Cycasin

Description

Cycasin is a crystalline solid. Molecularweight=252.08; Freezing/Melting point=(decomposes)154℃. Hazard Identification (based on NFPA-704 MRating System): Health 2, Flammability 2, Reactivity 0.

Chemical Properties

Cycasin is a crystalline solid with long nee- dles.

Safety Profile

Confirmed carcinogen with experimental carcinogenic and tumorigenic data. A poison by ingestion. An experimental teratogen. Mutation data reported. When heated to decomposition it emits toxic fumes of NOx.

Potential Exposure

Cycasin occurs naturally, in the seeds, roots, and leaves of cycad plants which are found in the tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Nuts from the cycads are used to make chips, flour, and starch. Cycasin is not produced or used commercially. The major potential Exposure is the ingestion of the foods containing cycasin. It is estimated that about 50 55% of the inhabitants of Guam are potentially exposed (50,000 60,000 persons) to cycasin. Wastewater from the preparation of the cycad nuts contain large amounts of cycasin and represents a potential secondary exposure source.

First aid

If this chemical gets into the eyes, remove anycontact lenses at once and irrigate immediately for at least15 min, occasionally lifting upper and lower lids. Seek medical attention immediately. If this chemical contacts theskin, remove contaminated clothing and wash immediatelywith soap and water. Seek medical attention immediately. Ifthis chemical has been inhaled, remove from exposure, begin rescue breathing (using universal precautions, including resuscitation mask) if breathing has stopped and CPR ifheart action has stopped. Transfer promptly to a medicalfacility. When this chemical has been swallowed, get medical attention. Give large quantities of water and inducevomiting. Do not make an unconscious person vomit.

storage

Color Code—Blue: Health Hazard/Poison: Storein a secure poison location. Prior to working with cycasinyou should be trained on its proper handling and storage. Aregulated, marked area should be established where thischemical is handled, used, or stored in compliance withOSHA Standard 1910.1045. Store in tightly closed containers in a cool, well-ventilated area.

Shipping

UN2811 Toxic solids, organic, n.o.s., Hazard Class: 6.1; Labels: 6.1-Poisonous materials, Technical Name Required.

Incompatibilities

Material hydrolyzed under alkaline conditions .

Waste Disposal

Disposal of unused product must be undertaken by qualified personnel who are knowl- edgeable in all applicable regulations and follow all perti- nent safety precautions including the use of appropriate protective equipment. For proper handling and disposal, always comply with federal, state, and local regulations. At the time of review, criteria for land treatment or burial (sanitary landfill) disposal practices are subject to signifi- cant revision. Prior to implementing land disposal of waste residue (including waste sludge), consult with environmen- tal regulatory agencies for guidance on acceptable disposal practices .

Raw materials

Preparation Products