I have an Analytical Chemist who also does fish oil research. He has never used perchloric acid. He has done some work with sulfuric acid hydrolysis, I believe.
If he will be heating this at all, a perchloric hood is a MUST.
Monique Wilhelm
Laboratory Manager
Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry
University of Michigan - Flint
From: ACS Division of Chemical Health and Safety [mailto:DCHAS-L**At_Symbol_Here**PRINCETON.EDU]
On Behalf Of Mel -SmithCharlton
Sent: Wednesday, May 08, 2019 1:15 PM
To: DCHAS-L**At_Symbol_Here**PRINCETON.EDU
Subject: [DCHAS-L] Perchloric acid spill neutralization and absorption
Greetings everyone,
we have a researcher who will be using 70%-72% Perchloric acid, he is making a 1:1 mix with Glacial Acetic Acid for the hydrolysis of fish fats. In either case, we have some concerns with this because we do not have a perchloric acid hood
(separate issue). Now, once the mix is made, the Perchloric acid will be approximately 35% to 36%, however, my concern is with the possibility of a spill and the resulting waste from a spill. Neutralization first, yes, but then it is also recommended that
the spill NOT be absorbed with any combustible such as paper towels etc. I have thought perhaps diatomaceous earth, or a combination of neutralizer with diatomaceous earth, collect with standard non-metal dust pan then bag/tag the neutralized waste.
Does anybody have any experience with Perchloric Acid spills, neutralization and absorbents, and if so, what do you use?
thanks!
Melissa Charlton-Smith
MS-OSH/EM, NRCC-CHO
GOMEB & Associates
VP Lab Safety, Chemical Hygiene & Lab Management
Consultant
304-563-6678
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