I am about going to do a chemistry extra credit project (making thermite) and I was wondering, when handling the aluminum powder, what precautions should be adhered to. Obviously I am mixing it outdoors in a well ventilated area, but what should I wear to protect myself from the particles of aluminum (inhaling them). What kind of safety gear would a chemist use (my teacher didn’t know, I already asked). Any help would be appreciated as I really don’t want to bring neurological damage on myself.
I would also like to ask if welding googles would be sufficient UV protection, (even though I don’t want to look directly at it, simple as a precaution)
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Oh hey I’m doing this too for an ap demo. Normally it’s too heavy to get into air so you should be fine, as for the termite don’t use too much and you’ll be fine just do it away from people and move away quickly cause that stuff is hot.
The precaution you need to take is NOT to do the thermite reaction. It should only be attempted by someone who knows the ins and outs of dangerous reactions, and it is apparent that neither you nor your teacher is experienced with this.
One of the little known dangers of this demo is the emission of UV light that can damage the retina of observers. If you should do this caution the class not to look directly at the bright light.
Let me emphasize that the dangers with this reaction are extreme and it should not be done by someone who is inexperienced and without proper oversight. Find another project to do.
Here’s a comment from http://www.ilpi.com/genchem/demo/thermite/index.html
The thermite reaction is an exceedingly dangerous reaction and should only be performed by a trained chemical professional capable of assessing the hazards and risks. Do not run this reaction indoors unless it is done in a fume hood with the sash closed. Keep all personnel back at least 30 feet (10 m) when running the reaction. Injuries have been reported using the procedure(s) outlined herein; use at your own risk. For example, see http://www.labsafety.org/archives/arch9910.txt.