Mercury

Mercury is a chemical element with the symbol Hg and CAS number 7439-97-6, representing the only metal that exists as a liquid at room temperature. With a molecular weight of 200.59 g/mol, mercury is classified as a highly toxic substance with severe health and environmental hazards. It appears as a silvery, dense liquid metal that poses significant risks including reproductive toxicity, acute toxicity, and specific target organ toxicity after repeated exposure.

Mercury is a dense, silvery-white liquid metal at room temperature with exceptional physical properties. It has a high density of 13.53 g/cm³, making it one of the heaviest liquids known. Mercury has a low vapor pressure but produces toxic vapors even at room temperature. It is insoluble in water but soluble in nitric acid and hot concentrated sulfuric acid. The metal has excellent electrical conductivity and forms amalgams with most other metals.

Mercury is used in specialized industrial applications including scientific instruments like thermometers and barometers, electrical equipment such as switches and fluorescent lamps, and analytical chemistry procedures. It serves in the production of chlorine and caustic soda through electrolysis, in dental amalgams, and as a catalyst in certain chemical processes. Due to its high toxicity, many traditional uses have been restricted or phased out in favor of safer alternatives.

Mercury requires extreme caution during handling due to its high toxicity classification (Acute Tox. 2, Repr. 1B). Essential safety measures include wearing appropriate personal protective equipment such as nitrile gloves, safety goggles, and respiratory protection. Work should be conducted in well-ventilated areas or under fume hoods to prevent vapor inhalation. Avoid skin contact and ingestion, and ensure emergency procedures are readily available. Regular air monitoring may be necessary in workplaces using mercury.

Mercury must be stored in tightly sealed, compatible containers made of materials that do not form amalgams, such as iron or certain plastics. Storage areas should be cool, dry, and well-ventilated with secondary containment to prevent spills. Keep away from incompatible materials including acetylene, ammonia, and most metals. Storage facilities must comply with local regulations for hazardous substances and include appropriate labeling with GHS pictograms (GHS06, GHS08, GHS09) and danger warnings.

Mercury exposure requires immediate action due to its severe toxicity. For skin contact, remove contaminated clothing and wash affected areas thoroughly with soap and water. In case of inhalation, move the person to fresh air immediately and seek medical attention. If mercury is ingested, do not induce vomiting and contact poison control immediately. For eye contact, flush with water for at least 15 minutes. Always seek prompt medical evaluation for any mercury exposure.

Mercury disposal must comply with strict hazardous waste regulations due to its environmental toxicity (Aquatic Acute 1, Aquatic Chronic 1). Never dispose of mercury in regular trash, sewers, or storm drains. Contact licensed hazardous waste disposal companies for proper collection and treatment. Mercury-contaminated materials require specialized handling and recovery processes. Many regions have specific mercury collection programs, and disposal must follow local and international environmental protection guidelines to prevent ecosystem contamination.

Mercury is classified under ADR transport regulations as Class 8 (corrosive substances), Packing Group III, requiring specific packaging and documentation procedures. Transport containers must be robust, leak-proof, and properly labeled with appropriate hazard placards. Drivers need specialized training for hazardous materials transport, and vehicles must carry emergency response information. International transport requires compliance with IMDG, IATA, and other relevant transport regulations depending on the mode of transportation used.

Mercury is heavily regulated under multiple frameworks including REACH, CLP, and the Minamata Convention on Mercury. It faces severe restrictions in many applications due to its classification as Repr. 1B and STOT RE 1. Many countries have implemented phase-out programs for mercury-containing products. Industrial users must comply with emission limits, worker protection standards, and reporting requirements. Authorization may be required for certain uses, and substitution with safer alternatives is strongly encouraged where technically feasible.

Mercury is available through specialized chemical distributors like OYSI, which supplies industrial chemicals across Europe with proper regulatory compliance and safety documentation. Due to strict regulations governing mercury trade, purchases typically require demonstration of legitimate industrial use and compliance with applicable restrictions. Suppliers must provide appropriate safety data sheets, transport documentation, and may require end-use declarations. Contact OYSI's technical team for availability, regulatory guidance, and safe handling recommendations for your specific application requirements.