ZINC ARSENITE

Chemical properties

Colorless powder. Soluble in acids; insoluble in water. Federal specification TT-W-581 describes the composition of the solution used for wood preservation.

The Uses of ZINC ARSENITE

Wood preservative, insecticide.

General Description

White powder. Insoluble in water. Used as a wood preservative and insecticide.

Air & Water Reactions

Insoluble in water.

Reactivity Profile

ZINC ARSENITE has only weak oxidizing or reducing powers. Redox reactions can however still occur. The majority of compounds in this class are slightly soluble or insoluble in water. If soluble in water, then the solutions are usually neither strongly acidic nor strongly basic. These compounds are not water-reactive.

Health Hazard

Highly toxic, may be fatal if inhaled, swallowed or absorbed through skin. Avoid any skin contact. Effects of contact or inhalation may be delayed. Fire may produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Runoff from fire control or dilution water may be corrosive and/or toxic and cause pollution.

Fire Hazard

Non-combustible, substance itself does not burn but may decompose upon heating to produce corrosive and/or toxic fumes. Containers may explode when heated. Runoff may pollute waterways.

Safety Profile

Confirmed human carcinogen. Poison by ingestion and intraperitoneal routes. Moderately toxic by skin contact. When heated to decomposition it emits toxic fumes of As and ZnO. See also ARSENIC COMPOUNDS and ZINC COMPOUNDS.