Copper acetoarsenite

Chemical properties

bluish-green powder

Chemical properties

Paris green (copper acetoarsenite) is an odorless emerald green crystalline powder which decomposes upon heating.

The Uses of Copper acetoarsenite

Insecticide; wood preservative; as pigment, particularly for ships and submarines.

Definition

Emerald: The green gem variety ofberyl: one of the most highly prizedgemstones. The finest specimensoccur in the Muzo mines, Colombia.Other occurrences include the UralMountains, the Transvaal in SouthAfrica, and Kaligunan in India. Emeraldscan also be successfully synthesized.

Preparation

Copper(II) acetoarsenite, Cu(C2H3O2)2·3Cu(AsO2)2, is a water-insoluble emerald green, poisonous powder. It is also known as paris green. Copper(II) acetoarsenite is produced by the reaction of a solution of copper(II) sulfate with arsenic(III) oxide, sodium carbonate, and acetic acid. It can also be prepared by reaction of copper(II) oxide with a hot solution of acetic acid and arsenic(III) oxide or by reaction of copper(II) acetate with arsenic(III) oxide. It has limited application as an antifouling pigment, in the preservation of wood, and as an insecticide.

General Description

An emerald-green powder. Usually contains some water. Insoluble in water. Toxic by inhalation and by ingestion. Used as a wood preservative, insecticide, and pigment.

Air & Water Reactions

Insoluble in water. Decomposes on prolonged heating in water [Merck].

Reactivity Profile

Copper acetoarsenite is soluble in acids. Is unstable in acids, bases and toward hydrogen sulfide [Merck]. Has weak oxidizing or reducing powers. Redox reactions can however still occur.

Hazard

Toxic by ingestion.

Health Hazard

Copper acetoarsenite is extremely toxic; the probable oral lethal dose for humans is 5-50 mg/kg, or between 7 drops and 1 teaspoonful for a 150-lb. person. Some absorption may occur through the skin and by inhalation, but most poisonings result from ingestion. It may cause eye and respiratory tract irritation. Industrial exposure may cause dermatitis.

Fire Hazard

Poisonous, volatile arsenic oxide may be formed in fires. Exposure of dust to flame may cause explosion. When heated, or on contact with acid or acid fumes, Copper acetoarsenite emits highly toxic fumes. Decomposes readily in the presence of water and carbon dioxide to yield phytotoxic arsenical compounds. Can react vigorously with oxidizing materials. Unstable in acids and bases. Hazardous polymerization may not occur.

Safety Profile

Poison by ingestion and possibly other routes. An insecticide. When heated to decomposition it emits very toxic fumes of As. See also ARSENIC

Potential Exposure

This material, and organoarsenic compound, is used primarily as an insecticide; it may be used as a wood preservative and a pigment, particularly for ships and submarines; and also finds use as an anthelmintic.

Shipping

UN1585 Copper acetoarsenite, Hazard Class: 6.1; Labels: 6.1-Poisonous materials. STN: 49 232 20. UN3465 Organoarsenic compound, solid, n.o.s., Hazard Class: 6.1; Labels: 6.1-Poisonous materials, Technical Name Required

Incompatibilities

Can react vigorously with oxidizers. Emits highly toxic arsenic fumes on contact with acid or acid fumes; and in elevated temperatures.

Waste Disposal

Consult with environmental regulatory agencies for guidance on acceptable disposal practices. Generators of waste containing this contaminant (≥100 kg/mo) must conform with EPA regulations governing storage, transportation, treatment, and waste disposal. In accordance with 40CFR165, follow recommendations for the disposal of pesticides and pesticide containers. Must be disposed properly by following package label directions or by contacting your local or federal environmental control agency, or by contacting your regional EPA office.