Phenylmercuric Chloride

H300+H310+H330 (22.2%): Fatal if swallowed, in contact with skin or if inhaled [Danger Acute toxicity, oral; acute toxicity, dermal; acute toxicity, inhalation]

H300 (100%): Fatal if swallowed [Danger Acute toxicity, oral]

H310 (100%): Fatal in contact with skin [Danger Acute toxicity, dermal]

H330 (100%): Fatal if inhaled [Danger Acute toxicity, inhalation]

H373 (100%): May causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, repeated exposure]

H400 (100%): Very toxic to aquatic life [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, acute hazard]

H410 (100%): Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

P260, P262, P264, P270, P271, P273, P280, P284, P301+P316, P302+P352, P304+P340, P316, P319, P320, P321, P330, P361+P364, P391, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Aggregated GHS information provided per 9 reports by companies from 4 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.

Information may vary between notifications depending on impurities, additives, and other factors. The percentage value in parenthesis indicates the notified classification ratio from companies that provide hazard codes. Only hazard codes with percentage values above 10% are shown. For more detailed information, please visit ECHA C&L website.

SRP: At the time of review, criteria for land treatment or burial (sanitary landfill) disposal practices are subject to significant revision. Prior to implementing land disposal of waste residue (including waste sludge), consult with environmental regulatory agencies for guidance on acceptable disposal practices.

0.1 [mg/m3], as Hg

10.0 [mg/m3], as Hg

8 hr Time Weighted Avg (TWA): 0.1 mg/cu m, skin /Mercury, aryl cmpds, as Hg/

Excursion Limit Recommendation: Excursions in worker exposure levels may exceed 3 times the TLV-TWA for no more than a total of 30 minutes during a work day, and under no circumstances should they exceed 5 times the TLV-TWA, provided that the TLV-TWA is not exceeded. /Mercury, aryl cmpds, as Hg/

Chronic Inhalation: 0.0002 mg/m3 (L134)

White solid; [Merck Index] White powder; [MSDSonline]

White satiny leaflets

250-252 °C

Sol in about 20,000 parts cold water; slightly sol in hot alcohol; sol in benzene, ether, pyridine

0.02 [mmHg]

log Kow= 1.78

Alkyl mercurials are very stable relative to aryl mercurials such as phenylmercury, which is rapidly broken down into Hg2+ in animals ... and the soil. /Mercurials/

Phenylmercury salts & methoxyalkylmercury cmpd decompose readily & release mercury vapor /Phenyl mercury salts/

Metals -> Metals, Organic Compounds

High-affinity binding of the divalent mercuric ion to thiol or sulfhydryl groups of proteins is believed to be the major mechanism for the activity of mercury. Through alterations in intracellular thiol status, mercury can promote oxidative stress, lipid peroxidation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and changes in heme metabolism. Mercury is known to bind to microsomal and mitochondrial enzymes, resulting in cell injury and death. For example, mercury is known to inhibit aquaporins, halting water flow across the cell membrane. It also inhibits the protein LCK, which causes decreased T-cell signalling and immune system depression. Mercury is also believed to inhibit neuronal excitability by acting on the postsynaptic neuronal membrane. It also affects the nervous system by inhibiting protein kinase C and alkaline phosphatase, which impairs brain microvascular formation and function, as well as alters the blood-brain barrier. Organic mercury exerts developmental effects by binding to tubulin, preventing microtubule assembly and causing mitotic inhibition. Mercury also produces an autoimmune response, likely by modification of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II molecules, self peptides, T-cell receptors, or cell-surface adhesion molecules. (L7, A8, A25, A26)

No indication of carcinogenicity (not listed by IARC). (L135)

Mercury mainly affects the nervous system. Exposure to high levels of metallic, inorganic, or organic mercury can permanently damage the brain, kidneys, and developing fetus. Effects on brain functioning may result in irritability, shyness, tremors, changes in vision or hearing, and memory problems. Acrodynia, a type of mercury poisoning in children, is characterized by pain and pink discoloration of the hands and feet. Mercury poisoning can also cause Hunter-Russell syndrome and Minamata disease. (L7)

Oral (L7) ; inhalation (L7) ; dermal (L7)

Common symptoms include peripheral neuropathy (presenting as paresthesia or itching, burning or pain), skin discoloration (pink cheeks, fingertips and toes), edema (swelling), and desquamation (dead skin peels off in layers). (A5)

Neurotoxin - Sensorimotor

Reproductive Toxin - A chemical that is toxic to the reproductive system, including defects in the progeny and injury to male or female reproductive function. Reproductive toxicity includes developmental effects. See Guidelines for Reproductive Toxicity Risk Assessment.

Dermatotoxin - Skin burns.

LD50: 8 mg/kg (Phenylmercuric compounds) (Intraperitoneal, Mouse) (T41)

LD50 Mouse ip 8 mg/kg /PhHg/

Mercury poisoning is treated by immediate decontamination and chelation therapy using DMSA, DMPS, DPCN, or dimercaprol. (A7)

Phenylmercury absorbed through the skin from contaminated diapers affected urinary excretion in infants in Buenos Aires. The effects were reversible and quantitatively related to the concn of urinary Hg. /Phenylmercury cmpd/

Phenylmercuric chloride was applied in three doses (5 ppm, 30 ppm Hg, and 30 ppm Hg + 4 ppm Se) via the food for 60 days. The effect of Hg with and without Se was studied histologically and the data of a shortened spermatogram were evaluated. Treatment with 30 ppm Hg resulted in hypospermia, occurrence of abnormally maturing spermatozoa, reduction of the volume of semen, and decrease in the number of spermatozoa. The dose of 5 ppm Hg only resulted in the appearance of abnormally developing cells and decreased sperm motility. The addition of Se maintained spermatogenesis and the values of semen on the control level.

The seed mordants Agronal Super, which contains the organic mercury (5.4% phenylmercury chloride), has appeared to induce poisoning and even death of many people and animals. Minimal single embryotoxic doses of Agronal Super were estimated in 24-day old chick embryos using the CHEST method and compared with the minimal embryotoxic doses of other 8 seed mordants without mercury. Minimal embryotoxic doses (the beginning of the embryotoxicity range) of Agronal Super were between 0.1-1.0 ug/embryo. The seed mordants without mercury appeared to be less toxic: The minimal embryotoxic doses of Baytan Combi, Baytan Universal, Fundasol, Quinolate and Wolfen Thiuram were between 1-10 ug/embryo. Novozir and Sibutol had minimal embryotoxic doses within the range 10-100 ug/embryo. The least dangerous appeared the seed mordant Vincit, which produced no embryotoxic effect, even after administration of the highest doses (100 ug/embryo). Our results demonstrated the difference of several orders of magnitude between embryotoxic doses of Agronal Super and other 8 seed mordants. Replacement of seed mordants containing organic mercury (e.g. Agronal Super) by new ones with minimal or no embryotoxic effect (e.g. Vincit) is advisable.

The effect of phenyl mercury with and without selenium on the egg production of laying hens and on the fertility, hatchability and properties of eggs was studied. Mercury was administered via the feed at dosages of 5 ppm, 30 ppm, and 30 ppm Hg + 4 ppm Se, for 56 days. After two months, egg production decreased by 8.18% and 7.74% in hens fed 30 ppm Hg, and 30 ppm Hg + 4 ppm Se, respectively. Egg weight decreased in all experimental groups. In comparison to the controls, these results were highly significant (P < 0.01) in hens fed 30 ppm Hg and 30 ppm Hg + 4 ppm Se and significant (P < 0.05) between hens fed 5 ppm Hg and 30 ppm Hg. Fertility rate and hatchability were not affected. Mercury exposure did not affect egg shape, egg-white height, egg-shell hardness or yolk colour. Both egg-shell thickness and weight decreased in all experimental groups. In the group supplemented with selenium there was a nonsignificant improvement in egg production, hatchability and all qualitative properties of eggs in comparison with the group without selenium supplementation. Residual mercury levels in egg yolk greatly surpassed the level found in the egg white: the highest values were measured in the group fed 30 ppm Hg. The addition of selenium had a protective effect upon residual Hg deposits in the yolk, but not in the egg-white.

Four gilts, sisters from one litter, aged 70 days and weighing 20-24 kg, were used for a trial. Two experimental gilts (P) were administered an experimental feed mixture containing phenylmercury chloride (40 mg/kg). Two control gilts (K) were fed the same mixture but without phenylmercury chloride. P gilts began to lag behind in their growth from day 60 of the experiment, they manifested nonphysiological postures (dog's sitting posture), paresis of hind limbs and uncoordinated movements. P gilts had cloudy, orange-brown urine from day 70 and from day 75 they began to suffer from diarrhoea. Mercury (Hg) contents in urine and blood serum of P gilts were irregularly variable: urine 0.58-2.15 mg/l, blood serum 0.02-0.37 mg/l. Hg content in excrements of P gilts fluctuated from 23 to 26 mg/kg. Vitamin A concentrations in blood serum and liver decreased in P gilts. Phenylmercury chloride feeding caused mutagenic changes in peripheral lymphocytes of P gilts (an increase in the number of aberrant cells from 2-3% to 8-9%) and reduced IgA, IgM and IgG immunoglobulin levels in blood serum. Pathological lesions were observed in the colon, kidneys and liver. None of the above-mentioned changes were observed in K gilts. Increased resistance to the negative effects of Hg was found in one experimental gilt. In comparison with K gilts, Hg concentrations in P gilts after 130 days of the experiment increased as follows: 427 times in kidneys, 333 times in liver, 106 times in guts, 71 times in pancreas, 53 times in ovaries, 50 times in muscles, 47 times in bristles and 16 times in the brain.

For more Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for PHENYLMERCURIC CHLORIDE (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

LC50 Plumaria elegans (Red alga, sporing) 54 ug/l/18 hr (after 7 days) /Conditions of bioassay not specified/

FUNGICIDAL ACTIVITY OF /PHENYLMERCURIC/ ... CMPD /NOT/ DECREASED MARKEDLY AFTER 52 HR OF LIGHT EXPOSURE ... FOLLOWING CMPD BARELY DECOMPOSED AFTER EQUIV OF 7 DAYS ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT: ... PHENYLMERCURIC CHLORIDE ... .

... A large fraction of the /phenylmercury/ spray residue was found in the soil 30-50 days after application; the rest of the Hg was lost by vaporization (either as the organic cmpd or after conversion to Hg metal) or by migration to lower soil horizons since water containing organic cmpd from decomposing vegetable matter can leach adsorbed Hg. /Phenylmercury spray/

Prior to 1991, phenylmercuric compounds were used as biocides in 25-30% of interior and exterior latex paint; however, this use of mercury was voluntarily discontinued for interior paint in 1990 and for exterior paint in 1991(1). The use of phenylmercury resulted in the exposure of house painters and residents to mercury vapors in the homes where interior and exterior latex paint was applied(1). Although the use of mercury biocides in latex paint has been discontinued, it is possible that people who use old latex paint in their homes will be exposed to mercury for a considerable time(1). Furthermore, although phenylmercury use in exterior latex paints was discontinued in 1991, paint companies were allowed to continue to produce and sell paint containing phenylmercury until the existing stocks of phenylmercury were exhausted(1).

LC50 Plumaria elegans (Red alga, sporing) 54 ug/l/18 hr (after 7 days) /Conditions of bioassay not specified/

FUNGICIDAL ACTIVITY OF /PHENYLMERCURIC/ ... CMPD /NOT/ DECREASED MARKEDLY AFTER 52 HR OF LIGHT EXPOSURE ... FOLLOWING CMPD BARELY DECOMPOSED AFTER EQUIV OF 7 DAYS ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT: ... PHENYLMERCURIC CHLORIDE ... .

... A large fraction of the /phenylmercury/ spray residue was found in the soil 30-50 days after application; the rest of the Hg was lost by vaporization (either as the organic cmpd or after conversion to Hg metal) or by migration to lower soil horizons since water containing organic cmpd from decomposing vegetable matter can leach adsorbed Hg. /Phenylmercury spray/

Prior to 1991, phenylmercuric compounds were used as biocides in 25-30% of interior and exterior latex paint; however, this use of mercury was voluntarily discontinued for interior paint in 1990 and for exterior paint in 1991(1). The use of phenylmercury resulted in the exposure of house painters and residents to mercury vapors in the homes where interior and exterior latex paint was applied(1). Although the use of mercury biocides in latex paint has been discontinued, it is possible that people who use old latex paint in their homes will be exposed to mercury for a considerable time(1). Furthermore, although phenylmercury use in exterior latex paints was discontinued in 1991, paint companies were allowed to continue to produce and sell paint containing phenylmercury until the existing stocks of phenylmercury were exhausted(1).

SRP: At the time of review, criteria for land treatment or burial (sanitary landfill) disposal practices are subject to significant revision. Prior to implementing land disposal of waste residue (including waste sludge), consult with environmental regulatory agencies for guidance on acceptable disposal practices.

/GUIDE 151: SUBSTANCES - TOXIC (NON-COMBUSTIBLE)/ Health: Highly toxic, may be fatal if inhaled, swallowed or absorbed through skin. Avoid any skin contact. Effects of contact or inhalation may be delayed. Fire may produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Runoff from fire control or dilution water may be corrosive and/or toxic and cause pollution. /Phenylmercuric compound, NOS/

/GUIDE 151: SUBSTANCES - TOXIC (NON-COMBUSTIBLE)/ Fire or Explosion: Non-combustible, substance itself does not burn but may decompose upon heating to produce corrosive and/or toxic fumes. Containers may explode when heated. Runoff may pollute waterways. /Phenylmercuric compound, NOS/

/GUIDE 151: SUBSTANCES - TOXIC (NON-COMBUSTIBLE)/ Public Safety: CALL Emergency Response Telephone Number ... . As an immediate precautionary measure, isolate spill or leak area in all directions for at least 50 meters (150 feet) for liquids and at lease 25 meters (75 feet) for solids. Keep unauthorized personnel away. Stay upwind. Keep out of low areas. /Phenylmercuric compound, NOS/

/GUIDE 151: SUBSTANCES - TOXIC (NON-COMBUSTIBLE)/ Protective Clothing: Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Wear chemical protective clothing that is specifically recommended by the manufacturer. It may provide little or no thermal protection. Structural firefighters' protective clothing provides limited protection in fire situations ONLY; it is not effective in spill situations where direct contact with the substance is possible. /Phenylmercuric compound, NOS/

For more DOT Emergency Guidelines (Complete) data for PHENYLMERCURIC CHLORIDE (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

UN 2026; Phenylmercuric compounds, not otherwise specified

IMO 6.1; Phenylmercuric compounds, not otherwise specified

No person may /transport,/ offer or accept a hazardous material for transportation in commerce unless that person is registered in conformance ... and the hazardous material is properly classed, described, packaged, marked, labeled, and in condition for shipment as required or authorized by ... /the hazardous materials regulations (49 CFR 171-177)./

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations are published by the IATA Dangerous Goods Board pursuant to IATA Resolutions 618 and 619 and constitute a manual of industry carrier regulations to be followed by all IATA Member airlines when transporting hazardous materials.

The International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code lays down basic principles for transporting hazardous chemicals. Detailed recommendations for individual substances and a number of recommendations for good practice are included in the classes dealing with such substances. A general index of technical names has also been compiled. This index should always be consulted when attempting to locate the appropriate procedures to be used when shipping any substance or article.