Arsine is a colourless gas. Though odourless in its pure form, it has an unpleasant garlic-like odour when exposed to air. It is usually detectable by smell at around 0.5 ppm. It is not combustible but will decompose into arsenic and hydrogen above 300° C. The rate of decomposition can be facilitated by the presence of light, humidity and catalysts such as aluminium.
It is extremely toxic due to its ability to bind with oxyhaemoglobin in the blood causing acute haemolysis (destruction of red blood cells), consequent anaemia and subsequent kidney damage. Its major industrial application is in the production of semi-conductors.
Arsine is a colourless gas. Though odourless in its pure form, it has an unpleasant garlic-like odour when exposred to air. It is usually detectable by smell at around 0.5 ppm. It is not combustible but will decompose into arsenic and hydrogen above 300° C.
Hazardous properties
It is extremely toxic due to its ability to bind with oxyhaemoglobin in the blood causing acute haemolysis (destruction of red blood cells), consequent anaemia and subsequent kidney damage.
Occurrence/Uses
Its major industrial application is in the production of semi-conductors.
