Section 1 - CHEMICAL PRODUCT AND COMPANY IDENTIFICATION

PRODUCT NAME

LITHIUM ACETYLENE, ETHYLENEDIAMINE COMPLEX

NFPA

PRODUCT USE

Reagent.

SYNONYMS

C2HLi, "lithium acetylide complexed with ethylenediamine"

Section 2 - HAZARDS IDENTIFICATION

CANADIAN WHMIS SYMBOLS

EMERGENCY OVERVIEW

RISK

Contact with water liberates extremely flammable gases.
Flammable.

POTENTIAL HEALTH EFFECTS

ACUTE HEALTH EFFECTS

SWALLOWED

  Although ingestion is not thought to produce harmful effects, the material may still be damaging to the health of the individual following ingestion, especially where pre-  existing organ (e.g. liver, kidney) damage is evident. Present definitions of harmful or toxic substances are generally based on doses producing mortality (death) rather than those producing morbidity (disease, ill-health). Gastrointestinal tract discomfort may produce nausea and vomiting. In an occupational setting however, ingestion of insignificant quantities is not thought to be cause for concern.  Amines without benzene rings when swallowed are absorbed throughout the gut. Corrosive action may cause damage throughout the gastrointestinal tract. They are removed through the liver, kidney and intestinal mucosa by enzyme breakdown.  Lithium, in large doses, can cause dizziness and weakness. If a low salt diet is in place,  kidney damage can result. There may be dehydration, weight loss, skin effects and thyroid disturbances. Central nervous system effects include slurred speech, blurred vision, numbness, inco-ordination and convulsions. Repeated exposure can cause diarrhea, vomiting,  tremor, muscle jerks and very brisk reflexes.  

EYE

  There is some evidence to suggest that this material can causeeye irritation and damage in some persons.  Vapors of volatile amines irritate the eyes, causing excessive secretion of tears, inflammation of the conjunctiva and slight swelling of the cornea, resulting in "halos" around lights. This effect is temporary, lasting only for a few hours. However this condition can reduce the efficiency of undertaking skilled tasks, such as driving a car. Direct eye contact with liquid volatile amines may produce eye damage, permanent for the lighter species.  

SKIN

  The material is not thought to produce adverse health effects or skin irritation following contact (as classified using animal models). Nevertheless, good hygiene practice requires that exposure be kept to a minimum and that suitable gloves be used in an occupational setting.  Solution of material in moisture on the skin, or perspiration, may markedly increase skin corrosion and accelerate tissue destruction.  Volatile amine vapors produce irritation and inflammation of the skin. Direct contact can cause burns. They may be absorbed through the skin and cause similar effects to swallowing, leading to death. The skin may exhibit whiteness, redness and wheals.  

INHALED

  Inhalation may produce health damage*.  There is some evidence to suggest that this material, if inhaled, can irritate the throat and lungs of some persons.  Inhalation of amine vapors may cause irritation of the mucous membrane of the nose and throat, and lung irritation with respiratory distress and cough. Swelling and inflammation of the respiratory tract is seen in serious cases; with headache, nausea, faintness and anxiety There may also be wheezing.  

CHRONIC HEALTH EFFECTS

  Principal routes of exposure are by accidental skin and eye contact andinhalation of generated dusts.  Lithium compounds can affect the nervous system and muscle. This can cause tremor, inco-  ordination, spastic jerks and very brisk reflexes. They may cause birth defects and should not be used when pregnancy is suspected. They are effective in treating manic episodes of bipolar disorder. Restricting sodium in the diet increases the risks of taking lithium.