NaN3 toxicity

PBSA PBS containing 0 02% NaN3. (NaN3 should be handled with care It is an inhibitor of cytochrome oxidase, and is highly toxic and mutagenic Aqueous solutions release HN3 at 37°C )... 

The pure acid (bp 37°C) is dangerously explosive but can be obtained on heating NaN3 with stearic acid at 110-130°C it is toxic even in low concentration in air. 

Ail azides are toxic, but their toxicity is due to tlie evolution of hydrazoic acid. The solid, insoluble azides such as lead and silver azides are practically nontoxic. Considerable studies were dedicated to the toxicity of sodium azide. It was found that the minimum lethal dose of NaNj is 35—38 mg/kg body weight (140). Chronic poisoning with NaN3 was studied by Basseiidowska and co-workers (141]. They showed that the maximum pcrmitable concentration of NaNj in air is 2 mg/m, provided the skin of the worker is well protected. 

NaN3 is included as preservative. As this is a harmful solution, avoid contact with skin, eyes, and do not inhale or ingest. NaN3 forms toxic gas when in contact with acids and is explosive when in contact with copper or lead plumbing. 

The best azide to use these days is sodium azide (NaN3). It is inexpensive and unwatched. All azides have the potential to explode upon degradation and are toxic to breathe. The methods... 

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