A corrosive is a chemical that causes visible destruction or irreversible alterations in living tissue by chemical action at the site of contact
. Corrosive substances can be found in various forms, such as liquids, solids, or gases, and they can have a severe effect on eyes, skin, respiratory tract, and gastrointestinal tract if an exposure occurs
. Most corrosives are either bases, oxidizers, or acids
. Some key points about corrosives include:
- They can cause damage by chemical action, often resulting in severe injury or destruction
- Corrosive solids, such as sodium hydroxide and phenol, can cause burns to the skin and eyes
- Dust from corrosive solids can be inhaled and cause irritation or other health issues
- Corrosive chemicals should be handled in a fume hood to avoid breathing corrosive vapors and gases
- When mixing concentrated acids with water, always add acid slowly to the water, and never add water to acid
- Corrosive materials should be stored below eye level and always used with protective equipment, such as splash goggles and face shields
Examples of common corrosives include sulfuric acid, hydrogen peroxide, hydrochloric acid, and bromine
. It is essential to handle corrosive substances with care and follow proper safety procedures to minimize the risk of injury and damage to property or assets in the workplace
