potassium*
. . . metal
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X - - - - - - -
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4.3
DHS
CW
Hazardous Chemical
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I
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2257
7440-09-7
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Toxic if ingested or if in contact with skin. Reacts violently with water to form hydrogen gas which usually ignites or explodes; reacts with traces of moisture to form hydrogen gas which can explode if ignited; forms yellow crusty oxide layer which is explosive and may detonate when cut.
BANNED CHEMICAL IN DET SCHOOLS.
Reacts violently with many chemicals; surface coating of potassium hydroxide is corrosive to skin and eyes; reacts with water to form highly corrosive potassium hydroxide; store under hydrocarbon liquids, tightly sealed to prevent entry of air and moisture. Can be destroyed safely by reaction with 2-methylpropan-2-ol. Sodium or lithium are safer alternatives.
4
See also METALS, ACTIVE,
REDUCTANTS
and Appendix H.
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