Iron chloride (FeCl3)

This chemical does not meet GHS hazard criteria for 0.2% (7 of 2856) of reports.

H302 (96.6%): Harmful if swallowed [Warning Acute toxicity, oral]

H314 (75.4%): Causes severe skin burns and eye damage [Danger Skin corrosion/irritation]

H315 (24.4%): Causes skin irritation [Warning Skin corrosion/irritation]

H318 (24.5%): Causes serious eye damage [Danger Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

H412 (72.4%): Harmful to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

P260, P264, P264+P265, P270, P273, P280, P301+P317, P301+P330+P331, P302+P352, P302+P361+P354, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P316, P317, P321, P330, P332+P317, P362+P364, P363, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Aggregated GHS information provided per 2856 reports by companies from 27 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.

Reported as not meeting GHS hazard criteria per 7 of 2856 reports by companies.

There are 26 notifications provided by 2849 of 2856 reports by companies with hazard statement code(s).

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.

H302: Harmful if swallowed [Warning Acute toxicity, oral]

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

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

H335: May cause respiratory irritation [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure; Respiratory tract irritation]

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

H402: Harmful to aquatic life [Hazardous to the aquatic environment, acute hazard]

P260, P261, P264, P264+P265, P270, P271, P273, P280, P301+P317, P301+P330+P331, P302+P361+P354, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P308+P316, P316, P317, P319, P321, P330, P363, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

H371: May cause damage to organs [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure]

P260, P261, P264, P264+P265, P270, P271, P280, P301+P317, P301+P330+P331, P302+P361+P354, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P308+P316, P316, P317, P319, P321, P330, P363, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

H304: May be fatal if swallowed and enters airways [Danger Aspiration hazard]

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

P203, P260, P261, P264, P264+P265, P270, P271, P280, P301+P316, P301+P317, P301+P330+P331, P302+P361+P354, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P308+P316, P316, P317, P318, P319, P321, P330, P331, P363, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

P260, P264, P270, P280, P301+P317, P301+P330+P331, P302+P361+P354, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P316, P321, P330, P363, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Fresh air, rest. Refer for medical attention.

Remove contaminated clothes. Rinse skin with plenty of water or shower.

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

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

EYES: First check the victim for contact lenses and remove if present. Flush victim's eyes with water or normal saline solution for 20 to 30 minutes while simultaneously calling a hospital or poison control center. Do not put any ointments, oils, or medication in the victim's eyes without specific instructions from a physician. IMMEDIATELY transport the victim after flushing eyes to a hospital even if no symptoms (such as redness or irritation) develop.

SKIN: IMMEDIATELY flood affected skin with water while removing and isolating all contaminated clothing. Gently wash all affected skin areas thoroughly with soap and water. IMMEDIATELY call a hospital or poison control center even if no symptoms (such as redness or irritation) develop. IMMEDIATELY transport the victim to a hospital for treatment after washing the affected areas.

INHALATION: IMMEDIATELY leave the contaminated area; take deep breaths of fresh air. If symptoms (such as wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, or burning in the mouth, throat, or chest) develop, call a physician and be prepared to transport the victim to a hospital. Provide proper respiratory protection to rescuers entering an unknown atmosphere. Whenever possible, Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) should be used; if not available, use a level of protection greater than or equal to that advised under Protective Clothing.

INGESTION: DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING. Corrosive chemicals will destroy the membranes of the mouth, throat, and esophagus and, in addition, have a high risk of being aspirated into the victim's lungs during vomiting which increases the medical problems. If the victim is conscious and not convulsing, give 1 or 2 glasses of water to dilute the chemical and IMMEDIATELY call a hospital or poison control center. IMMEDIATELY transport the victim to a hospital. If the victim is convulsing or unconscious, do not give anything by mouth, ensure that the victim's airway is open and lay the victim on his/her side with the head lower than the body. DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING. Transport the victim IMMEDIATELY to a hospital. (NTP, 1992)

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

Refer to the "General First Aid" section. Specific First Aid: For corrosives, in case of contact, immediately flush skin or eyes with running water for at least 30 minutes. Additional flushing may be required. (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:

· For corrosives, in case of contact, immediately flush skin or eyes with running water for at least 30 minutes. Additional flushing may be required.

· In case of skin contact with Hydrofluoric acid (UN1790), if calcium gluconate gel is available, rinse 5 minutes, then apply gel. Otherwise, continue rinsing until medical treatment is available.

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 157 [Substances - Toxic and/or Corrosive (Non-Combustible / Water-Sensitive)]:

Note: Some foams will react with the material and release corrosive/toxic gases.

SMALL FIRE: CO2 (except for Cyanides), dry chemical, dry sand, alcohol-resistant foam.

LARGE FIRE: Water spray, fog or alcohol-resistant foam. If it can be done safely, move undamaged containers away from the area around the fire. Avoid aiming straight or solid streams directly onto the product. 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. (ERG, 2024)

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

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.

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.) /Ferric chloride, anhydrous/

If material on fire or 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. Cool all affected containers with flooding quantities of water. Apply water from as far a distance as possible. /Ferric chloride, solution/

· 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.

· All equipment used when handling the product must be grounded.

· Do not touch damaged containers or spilled material unless wearing appropriate protective clothing.

· Stop leak if you can do it without risk.

· A vapor-suppressing foam may be used to reduce vapors.

· DO NOT GET WATER INSIDE CONTAINERS.

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

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

Small Spill

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

· Use clean, non-sparking tools to collect material and place it into loosely covered plastic containers for later disposal.

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

Excerpt from ERG Guide 157 [Substances - Toxic and/or Corrosive (Non-Combustible / Water-Sensitive)]:

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)

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.

· 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.

Personal protection: particulate filter respirator adapted to the airborne concentration of the substance. Do NOT let this chemical enter the environment. Sweep spilled substance into covered plastic containers. If appropriate, moisten first to prevent dusting.

Environmental consideration: Land spill: Dig a pit, pond, lagoon, holding area to contain liquid or solid material. /SRP: If time permits, pits, ponds, lagoons, soak holes, or holding areas should be sealed with an impermeable flexible membrane liner./ Cover solids with a plastic sheet to prevent dissolving in rain or fire fighting water. /Ferric chloride, anhydrous/

Environmental considerations: Land spill: Dig a pit, pond, lagoon, holding area to contain liquid or solid material. /SRP: If time permits, pits, ponds, lagoons, soak holes, or holding areas should be sealed with an impermeable flexible membrane liner./ Dike surface flow using soil, sand bags, foamed polyurethane, or foamed concrete. Absorb bulk liquid with fly ash, cement powder, or commercial sorbents. Neutralize with agricultural lime (CaO), crushed limestone (CaCO3) or sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3). /Ferric chloride, solution/

Environmental consideration: Water spill: Neutralize with agricultural lime (CaO), crushed limestone (CaCO3) or sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3). Use mechanical dredges or lifts to remove immobilized masses of pollutants and precipitates. Adjust pH to neutral (pH= 7). /Ferric chloride, solution/

Environmental considerations: Water spill: Neutralize with agricultural lime (CaO), crushed limestone (CaCO3) or sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3). Adjust pH to neutral (pH= 7). Use mechanical dredges or lifts to remove immobilized masses of pollutants and precipitates. /Ferric chloride, anhydrous/

Environmental considerations: Air spill: Apply water spray or mist to knock down vapors. /Ferric chloride, solution/

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.

Neutralization & landfill: Bury neutralized (with lime or soda ash) waste material in an approved landfill or dispose of through a licensed waste disposal firm.

The following wastewater treatment technologies have been investigated for iron (Fe+2): Concentration process: Biological treatment. /Iron (Fe+2)/

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.

If material not involved in fire: Keep material out of water sources and sewers. Build dikes to contain flow as necessary. Neutralize spilled material with crushed limestone, soda ash, or lime. /Ferric chloride, solution/

If material not involved in fire: Keep material out of water sources and sewers. Build dikes to contain flow as necessary. /Ferric chloride, anhydrous/

Personnel protection: Avoid breathing fumes from burning material. 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. /Ferric chloride, solution/

For more Preventive Measures (Complete) data for FERRIC CHLORIDE (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 157 [Substances - Toxic and/or Corrosive (Non-Combustible / Water-Sensitive)]:

ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames) from immediate area. All equipment used when handling the product must be grounded. Do not touch damaged containers or spilled material unless wearing appropriate protective clothing. Stop leak if you can do it without risk. A vapor-suppressing foam may be used to reduce vapors. DO NOT GET WATER INSIDE CONTAINERS. Use water spray to reduce vapors or divert vapor cloud drift. Avoid allowing water runoff to contact spilled material. Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas.

SMALL SPILL: Cover with DRY earth, DRY sand or other non-combustible material followed with plastic sheet to minimize spreading or contact with rain. Use clean, non-sparking tools to collect material and place it into loosely covered plastic containers for later disposal. (ERG, 2024)

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 strong bases and incompatible materials. See Chemical Dangers. Dry. Well closed.

Solution of ferric chloride should be stored in polyethylene bottles and should be protected from exposure to light and heat. ...If solutions ...become cloudy, they should be discarded. Solution stored in glass bottles must be refrigerated. Solution stored in glass bottles may reach alkali from glass and the rubber stoppers, forming yellow precipitate of ferric oxide.

Keep well closed.

· 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.

8.7 [mg/m3]

15 [mg/m3]

89 [mg/m3]

1.0 [mg/m3], as Fe (soluble iron salts)

8 hr Time Weighted Avg (TWA) 1 mg/cu m /Iron salts, soluble, as Fe/

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. /Iron salts, soluble, as Fe/

· Note: Some foams will react with the material and release corrosive/toxic gases.

Small Fire

· CO2 (except for Cyanides), dry chemical, dry sand, alcohol-resistant foam.

Large Fire

· Water spray, fog or alcohol-resistant foam.

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

· Avoid aiming straight or solid streams directly onto the product.

· 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.

· Dry chemical, CO2 or water spray.

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

Australia, Belgium, Finland, Italy, Netherlands, & Switzerland: 1 mg/cu m. /Iron salts/

Australia (1978); Belgium (1978); Finland (1975); Italy (1978); Netherlands (1978); and Switzerland (1978): 1 mg/cu m. /From table/ /Ferric salts, as Fe/

Evaporation at 20 °C is negligible; a harmful concentration of airborne particles can, however, be reached quickly when dispersed.

The substance is irritating to the eyes, skin and respiratory tract. Corrosive on ingestion.

Ferric chloride (not > 2% of suspending, dispersing agent, pesticide formulation) is exempted from the requirement of a tolerance when used in accordance with good agricultural practice as inert (or occasionally active) ingredients in pesticide formulations applied to growing crops only.

Dust respirator if required; rubber apron and boots; chemical worker's goggles or face shield (USCG, 1999)

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

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)

Dust respirator if required; rubber apron and boots; chemical worker's goggles or face shield.

Use local exhaust or breathing protection.

Protective gloves.

Wear safety goggles.

Do not eat, drink, or smoke during work.

Ferric chloride is an orange to brown-black solid. It is slightly soluble in water. It is noncombustible. When wet it is corrosive to aluminum and most metals. Pick up and remove spilled solid before adding water. It is used to treat sewage, industrial waste, to purify water, as an etching agent for engraving circuit boards, and in the manufacture of other chemicals.

Ferric chloride, solution appears as a colorless to light brown aqueous solution that has a faint hydrochloric acid odor. Highly corrosive to most metals and probably corrosive to tissue. Noncombustible. Used in sewage treatment and water purification.

CBI; Other Solid; Liquid; Other Solid; Liquid; Dry Powder; Liquid

Dark solid (red by transmitted light, green by reflected light) that sometimes appears brownish-black; Highly hygroscopic and readily forms the hexahydrate; Soluble in water; [Merck Index] Greenish-black odorless solid; [CHRIS]

BLACK-TO-BROWN HYGROSCOPIC CRYSTALS.

Hexagonal red by transmitted light, green by reflected light; sometimes appears brownish-black; dark leaflets or plates.

599 °F at 760 mmHg (Decomposes) (NTP, 1992)

About 316 °C

583 °F (NTP, 1992)

[ACGIH] approximately 300 °C

Brownish-yellow or orange monoclinic crystals; usually slight odor of HCl; pH of 0.1 molar aqueous solution: 2.0; mp: about 37 °C. /Hexahydrate/

307.6 °C

5 to 10 mg/mL at 68 °F (NTP, 1992)

In cold water: 74.4 g/100 cc at 0 °C; in hot water: 535.7 g/100 cc at 100 °C; in acetone: 63 g/100 cc at 18 °C; very sol in alc, ether, methanol.

Slightly sol in carbon disulfide, practically insol in ethyl acetate.

Sol in glycerol

430 g/kg solution at 0 °C; 480 g/kg solution at 20 °C; 743 g/kg solution at 40 °C

Readily soluble in liquids having donor properties, such as alcohols, ketones, ethers, nitriles, amines, and liquid sulfur dioxide, but only sparingly soluble in nonpolar solvents such as benzene and hexane.

Solubility in water, g/100ml at 20 °C: 92 (reaction)

2.8 at 68 °F (anhydrous solid) (USCG, 1999) - Denser than water; will sink

2.90 at 25 °C

Density of 1.82; very hygroscopic; readily soluble in water, alcohol, acetone, ether /Hexahydrate/

2.9 g/cm³

2.9 @25 °C

1 mmHg at 381 °F (NTP, 1992)

VP: 1 mm Hg at 194.0 °C

VP: 1 Pa at 118 °C; 100 Pa at 190 °C; 100 kPa at 319 °C

Vapor pressure at 20 °C: negligible

1 [mm Hg] @194 °C

When heated to decomposition it emits highly toxic fumes of /hydrogen chloride/.

Water solutions are acidic and corrosive to most metals.

Dimeric at about 400 °C but monomeric above 750 °C; dissociates at high temperature to ferrous chloride and chlorine. Very hygroscopic.

Standard molar enthalpy (heat) of formation at 298.15 deg K is -399.5 kJ/mol (crystal); Standard molar Gibbs energy of formation at 298.15 deg K is -334.0 kJ/mol (crystal); Standard molar entropy at 298.15 deg K is 142.3 J/mol/K (crystal); Molar heat capacity at constant pressure at 298.15 deg K is 96.7 J/mol/K (crystal)

Heat of Solution: (anhydrous) -360 Btu/lb= -200 cal/g= -8.4X10+5 J/kg.

Melting point 37 °C; boiling point 280-285 °C; corrosive /Hexahydrate/

In aqueous solutions, hydrolysis is extensive and iron hydroxide precipitates /Hexahydrate/

crystal structure

enthalpy

electrode potential

molar conductivity

Very hygroscopic. Slightly water soluble, where a 0.1M solution has a pH of 2.0.

Very hygroscopic. Water soluble, forming acidic aqueous solutions.

Acids, Strong Non-oxidizing

Water and Aqueous Solutions

Known Catalytic Activity

Anhydrous iron chloride may catalyze the rearrangement and polymerization of ethylene oxide, liberating heat [J. Soc. Chem. Ind. 68:179(1949)]. Allyl chloride may polymerize violently under conditions involving an acid catalyst, including ferric chloride [Ventrone (1971)].

FERRIC CHLORIDE behaves as a strong acid in aqueous solution. Iron chloride may catalyze the rearrangement and polymerization of ethylene oxide, liberating heat [J. Soc. Chem. Ind. 68:179(1949)]. Allyl chloride may polymerize violently under conditions involving an acid catalyst, such ferric chloride [Ventrone (1971)]. At high temperatures ferric chloride dissociates into FeCl2 and Cl2. It reacts violently with alkali metals sodium or potassium.

Will react with water to produce toxic and corrosive fumes.

During chlorination of styrene in carbon tetrachloride at 50 °C, a violent reaction occured when some 10% of the chlorine gas had been fed in. Laboratory examination showed that the eruption was caused by a rapid decomposition reaction catalysed by ferric chloride.

Forms shock-sensitive explosine mixture with some metals (eg potassium and sodium).

The substance can be absorbed into the body by ingestion.

Cough. Sore throat.

Redness. Pain.

Redness. Pain. Blurred vision.

Abdominal pain. Vomiting. Diarrhoea. Shock or collapse.

Occupational hepatotoxin - Secondary hepatotoxins: the potential for toxic effect in the occupational setting is based on cases of poisoning by human ingestion or animal experimentation.

Dermatotoxin - Skin burns.

LD50 Mouse oral 450 mg/kg

LD50 Mouse iv 49 mg iron/kg

LD50 Rat ingestion 0.5-5 g/kg

LD50 Rat oral 28 mg/kg

The effect of di- and trivalent iron on the intestinal absorption of aluminum (Al) was studied in an in situ perfusion system of rat small intestine in combination with systemic and portal blood sampling. The small intestine of female Wistar rats (6 animals/group) was perfused with media containing 10.0, 15.0, 20.0, and 25.0 mmol/L Al as aluminum chloride hexahydrate (AlCl3.6H2O), with or without 5 mmol/L ferrous chloride tetrahydrate (FeCl2.4H2O) or ferric chloride hexahydrate (FeCl3.6H2O) for 60 min. The disappearance of Al or Fe from the perfusion medium, which is a measure for uptake from the intestinal lumen, was calculated. After perfusion, samples of small intestine were collected. Control tissue samples were taken from a rat perfused with saline for 60 min and from a nonperfused rat. In the rats perfused with Al and/or Fe there was no morphological damage to the intestinal wall compared with the saline and nonperfused controls. Fe(III) did not affect Al disappearance at any point during perfusion (p>0.05 for all concentrations of Al perfusion media). Al appeared after the 60 min perfusion period in both systemic and portal blood. Both Fe(II) and Fe(III) were absorbed after 60 min perfusion, with the divalent iron being more extensively absorbed. The rise of the Al level in portal blood was slightly higher than that in systemic blood suggesting a possible liver trapping of Al before entering the peripheral circulation. Fe(III) did not affect Al absorption during 60 min perfusion for all concentrations of Al perfusion media (0.10< p<0.25). /Ferric chloride hexahydrate/

Benzo(a)pyrene (0.5 mg), in itself weakly carcinogenic, when given in combination with ferric chloride (0.16 mg) or iodine (0.2 mg), alone noncarcinogen, induced a number of tumors of different parts of the respiratory tract of Syrian golden hamsters.

Ensure adequate airway, ventilation and circulation. Perform a gastric lavage in patients after intentional ingestion, a positive KUB radiography, and when the ingestion of elemental iron content exceeds 20 mg/kg . Do not use sodium bicarbonate or phosphosoda. Observation alone is usually suffiecient when children have ingested multivitamins, The amount of elemental iron is less than 20 mg/kg and the KUB radiograph is negative. I symptomatic patients give a bolus of 20 ml/kg of isotonic normal saline. Order serum iron levels, creatinine, electrolytes, blood hemoglobin concentration, blood prothrombin time, baseline liver function tests, and arterial blood gases in seriously poisoned patients. Activated charcoal is ineffective. Oral magnesium may reduce serum iron absorption.

Thalassemia patients have received deferoxamine, 425 mg/kg intravenously over 24 hours (ie, 16 g), without complications. Intravenous doses of 125 mg/kg each day for a number of days might /cause/ blindness and visual field defects which improved on withdrawal. Long-term deferoxamine therapy may cause cataracts, cone and rod dysfunction, and dyschromatopsia, particularly in patients with renal dysfunction. Rheumatoid arthritis patients treated with deferoxamine doses as low as 15 g over a week have developed retinal damage. Flushing, urticaria, and rarely cases of anaphylactic reactions may occur possibly because of histamine release. The most common toxic reactions include gastrointestinal distress and hypotension. Doses of 0.75 mg/kg/min produce hypotension which usually responds to reduced infusion rates and fluid challenges. Vasopressors may be necessary. Rapid desensitization protocols have been developed for sensitized patients with serious iron toxicity. Since the ferrioxamine complex is renally excreted, deferoxamine should be used cautiously in patients with compromised renal function. Deferoxamine has been administered to pregnant women without adverse effects to the developing child, and, conversely, a pregnant mother died of iron poisoning (serum iron, 1700 mg/dl) after deferoxamine was withheld. /Iron Compounds/

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 shock and treat if necessary ... . For eye contamination, flush eyes immediately with 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. /Iron and related compounds/

Advanced treatment: Consider orotracheal or nasotracheal intubation for airway control in the patient who is unconscious. Monitor cardiac rhythm and treat arrhythmias if necessary ... . Start an IV with lactated Ringer's /SRP: "To keep open", minimal flow rate/. Watch for signs of fluid overload. For hypotension with signs of hypovolemia, administer fluid cautiously. Watch for signs of fluid overload ... . Use proparacaine hydrochloride to assist eye irrigation ... . /Iron and related compounds/

For more Antidote and Emergency Treatment (Complete) data for FERRIC CHLORIDE (7 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

/CASE REPORTS/ Contact sensitization to iron and positive patch test to a 2% ferric chloride solution were reported in a 66 yr old white male tool maker. The patient's 5 yr history of allergic contact dermatitis was not associated with any other exposure to metals. This is the second documented case of allergic contact sensitization to iron.

/CASE REPORTS/ ...A 25-y-old woman presented with vomiting after ingestion of 200 mL ferric chloride solution (pH 1.0). She had hypoxemia and severe metabolic acidosis with respiratory alkalosis initially. Three hours after her ingestion she presented with drowsy consciousness, tachycardia, tachypnea and protracted vomiting. Laboratory studies showed leukocytosis, elevated glucose, aspartate aminotransferase, amylase, lactate dehydrogenase, and total bilirubin, coagulation defect and hemolysis. Aspiration pneumonia and vision loss were also noted. Four hours after ingestion cardiopulmonary arrest suddenly occurred after severe vomiting and she expired. Toxicological studies showed marked elevation of serum iron (2440 ug/dL); the estimated oral dose of ferric chloride was equivalent to 11.52 g (230 mg/kg) of elemental iron. This patient did not receive deferoxamine due to rapid deterioration and a late diagnosis.

/OTHER TOXICITY INFORMATION/ Diagnosis of iron intraocular foreign body has usually been based on x-ray demonstration of an opaque foreign body by establishing that the foreign body can be made to move with a magnet, but in some instances either one or both of these diagnostic measures are inconclusive, yet clinical findings suggestive of siderosis indicate that there may be an intraocular iron foreign body. To help establish the diagnosis, analysis of the aqueous humor for iron, to detect an abnormally high content, has proven useful in a few cases. Also as a help in diagnosis, particularly in eyes where surgery for cataract is required, histologic staining of an excised piece of iris or analysis of the lens for iron has been helpful diagnostically. However, to make a definite diagnosis on the basis of histologic examination it is essential to rule out hemosiderosis, which can be produced by persistent intraocular hemorrhage, because the histologic findings and iron staining are indistinguishable in these two conditions. ... /Iron Compounds/

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ ...Injection of 0.05 - 0.1 cc of 10% solution of ferric chloride into vitreous humor of rabbits caused in 1-4 wk a loss of pupillary response to light, marked drop in resting potential of eye measured at cornea and subnormal intraocular pressure.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ A single injection of 5 or 10 uL of ferrous or ferric chloride into rat or cat sensorimotor cortex resulted in chronic recurrent focal paroxysmal electroencaphalographic discharges as well as behavioral convulsions and electrical seizures. Recurrent focal epileptiform discharge caused by cortical injection of iron salts suggests that the development of human posttraumatic epilepsy may depend, in part, on the neurochemical alterations induced by the principal metallic ions found in whole blood.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ ...A thermocouple was inserted under a carotid artery of the anesthetized rat and vessel temperature was recorded continuously. Arterial injury was induced by FeCl3 solution applied topically to the artery above the thermocouple. To validate the relationship between thrombotic occlusion and vessel temperature, blood flow velocity, proximal to the injury, and temperature were recorded simultaneously. Temperature decreased rapidly when velocity averaged 24 +/- 12% of control and velocity did not differ from zero within 20 sec. In normal vessels, average flow velocity did not decrease significantly from control until a fixed stenosis decreased diameter by 78%. Average time to occlusion (TTO), signaled by the abrupt temperature inflection, ranged from 56 +/- 4 min to 14 +/- 1 min after 10 and 65% FeCl3 application respectively. Vessel segments were fixed at various times after FeCl3 exposure and examined by scanning electron microscopy. Endothelial damage was observed and was associated with thrombus composed of activated platelets, fibrin strands and entrapped erythrocytes. The results demonstrate that FeCl3 dose-dependently induced formation of an occlusive mixed thrombus that was indexed by monitoring the time between FeCl3 application and a rapid temperature decrease in the carotid artery of the rat.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Subchronic or Prechronic Exposure/ The effects of inhaled iron-chloride on rabbit lung alveolar macrophages, alveolar epithelial cells, and surfactant were studied. Animals were exposed for 2 months to either 3.1 mg/cu cm or 1.4 mg/cu m nebulized iron-chloride. Lung and alveolar macrophage morphology were examined under light and electron microscopy. Macrophage oxidative metabolism and lung phospholipids were also analyzed. Iron-chloride inhalation increased macrophage number and caused them to aggregate into large granulomas in the alveoli. Macrophage ultrastructure revealed marked alterations with enlarged lysosomal complexes that often contained iron rich inclusions. Oxidative metabolism was not affected. Rabbits exposed to high iron-chloride concentrations showed a small increase in the volume density of type-II cells and a significant increase in total phospholipid concentration of the lung.

For more Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for FERRIC CHLORIDE (11 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

...There is concern that the individual with metabolic defects that impair the ability to regulate iron absorption will be at risk from excessive exposure to iron, primarily as a result of acceleration of accumulation of iron in the body and an earlier onset of clinical symptoms of the disease. /Iron salts/

TLm Daphnia 15 ppm/96 hr fresh water /Conditions of bioassay not specified/

LC50 Ceriodaphnia dubia (Water flea) 30.06 mg/L/48 hr (95% confidence interval: 28.20-31.72 mg/L); static

LC50 Gambusia affinis (Western mosquitofish) >26 mg/L/24, 48, 96 hr; static

LC50 Nitocra spinipes (Harpacticoid copepod) 21 mg/L/96 hr (95% confidence interval: 16-28 mg/L); static

For more Ecotoxicity Values (Complete) data for FERRIC CHLORIDE (7 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ Harmful to aquatic life in very low concentrations.

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ Among populations of Paracentrotus lividus living near the sewage outlet of Marseilles' conurbation, ...individuals with brown to black gonads /have been observed/. An ultrastructural study demonstrated the presence of extracellular and intracellular crystals. In the latter they are in nucleus, vacuoles and cytoplasm of phagocytic coelomocytes. An X-ray microanalysis indicates the presence of iron, chlorine and sulfur in these crystals. ...A relationship between this bioaccumulation and the release into coastal water of iron chloride from the sewage treatment plant of Marseilles /is proposed/. This element may be found in both the coelomic fluid and food of sea-urchin. It is collected and transformed by phagocytic coelomocytes. When this bioaccumulation becomes excessive coelomocytes are injured and free crystals may be found within the gonads and hemal system.

The substance is harmful to aquatic organisms.

Occurs in nature as the mineral molysite.

NIOSH (NOES Survey 1981-1983) has statistically estimated that 108,492 workers (52,117 of these are female) are potentially exposed to ferric chloride in the US(1).

TLm Daphnia 15 ppm/96 hr fresh water /Conditions of bioassay not specified/

LC50 Ceriodaphnia dubia (Water flea) 30.06 mg/L/48 hr (95% confidence interval: 28.20-31.72 mg/L); static

LC50 Gambusia affinis (Western mosquitofish) >26 mg/L/24, 48, 96 hr; static

LC50 Nitocra spinipes (Harpacticoid copepod) 21 mg/L/96 hr (95% confidence interval: 16-28 mg/L); static

For more Ecotoxicity Values (Complete) data for FERRIC CHLORIDE (7 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ Harmful to aquatic life in very low concentrations.

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ Among populations of Paracentrotus lividus living near the sewage outlet of Marseilles' conurbation, ...individuals with brown to black gonads /have been observed/. An ultrastructural study demonstrated the presence of extracellular and intracellular crystals. In the latter they are in nucleus, vacuoles and cytoplasm of phagocytic coelomocytes. An X-ray microanalysis indicates the presence of iron, chlorine and sulfur in these crystals. ...A relationship between this bioaccumulation and the release into coastal water of iron chloride from the sewage treatment plant of Marseilles /is proposed/. This element may be found in both the coelomic fluid and food of sea-urchin. It is collected and transformed by phagocytic coelomocytes. When this bioaccumulation becomes excessive coelomocytes are injured and free crystals may be found within the gonads and hemal system.

The substance is harmful to aquatic organisms.

Occurs in nature as the mineral molysite.

NIOSH (NOES Survey 1981-1983) has statistically estimated that 108,492 workers (52,117 of these are female) are potentially exposed to ferric chloride in the US(1).

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.

Neutralization & landfill: Bury neutralized (with lime or soda ash) waste material in an approved landfill or dispose of through a licensed waste disposal firm.

The following wastewater treatment technologies have been investigated for iron (Fe+2): Concentration process: Biological treatment. /Iron (Fe+2)/

/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. /Ferric chloride, solution/

/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. /Ferric chloride, solution/

/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. /Ferric chloride, solution/

/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. /Ferric chloride, solution/

For more DOT Emergency Guidelines (Complete) data for FERRIC CHLORIDE (16 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

IMO 8.0; Ferric chloride, anhydrous; Ferric chloride, solution

UN 1773; Ferric chloride, anhydrous

UN 2582; Ferric chloride, solution

49 323 43; Ferric chloride solution (iron chloride, iron muriate), other than crude, liquid

49 323 42; Ferric chloride solution (iron chloride, crude, liquid, not less than 50% water)

49 441 38; Ferric chloride, solid (iron chloride, iron muriate, dry)

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.

Corrosive

UN Hazard Class: 8; UN Pack Group: III