Copper (II) Trifluoro Methanesulfonate Toxicity

Introduction

Copper (II) trifluoro methanesulfonate is the copper(II) salt of triflic acid or trifluoro methanesulfonic acid. It is a powerful Lewis acid that acts as a catalyst in different organic reactions. The substance is only used for research and development purposes and not for household or medical uses. It is soluble in water and exists in powder form. It may be light gray or white to slightly bluish. It is a hazardous substance that can produce eye damage and severe skin burns.

What Are the Hazardous Effects of Copper (II) Trifluoro Methanesulfonate?

Inhalation Exposure - Inhalation exposure may lead to respiratory irritation, which can result in lung damage.

The following symptoms may be seen due to inhalation exposure:

• Choking.

• Coughing.

• Nausea.

• Weakness.

• Dizziness.

• Headache.

Dermal Exposure - Direct skin contact can result in chemical burns. Skin exposure does not produce harmful health effects, but health damage can occur due to the entry of the substance through lesions, abrasions, or wounds. Therefore, skin with open wounds, abrasion, or irritation should not be exposed to the material. Any external damage should be protected before using the material.

Eye Exposure - Exposure of the material to the eyes can result in chemical burns, eye irritation, and severe eye damage.

Ingestion - The material can result in chemical burns within the oral cavity and gastrointestinal lining if ingested. However, more studies are required to study the effects.

Chronic Exposure - Chronic or long-term exposure to the substance can result in respiratory issues like breathing difficulties. Substance accumulation may occur within the body. Prolonged and repeated acid exposure can result in tooth erosion, mouth ulcers, irritation of airways, and inflammation of lung tissues. Asthma-like symptoms may develop that can continue for a long period. RADS (reactive airway dysfunction syndrome) may develop due to high-level exposure. These asthma-like symptoms develop immediately following exposure.

No data on the mutagenicity, carcinogenicity, and reproductive toxicity of Copper (II) trifluoro methanesulfonate is available.

What Are the First Aid Measures to Be Taken in Case of Exposure?

• Eye Contact: Remove contact lenses, if any, should only be carried out by a skilled professional. Flush the eyes with running water for a minimum period of 15 minutes. Flush with cold running water, keeping the eyelids open. Avoid using eye ointment. Get immediate medical attention.

• Skin Contact - In case of skin or hair contact, flush with running water. Use a safety shower if available. All the contaminated clothing, including the footwear, should be removed immediately following exposure. Seek immediate medical care.

• Inhalation Exposure - In case of inhalation exposure, firstly remove the victim from the contaminated area. Lay the victim down, and keep the victim warm and rested. Any prosthesis, such as false teeth, should be removed as these can block the airway. If the patient is not breathing, artificial respiration should be given using a pocket mask or demand valve resuscitator. Immediate medical attention is required. Inhalation exposure can result in fluid accumulation within the lungs or pulmonary edema; this effect may be delayed. Therefore, the victim should be kept under medical observation for 1 to 2 days to check for the development of lung edema.

• Ingestion Exposure - Vomiting should not be induced if the chemical is ingested. If vomiting occurs, lean the victim forward to prevent aspiration. Water or liquids should not be given to a victim turning unconscious. Rinse the mouth thoroughly with water. Immediately seek medical attention.

What Are the Precautions That Can Be Taken to Minimize Exposure?

Handling Precautions - The handling precautions to reduce exposure are:

• Avoid personal contact with the substance during handling.

• Avoid breathing dust or vapor.

• Personal protective measures should be taken to minimize exposure.

• Follow good work practices.

• Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking during handling.

• Wash hands after handling.

• Follow the manufacturer’s storage and handling information.

Storage Precautions- The storage recommendations to reduce exposure are:

• Avoid using galvanized or aluminum containers.

• The containers should be kept securely sealed.

• Store in a dry, cool, and well-ventilated area.

• Regular checking should be done to check leaks and spills.

• It should be stored away from incompatible substances.

• The manufacturer’s storage and handling recommendations should be followed.

Engineering Control - Engineering controls help remove hazards by acting as a barrier between the worker and the hazard.

• Local exhaust ventilation is required.

• Approved respirators are used in cases where there exists a risk of overexposure.

• Provide adequate ventilation in the warehouse.

• The safety shower and eyewash should be operational.

• Keep containers closed when not in use.

• Spills should be cleaned immediately.

Individual Protective Measures - The personal protective equipment include

• Full-face shields.

• Chemical goggles.

• Use safety footwear.

• Use chemical protective gloves.

• Contact lenses can lead to a special hazard. These lenses can absorb and concentrate the substance over time. A written document policy that describes the ill effects of using contact lenses and the restriction of their use in the workplace should be implemented. In case of early signs of eye irritation itself, the lens should be removed. The removal of lenses should be done in a clean environment after ensuring that hands are washed properly.

• Ensure ready access to the safety shower.

• PVC (polyvinyl chloride) apron.

Disposal Considerations -

The disposal considerations for the substance are:

• Whenever possible, recycling should be done.

• Contact with regional waste management authority if a disposal facility is not available.

• Treatment and neutralization of the substance should be done at an approved treatment plant.

• Empty containers should be decontaminated using soda ash or a 5 percent aqueous solution of sodium hydroxide.

• The material is mixed with a combustible solvent and burnt in a chemical incinerator.

• All state, federal, and local laws should be observed for disposal.

Conclusion

Copper (II) trifluoro methanesulfonate is a corrosive solid, mainly in powder form. Its use is limited to research and development industries, where it is mainly used to catalyze chemical reactions. Exposure causes eye damage and respiratory irritation, which may progress to pulmonary edema. Proper precautionary measures should be taken in industries to reduce the risk of exposure.