dichromic acid

Definition

ChEBI: Dichromic acid is a chromium oxoacid. It is a conjugate acid of a hydrogen dichromate.

Reactivity Profile

dichromic acid is a very powerful oxidizing agent, confirmed human carcinogen. Upon contact with reducing reagents dichromic acid can cause a violent explosion, in contact with organic matter dichromic acid may cause a violent oxidation leading to ignition. Dangerously reactive with acetone, alcohols, alkali metals (sodium, potassium), ammonia, arsenic, dimethylformamide, hydrogen sulfide, phosphorus, peroxyformic acid, pyridine, selenium, sulfur, and many other chemicals [Sax, 9th ed., 1996, p. 852]. When mixed with sulfuric acid for glass cleaning operations, used solution in closed bottle may explode due to internal pressure of carbon dioxide arising from contamination by carbon compounds [Bryson, W. R., Chem. Brit., 1975, 11, p. 377].

Health Hazard

Toxic by ingestion. Inhalation of dust is toxic. Fire may produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Contact with substance may cause severe burns to skin and eyes. Runoff from fire control or dilution water may cause pollution.

Fire Hazard

These substances will accelerate burning when involved in a fire. May explode from heat or contamination. Some may burn rapidly. Some will react explosively with hydrocarbons (fuels). May ignite combustibles (wood, paper, oil, clothing, etc.). Containers may explode when heated. Runoff may create fire or explosion hazard.