Arsenic Applications
Arsenic Applications
Slight arsenic additives 0.2-1.0% increase surface-tension of molten lead in gun shot production because it makes the shape of pellets spherical. Arsenic sometimes is used also as antimony substitute in some babbitts and type metals.
Pure arsenic is not toxic; however its water soluble compounds as well as those which dissolve in gastric juice, especially arsenic hydride and arsenous anhydride, are highly poisonous. Almost all sulphide ores of non-ferrous metals as well as sulphur ore contain arsenic, so during the process of oxidizing roasting along with sulphurous anhydride SO2 also As2O3 is always evolved. Most of it is concentrated in chimney flue, however, in the case of their low efficiency or dirtiness flue gases from ore-roasting furnace may transport significant amounts of As2O3. Non-toxic pure arsenic exposed to air is also coated by poisonous As2O3. Proper ventilation is crucial during metals etching treatment by sulphuric or chlorohydric acid which may contain arsenic impurities.