Hydrogen Cyanide
Hydrogen Cyanide
Other Names |
Hydrocyanic acid; Formonitrile; Prussic Acid |
Chemical Formula |
HCN |
CAS Number |
74-90-8 |
Industry Uses |
Chemistry Laboratories; Fumigation |
Health Risks |
Irritation of eyes, skin, and respiratory system; Organ Failure; Death |
Vapor Pressure |
630 mmHg |
Water Solubility |
Soluble |
Flammability |
Very Flammable |
Odor |
Faint, bitter almonds |
Hydrogen Chloride MSDS
What is Hydrogen Cyanide?
Hydrogen Chloride is a toxic colorless or pale blue liquid or gas. It is found in the smoke of various tobacco products and car exhaust and is released by the combustion of nitrogen-containing organic materials. Hydrogen cyanide ionizes in water to produce the cyanide anion. Hydrogen Cyanide may form explosive mixtures in the air. Exposure to heat or flame will cause a container of hydrogen cyanide to explode. It is very flammable, and flame can flash back to the source of a gas leak very easily. Runoff from fire control or dilution water may be corrosive and/or toxic, causing pollution. Hydrogen cyanide is very toxic to aquatic life leaving long-lasting negative effects.
Hydrogen Cyanide Exposure and Health Risks
Hydrogen cyanide is extremely toxic by inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact. Even a small concentration or short exposure can be lethal. Long term inhalation results in damage to the central nervous system, cardiovascular system, and respiratory system, and can lead to death. Cyanide can also cause an enlarged thyroid and irritation to the eyes, skin, and respiratory system. Animal studies have shown that cyanide may be associated with malformations of fetuses and low fetal body weight. Hydrogen cyanide is not normally considered corrosive. Skin contact with hydrogen cyanide will cause severe burns.
Regulations
The table below summarizes the most-recent exposure limits.
Limit/Level |
Type |
Organization |
1.0 ppm |
AEGL-1 (8 hrs) |
EPA |
2.5 ppm |
AEGL-2 (8 hrs) |
EPA |
6.6 ppm |
AEGL-3 (8 hrs) |
EPA |
10 ppm |
TWA (8 hrs) |
OSHA |
4.7 ppm |
ST |
NIOSH |
Measuring Hydrogen Cyanide
Hydrogen cyanide concentration in the air can be measured in units of parts per million (ppm). Many of our products have digital communication capabilities for easy monitoring and control. We carry portable and fixed hydrogen cyanide monitors and kits. All of our hydrogen cyanide products can be viewed HERE.
D16 |
The D16 is a versatile tool designed for gas leak detection, personal safety, spot checking, confined entry, and data logging, and more. It can be used as a portable monitor or as a stationary one that can be set to log data over long periods of time. This customizable unit can be fitted with a variety of sensors and is sold with every accessory you may need for fast and accurate portable gas detection. | 0-20ppm |
D12 |
The D12 is designed for operation in hazardous areas. Its explosion-proof cast aluminum housing is rated for Class 1, Division 1, Group B, C, D locations and is UL, FM, and CSA certified. This monitor can be fitted with a variety of sensors to be used on a wide range of toxic and combustible gases. | 0-20ppm |
F12 |
The Series F12 Gas Transmitter is an Intrinsically Safe monitor designed for the detection of toxic gases in hazardous areas. It is also well suited for general purpose applications. This highly customizable unit can be fitted with a variety of sensors and accessories and is compatible with most fixed mount toxic gas applications. | 0-20ppm |
F12D |
The Series F12D Gas Transmitter is designed for detection of toxic gases in hazardous areas. It is also well suited for general purpose applications. This highly customizable unit can be fitted with a variety of sensors and accessories and is compatible with most fixed mount toxic gas applications. | 0-20ppm |
B12 |
The B12 transmitter is a two-wire, 4-29 mA transmitter that is loop-powered to signal linearly proportional to gas concentration. Their electrochemical sensors are designed for use in ambient air or in ventilation ducts. This highly customizable application can be fitted with a variety of sensors and accessories. | 0-20ppm |
BW Solo | The Honeywell BW Solo is a portable gas detector with a small, durable design and fast response time. These monitors can be paired with a smartphone using BLE allowing for remote access to multiple devices. This detector can be fitted with a variety of sensors, all of which come with a five-year life expectancy. | 0-100ppm |
Contact us for help choosing the right monitor for your application