potassium

H260: In contact with water releases flammable gases which may ignite spontaneously [Danger Substances and mixtures which in contact with water, emit flammable gases]

H314: Causes severe skin burns and eye damage [Danger Skin corrosion/irritation]

P223, P231+P232, P260, P264, P280, P301+P330+P331, P302+P335+P334, P302+P361+P354, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P316, P321, P363, P370+P378, P402+P404, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

H260 (100%): In contact with water releases flammable gases which may ignite spontaneously [Danger Substances and mixtures which in contact with water, emit flammable gases]

H314 (100%): Causes severe skin burns and eye damage [Danger Skin corrosion/irritation]

H318 (14.4%): Causes serious eye damage [Danger Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

P223, P231+P232, P260, P264, P264+P265, P280, P301+P330+P331, P302+P335+P334, P302+P361+P354, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P316, P317, P321, P363, P370+P378, P402+P404, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Aggregated GHS information provided per 271 reports by companies from 7 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.

Not Classified

H318: Causes serious eye damage [Danger Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

Fresh air, rest. Half-upright position. Artificial respiration may be needed. Refer for medical attention.

Remove contaminated clothes. Rinse skin with plenty of water or shower. Refer for medical attention .

First rinse with plenty of water for several minutes (remove contact lenses if easily possible), then refer for medical attention.

Rinse mouth. Refer for medical attention .

EYES or SKIN: flush with water; treat caustic burns. (USCG, 1999)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 138 [Substances - Water-Reactive (Emitting Flammable Gases)]:

Refer to the "General First Aid" section. Specific First Aid: In case of contact with substance, wipe from skin immediately; flush skin or eyes with running water for at least 20 minutes. (ERG, 2024)

General First Aid:

· Call 911 or emergency medical service.

· Ensure that medical personnel are aware of the material(s) involved, take precautions to protect themselves and avoid contamination.

· Move victim to fresh air if it can be done safely.

· Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult.

· If victim is not breathing:

-- DO NOT perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation; the victim may have ingested or inhaled the substance.

-- If equipped and pulse detected, wash face and mouth, then give artificial respiration using a proper respiratory medical device (bag-valve mask, pocket mask equipped with a one-way valve or other device).

-- If no pulse detected or no respiratory medical device available, provide continuous compressions. Conduct a pulse check every two minutes or monitor for any signs of spontaneous respirations.

· Remove and isolate contaminated clothing and shoes.

· For minor skin contact, avoid spreading material on unaffected skin.

· In case of contact with substance, remove immediately by flushing skin or eyes with running water for at least 20 minutes.

· For severe burns, immediate medical attention is required.

· Effects of exposure (inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact) to substance may be delayed.

· Keep victim calm and warm.

· Keep victim under observation.

· For further assistance, contact your local Poison Control Center.

· Note: Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Life Support (ALS) should be done by trained professionals.

Specific First Aid:

· In case of contact with substance, wipe from skin immediately; flush skin or eyes with running water for at least 20 minutes.

In Canada, an Emergency Response Assistance Plan (ERAP) may be required for this product. Please consult the shipping paper and/or the "ERAP" section.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 138 [Substances - Water-Reactive (Emitting Flammable Gases)]:

DO NOT USE WATER OR FOAM.

SMALL FIRE: Dry chemical, soda ash, lime or sand.

LARGE FIRE: DRY sand, dry chemical, soda ash or lime or withdraw from area and let fire burn. If it can be done safely, move undamaged containers away from the area around the fire.

FIRE INVOLVING METALS OR POWDERS (ALUMINUM, LITHIUM, MAGNESIUM, ETC.): Use dry chemical, DRY sand, sodium chloride powder, graphite powder or class D extinguishers; in addition, for Lithium you may use Lith-X® powder or copper powder. Also, see ERG Guide 170.

FIRE INVOLVING TANKS, RAIL TANK CARS OR HIGHWAY TANKS: Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles. Do not get water inside containers. Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out. Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of tank. ALWAYS stay away from tanks in direct contact with flames. (ERG, 2024)

Use special powder, dry sand. NO other agents. Combat fire from a sheltered position.

DO NOT USE WATER, CARBON DIOXIDE OR CARBON TETRACHLORIDE. USE DRY GRAPHITE, SODA ASH, POWDERED SODIUM CHLORIDE OR APPROPRIATE DRY POWDER. PERSONAL PROTECTION: WEAR FULL PROTECTIVE CLOTHING.

· CALL 911. Then call emergency response telephone number on shipping paper. If shipping paper not available or no answer, refer to appropriate telephone number listed on the inside back cover.

· Keep unauthorized personnel away.

· Stay upwind, uphill and/or upstream.

· Ventilate closed spaces before entering, but only if properly trained and equipped.

· ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames) from immediate area.

· Do not touch or walk through spilled material.

· Stop leak if you can do it without risk.

· Use water spray to reduce vapors or divert vapor cloud drift. Avoid allowing water runoff to contact spilled material.

· DO NOT GET WATER on spilled substance or inside containers.

Small Spill

· Cover with DRY earth, DRY sand or other non-combustible material followed with plastic sheet to minimize spreading or contact with rain.

· Dike for later disposal; do not apply water unless directed to do so.

Powder Spill

· Cover powder spill with plastic sheet or tarp to minimize spreading and keep powder dry.

· DO NOT CLEAN-UP OR DISPOSE OF, EXCEPT UNDER SUPERVISION OF A SPECIALIST.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 138 [Substances - Water-Reactive (Emitting Flammable Gases)]:

IMMEDIATE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURE: Isolate spill or leak area in all directions for at least 50 meters (150 feet) for liquids and at least 25 meters (75 feet) for solids.

LARGE SPILL: Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 300 meters (1000 feet).

FIRE: If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions. (ERG, 2024)

Immediate precautionary measure

· Isolate spill or leak area in all directions for at least 50 meters (150 feet) for liquids and at least 25 meters (75 feet) for solids.

Large Spill

· Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 300 meters (1000 feet).

· If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions.

Evacuate danger area! Consult an expert! Personal protection: chemical protection suit including self-contained breathing apparatus. Cover the spilled material with dry powder.

Spill Handling: Evacuate persons not wearing protective equipment from area of spill or leak until clean-up is complete. Remove all ignition sources. Collect powdered material in the most convenient and safe manner and deposit in sealed containers. Ventilate area after clean-up is complete. Keep potassium out of a confined space, such as a sewer, because of the possibility of an explosion, unless the sewer is designed to prevent the build-up of explosive concentrations. ...

OXIDE COATED K SHOULD BE DESTROYED BY BURNING. ... LARGE QUANTITIES OF K CAN BE DISPOSED OF BY SIMPLY CUTTING IT INTO SMALL PIECES & PLACING IT IN OPEN WASTE SPACE TO REACT WITH MOISTURE IN AIR & GRADUALLY TURN TO POTASSIUM HYDROXIDE. POTASSIUM MAY BE REACTED WITH ETHANOL TO GIVE STABLE PRODUCT. DO NOT DISPOSE OF IT... IT SHOULD BE STORED IN DETACHED BUILDING WHICH IS FIREPROOF & NOT WHERE IT CAN COME IN CONTACT WITH MOISTURE, POWERFUL OXIDIZING MATERIALS OR HIGH TEMP.

SRP: The most favorable course of action is to use an alternative chemical product with less inherent propensity for occupational exposure or environmental contamination. Recycle any unused portion of the material for its approved use or return it to the manufacturer or supplier. Ultimate disposal of the chemical must consider: the material's impact on air quality; potential migration in soil or water; effects on animal, aquatic, and plant life; and conformance with environmental and public health regulations.

SRP: The scientific literature for the use of contact lenses in industry is conflicting. The benefit or detrimental effects of wearing contact lenses depend not only upon the substance, but also on factors including the form of the substance, characteristics and duration of the exposure, the uses of other eye protection equipment, and the hygiene of the lenses. However, there may be individual substances whose irritating or corrosive properties are such that the wearing of contact lenses would be harmful to the eye. In those specific cases, contact lenses should not be worn. In any event, the usual eye protection equipment should be worn even when contact lenses are in place.

... All protective clothing (suits, gloves, footwear, headgear) should be clean, available each day, and put on before work ... . Employees should wash immediately with soap when skin is wet or contaminated. Provide emergency showers and eyewash.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 138 [Substances - Water-Reactive (Emitting Flammable Gases)]:

ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames) from immediate area. Do not touch or walk through spilled material. Stop leak if you can do it without risk. Use water spray to reduce vapors or divert vapor cloud drift. Avoid allowing water runoff to contact spilled material. DO NOT GET WATER on spilled substance or inside containers.

SMALL SPILL: Cover with DRY earth, DRY sand or other non-combustible material followed with plastic sheet to minimize spreading or contact with rain. Dike for later disposal; do not apply water unless directed to do so.

POWDER SPILL: Cover powder spill with plastic sheet or tarp to minimize spreading and keep powder dry. DO NOT CLEAN-UP OR DISPOSE OF, EXCEPT UNDER SUPERVISION OF A SPECIALIST. (ERG, 2024)

Fireproof. Keep under mineral oil. Dry. Well closed.

PROTECT AGAINST PHYSICAL DAMAGE. KEEP AWAY FROM WATER OR LOCATION WHERE WATER MAY BE NEEDED FOR FIGHTING FIRE... AVOID HIGH TEMP. STORE UNDER NITROGEN OR KEROSINE. NEVER STORE UNDER HALOGENATED HYDROCARBONS. DETACHED FIRE-RESISTIVE BUILDING RECOMMENDED FOR QUANTITY STORAGE.

Potassium must be stored to avoid contact with carbon monoxide and moisture, compounds of heavy metals (such as silver oxide and silver chloride) and carbon tetrachloride since violent reactions occur. Store under nitrogen, mineral oil, or kerosene. Sources of ignition such as smoking and create a potential fire or explosion hazard. Protect containers against physical damage. Wherever potassium is used, handled, manufactured, or stored, use explosion-proof electrical equipment and fittings.

Keep under liquid containing no oxygen, e.g., liquid petrolatum, petroleum, etc.

· Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).

· Wear chemical protective clothing that is specifically recommended by the manufacturer when there is NO RISK OF FIRE.

· Structural firefighters' protective clothing provides thermal protection but only limited chemical protection.

1.2 [mg/m3]

13 [mg/m3]

79 [mg/m3]

· DO NOT USE WATER OR FOAM.

Small Fire

· Dry chemical, soda ash, lime or sand.

Large Fire

· DRY sand, dry chemical, soda ash or lime or withdraw from area and let fire burn.

· If it can be done safely, move undamaged containers away from the area around the fire.

Fire Involving Metals or Powders (Aluminum, Lithium, Magnesium, etc.)

· Use dry chemical, DRY sand, sodium chloride powder, graphite powder or class D extinguishers; in addition, for Lithium you may use Lith-X® powder or copper powder. Also, see GUIDE 170.

Fire Involving Tanks, Rail Tank Cars or Highway Tanks

· Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles.

· Do not get water inside containers.

· Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out.

· Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of tank.

· ALWAYS stay away from tanks in direct contact with flames.

See ICSC 0357 (potassium hydroxide).

Excerpt from ERG Guide 138 [Substances - Water-Reactive (Emitting Flammable Gases)]:

Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Wear chemical protective clothing that is specifically recommended by the manufacturer when there is NO RISK OF FIRE. Structural firefighters' protective clothing provides thermal protection but only limited chemical protection. (ERG, 2024)

Personal Protective Methods: Wear protective gloves and clothing to prevent any reasonable probability of skin contact. ... Contact lenses should not be worn when working with this chemical. Wear dust-proof chemical goggles and face shield unless full facepiece respiratory protection is worn...

Goggles or face shield, rubber gloves.

NO contact with water, acids or halogens. NO open flames, NO sparks and NO smoking.

Use closed system or ventilation.

Protective gloves. Protective clothing.

Wear face shield.

Do not eat, drink, or smoke during work.

Potassium is a soft silvery metal though normally grayish white due to oxidation.

Potassium, metal alloys is potassium mixed with some other metal, usually sodium. It is a liquid under normal conditions. It reacts vigorously with water to form potassium hydroxide, a corrosive material and hydrogen, a flammable gas. The heat from this reaction may be sufficient to ignite the hydrogen. Potassium alloy may ignite spontaneously in contact with air. Once ignited, potassium burns quite violently. It is used as a heat exchange fluid.

Silver-white solid; [CHRIS]

WHITE-TO-GREY LUMPS.

Soft, silvery-white metal; body centered cubic structure

1425 °F at 760 mmHg (USCG, 1999)

765.5 °C

759 °C @760 [mm Hg]

145 °F (USCG, 1999)

Not Applicable. Combustible solid. (USCG, 1999)

Soluble in liquid ammonia, ethylenediamine, aniline; soluble in several metals; forms liquid alloys with other alkali metals

SOL IN ACID, MERCURY

Solubility in water: reaction

0.86 at 68 °F (USCG, 1999) - Less dense than water; will float

0.862 at 20 °C

0.856 g/cm³

0.89 @25 °C

1.4 (Air = 1)

8 mm Hg at 432 °C

Vapor pressure at 20 °C: negligible

Stable, if protected from air or moisture.

Tarnishes on exposure to air

Direct contact with metal may be corrosive and cause skin and eye burns

-2,003 btu/lb= -1,113 cal/g= -46.57X10+5 J/kg

2.075 kJ/g

86 dyn/cm at 100 °C

Potassium is never found free in nature... It is one of the most reactive and electropositive of metals; except for lithium, it is the lightest known metal.

Atomic number 19; valence 1. Group IA (1). Alkali metal; becomes brittle at low temps; specific heat (0 °C): 0.176 cal/g deg; Thermal conductivity (cal/sec °C cm): 0.23 (21 °C); 0.956 (400 °C). One of the most reactive metals; E(0) (AQ) K/K+ 2.922 Volt

Potassium and its salts impart a violet color to flames

Heat of soln: -2,106 btu/lb= -1,169 cal/g= -48,91x10+5 J/kg

For more Other Experimental Properties (Complete) data for POTASSIUM, ELEMENTAL (9 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

electron density of states

dielectric constant

electromagnetic induction

optical coefficient

crystal structure

fusion temperature

Debye frequency

dielectricity

diffusion

Reacts vigorously with oxygen. Reacts very vigorously with water [Merck 11th ed. 1989]. Water (to give a caustic solution and gaseous hydrogen). The oxidation of potassium in air is so rapid that the heat generated by the reaction melts and ignites the metal. This is particularly the case when pressure is applied at ordinary temperatures [Sidgwick 1950]. Potassium burns in moist air at room temperature [Mellor 2:468. 1946-47]. The higher oxides of potassium formed in air react explosively with pure potassium, sodium, sodium-potassium alloys, or organic matter [Mellor 2, Supp. 3:1559. 1963].

Reacts vigorously with oxygen. Reacts vigorously with water even at less than 100 °C [Merck, 11th ed., 1989]. Water (caustic solution, H2) The oxidation of potassium in air is so rapid that the heat generated by the reaction melts and ignites the metal. This is particularly the case when pressure is applied at ordinary temperatures [Sidgwick 1. 1950]. Potassium burns in moist air at room temperature [Mellor 2:468. 1946-47]. The higher oxides of potassium, formed in air, react explosively with pure potassium, sodium, sodium-potassium alloys, and organic matter [Mellor 2, Supp. 3:1559. 1963].

Metals, Alkali, Very Active

Strong Reducing Agent

Water-Reactive

Pyrophoric

CSL00121

POTASSIUM + Petroleum Ether

Potassium metal may be covered with a very hazardous crust of either KO2 or KOHH2O. KOHH2O may release water upon melting, which can then react (explosively) with the molten potassium metal

Explosive

ACS Safety Letters

CSL00181

carbon disulfide + potassium metal

Explosion Hazard for Carbon Disulfide Reaction To the Editor: We would like to call attention to the danger of explo- sion of carbon disulfide in contact with potassium met- al. On following a recently published procedure (1) for the reduction of carbon disulfide with alkali metals, violent det- onations have occurred in laboratories in France and the United States resulting, in one case, in hospitalization of the personnel involved. The threat of explosion of mixtures of carbon disulfide and potassium or potassium-sodium alloys has previously been noted (2). The Steimecke et al. procedure affords various 1,3-dith- iole-2-thione-4,5-dithiolate salts which have proven to be versatile intermediates in organo-sulfur chemistry. Follow- ing their procedure, no explosions have occurred when sodi- um is substituted as the dissolving metal reductant although we advise caution when handling these dangerous reagents.

Not Available

https://pubs.acs.org/doi/pdf/10.1021/ed063p1016.3

Literature Reference

07/01/2022

Very reactive. A strong reducing agent. Boron trifluoride reacts with incandescence when heated with potassium [Merck 11th ed. 1989]. Maleic anhydride decomposes explosively in the presence of potassium[Chem Safety Data Sheet SD-88. 1962]; [Chem. Haz. Info. Series C-71. 1960]. Sodium peroxide oxidizes potassium with incandescence [Mellor 2:490-93. 1946-47]. May catalyze rearrangement and polymerization of ethylene oxide liberating heat [J. Soc. Chem. Ind. 68:179. 1949]. A mixture of potassium and any of the following metallic halides produces a strong explosion on impact: aluminum chloride, aluminum fluoride, ammonium fluorocuprate, antimony tribromide, antimony trichloride, antimony triiodide, cadmium bromide, cadmium chloride, cadmium iodide, chromium tetrachloride, cupric bromide, cupric chloride, cuprous bromide cuprous chloride, cuprous iodide, manganese chloride, mercuric bromide, mercuric chloride, mercuric fluoride, mercuric iodide, mercurous chloride, nickel bromide, nickel chloride, nickel iodide, silicon tetrachloride, silver fluoride, stannic chloride, stannic iodide (with silver), stannous chloride, sulfur dibromide, thallous bromide, vanadium pentachloride, zinc bromide, zinc chloride, and zinc iodide [Mellor 2, Supp. 3:1571. 1963]. A mixture of potassium and any of the following compounds produces a weak explosion on impact: ammonium bromide, ammonium iodide, cadmium fluoride, chromium trifluoride, manganous bromide, manganous iodide, nickel fluoride, potassium chlorocuprate, silver chloride, silver iodide, strontium iodide, thallous chloride, and zinc fluoride [Mellor 2, Supp. 3:1571. 1963]. A mixture of potassium and any of the following compounds may explode on impact: boric acid, copper oxychloride, lead oxychloride, lead peroxide, lead sulfate, silver iodate, sodium iodate, and vanadium oxychloride [Mellor 2, Supp. 3:1571. 1963]. A mixture of potassium with any of the following compounds produces a very violent explosion on impact: boron tribromide, carbon tetrachloride, cobaltous bromide, cobaltous chloride, ferric bromide, ferric chloride, ferrous bromide, ferrous chloride, ferrous iodide, phosphorus pentachloride, phosphorus tribromide, and sulfur dichloride [Mellor 2, Supp. 3:1571. 1963]. Mixture of solid potassium and solid carbon dioxide (Dry Ice) explodes when subjected to shock [Mellor 2, Supp. 3:1568. 1963]. Potassium and its alloys form explosive mixtures with chlorinated hydrocarbons [Chem. Eng. News 26:2604. 1948]. Potassium in contact with the following oxides causes an explosive reaction: potassium ozonide, potassium peroxide, or potassium superoxide [Mellor 2, Supp. 3:157. 1963].

Boron trifluoride reacts with incandescence when heated with alkali metals or alkaline earth metals except magnesium [Merck 11th ed. 1989]. Maleic anhydride decomposes explosively in the presence of alkali metals [Chemical Safety Data Sheet SD-88. (96)]; [Chem. Haz. Info. Series C-71. 1960]. Sodium peroxide oxidizes antimony, arsenic, copper, potassium, tin, and zinc with incandescence [Mellor 2:490-93. 1946-47]. Alkali metal hydroxides, acids, anhydrous chlorides of iron, tin, and aluminum, pure oxides of iron and aluminum, and metallic potassium are some of the catalysts that may cause ethylene oxide to rearrange and polymerize, liberating heat [J. Soc. Chem. Ind. 68:179. 1949]. Explosions occur, although infrequently, from the combination of ethylene oxide and alcohols or mercaptans [Chem. Eng. News 20:1318. 1942]. A mixture of potassium and any of the following metallic halides produces a strong explosion on impact: aluminum chloride, aluminum fluoride, ammonium fluorocuprate, antimony tribromide, antimony trichloride, antimony triiodide, cadmium bromide, cadmium chloride, cadmium iodide, chromium tetrachloride, cupric bromide, cupric chloride, cuprous bromide cuprous chloride, cuprous iodide, manganese chloride, mercuric bromide, mercuric chloride, mercuric fluoride, mercuric iodide, mercurous chloride, nickel bromide, nickel chloride, nickel iodide, silicon tetrachloride, silver fluoride, stannic chloride, stannic iodide (with silver), stannous chloride, sulfur dibromide, thallous bromide, vanadium pentachloride, zinc bromide, zinc chloride, and zinc iodide [Mellor 2, Supp. 3:1571. 1963]. A mixture of potassium and any of the following compounds produces a weak explosion on impact: ammonium bromide, ammonium iodide, cadmium fluoride, chromium trifluoride, manganous bromide, manganous iodide, nickel fluoride, potassium chlorocuprate, silver chloride, silver iodide, strontium iodide, thallous chloride, and zinc fluoride [Mellor 2, Supp. 3:1571. 1963]. A mixture of potassium and any of the following compounds may explode on impact: boric acid, copper oxychloride, lead oxychloride, lead peroxide, lead sulfate, silver iodate, sodium iodate, and vanadium oxychloride [Mellor 2, Supp. 3:1571. 1963]. A mixture of potassium with any of the following compounds produces a very violent explosion on impact: boron tribromide, carbon tetrachloride, cobaltous bromide, cobaltous chloride, ferric bromide, ferric chloride, ferrous bromide, ferrous chloride, ferrous iodide, phosphorus pentachloride, phosphorus tribromide, and sulfur dichloride [Mellor 2, Supp. 3:1571. 1963]. Mixture of solid potassium and carbon dioxide(as dry ice) explodes when subjected to shock [Mellor 2, Supp. 3:1568. 1963]. Potassium and its alloys form explosive mixtures with chlorinated hydrocarbons [Chem. Eng. News 26:2604. 1948]. Ethylene oxide is dangerously reactive with metallic potassium [Chemical Safety Data Sheet SD-38:11. 1951]. Potassium in contact with the following oxides causes an explosive reaction: potassium ozonide, potassium peroxide, or potassium superoxide [Mellor 2, Supp. 3:1577. 1963].

Reacts violently with water, carbon dioxide or carbon tetrachloride.

Molten potassium ignites in acetylene.

Violent reaction with oxidizers, organic materials, carbon dioxide, heavy metal compounds, carbon tetrachloride, halogenated hydrocarbons, easily oxidized materials, and many other substances. ... Potassium metal containing an oxide coating is an extremely dangerous explosion hazard and should be removed and destroyed.

Potassium Metal

A: Compounds that form explosive levels of peroxides without concentration

Prudent Practices, Clark

Can form shock-sensitive peroxides on the metal and under container lids upon extended storage and in contact with air. See Bretherick's.

http://www.sfasu.edu/safety/documents/Reactive_Materials_Guidance_Document.pdf if mixed with combustible materials

Gilbert, H. N., Chem. Eng. News, 1948, 26, 2604

Johnson, W. S. et al., Org. Synth., 1963, Coll. Vol. 4,134–135

Taylor, D. A. H., Chem. Brit., 1974, 10, 101

Diaper, D. G. M., Chem. Brit., 1974, 10, 312

Anon., Fire Precaut., 1988, (213), 46

Houben-Weyl, 1970, Vol. 13.1, 264

Burfield, D. R. et al., Chem. & Ind., 1979, 89

Davis, A. C., Chem. Brit., 1979, 15, 179

Levy,J.etal.,Angew.Chem.(Int.Ed.),1981,20,1033

Mellor, 1941, Vol. 2, 468; 1963, Vol. 2, Suppl. 2.2, 1559

Mellor, 1941, Vol. 2, 493

Short, J. F., Chem. & Ind., 1964, 2132

Hyperkalemia is the most prevalent and life-threatening hazard of potassium therapy. ECG changes are the most critical indicator of asymptomatic potassium toxicity. They include tall, peaked T waves, ST-segment depression, the disappearance of the P wave, QT interval prolongation, and widening the QRS complex with slurring. Clinical signs and symptoms of hyperkalemia include paresthesias, drowsiness, mental confusion, flaccid paralysis, gray pallor, cold skin, peripheral vascular collapse with a fall in blood pressure, critical cardiac arrhythmias, and heart block.

Treatment of hyperkalemia depends on its severity, and multiple regimens are available. However, rapidly lowering plasma potassium concentrations in digitalized patients can result in cardiac glycoside toxicity. Administration of potassium-rich foods and potassium-sparing diuretics require prompt discontinuation. In patients with severe hyperkalemia, immediate measures that allow an intracellular shift of potassium (eg, administration of sodium bicarbonate, a calcium salt, or insulin-dextrose) have been recommended. Patients with absent P waves or a broad QRS complex and not receiving cardiac glycosides should immediately be given calcium gluconate or another calcium salt IV with continuous ECG monitoring to antagonize the cardiotoxic effects of potassium. If abnormalities on the ECG persist, repeated doses of the calcium salt may be given.

After the ECG normalizes, subsequent efforts should focus on removing potassium from the body. Some potassium adsorption can be accomplished by administering sodium polystyrene sulfonate orally or as an enema. Hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis will reduce plasma potassium concentrations and may be necessary for patients with renal insufficiency.

Potassium

Major ion

Smith, C.D. and Nowell, L.H., 2024. Health-Based Screening Levels for evaluating water-quality data (3rd ed.). DOI:10.5066/F71C1TWP

Serious by all routes of exposure.

Cough. Sore throat. Burning sensation.

Pain. Blisters. Serious skin burns.

Severe deep burns. Loss of vision.

Burning sensation. Shock or collapse.

Dermatotoxin - Skin burns.

Hyperkalemia is the most common and life-threatening adverse effect of potassium administration and can develop rapidly. This condition can manifest as potentially fatal bradycardia, asystole, and ventricular fibrillation.

Oral preparations commonly cause gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea, emesis, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.

Extravasation, local irritation, and phlebitis may occur due to improper dilution of intravenous preparations or administration through a peripheral vein.

Hypersensitivity reactions may occur from the use of potassium iodide as well as chronic iodine poisoning (iodism).

Basic treatment: Establish a patent airway (oropharyngeal or nasopharyngeal airway, if needed). Suction if necessary. Watch for signs of respiratory insufficiency and assist ventilations if needed. Administer oxygen by nonrebreather mask at 10 to 15 L/min. Monitor for pulmonary edema and treat if necessary ... . Monitor for shock and treat if necessary ... . Anticipate seizures and treat if necessary ... . For eye contamination, flush eyes immediately with water. Irrigate each eye continuously with 0.9% saline (NS) during transport ... . Do not use emetics. For ingestion, rinse mouth and administer 5 ml/kg up to 200 ml of water for dilution if the patient can swallow, has a strong gag reflex, and does not drool ... . Cover skin burns with dry sterile dressings after decontamination ... . /Poisons A and B/

Advanced treatment: Consider orotracheal or nasotracheal intubation for airway control in the patient who is unconscious, has severe pulmonary edema, or is in severe respiratory distress. Positive-pressure ventilation techniques with a bag valve mask device may be beneficial. Consider drug therapy for pulmonary edema ... . Consider administering a beta agonist such as albuterol for severe bronchospasm ... . Monitor cardiac rhythm and treat arrhythmias as necessary ... . Start IV administration of D5W /SRP: "To keep open", minimal flow rate/. Use 0.9% saline (NS) or lactated Ringer's if signs of hypovolemia are present. For hypotension with signs of hypovolemia, administer fluid cautiously. Watch for signs of fluid overload ... . Treat seizures with diazepam or lorazepam ... . Use proparacaine hydrochloride to assist eye irrigation ... . /Poisons A and B/

/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ Harmful Effects and Symptoms Short Term Exposure: Potassium can affect you when breathed in. Inhalation of dusts or mists can irritate the eyes, nose, throat and lungs with sneezing, coughing and sore throat. Higher exposures may cause a build-up of fluid in the lungs (pulmonary edema). This can cause death. Skin and eye contact can cause severe burns leading to permanent damage. Long Term Exposure: Prolonged exposure to fumes can cause sores of the inner nose and nasal septum. Fumes can irritate the lungs; bronchitis may develop.

... does not occur in nature as a free metal

The abundance of potassium in the earth's crust is 2.59% ... Its extent in seawater is almost as great due to the weathering of potassium-containing minerals. /Potassium in nature/

Potassium is present in the composition of the kernel of Black Walnut /Potassium in nature/

Potassium in seawater at a concentration of 3.8X10-5 ug/L /Potassium in nature/

For more Natural Pollution Sources (Complete) data for POTASSIUM, ELEMENTAL (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

... does not occur in nature as a free metal

The abundance of potassium in the earth's crust is 2.59% ... Its extent in seawater is almost as great due to the weathering of potassium-containing minerals. /Potassium in nature/

Potassium is present in the composition of the kernel of Black Walnut /Potassium in nature/

Potassium in seawater at a concentration of 3.8X10-5 ug/L /Potassium in nature/

For more Natural Pollution Sources (Complete) data for POTASSIUM, ELEMENTAL (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

SRP: The most favorable course of action is to use an alternative chemical product with less inherent propensity for occupational exposure or environmental contamination. Recycle any unused portion of the material for its approved use or return it to the manufacturer or supplier. Ultimate disposal of the chemical must consider: the material's impact on air quality; potential migration in soil or water; effects on animal, aquatic, and plant life; and conformance with environmental and public health regulations.

/GUIDE 138: SUBSTANCES - WATER-REACTIVE (EMITTING FLAMMABLE GASES)/ Fire or Explosion: Produce flammable gases on contact with water. May ignite on contact with water or moist air. Some react vigorously or explosively on contact with water. May be ignited by heat, sparks or flames. May re-ignite after fire is extinguished. Some are transported in highly flammable liquids. Runoff may create fire or explosion hazard. /Potassium; Potassium, metal/

/GUIDE 138: SUBSTANCES - WATER-REACTIVE (EMITTING FLAMMABLE GASES)/ Health: Inhalation or contact with vapors, substance, or decomposition products may cause severe injury or death. May produce corrosive solutions on contact with water. Fire will produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Runoff from fire control may cause pollution. /Potassium; Potassium, metal/

/GUIDE 138: SUBSTANCES - WATER-REACTIVE (EMITTING FLAMMABLE GASES)/ 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 least 25 meter (75 feet) for solids. Keep unauthorized personnel away. Stay upwind. Keep out of low areas. Ventilate the area before entry. /Potassium; Potassium, metal/

/GUIDE 138: SUBSTANCES - WATER-REACTIVE (EMITTING FLAMMABLE GASES)/ 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 will only provide limited protection in fire situations ONLY; it is not effective in spill situations where direct contact with the substance is possible. /Potassium; Potassium, metal/

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

UN 2257; Potassium

IMO 4.3; Potassium

49 164 45; Potassium, metal or metallic

49 164 46; Potassium, metallic liquid alloy

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.

Dangerous When Wet

Airtight. Unbreakable packaging. Put breakable packaging into closed unbreakable container.

Symbol: F, C; R: 14/15-34; S: (1/2)-5-8-45

UN Hazard Class: 4.3; UN Pack Group: I