Potassium Bromide & Silver Nitrate

Chemical compounds are mysterious to the average person, conjuring up visions of a mad scientist concocting strange mixtures amid a glass sea of beakers and test tubes. Compounds like the generally innocuous potassium bromide or the highly toxic silver nitrate can be a friend or enemy if you know what they're capable of and how to protect yourself while using them.

Composition

• Potassium bromide, known also as bromide salt of potassium, is a chemical compound composed of bromine and potassium. Its molecular weight is 119 and it appears as odorless, white crystals.

  Silver nitrate, also called nitric acid or lunar caustic, is a chemical compound which includes nitrogen, oxygen and silver. It has a molecular weight of 169.87 and its form is that of transparent, colorless, odorless crystals.

Storage

• Both compounds should be stored in a dry, ventilated, cool place, protected from possible physical damage. Care should be taken to keep silver nitrate away from moisture, wooden floors and any source of heat where it could ignite.

Effects

• If potassium bromide is inhaled it can cause irritation to the respiratory tract which will be followed with coughing, shortness of breath and a sore throat. If ingested, it may cause nausea or abdominal pain. If a significant amount is absorbed it can affect the brain and central nervous system. Skin and eye contact produces redness, irritation and pain.

  Silver nitrate is dangerous since it's both a corrosive and poison. Inhalation is highly injurious to the upper respiratory tract and mucous membranes. It can cause a burning sensation, nausea, vomiting and shortness of breath. Ingestion causes burns in the stomach, mouth and throat which will cause diarrhea, sore throat, vomiting of black liquid, shock and even death. Skin contact causes redness and extreme burning. If it gets in the eyes it'll cause blurred vision, severe burning of tissue and eye damage.

Treatment

• If you accidentally inhale either compound, move to an area with fresh air immediately. Skin and eye contact should be followed with thorough flushing for at least 15 minutes.

  If silver nitrate is ingested, do not induce vomiting. Give a substantial quantity of water and get medical attention immediately.

Uses

• Potassium bromide has been used as a suppressant for seizure activity in animals by veterinarians. It's administered as an AED (antiepileptic drug) when phenobarbital is not sufficient by itself.

  Silver nitrate is used in the removal of warts, verrucas and umbilical granuloma--a small piece of tissue in a baby's belly button after the cord has been detached. It's also used for the cauterization of wounds and ulcers. Highly diluted, it can act as an astringent.