Mercuric oxide, red
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Description
A dense orangish-red powder that turns yellow when finely powdered. Red mercuric oxide is used industrially as an abrasive and as a biological growth inhibitor in marine paints. It is also used as a colorant for ceramic glazes.
Synonyms and Related Terms
red precipitate; red mercury oxide; peroxide of mercury
Other Properties
Soluble in dilute hydrochloric acid and nitric acid. Insoluble in water, ethanol and ether.
| Composition | HgO |
|---|---|
| CAS | 21908-53-2 |
| Melting Point | 500 (dec) |
| Density | 11.00-11.29 |
| Molecular Weight | mol. wt. = 216.61 |
Hazards and Safety
Highly toxic by ingestion, inhalation and skin absorption. Fire risk when in contact with organic materials. Decomposes with light or heat to produce toxic fumes.
LINK: International Chemical Safety Card
Sources Checked for Data in Record
- The Merck Index, Susan Budavari (ed.), Merck Research Labs, Whitehouse Station, NJ, 12th Edition, 1996 Comment: entry 5719
- G.S.Brady, Materials Handbook, McGraw-Hill Book Co., New York, 1971 Comment: p. 502
- Susan E. Schur, Conservation Terminology: A review of Past & Current Nomenclature of Materials, Technology and Conservation, Spring (p.34-39); Summer (p.35-38); Fall (p.25-36), 1985