Metals specific heats 157 spontaneous ignition

SAFETY PROFILE Most carbonyls are highly toxic. The toxicity of carbonyls depends in part, but not always endrely, on their ready decomposition, which releases carbon monoxide. Symptoms are due in part to carbon monoxide and in part to the direct irritating action of the carbonyl. See specific carbonyl in question. Many carbonyl metals ignite spontaneously in air, some with a delay period. Others are moderate fire and explosion hazards when exposed to heat or flame. Carbonyls of alkali metals are potentially explosive. Hypergolic reaction... 

Sodium is a light soft ductile metal of 0.97 specific gravity, which melts at 97.6 C. (208 F.) and boils at 760 C. (1382 ). It is obtaim d by the electrolysis of molten sodium chloride (common salt). On contact w ith water, sodium decomposes it with vigorous evolution of hydrogen. The heat of reaction is sufficient to ignite the hydrogen ami, heni c, in the presence of moisture, sodium is spontaneously inflammable. 

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