbol
R: 23/25-33
S: 20/21-28-44
Note: A
UN Hazard Class: 6.1
UN Subsidiary Risks: 8
SEE IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON BACK
ICSC: 0949 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

SELENIUM TRIOXIDE ICSC: 0949

I
M
P
O
R
T
A
N
T

D
A
T
A
PHYSICAL STATE; APPEARANCE:
YELLOWISH WHITE HYGROSCOPIC CRYSTALLINE POWDER.

PHYSICAL DANGERS:


CHEMICAL DANGERS:
The substance decomposes on heating producing toxic fumes of selenium. The substance is a strong oxidant and reacts with combustible and reducing materials. The solution in water is a strong acid, it reacts violently with bases and is corrosive. Reacts violently with water giving off selenic acid. Attacks many metals when moisture is present.

OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE LIMITS (OELs):
TLV (as Se): ppm; 0.02 mg/m3 (ACGIH 1990-1991).
PDK (as Se): 0.1 mg/m3 (USSR 1977).


ROUTES OF EXPOSURE:
The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation of its aerosol, through the skin and by ingestion.

INHALATION RISK:
No indication can be given about the rate in which a harmful concentration in the air is reached on evaporation of this substance at 20°C.

EFFECTS OF SHORT-TERM EXPOSURE:
The substance is corrosive to the eyes, the skin and the respiratory tract. The substance may cause effects on the eyes , resulting in allergic-type reaction of the eyelids (rose eye). Medical observation is indicated.

EFFECTS OF LONG-TERM OR REPEATED EXPOSURE:
Repeated or prolonged contact may cause skin sensitization. Lungs may be affected by repeated or prolonged exposure to the compound. Nasopharyngeal irritation, gastrointestinal distress and persistent garlic odor may occur.
PHYSICAL
PROPERTIES
 Decomposes below boiling point at 180°C
Melting point: 118°C		 Relative density (water = 1): 3.6
Solubility in water: very soluble, reaction
ENVIRONMENTAL
DATA
NOTES
The substance may have effects on the liver, kidneys and spleen, resulting in organ lesions. Nasopharyngeal irritation, gastrointestinal distress and persistent garlic odour may occur. 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. Do NOT take working clothes home. The following symptoms in long-term exposure may occur: paleness, coated tongue, stomach disorders, nervousness, metallic taste and garlic odour of the breath.
Transport Emergency Card: TEC (R)-61G38
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION


ICSC: 0949 SELENIUM TRIOXIDE
© 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.