Hydroxylamine

Synonyms

Oxammonium; [ChemIDplus]

Category

Other Nitrogen Compounds

Description

Highly hygroscopic white solid; Unstable; Quickly decomposed at room temperature (especially by atmospheric moisture and carbon dioxide); mp = 33 deg C; [Merck Index]

Sources/Uses

Used as a reducing agent, antioxidant, chemical intermediate, and termination agent in polymers; used in the photography, chemistry, textile, leather, paint, soap, rubber, and plastics industries; [HSDB] Hydroxylamine sulfate used in photography (color neutralizing bath); [www.ci.tucson.az.us/arthazards/medium.html]

Comments

Crystals cause first degree burns on short exposure. [CHRIS] Reported toxic effects in humans include methemoglobinemia and skin sensitization. [HSDB] Allergic contact dermatitis reported in workers developing color photographs and handling laboratory reagents; [Kanerva, p. 1803] A skin and respiratory tract irritant; Corrosive to eyes; Can induce methemoglobinemia and consequent anemia; May cause skin sensitization; [ICSC] Occupational asthma confirmed in 2 workers exposed in paper recycling (de-inking process); [Malo] Reacts with water forming corrosive liquids; Rapidly decomposed at room temperature and by hot water; A strong reducing agent; Highly irritating or corrosive to skin and eyes; Reports of methemoglobinemia; [CAMEO] An irritant; May cause skin sensitization; Harmful by ingestion; High doses may cause methemoglobinemia; [Aldrich MSDS]

Reference Link #1

Biomedical References

9.75 mm Hg

Explanatory Notes

Vapor pressure at 47 degrees C = 9.75 mm Hg; [ICSC] Flash point = 265 deg F;

Reference Link #2

will not burn

Yes

Yes

Yes

MetHgb is secondary toxic effect

Skin burns

Diseases

Occupational diseases associated with exposure to this agent:

• Asthma, occupational
• Contact dermatitis, allergic

Processes

Industrial Processes with risk of exposure:

• Leather Tanning and Processing
• Photographic Processing
• Plastic Composites Manufacturing
• Textiles (Printing, Dyeing, or Finishing)