Naphthalene Balls Extra Pure
SHORT DESCRIPTION
Naphthalene Balls Extra Pure are solid, white crystalline spheres composed of high-purity naphthalene (C₁₀H₈), refined for laboratory, industrial, and specialized household uses. Known for their strong, distinctive odor, these balls sublimate—changing directly from solid to vapor—making them exceptionally effective as fumigants and insect repellents, particularly against moths, silverfish, and mold in stored fabrics and books.
In laboratory settings, extra pure naphthalene balls are often used as a standard hydrocarbon compound for melting point determination, sublimation studies, and chemical synthesis. Their consistent purity and volatile nature also make them suitable for organic chemistry demonstrations and reactions. For safety, they should be handled in well-ventilated areas, kept away from flames or heat sources, and stored in airtight containers to minimize inhalation and fire risks.
USES
PRIMARY USES:
- Moth repellent for clothes and textiles.
- Insecticide in closed storage spaces.
SECONDARY USES:
- Deodorizer in toilets and urinals.
- Occasionally used as a fumigant for stored grains (controlled use).
KEY ATTRIBUTES
1. Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name: Naphthalene
- CAS Number: 91-20-3
- HS Code: 2902.90.00
- Molecular Formula: C₁₀H₈
- Synonyms: Mothballs, Tar Camphor, White Tar, Naphthalin, Naphthene
2. Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Solid (white balls)
- Color & Odor: White; strong, characteristic aromatic odor
- Boiling Point: 218 °C
- Melting Point: 80.2 °C
- Density: ~1.14 g/cm³
- Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in organic solvents (ether, benzene, ethanol)
- pH Level: Not applicable (neutral organic compound)
- Vapor Pressure: 0.087 mmHg at 25 °C (sublimes easily)
- Flash Point: 79 °C (closed cup)
- Autoignition Temperature: 527 °C
- Viscosity: Not applicable (solid)
3. Safety & Hazard Attributes
- Hazard Class (GHS):
- Flammable solid (Category 2)
- Acute toxicity (Category 4)
- Carcinogenicity (Category 2)
- Hazardous to the aquatic environment – chronic (Category 1)
- NFPA Ratings:
- Health: 2
- Flammability: 2
- Reactivity: 0
- Exposure Limits:
- OSHA PEL: 10 ppm (50 mg/m³)
- ACGIH TLV: 10 ppm (skin)
- Reactivity: Stable under normal conditions; avoid heat, sparks, and oxidizers
4. Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place away from heat or open flame
- Incompatible Materials: Strong oxidizing agents (e.g., nitric acid, chromates)
- Container Type: Tightly sealed containers made of glass or HDPE
- Shelf Life: Long shelf life if properly sealed and protected from heat
- Special Handling Requirements: Use gloves and safety goggles; avoid inhaling vapors and dust; ensure good ventilation
5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Regulatory Status:
- EPA: Listed as hazardous air pollutant (HAP)
- REACH: Registered
- OSHA: Regulated as hazardous
- DOT: Classified as hazardous material
- Hazard Symbols:
- Flame, Exclamation mark, Health hazard, Environment
- Transportation Restrictions:
- UN Number: UN1334
- Hazard Class: 4.1 (Flammable solid)
- Waste Disposal Method: Dispose of as hazardous waste in accordance with local regulations (RCRA guidelines)
6. Environmental & Health Impact
- Ecotoxicity: Highly toxic to aquatic organisms; long-term environmental damage possible
- Persistence in Environment: Moderately persistent; volatile but can accumulate in soil and water
- Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity:
- IARC: Group 2B (possibly carcinogenic to humans)
- OSHA: Recognized as a potential occupational carcinogen
- Biodegradability: Low to moderate under aerobic conditions
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
- Wear a lab coat, nitrile gloves, and chemical safety goggles.
- Use in a well-ventilated area or under a fume hood.
- Respiratory protection may be necessary in case of inadequate ventilation.
Handling:
- Avoid inhalation of vapors and dust.
- Prevent contact with skin and eyes.
- Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Storage:
- Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area away from heat and open flames.
- Keep the container tightly closed and away from food and drink.
- Store separately from oxidizing agents and acids.
FIRST AID MEASURES
Inhalation:
- Move the affected person to fresh air immediately.
- Seek medical attention if symptoms such as coughing, dizziness, or headache occur.
Skin Contact:
- Wash with soap and plenty of water.
- Remove contaminated clothing.
- Get medical attention if irritation or redness develops.
Eye Contact:
- Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes.
- Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do.
- Continue rinsing and seek medical attention if irritation persists.
Ingestion:
- Rinse mouth with water.
- Do NOT induce vomiting.
- Seek immediate medical advice—naphthalene can be toxic if swallowed.
FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES
Flammability:
- Flammable solid; may sublimate and form flammable vapors.
Extinguishing Media:
- Use dry chemicals, CO₂, or foam.
- Water spray may be used to cool surrounding containers.
Hazardous Combustion Products:
- May emit toxic fumes of carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide.
- Can release irritating or toxic fumes upon decomposition.
Firefighter Protection:
- Use self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and full protective gear.
- Avoid inhalation of combustion fumes.