What is Calcium Alkyl Benzene Sulphonate?
Calcium alkyl benzene sulphonate is an organic compound that belongs to the family of alkylbenzene sulfonates. It is primarily used as a surfactant and detergent in a variety of industrial applications due to its excellent emulsifying properties.
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula: C18H29CaO3S
- Molecular Weight: 340.0 g/mol
- Appearance: Typically appears as a yellowish to brown liquid or solid.
- Solubility: Soluble in water and various organic solvents.
CAS Number
The Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) number for calcium alkyl benzene sulphonate is 68411-30-3. This unique identifier helps in easily locating detailed information about the chemical.
Importance of the MSDS
The Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) is a vital document that provides detailed information about the properties, hazards, and safe handling of chemicals. For calcium alkyl benzene sulphonate, the MSDS serves several crucial functions:
- Emergency Response: Provides essential information for first responders in case of exposure or spills.
- Health and Safety: Lists potential health hazards and necessary protective measures.
- Regulatory Compliance: Helps organizations comply with safety regulations and guidelines.
- Proper Handling and Storage: Offers guidance on the correct methods to store and handle the chemical safely.
Applications of Calcium Alkyl Benzene Sulphonate
Calcium alkyl benzene sulphonate finds applications in various industries, including:
- Detergent Industry: Used as a surfactant in laundry detergents and household cleaning products.
- Industrial Cleaning: Effective in heavy-duty cleaning applications, including degreasers.
- Metalworking Fluids: Acts as an emulsifier in metalworking lubricants.
- Textile Industry: Utilized in textile processing as a wetting agent.
Potential Hazards
While calcium alkyl benzene sulphonate is effective in various applications, it also presents certain hazards that users must be aware of:
Health Hazards
- Skin Contact: Can cause irritation and dermatitis upon prolonged exposure.
- Eye Contact: May lead to severe eye irritation and damage.
- Inhalation: Breathing in mists or vapors may cause respiratory irritation.
Environmental Hazards
- Aquatic Toxicity: May be harmful to aquatic life and should be handled carefully to prevent environmental contamination.
Handling and Storage Guidelines
To ensure safety when working with calcium alkyl benzene sulphonate, it is essential to follow appropriate handling and storage guidelines:
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
When handling this chemical, the following PPE is recommended:
- Safety goggles to protect eyes from splashes.
- Gloves made of appropriate material to prevent skin contact.
- Respiratory protection if inhalation risk exists.
Storage Requirements
- Temperature: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Containers: Use containers made of compatible materials to avoid reactions.
- Labeling: Ensure all containers are clearly labeled with the chemical name and hazard warnings.
First Aid Measures
In case of exposure to calcium alkyl benzene sulphonate, the following first aid measures should be followed:
- Skin Contact: Remove contaminated clothing and rinse skin thoroughly with soap and water.
- Eye Contact: Rinse eyes immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention.
- Inhalation: Move the affected person to fresh air and seek medical assistance if symptoms persist.
- Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting; seek immediate medical attention.
Conclusion
Understanding the calcium alkyl benzene sulphonate MSDS is crucial for anyone who works with this chemical. The MSDS provides vital information on its properties, potential hazards, and necessary precautions for safe handling and storage. By adhering to safety guidelines and using appropriate personal protective equipment, users can minimize risks and ensure a safe working environment. Always consult the MSDS before handling any chemical to remain informed and compliant with safety regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is calcium alkyl benzene sulphonate used for?
Calcium alkyl benzene sulphonate is commonly used as a surfactant in detergents and cleaning products due to its excellent emulsifying and wetting properties.
What safety information is typically included in the MSDS for calcium alkyl benzene sulphonate?
The MSDS for calcium alkyl benzene sulphonate includes information on hazard identification, handling and storage guidelines, exposure controls, and first aid measures.
Are there any environmental hazards associated with calcium alkyl benzene sulphonate?
Yes, calcium alkyl benzene sulphonate can be harmful to aquatic life and may cause long-term effects in the environment, which is detailed in its MSDS.
What personal protective equipment (PPE) is recommended when handling calcium alkyl benzene sulphonate?
Recommended PPE includes gloves, safety goggles, and protective clothing to prevent skin and eye contact, as outlined in the MSDS.
How should spills of calcium alkyl benzene sulphonate be managed according to the MSDS?
Spills should be contained using absorbent materials, and the area should be ventilated. Proper disposal methods should be followed as per local regulations.
Is calcium alkyl benzene sulphonate classified as hazardous?
While calcium alkyl benzene sulphonate is not classified as highly hazardous, it may pose certain risks, and its MSDS provides detailed information on potential hazards.
