Oxalic acid: application and properties

Where it is used

This chemical has unique properties, which is why it has been widely used in various industries:

· in the process of manufacturing plastic products, as a component of pyrotechnic compositions, for organic synthesis, synthesis of dyes;

· as a bleaching component in the production of various creams;

· for tanning leather, as a mordant in cotton printing, as well as for dyeing wool and silk fabrics;

· to reduce water hardness and prepare it for safe use.

In addition, it is possible to use oxalic acid in:

· Analytical chemistry for the deposition of rare earth elements.

· laboratories in the manufacture of mixtures for washing dishes for chemical purposes;

· microscopy for bleaching sections;

· for household purposes to remove the formed rust, as well as as an insecticide for the destruction of harmful insects.

Precautions during use

This chemical is not only poisonous and highly toxic to humans, but also combustibly dangerous. Therefore, only specially trained laboratory specialists who have been instructed in advance can work with him.

The instructions for working with this dangerous reagent include:
• the use of special glassware by employees for laboratory tests so that this substance cannot react with it;
• the use of rubber gloves, rubberized aprons, examination and nitrile gloves, respirator, glasses and overalls that will help prevent the substance from getting on the skin, eyes, respiratory and mucous tracts;
• prohibition of smoking, drinking water and food during contact with acid;
• the duty of a specialist after completion of work to thoroughly wash the face and hands with warm soapy water, as well as a solution of baking soda, which quickly neutralizes this substance;
• prohibition of the storage and movement of this substance together with food;
• storage of the substance in a tightly closed container made of special polyethylene, placed on pallets and located in a well-ventilated building;
• the absence of heating devices near the acid to avoid its ignition.

Please note! Oxalic acid should not be used in large doses, because this will certainly lead to irritation or even burns of the skin, gastrointestinal tract, eyes and mucous membranes of the respiratory organs.

As soon as the acid begins to come into contact with the human body, he will feel a burning sensation, vomiting with blood appears. Emergency care consists in lavishing the affected area with running clean water, followed by immediate treatment at a medical facility.