Selenium dioxide

Synonyms

Selenious anhydride; Selenium dioxide; Selenium dioxide dimer; Selenium oxide; Selenium oxide (1:2); Selenium oxide (Se2O4); Selenium oxide (SeO2); Selenium(IV) dioxide (1:2); Selenous acid anhydride; [ChemIDplus]

Category

Other Inorganic Compounds

Description

White or yellowish-white to slightly reddish, lustrous, crystalline powder or needles. [HSDB]

Sources/Uses

Used to make other selenium compounds; Also used as a reagent and oxidizing agent; [Merck Index #8434] Used as a red colorant in glass and a toner in photographic development; [Wikipedia]

Comments

Reacts with water to produce selenious acid; Can cause severe burns and irritation of the eyes and respiratory tract; A strong vesicant and is absorbed through the skin; [Olson, p. 761] A corrosive substance that can induce pulmonary edema; Has potential to cause skin sensitization and liver injury; [ICSC] See "Selenium."

Biomedical References

0.2 mg/m3, as Se

0.2 mg/m3, as Se

0.02 mg/m3, as Se, inhalable fraction

1 mg/m3, as Se

Explanatory Notes

VP 12.5 mm Hg @ 70 deg C; mp = 340 deg C; [Merck Index #8434]

Yes

Yes

Other CNS neurotoxin

Hepatoxic (a) from occupational exposure (secondary effect) or (b) in animal studies or in humans after ingestion

Yes

Skin burns

Diseases

Occupational diseases associated with exposure to this agent:

• Contact dermatitis, allergic

Processes

Industrial Processes with risk of exposure:

• Glass Manufacturing
• Photographic Processing

Activities

Activities with risk of exposure:

• Glassblowing