Intro to Nitrogen Dioxide
Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) is one component of the highly reactive gases known as the oxides of nitrogen or nitrogen oxides (NOx). NO2 is created from the reaction of nitrogen and oxygen during the combustion process. Fuel and thermal are the most common formation types.
A higher risk area for industrial workers from NO2 is in poorly ventilated areas such as a confined spaces which can result in asphyxiation or toxic exposure. Emissions from power plants has also been found to cause lung function abnormalities in subsequent workers. Other common sources are from the emissions of cars, trucks, buses, and off-road equipment. Large cities with many motor vehicles, high temperatures, and lightning can heighten the levels in the air. NO2 and NOx is widely known for causing air pollution in the form of smog, acid rain, and tropospheric ozone.
Gas Characteristics
- Yellowish-brown liquid or reddish-brown gas (above 70F)
- Pungent, acrid odor
- Heavier than air
- Fatal if inhaled
- May cause or intensify fire—oxidizer
- Reacts with water to form nitric acid.
- Contains gas under pressure, may explode if heated.
- OTHER NAMES: NO2, nitrogen oxide, nitrogen dioxide, nitrogen peroxide, dinitrogen tetroxide, nitrito
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CAS 10102-44-0
FIRST AID
- Inhalation: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing. Call poison center or physician right away. Nitrogen oxides are irritating to the upper respiratory tract and lungs even at low concentrations. Even one or two breaths of a high concentration can cause toxicity.
- Ingestion: Immediately call a poison center or physician. Rinse mouth. Don't induce vomiting. Nitrogen dioxide exists as a liquid below 21 degrees Celsius and can cause gastrointestinal irritation.
- Skin contact: take off contaminated clothing. Rinse skin with water. Call poison control or a physician right away. Can cause severe burns and may cause frostbite.
- Eye contact: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses if applicable. Continue rinsing. Call a poison center or physician. Can cause serious eye damage. Contact with rapidly expanding gas can cause burns and frostbite.
IF ACCIDENTALLY RELEASED
- Take action only if you've been trained. Evacuate the surrounding area. Turn off all possible sources of ignition. Don't inhale gas and ensure the area is well ventilated. Wear a respirator if ventilation isn't adequate. Workers should be wearing personal protective equipment.
- In case of a spill: Immediately contact emergency personnel. Stop leak if there isn't a risk to yourself. Use spark-proof tools and explosion-proof equipment.