[Histonet] formalin storage

[Smith, Allen]

Theoretically, the fumes of HCl can react with the formaldehyde fumes to produce bis-chloromethyl ether, which is twice as toxic as osmium tetroxide.  The yield from this reaction at 1 Atm is so small that I don't think I would worry about it unless I had open containers in a closed space.
Allen A. Smith
Professor of Anatomy 
Barry University School of Podiatric Medicine
Miami Shores, FL

-----Original Message-----
From: histonet-bounces <@t> lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces <@t> lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of ti fei
Sent: Friday, September 11, 2009 10:23 AM
To: Riesen, Rebecca; histonet
Subject: Re:[Histonet] formalin storage

never store everything in one cabinet.
 As far as i know, HCl and formalin should not be stored together. If any of you know why...
   
 ------------------ Original ------------------
  From:  "Riesen, Rebecca"<Rebecca.Riesen <@t> nchmd.org>;
 Date:  Fri, Sep 11, 2009 10:09 PM
 To:  "histonet"<histonet <@t> lists.utsouthwestern.edu>; 
 
 Subject:  [Histonet] formalin storage

  
 
Thank you all! I have received many responses already concerning 10% Neutral Buffered Formalin (NBF) storage.  Only one person has stated that they store all chemicals, including formalin, in safety cabinets.
I just want to clarify something.  All MSDS's I studied stated that 10% NBF indeed is NOT flammable, but the Flash Point is under 200 F on all but one manufacturer's product.  The NFPA99 11.7.2.3.1 and 11.7.2.3.2 rules on flammables storage include all Class I, II and IIIA liquids.
Class IIIA liquids include those with a Flashpoint of less than 200 F.
That would include 10% NBF.  It appears to be the formaldehyde fume (which we all know very well) is the combustible portion no matter if it is 96.7% water. Most manufacturer's recommendations are for storage in a tightly sealed container, probably to keep those nasty fumes inside.
One would think that would be sufficient. 
Riesen, Rebecca
Rebecca.Riesen <@t> nchmd.org
NCH Healthcare Systems
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