ORGANOMETALS

Synonyms

CLASSES

Category

Metals, Organic Compounds

Sources/Uses

Used as catalysts in organic synthesis and polymerization; [Sullivan, p. 978] Monosodium methane arsonate (MSMA) used as herbicide and phenylarsenic compounds were used until recently as feed additives. [Olson, p. 140] In the past organic mercury compounds were used as drugs, fungicides, and bactericides. Organometallic gallium and indium compounds are used in semiconductor doping. Organosilicons are used to produce ceramic fibers. Organotins are used as PVC stabilizers, biocides, and polyurethane catalysts. [Ullmann]

Comments

Organometallic compounds have covalent bonds between one or more carbon atoms and one or more metallic atoms. Many organometals are pyrophoric (ignite in air) and react violently with water. Many are readily absorbed by skin contact and inhalation and are toxic to the CNS. Skin contact with liquid can also cause burns. Some cause liver injury (nickel carbonyl, iron pentacarbonyl, and triphenyltin) and toxic pneumonitis (nickel carbonyl and iron pentacarbonyl). Most are shipped in organic solvents as solutions. Fires are extinguished by carbon dioxide, sand, or graphite. In general, shorter chain alkyl compounds are more toxic, and aromatic compounds are less toxic. [Sullivan, p. 978-83]

Biomedical References

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:

• Encephalopathy, acute toxic

Processes

Industrial Processes with risk of exposure:

• Farming (Feed Additives)
• Plastic Composites Manufacturing
• Semiconductor Manufacturing
• Using Disinfectants or Biocides