Potassium 2-fluoroacetate

Potassium 2-fluoroacetate is a highly toxic organic salt with the molecular formula C2H2FKO2 and CAS number 23745-86-0. This chemical compound has a molecular weight of 116.13 g/mol and belongs to the fluoroacetate family. It is classified as acutely toxic (Category 2) and poses significant environmental hazards to aquatic life. The substance requires extreme caution during handling due to its high toxicity profile and potential health risks.

Potassium 2-fluoroacetate is a crystalline solid at room temperature with high water solubility due to its ionic nature. The compound typically appears as white to off-white crystals and is odorless or has a slight characteristic odor. It is highly soluble in water and polar solvents, making it readily bioavailable. The substance is stable under normal conditions but decomposes when heated, potentially releasing toxic fluorine compounds.

Potassium 2-fluoroacetate is primarily used as a research chemical in biochemical and toxicological studies. It serves as a metabolic poison in scientific research to study cellular respiration and enzyme inhibition mechanisms. The compound is also utilized in laboratory settings for analytical chemistry applications and as a reference standard. Due to its extreme toxicity, its use is strictly limited to controlled professional environments with appropriate safety measures.

Potassium 2-fluoroacetate requires extreme safety precautions due to its acute toxicity classification. Essential PPE includes chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and laboratory coats. Work must be conducted in a well-ventilated fume hood to prevent inhalation exposure. Avoid skin contact, ingestion, and inhalation at all costs. Only trained personnel should handle this substance, and emergency procedures must be readily available. All work surfaces should be decontaminated after use.

Potassium 2-fluoroacetate must be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from incompatible materials. Keep containers tightly sealed and clearly labeled with appropriate hazard warnings. Storage should be in a locked, secure area accessible only to authorized personnel due to the substance's high toxicity. Avoid exposure to heat, moisture, and strong acids. Implement appropriate containment measures to prevent environmental release and ensure compliance with local storage regulations.

Potassium 2-fluoroacetate exposure requires immediate emergency response due to its acute toxicity. For skin contact, immediately remove contaminated clothing and flush with copious amounts of water for at least 15 minutes. If inhaled, move to fresh air immediately. In case of eye contact, rinse thoroughly with water. For ingestion, do not induce vomiting and seek immediate medical attention. Contact poison control centers and emergency services immediately for any exposure incident.

Potassium 2-fluoroacetate disposal requires specialized hazardous waste management due to its acute toxicity and environmental hazard classification. The substance must be disposed of through licensed hazardous waste contractors following local and European waste regulations. Never dispose of in regular waste streams or pour down drains due to aquatic toxicity. Containerize waste properly with appropriate labeling and documentation. Consult local environmental authorities for specific disposal requirements and authorized treatment facilities.

Potassium 2-fluoroacetate is classified under ADR Class 6.1 (toxic substances) Packing Group I, indicating maximum danger level for toxic materials. Transportation requires specialized packaging meeting UN specification standards and appropriate hazard labeling including GHS06 and GHS09 pictograms. Only authorized carriers with proper training and equipment should handle transport. All shipments must comply with international dangerous goods regulations and include proper shipping documentation and emergency response information.

Potassium 2-fluoroacetate is subject to strict European chemical regulations under REACH and CLP frameworks due to its acute toxicity classification. The substance requires appropriate classification, labeling, and safety data sheets compliant with CLP regulation. While not currently listed as SVHC, its Acute Tox. 2 classification imposes significant handling and use restrictions. Users must comply with occupational exposure limits, environmental protection measures, and proper notification requirements under applicable chemical safety legislation.

Potassium 2-fluoroacetate is available through OYSI, a specialized European distributor of technical chemicals. As a professional chemical supplier, OYSI ensures compliance with all regulatory requirements and provides appropriate documentation including safety data sheets. Due to the substance's high toxicity classification, purchases are restricted to qualified professional users with legitimate research or analytical applications. Contact OYSI directly for availability, technical specifications, and regulatory compliance support for your specific application requirements.