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Chemistry Forums for Students => Analytical Chemistry Forum => Topic started by: Biostartup on February 19, 2019, 07:12:11 PM

Title: Concerned about working with sodium azide, is this PPE enough?
Post by: Biostartup on February 19, 2019, 07:12:11 PM: Hi all,

I'm new to the forums and just wanted a second take on my concerns about using sodium azide (powder form).

Occasionally I have to add small amount of sodium azide in powder form to a solution to use as a preservative (0.04-0.08g).

I use an analytical scale (with the slide-able glass "walls").

My PPE is nitrile gloves, lab coat, and a face mask to prevent inhalation through dust generation. I try to isolate any handling of the chemical to within the analytical scales glass.

Is this sufficient for such small amount? After adding some today I just became worried because I've read the SDS and know how dangerous this stuff is. Or am I over-reacting here?

Any advice is welcome, thanks!
Title: Re: Concerned about working with sodium azide, is this PPE enough?
Post by: wildfyr on February 19, 2019, 07:48:26 PM: I work with sodium azide in small amounts, and I usually don't use a mask. But your precautions sound good.

The main trick of the trade is to not use a metal spatula. Use a plastic spoon to weigh it.
Title: Re: Concerned about working with sodium azide, is this PPE enough?
Post by: Babcock_Hall on February 20, 2019, 03:09:50 PM: What is the problem with the metal spatula?
Title: Re: Concerned about working with sodium azide, is this PPE enough?
Post by: Borek on February 20, 2019, 03:32:35 PM: Quote from: Babcock_Hall on February 20, 2019, 03:09:50 PM
What is the problem with the metal spatula?

If memory serves me well it can catalyze explosion of azides.
Title: Re: Concerned about working with sodium azide, is this PPE enough?
Post by: wildfyr on February 20, 2019, 08:11:42 PM: Sodium azide isn't very sensitive, but say, chromium or iron azide is. You can create those on the surface of a stainless steel spatula by ion exchange.