Mercuric Chloride

H300: Fatal if swallowed [Danger Acute toxicity, oral]

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

H341: Suspected of causing genetic defects [Warning Germ cell mutagenicity]

H361f ***: Suspected of damaging fertility [Warning Reproductive toxicity]

H372 **: Causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure [Danger Specific target organ toxicity, repeated exposure]

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

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

P203, P260, P264, P270, P273, P280, P301+P316, P301+P330+P331, P302+P361+P354, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P316, P318, P319, P321, P330, P363, P391, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

H300+H310 (17.4%): Fatal if swallowed or in contact with skin [Danger Acute toxicity, oral; acute toxicity, dermal]

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

H310 (26.6%): Fatal in contact with skin [Danger Acute toxicity, dermal]

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

H317 (47.7%): May cause an allergic skin reaction [Warning Sensitization, Skin]

H318 (47.7%): Causes serious eye damage [Danger Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

H341 (99.5%): Suspected of causing genetic defects [Warning Germ cell mutagenicity]

H361 (99.5%): Suspected of damaging fertility or the unborn child [Warning Reproductive toxicity]

H372 (100%): Causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure [Danger 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]

P203, P260, P261, P262, P264, P264+P265, P270, P272, P273, P280, P301+P316, P301+P330+P331, P302+P352, P302+P361+P354, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P316, P317, P318, P319, P321, P330, P333+P317, P361+P364, P362+P364, P363, P391, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Aggregated GHS information provided per 218 reports by companies from 12 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.

H315: Causes skin irritation [Warning Skin corrosion/irritation]

P264, P280, P302+P352, P321, P332+P317, and P362+P364 (click each P-code to see the statement)

H317: May cause an allergic skin reaction [Warning Sensitization, Skin]

H319: Causes serious eye irritation [Warning Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

H360: May damage fertility or the unborn child [Danger Reproductive toxicity]

H370: Causes damage to organs [Danger Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure]

H372: Causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure [Danger Specific target organ toxicity, repeated exposure]

P203, P260, P261, P264, P264+P265, P270, P272, P273, P280, P301+P316, P302+P352, P305+P351+P338, P308+P316, P318, P319, P321, P330, P332+P317, P333+P317, P337+P317, P362+P364, P391, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

H310: Fatal in contact with skin [Danger Acute toxicity, dermal]

P203, P260, P261, P262, P264, P264+P265, P270, P272, P280, P301+P316, P302+P352, P305+P351+P338, P308+P316, P316, P318, P319, P321, P330, P332+P317, P333+P317, P337+P317, P361+P364, P362+P364, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

H361f: Suspected of damaging fertility [Warning Reproductive toxicity]

Fresh air, rest. Refer for medical attention.

Remove contaminated clothes. Rinse skin with plenty of water or shower for at least 15 minutes. Refer for medical attention .

Rinse with plenty of water for several minutes (remove contact lenses if easily possible). Refer immediately for medical attention.

Rinse mouth. Give one or two glasses of water to drink. Do NOT induce vomiting. Refer immediately for medical attention.

Signs and Symptoms of Acute Mercuric Chloride Exposure: Signs and symptoms of acute exposure to mercuric chloride may be severe and include increased salivation, foul breath, inflammation and ulceration of the mucous membranes, abdominal pain, and bloody diarrhea. Dermal exposure may result in dermatitis (red, inflamed skin) and burns. Oliguria (scanty urination), anuria (suppression of urine formation), and acute renal failure may be noted. Weak pulse, seizures, psychic disturbances, circulatory collapse, chest pain, and dyspnea (shortness of breath) may be observed.

Emergency Life-Support Procedures: Acute exposure to mercuric chloride may require decontamination and life support for the victims. Emergency personnel should wear protective clothing appropriate to the type and degree of contamination. Air-purifying or supplied-air respiratory equipment should also be worn, as necessary. Rescue vehicles should carry supplies such as plastic sheeting and disposable plastic bags to assist in preventing spread of contamination.

Inhalation Exposure:

1. Move victims to fresh air. Emergency personnel should avoid self-exposure to mercuric chloride.

2. Evaluate vital signs including pulse and respiratory rate, and note any trauma. If no pulse is detected, provide CPR. If not breathing, provide artificial respiration. If breathing is labored, administer oxygen or other respiratory support.

3. Obtain authorization and/or further instructions from the local hospital for administration of an antidote or performance of other invasive procedures.

4. RUSH to a health care facility.

Dermal/Eye Exposure:

1. Remove victims from exposure. Emergency personnel should avoid self- exposure to mercuric chloride.

3. Remove contaminated clothing as soon as possible.

4. If eye exposure has occurred, eyes must be flushed with lukewarm water for at least 15 minutes.

5. Wash exposed skin areas for 15 minutes with soap and water.

6. Obtain authorization and/or further instructions from the local hospital for administration of an antidote or performance of other invasive procedures.

7. RUSH to a health care facility.

Ingestion Exposure:

1. Evaluate vital signs including pulse and respiratory rate, and note any trauma. If no pulse is detected, provide CPR. If not breathing, provide artificial respiration. If breathing is labored, administer oxygen or other respiratory support.

2. Obtain authorization and/or further instructions from the local hospital for administration of an antidote or performance of other invasive procedures.

3. Give the victims water or milk: children up to 1 year old, 125 mL (4 oz or 1/2 cup); children 1 to 12 years old, 200 mL (6 oz or 3/4 cup); adults, 250 mL (8 oz or 1 cup). Water or milk should be given only if victims are conscious and alert.

4. Activated charcoal may be administered if victims are conscious and alert. Use 15 to 30 g (1/2 to 1 oz) for children, 50 to 100 g (1-3/4 to 3-1/2 oz) for adults, with 125 to 250 mL (1/2 to 1 cup) of water.

5. Promote excretion by administering a saline cathartic or sorbitol to conscious and alert victims. Children require 15 to 30 g (1/2 to 1 oz) of cathartic; 50 to 100 g (1-3/4 to 3-1/2 oz) is recommended for adults.

6. RUSH to a health care facility. (EPA, 1998)

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.

Move container from fire area. Wear self-contained breathing apparatus and full body protective clothing.

Some of these materials may burn but none of them ignite readily. Extinguish with water spray, fog, foam, dry chemical or carbon dioxide. (EPA, 1998)

In case of fire in the surroundings, use appropriate extinguishing media.

If material involved in fire: Extinguish fire using agent suitable for type of surrounding fire (Material itself does not burn or burns with difficulty). Use water in flooding quantities as fog. Use "alcohol" foam, dry chemical, or carbon dioxide.

· 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 damaged containers or spilled material unless wearing appropriate protective clothing.

· Stop leak if you can do it without risk.

· Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas.

· Absorb or cover with dry earth, sand or other non-combustible material and transfer to containers.

· DO NOT GET WATER INSIDE CONTAINERS.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 154 [Substances - Toxic and/or Corrosive (Non-Combustible)]:

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.

SPILL: Increase the immediate precautionary measure distance, in the downwind direction, as necessary.

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.

· For highlighted materials: see Table 1 - Initial Isolation and Protective Action Distances.

· For non-highlighted materials: increase the immediate precautionary measure distance, in the downwind direction, as necessary.

· 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.

Consult an expert! Personal protection: complete protective clothing. Do NOT let this chemical enter the environment. Sweep spilled substance into covered containers. Carefully collect remainder. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations.

Mercury spills should be cleaned up immediately by use of a special vacuum cleaner. Then the area should be washed with a dilute calcium sulfide solution. Small quantities of mercury can be picked up by mixing with copper metal granules. ... /Mercury/

Mercury removal from waste water can be accomplished by these processes: BMS process; Chlorine is added to the waste water, oxidizing any mercury present to the ionic state. The BMS adsorbent (an activated carbon concentrate of sulfur cmpd on its surface) is used to collect ionic mercury. The spent adsorbent is then distilled to recover the mercury, leaving a carbon residue for reuse or disposal. TMR IMAC Process; Waste water is fed into a reactor, whereby a slight excess of chlorine is maintained, oxidizing any mercury present to ionic mercury. The liquid is then passed through the TMR IMAC ion-exchange resin where mercury ions are adsorbed. The mercury is then stripped from the spent resin with hydrochloric acid solution. /Mercury cmpds/

SPILLED MERCURY CMPD OR SOLN CAN BE CLEANED UP BY ANY METHOD THAT DOES NOT CAUSE EXCESSIVE AIRBORNE CONTAMINATION OR SKIN CONTACT. /MERCURY COMPOUNDS/

1) Ventilate area of spill. 2) Collect spilled material for reclamation using commercially available mercury vapor depressants or specialized vacuum cleaners. /Inorganic mercury/

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.

Recycling: Dissolve in water after converting soluble nitrate if the cmpd is not water-soluble. Adjust the pH and precipitate mercury as mercury sulfide. Wash and dry the precipitate and return to the suppliers. Recommendable methods: Solidification & landfill. Not recommendable methods: Thermal destruction, discharge to sewer, evaporation.

If material not involved in fire: Keep material out of water sources and sewers.

Personnel protection: Avoid breathing dusts, and fumes from burning material. Keep upwind. Avoid bodily contact with the material. ... Do not handle broken packages unless wearing appropriate personal protective equipment. Wash away any material which may have contacted the body with copious amounts of water or soap and water. ... If contact with the material anticipated, wear appropriate chemical protective clothing.

Preventative measure: adequate ventilation; careful attention to good housekeeping, e.g., avoidance of spills, and prompt and proper cleaning if a spill occurs; all containers of mercury and its compounds should be kept tightly closed; should be washed on a regular basis with dilute calcium sulfide solution or other suitable reactant; floors should be nonporous; all workers directly involved in the plant operation should shower thoroughly each day before leaving. /Mercury compounds/

Excerpt from ERG Guide 154 [Substances - Toxic and/or Corrosive (Non-Combustible)]:

ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames) from immediate area. Do not touch damaged containers or spilled material unless wearing appropriate protective clothing. Stop leak if you can do it without risk. Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas. Absorb or cover with dry earth, sand or other non-combustible material and transfer to containers. DO NOT GET WATER INSIDE CONTAINERS. (ERG, 2024)

Separated from food and feedstuffs, aluminium, copper, iron and zinc. Store in an area without drain or sewer access. Provision to contain effluent from fire extinguishing. Well closed. Keep in the dark. Store only in original container.

· 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.

0.02 [mg/m3], as Hg, inhalable fraction[German Research Foundation (DFG)]

0.11 [mg/m3]

1.2 [mg/m3]

6.9 [mg/m3]

0.1 [mg/m3], as Hg

10 mg Hg/m3 (NIOSH, 2024)

10.0 [mg/m3], as Hg

10 mg/cu m (as Hg) /Mercury cmpd (except (organo) alkyl compounds (as Hg)/

0.02 [mg/m3], as Hg

8 hr Time Weighted Avg (TWA): 0.025 mg/cu m, skin /Mercury, elemental and inorganic forms, 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, elemental and inorganic forms, Hg/

A4: Not classifiable as a human carcinogen. /Mercury, elemental and inorganic forms, as Hg/

Biological Exposure Index (BEI): Determinant: total inorganic mercury in urine; Sampling Time: Prior to shift; BEI: 35 ug/g creatinine; The determinant may be present in biological specimens collected from subjects who have not been occupationally exposed, at a concentration which could affect interpretation of the result. Such background concentrations are incorporated in the BEI value. /Mercury/

Biological Exposure Index (BEI): Determinant: total inorganic mercury in blood; Sampling Time: end of shift at end of workweek; BEI: 15 ug/L. The determinant may be present in biological specimens collected from subjects who have not been occupationally exposed, at a concentration which could affect interpretation of the result. Such background concentrations are incorporated in the BEI value. /Mercury/

(as Hg): 0.025 mg/m

(as Hg): 0,02 mg/m

(as Hg, inhalable fraction): 0.02 mg/m

Chronic Inhalation: 0.0002 mg/m3 (L134)

Small Fire

· Dry chemical, CO2 or water spray.

Large Fire

· Dry chemical, CO2, alcohol-resistant foam or water spray.

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

· Dike runoff from fire control for later disposal.

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.

A harmful concentration of airborne particles can be reached quickly when dispersed.

The substance is corrosive to the eyes and skin. The substance is irritating to the respiratory tract. The substance may cause effects on the gastrointestinal tract and kidneys. This may result in tissue lesions, kidney failure, collapse and death. Medical observation is indicated.

Repeated or prolonged contact may cause skin sensitization. The substance may have effects on the central nervous system, peripheral nervous system and kidneys. This may result in ataxia, sensory and memory disturbances, tremors, muscle weakness and kidney impairment. The substance may have effects on male fertility. May cause heritable genetic damage to human germ cells.

For emergency situations, wear a positive pressure, pressure-demand, full facepiece self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) or pressure- demand supplied air respirator with escape SCBA and a fully-encapsulating, chemical resistant suit. (EPA, 1998)

Personnel protection: ... Wear appropriate chemical protective gloves, boots, and goggles. ... Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus when fighting fires involving this material.

AVOID ALL CONTACT! IN ALL CASES CONSULT A DOCTOR!

Use local exhaust or breathing protection.

Mercuric chloride appears as an odorless white crystalline solid. Density 5.4 g / cm3. Melting point 277 °C. Slightly volatile at ordinary temperatures. Can be sublimed unchanged. Corrosive to the mucous membranes. Toxic by inhalation (dusts, etc.), ingestion, and skin absorption. Used in photography, disinfectants, wood preservatives, fungicides.

White solid; [CHRIS]

WHITE CRYSTALS OR POWDER.

Colorless rhombic crystals or white powder

White crystal or powder

White orthombic crystals

Odorless

576 °F at 760 mmHg (EPA, 1998)

304 °C @760 [mm Hg]

529 °F (EPA, 1998)

5 to 10 mg/mL at 72 °F (NTP, 1992)

6.9 g/100 cc water @ 20 °C

48 G/100 CC WATER @ 100 °C

33 G/100 CC ALCOHOL @ 25 °C

4 G/100 CC ETHER

For more Solubility (Complete) data for MERCURIC CHLORIDE (9 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Solubility in water, g/l at 20 °C: 69 (moderate)

5.44 at 77 °F (EPA, 1998) - Denser than water; will sink

5.6 @ 20 °C

5.4 g/cm³

5.6 @25 °C

9.8 g/cu cm

1 mmHg at 277.16 °F (EPA, 1998)

1 MM HG @ 136.2 °C

Vapor pressure, Pa at 20 °C: 0.1

log Kow= 0.22

Henry's Law constant = 7.09X10-10 atm-cu m/mole 25 °C

SLIGHTLY VOLATILE AT ORDINARY TEMP; APPRECIABLY SO AT 100 °C; VOLATILIZES UNCHANGED @ ABOUT 300 °C

DECOMP IN PRESENCE OF ORG MATTER BY SUNLIGHT TO METALLIC MERCURY, VIA MERCUROUS CHLORIDE

Corrosion rate: 0.0003 mm/yr (1% concn) at 100 °C; 0.01 mm/yr (5% concn) at 100 °C; 0.001 mm/yr (10% concn) at 100 °C. ... relative to titanium

About 4.7 also reported as 3.2 for 0.2 molar aq soln

INDEX OF REFRACTION: 1.859

Coagulates albumin; produces yellow precipitate with sodium hydroxide

Heat of fusion: 15.3 cal/g

Metals -> Mercury Compounds, Inorganic

Carcinogens

Mutagens

Reactive agents - 1st degree

Potential endocrine disrupting compound

Pesticide -> EPA IRIS

Slightly soluble in water.

Metals, Less Reactive

Salts, Acidic

MERCURIC CHLORIDE is decomposed by sunlight. Incompatible with formates, sulfites, hypophosphites, phosphates, sulfides, albumin, gelatin, alkalis, alkaloid salts, ammonia, lime water, antimony, arsenic, bromides, borax, carbonates, reduced iron, iron, copper, lead and silver salts, infusions of cinchona, oak bark or senna, tannic acids and vegetable astringents. (NTP, 1992).

MIXTURE OF POTASSIUM & ANY OF FOLLOWING METALLIC HALIDES PRODUCES STRONG EXPLOSION ON IMPACT: ... MERCURIC CHLORIDE ...

MIXTURE OF SODIUM & ANY OF FOLLOWING HALIDE CMPD PRODUCES STRONG EXPLOSION ON IMPACT: ... MERCURIC CHLORIDE ...

INCOMPATIBILITIES: FORMATES, SULFITES, HYPOPHOSPHITES, PHOSPHATES, SULFIDES, ALBUMIN, GELATIN, ALKALIES, ALKALOID SALTS, AMMONIA, LIME WATER, ANTIMONY AND ARSENIC, BROMIDES, BORAX, CARBONATES, REDUCED IRON, COPPER, IRON, LEAD, SILVER SALTS, INFUSIONS OF CINCHONA, COLUMBO, OAK BARK OR SENNA; TANNIC ACID; VEGETABLE ASTRINGENTS.

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. 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)

Mercuric chloride (HgCl2)

3 x 10 ^-4 mg/kg-day

CLASSIFICATION: C; possible human carcinogen. BASIS FOR CLASSIFICATION: Based on the absence of data in humans and limited evidence of carcinogenicity in rats and mice. Focal papillary hyperplasia and squamous cell papillomas in the forestomach as well as thyroid follicular cell adenomas and carcinomas were observed in male rats gavaged with mercuric chloride for 2 years. The relevance of the forestomach papillomas to assessment of cancer in humans is questionable because no evidence indicated that the papillomas progressed to malignancy. The relevance of the increase in thyroid tumors has also been questioned because these tumors are generally considered to be secondary to hyperplasia; this effect was not observed in the high-dose males. It should also be noted that the authors considered the doses used in the study to exceed the MTD for male rats. In the same study, evidence for increases in squamous cell papillomas in the forestomach of female rats was equivocal. In a second study, equivocal evidence for renal adenomas and adenocarcinomas was observed in male mice; there was a significant positive trend. This tumor type is rare in mice, and the increase in incidence was statistically significant when compared with historic controls. Two other nonpositive lifetime rodent studies were considered inadequate. Mercuric chloride showed mixed results in a number of genotoxicity assays. HUMAN CARCINOGENICITY DATA: None. ANIMAL CARCINOGENICITY DATA: Limited.

Evaluation: There is inadequate evidence in humans for the carcinogenicity of mercury and mercury compounds. There is inadequate evidence in experimental animals for the carcinogenicity of metallic mercury. There is limited evidence in experimental animals for the carcinogenicity of mercuric chloride. There is sufficient evidence in experimental animals for the carcinogenicity of methylmercury chloride. In making the overall evaluation, the Working Group took into account evidence that methylmercury compounds are similar with regard to absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, genotoxicity and other forms of toxicity. Overall evaluation: Methylmercury compounds are possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B). Metallic mercury and inorganic mercury compounds are not classifiable as to their carcinogenicity to humans. (Group 3). /Mercury and mercury compounds/

A4: Not classifiable as a human carcinogen. /Mercury, elemental and inorganic forms, as Hg/

Mercuric Chloride

TR-408: Toxicology and Carcinogenesis Studies of Mercuric Chloride (CASRN 7487-94-7) in F344 Rats and B6C3F1 Mice (Gavage Studies) (1993 )

07/10/91

Some Evidence

Equivocal Evidence

No Evidence

Under the conditions of these 2-year gavage studies, there was some evidence of carcinogenic activity of mercuric chloride in male F344 rats based on the increased incidence of squamous cell papillomas of the forestomach. Marginally increased incidences of thyroid follicular cell adenomas and carcinomas may have been related to mercuric chloride exposure. There was equivocal evidence of carcinogenic activity of mercuric chloride in female F344 rats based on two squamous cell papillomas of the forestomach. There was equivocal evidence of carcinogenic activity of mercuric chloride in male B6C3F1 mice based on the occurrences of two renal tubule adenomas and one renal tubule adenocarcinoma. There was no evidence of carcinogenic activity of mercuric chloride in female B6C3F1 mice receiving 5 or 10 mg/kg.

Nonneoplastic lesions associated with exposure to mercuric chloride included increased severity of nephropathy in male rats and male and female mice. There was an increased incidence of renal tubule hyperplasia in male rats. The incidence of forestomach hyperplasia was increased in dosed male and female rats. Increased incidences of nasal mucosa inflammation were associated with mercuric chloride administration in rats. Increased incidences of olfactory epithelial metaplasia in mice were also associated with mercuric chloride administration.

3, not classifiable as to its carcinogenicity to humans. (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)

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

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

Cough. Sore throat.

MAY BE ABSORBED! Redness. Pain. Blisters. Skin burns.

Pain. Redness. Severe deep burns.

Metallic taste. Sore throat. Burning sensation. Nausea. Abdominal pain. Vomiting. Diarrhoea. Shock or collapse.

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

Nephrotoxin - The chemical is potentially toxic to the kidneys in the occupational setting.

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.

Skin Sensitizer - An agent that can induce an allergic reaction in the skin.

SURROGATE. See Mercury (elemental)

ATSDR Final

IRIS Current

ATSDR Draft

LCLo (mice) = 300 mg/m3/10 min

LD50: 1 mg/kg (Oral, Rat) (L721)

LD50: 5 mg/kg (Intraperitoneal, Mouse) (L721)

LD50: 14 mg/kg (Subcutaneous, Rat) (L721)

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

EXPLANTS OF RAT CEREBRUM IN CULTURE WERE TREATED WITH TOXIC CONCN OF HGCL2 AND VARYING CONCN OF SODIUM SELENITE, RESULTING IN REDUCED NEUROTOXICITY OF HGCL2.

TOXICITIES OF COMBINATIONS OF PENTACHLORONITROBENZENE WITH MERCURIC CHLORIDE AND HEXACHLOROBENZENE WITH MERCURIC CHLORIDE ADMIN ORALLY TO RATS WAS HIGHER THAN THE SUM OF THE TOXICITIES PRODUCED BY THE INDIVIDUAL DOSES.

ALPHA-MERCAPTO-BETA-(2-FURYL)ACRYLIC ACID (MFA) SIGNIFICANTLY REDUCED LETHALITY OF MERCURIC CHLORIDE IN RATS (2.2 MG HG/KG, IP) WHEN ADMIN (25 MG/KG, ORALLY) AT 1, 24, 48 & 72 HR. DAILY ADMIN OF MFA (25 MG/KG, ORALLY) REDUCED LETHALITY OF DAILY INJECTION OF INCR AMT OF MERCURIC CHLORIDE (1 MG HG/KG X 7 DAYS, 2 MG HG/KG X 7 DAYS, 4 MG HG/KG X 14 DAYS, IP). MERCURY CONCN IN KIDNEYS OF MFA-TREATED RATS WAS HIGHER THAN IN CONTROLS, WHEREAS CONCN IN LIVER WAS (NONSIGNIFICANTLY) LOWER. ENHANCED MERCURY DEPOSITION IN KIDNEY AS MANIFESTATION OF ANTIDOTAL EFFECT IS NOT CHARACTERISTIC OF THIOL CHELATORS USED IN PRACTICE FOR MERCURY POISONING.

IN ANIMALS INJECTED WITH 31 MG/KG BODY WT DITHIOTHREITOL 60 MIN AFTER 3 MG/KG MERCURIC CHLORIDE INJECTION, URINE FLOW RATE & FRACTIONAL EXCRETION OF SOLUTES WERE REDUCED WITHIN 30 MIN TO VALUES INTERMEDIATE BETWEEN CONTROL & MERCURIC CHLORIDE-TREATED RATS. INJECTION OF MERCURIC CHLORIDE ALONE OR FOLLOWED BY DITHIOTHREITOL RESULTED IN CHANGES IN MEAN ARTERIAL BLOOD PRESSURE OR GLOMERULAR FILTRATION RATE. THERE WERE NO ALTERATIONS IN MERCURY DISTRIBUTION IN ORGANS OF RATS INJECTED WITH MERCURIC CHLORIDE ALONE OR PRIOR TO DITHIOTHREITOL. THESE STUDIES DEMONSTRATE THAT DITHIOTHREITOL CAN AMELIORATE RENAL TOXICITY OF MERCURY & SUGGEST THAT THIS EFFECT IS MEDIATED THROUGH INTRARENAL SITE OF ACTION.

For more Interactions (Complete) data for MERCURIC CHLORIDE (12 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Basic Treatment: Establish a patent airway. Suction if necessary. Watch for signs of respiratory insufficiency and assist ventilations if necessary. Administer oxygen by nonrebreather mask at 10 to 15 L/min. Monitor for pulmonary edema and neat if necessary ... . Monitor for shock and treat if necessary ... . Anticipate seizures and treat if necessary ... . For eye contamination, flush eyes immediately with available water. Irrigate each eye continuously with normal saline 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. Administer activated charcoal ... . /Mercury and related compounds/

LC50 PHASIANUS COLCHICHUS (RING-NECKED PHEASANTS) ORAL 3790 PPM (95% CONFIDENCE LIMIT 2768-5541 PPM)

LC50 ANAS PLATYRHYNCHOS (MALLARDS) ORAL MORE THAN 5000 PPM (NO MORTALITY TO 5000 PPM)

TLm Carassius auratus (goldfish) 0.82 ppm/7 days (fresh water) /Conditions of bioassay not specified/

TLm Penaeus duorarum (pink shrimp) 0.075 ppm/48 hr (salt water) /Conditions of bioassay not specified/

For more Ecotoxicity Values (Complete) data for MERCURIC CHLORIDE (37 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

2.30e+01

3.50e+02

3.10e-01

1.30e+00

5.70e+00

2.00e+00

3.00e-04

Volatile

7.00e+01

1.10e+03

9.40e-01

3.90e+00

1.70e+01

The substance is very toxic to aquatic organisms. Bioaccumulation of this chemical may occur along the food chain, for example in aquatic organisms. The substance may cause long-term effects in the aquatic environment. It is strongly advised not to let the chemical enter into the environment.

ENVIRONMENTAL ACCUMULATION: MONOMERIC VINYL CHLORIDE IS PRODUCED BY ... THE ADDITION OF HYDROGEN CHLORIDE TO ACETYLENE IN THE PRESENCE OF HGCL2. THIS PROCESS HAS BEEN RESPONSIBLE FOR THE INTRODUCTION OF MERCURY CMPD INTO NATURAL BODIES OF WATER FROM WHICH HG ... EVENTUALLY ABSORBED BY FISH ...

Mercury adsorbed from mercuric chloride and 2-methoxy-ethylmercury chloride (Aretan) solutions by three contrasting soils showed a dependence on soil:solution ratio and initial mercury (Hg) concentration in soil solution. Changing the soil solution ratio from 1:10 to 1:100 but keeping the intitial concentration constant resulted in an increase in initial concentration on other hand, resulted in decrease in Hg adsorption. Upon manipulating of the pH of the surface soils, adsorption of mercuric chloride (HgCl2) at 100 mg Hg/l concentration increased from about 70 to over 95 mg Hg/kg when pH was raised from 5.0 to 8.0. Precipitation of Hg may also have contributed to this trend. Removal of organic matter from soil resulted in large reductions of Hg adsorbed, as much as 95% from the HgC12 solutions.

The rate and extent of the methylation of inorganic mercury (Hg) depends markedly on the chemical speciation of the Hg and the methylating agent. The presence of Hg(II)-C1 covalent bonding has an inhibitory effect on methylation by methyl cobalamin and in natural sediments. The role of radical and carbonium ion methylation mechanisms was also investigated. Methylation occurs by attack of a methyl carbanion (CH3-) on inorganic Hg (II) ions derived by microbial breakdown of the orginial Hg compounds added.

Mercuric compounds found in the atmosphere are likely to be transformed by chemical or physical processes. Theoretical calculations on the photodissociation of mercuric compounds have indicated that mercuric chloride and mercuric cyanide are stable, while mercuric hydroxide may dissociate in the gas phase(1). Exchange reactions between water and mercury compounds are likely to occur in the atmosphere(1). The result of these exchange reactions eventually results in the release of elemental mercury into the gaseous phase.

Bioconcentration factors of 10,000 and 40,000 have been obtained for mercuric chloride and methylmercury with oyster.

In the atmosphere, particulate bound mercury constitutes only approximately 2% of total mercury in the air and has normally been found to be less than 0.1 ng/cu m in regions unaffected by local sources(1). Some other mercury compounds which may exist in the atmosphere are mercuric chloride, mercuric bromide, mercuric hydroxide, mercuric sulfide, and mercuric cyanide(1). The rest is elemental mercury in the gaseous phase. In remote areas over the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, mercury bound to particulate matter concns are generally at or below the picogram per cubic meter level(1).

The accumulation of mercury in plants increases with increasing soil mercury concn. Soil type has a considerable influence on this process with a high organic matter content decreasing the uptake(1). Generally, the highest concns of mercury are found at the roots, but translocation to other organs (e.g. leaves) occurs(1). In contrast to higher plants, mosses take up mercury via the atmosphere(1). In one study, 8 types of food were grown on soil amended with 4 or 20 mg/kg of mercuric chloride and later analyzed for uptake(1). Higher concns were found in the roots compared to the above-ground samples. At the highest treatment level, the mercury content of the roots ranged from 0.387 mg/kg for lettuce to 2.447 mg/kg for cauliflower(1). Spinach and radish tubers contained the highest concns of mercury(0.695 and 0.663 mg/kg respectively) in their edible portions.

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.

Recycling: Dissolve in water after converting soluble nitrate if the cmpd is not water-soluble. Adjust the pH and precipitate mercury as mercury sulfide. Wash and dry the precipitate and return to the suppliers. Recommendable methods: Solidification & landfill. Not recommendable methods: Thermal destruction, discharge to sewer, evaporation.

/GUIDE 154: SUBSTANCES - TOXIC AND/OR CORROSIVE (NON-COMBUSTIBLE)/ Health: TOXIC; inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact with material may cause severe injury or death. Contact with molten substance may cause severe burns to skin and eyes. 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.

/GUIDE 154: SUBSTANCES - TOXIC AND/OR CORROSIVE (NON-COMBUSTIBLE)/ Fire or Explosion: Non-combustible, substance itself does not burn but may decompose upon heating to produce corrosive and/or toxic fumes. Some are oxidizers and may ignite combustibles (wood, paper, oil, clothing, etc.). Contact with metals may evolve flammable hydrogen gas. Containers may explode when heated.

/GUIDE 154: SUBSTANCES - TOXIC AND/OR CORROSIVE (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 least 25 meters (75 feet) for solids. Keep unauthorized personnel away. Stay upwind. Keep out of low areas. Ventilate enclosed areas.

/GUIDE 154: SUBSTANCES - TOXIC AND/OR CORROSIVE (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.

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

IMO 6.1; Mercuric chloride

UN 1624; Mercuric chloride

49 232 45; Mercuric chloride

49 232 71; Mercuric chloride, solid (mercuric chloride and charcoal catalyst spent)

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.

Do not transport with food and feedstuffs. Severe marine pollutant.

Symbol: T+, N; R: 28-34-48/24/25-62-68-50/53; S: (1/2)-26-36/37/39-45-60-61

UN Hazard Class: 6.1; UN Pack Group: II