Introduction:
SnCl4 is the chemical formula for stannic chloride, an inorganic substance. It is a colorless, or light yellow fuming liquid having a pungent odor that is highly toxic and corrosive. Stannic chloride is made by reacting chlorine gas with molten tin metal or tin dioxide. The resulting liquid is then purified by distillation to remove impurities. When mixed with cold water, it dissolves easily, but hot water breaks it down into hydrochloric acid, releasing heat in the process. It has a corrosive effect on both metals and tissues. The alternative chemical names of stannic chloride include tin tetrachloride, tetrachlorostannane, or tin (IV) chloride.
Stannic chloride is commonly used in manufacturing tinplate, a thin sheet of steel coated with a layer of tin. This process protects the steel from corrosion and improves its appearance. Stannic chloride is also used as a catalyst in the production of silicone rubber, which is used in various industrial and consumer products, such as sealants, adhesives, and medical devices. It is used to synthesize other tin compounds, such as organotin compounds, which are used as stabilizers in the production of PVC (polyvinyl chloride) plastics. Tin chloride (SnCl4) acts as an antioxidant in food.
What Are the Toxic Levels of Stannic Chloride?
According to Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations, the permissible exposure limit (PEL) for airborne substances is 2 mg/m3 (milligram per cubic meter) on average over an eight-hour work shift.
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) recommends that the airborne exposure limit should not exceed 2 mg/m3 on average over a ten-hour work shift.
The American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) recommends an airborne exposure limit of 2 mg/m3 for the eight-hour work shift.
What Are the Reasons Behind the Toxic Effects of Stannic Chloride?
Several reasons behind the development of toxic effects associated with stannic chloride include:
Direct Contact: This type of contact with stannic chloride may occur either through the skin or the eye. It might irritate the skin and eyes severely. The substance is highly corrosive and can cause chemical burns and tissue damage.
Inhalation: If stannic chloride is inhaled can cause respiratory problems, including irritation of the nose, throat, and lungs.
Ingestion: If stannic chloride is ingested, it causes nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.
Occupational Exposure: This type of stannic chloride exposure can occur in industries that use the substance, such as the manufacturing of tinplate and the production of silicone rubber. Employees in these industries could come into contact with or inhale stannic chloride, leading to a range of health problems.
Environmental Exposure: Contamination with stannic chloride can occur through the release of the substance into the air, water, or soil. This can happen through industrial processes or improper disposal of the substance. Environmental exposure can lead to a range of health problems in humans and animals, as well as damage to the ecosystem.
What Are the Toxic Effects of Stannic Chloride?
The following are the common symptoms of stannic chloride toxicity:
Redness, pain over the affected skin area, and swelling due to skin contact. Severe skin irritation may be present in some cases.
Eye irritation, including redness, swelling, and pain due to eye exposure to this compound.
Inhalation of stannic chloride can cause respiratory problems, including irritation of the nose, throat, and lungs, coughing, and shortness of breath. Prolonged exposure can lead to chronic bronchitis (an inflammation of the bronchial tubes present in the lungs) and emphysema (damage to the air sacs).
Ingestion of stannic chloride can cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.
Sometimes, exposure to stannic chloride can cause damage to the liver and kidneys. Symptoms of liver and kidney damage include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and fatigue.
High levels of stannic chloride in the body can lead to central nervous system effects, including headache, dizziness, confusion, and seizures.
Exposure to stannic chloride can also affect the cardiovascular system, leading to low blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, and even cardiac arrest in severe cases.
How Can the Toxic Effects of Stannic Chloride Be Diagnosed?
The toxic effects of stannic chloride can be diagnosed with the help of the following methods:
Medical History: The doctor will inquire about certain information like the individual's occupation, hobbies, and exposure to chemicals that can help in the diagnosis. A detailed medical history helps to identify if a person has been exposed to stannic chloride.
Physical Examination: A physical examination can detect any signs of stannic chloride exposure, including skin or eye irritation, respiratory troubles, or stomach-related problems.
Blood Tests: These tests help in measuring the levels of stannic chloride in the blood. Certain blood tests can also help identify any damage to the liver and kidneys, which can be caused by exposure to stannic chloride.
Imaging Tests: X-rays and CT (computed tomography) scans, can help identify any damage to the lungs caused by inhalation of stannic chloride.
Urine Tests: They measure the levels of stannic chloride in the body. These tests can also help identify any damage to the kidneys caused by exposure to stannic chloride.
Bronchoscopy: This procedure involves inserting a small tube with a camera into the lungs to examine the airways. It helps to identify any damage to the lungs caused by inhalation of stannic chloride.
How Can the Toxic Effects of Stannic Chloride Be Treated?
The toxic effects of stannic chloride can be treated in the following ways:
Decontamination: If the exposure occurred through skin contact, the affected area should be immediately washed with water for at least 20 minutes. If the exposure occurred through inhalation, the individual should be moved to an area with fresh air. In case the individual is not breathing, administer artificial respiration. However, if the individual has ingested or inhaled the substance, it is advised not to perform mouth-to-mouth breathing.
Supportive Care: This may include oxygen therapy, intravenous fluids, and medications to manage symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and respiratory distress. Hospitalization can be required to offer supportive care for severe poisoning instances.
Chelation Therapy: In cases of severe stannic chloride toxicity, chelation therapy may be necessary. This treatment involves the use of medications that bind to the stannic chloride and help remove it from the body.
Monitoring: People who have been exposed to stannic chloride should be monitored closely for signs of complications, such as liver or kidney damage. Blood tests and other diagnostic procedures could be performed to keep track of the person's condition.
Follow-Up: People who have been exposed to stannic chloride may require long-term follow-up to monitor for any long-term health effects. This may involve regular blood tests and other diagnostic tests.
How to Prevent the Toxic Effects of Stannic Chloride?
Preventing the toxic effects of stannic chloride requires implementing safety measures to minimize exposure to this toxic chemical which include:
Follow all safety procedures and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, goggles, and a respirator.
Stannic chloride should be stored in a cool, dry place away from sources of heat, sparks, and flames.
Containers of stannic chloride should be clearly labeled with the chemical name, hazards, and proper handling instructions.
All personnel who work with stannic chloride should receive training on the hazards and proper handling procedures. This includes training on safe handling, storage, and disposal practices.
There should be an emergency response strategy in place in case of accidental exposure. This includes having first aid supplies, decontamination equipment, and a plan for notifying emergency services.
Conclusion:
It is necessary to handle stannic chloride with care and to follow proper safety measures when working with the substance. Exposure should be avoided by wearing protective gear, such as gloves, goggles, and respirators. Proper safety measures, storage in a secure and properly labeled container, and disposal methods as per local regulations should be followed to prevent any negative consequences for the environment or human health.
