Disposal Deuterium Hydride (DH)

Chemical Formula: HD

Description: Deuterium hydride, also known as hydrogen deuteride, is a diatomic molecule consisting of one deuterium atom (a hydrogen isotope with one proton and one neutron) and one hydrogen atom. It is a colourless gas with properties similar to those of ordinary hydrogen gas (H₂), but with slightly different physical characteristics due to the presence of deuterium.

Label Information

  • Contents: The container holds deuterium hydride (HD), a gas mixture of deuterium and hydrogen atoms.

  • UN Number: 1957

    • Purpose of UN Number: The United Nations number 1957 is used to identify deuterium hydride for transport and emergency response purposes.

Hazard Symbols

  • Flammable Symbol: The label features a flammable hazard symbol, indicating that deuterium hydride is highly flammable and can form explosive mixtures with air.

  • Health Hazard Symbol: Depending on the context, the label may include a health hazard symbol (such as an exclamation mark) to indicate potential risks upon exposure.

Warning Information

  • Respiratory Protection: Users should wear appropriate respiratory protection when handling deuterium hydride to prevent inhalation.

  • Handling Instructions: Handle with care due to its flammability. Use the gas only in well-ventilated areas or within controlled environments that are equipped with appropriate safety measures.

  • Emergency Procedures: The label may include first aid instructions, such as moving to fresh air if inhalation occurs and seeking immediate medical attention if necessary.

Physical and Chemical Properties

  • Appearance: Colourless gas.

  • Odour: Typically odourless.

  • Boiling Point: -252.87°C (-423.17°F)

  • Melting Point: -259.2°C (-434.56°F)

  • Density: Slightly denser than hydrogen, but still lighter than air, with a density of approximately 0.084 g/L at 0°C.

Health Effects

  • Acute Exposure: Inhalation of deuterium hydride may lead to dizziness, headache, and respiratory irritation. High concentrations can displace oxygen, potentially causing asphyxiation.

  • Chronic Exposure: There is limited data on the long-term health effects of deuterium hydride, but prolonged exposure to any hydrogen isotopes in enclosed spaces could lead to oxygen deprivation and associated risks.

Reactivity and Compatibility

  • Reactivity: Deuterium hydride is generally stable under normal conditions but can react with strong oxidising agents.

  • Incompatible Materials: Avoid contact with strong oxidising agents, as reactions may produce hazardous compounds.

Environmental Impact

  • Air and Water: Deuterium hydride is not considered harmful to the environment under normal conditions. However, as a flammable gas, its release could pose a risk of fire or explosion.

  • Ecosystems: It does not pose significant risks to aquatic or terrestrial ecosystems.

Safety Measures

  • Storage: Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area, away from sources of ignition and incompatible materials.

  • Handling: Ensure proper ventilation and use appropriate leak detection methods when handling deuterium hydride. Inspect equipment regularly to prevent leaks and handle the gas with care to avoid spills.

  • Protective Equipment: Use personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, eye protection, and flame-resistant clothing when handling deuterium hydride. Ensure all personnel are trained in handling flammable gases and are aware of emergency response procedures.

Regulatory Information

  • Occupational Exposure Limits: Regulatory bodies may establish exposure limits for deuterium hydride to protect workers from potential risks associated with its use.

  • Transport Regulations: Deuterium hydride must be properly labelled and packaged according to international regulations, including those set by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), for safe transport.