Cobaltous cyanide

Synonyms

Cobalt cyanide (Co(CN)2); Cobalt dicyanide; [ChemIDplus] UN1588

Category

Cyanides

Description

Deep blue, hygroscopic solid; [Merck Index]

Sources/Uses

Used as a catalyst; [Merck Index]

Comments

Toxic by ingestion; May be harmful if absorbed through skin or inhaled; A potential skin and respiratory sensitizer; [MSDSonline] "Cobalt cyanides are among the most stable complexes; therefore, cobalt compounds have been used as antidotes for cyanide poisoning." [Ullmann] See "Cobalt." See "CYANIDES."

Biomedical References

Cobalt in urine = 15 ug/L; sample at end of shift at end of workweek;

0.02 mg/m3, as Co

5 mg/m3, as CN

2 mg/m3, inhalable fraction, as CN

25 mg/m3, as CN

Yes

Yes

Other Poison

Chemical Asphyxiant

Diseases

Occupational diseases associated with exposure to this agent:

• Asthma, occupational
• Contact dermatitis, allergic