Maleic Acid & Sodium Carbonate

When inspecting the contents of household products or even the food we eat, we often find ourselves lost in a sea of terms and words that are all too unfamiliar. Some of these are not so dangerous, like sodium carbonate, and some are literally explosive, like maleic acid. In either instance, it's good to know basic information about each and what to look out for if something unexpected happens.

Composition

• Sodium carbonate's chemical makeup is of sodium (Na2), carbon and oxygen (O3). Its molecular weight is 105.99, and it appears as a white, odorless crystalline powder. It's more commonly known as baking soda.

  Maleic acid is made up of hydrogen, oxygen and carbon. It's molecular weight is 116.08, and it's made of white crystals that have a weak acidic odor. It's also known as toxilic and malenic acid.

Storage

• Both substances should be stored in a secure storage container in warm and cold conditions. They are likely to leave some residue in the container when emptying. Maleic acid must stored in ventilated area and be grounded, emptied only in an area where the atmosphere is inert and non-flammable since flammable vapor can cause a flash fire or explosion if an electrostatic charge is emitted.

Effects

• High concentrations of sodium carbonate when inhaled can cause sneezing and coughing. If ingested in large doses, it may cause gastroinstestinal problems. Contact with the eyes can cause irritation, redness and pain.

  Maleic acid inhalation can irritate the upper respiratory tract, causing sore throat, shortness of breath and coughing. Ingestion will irritate the gastrointestinal tract inducing vomiting, nausea and diarrhea. It will also cause redness and itching of skin, which may have increased aggravation if the skin is wet. May cause burning in the eyes with corneal damage or conjuntivitis.

First Aid

• Inhalation victims of either product should be moved to an area of fresh air. Breathing difficulty should be precipitated by getting medical attention. Ingestion of sodium carbonate can generally be remedied by drinking large quantities of water. Maleic acid however, should be followed by inducing immediately. If contact is made with the eyes, flushing for at least 15 minutes and moving the eyelids during the process should clear it out, though with maleic acid, it's recommended to seek medical attention quickly after.

Uses

• Sodium carbonate is used in glass making, water softeners and in the manufacturing of soap and detergents. It's used also to absorb excess moisture in the air. Maleic acid is primarily used in making maleate salts, as well as preventing the rancidity within oils.