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What Are the Dangers of Perchloric Crystals?

Perchloric crystals, or perchloric acid in crystalline form, is an extremely dangerous inorganic compound. Industrially, it is used to make substances used in rocket fuel, among other things. The crystals are sometimes found formed due to condensation inside of ventilation hoods in chemical labs or in bottles stored for extended periods in the lab. Among the principle hazards are that the perchlorite crystals are subject to exploding on impact.

  1. Impact Explosion

    • Perchloric acid crystals are extremely unstable and will explode if they are struck or encounter impact or vibration in any way, much in the way nitroglycerin will. Perchloric crystals are usually the by-product of other chemical processes. Nonetheless, they should not be handled by anyone but the most experienced professionals for obvious reasons.

    Corrosive

    • Perchloric acid is one of the most powerful acids. It can burst into flames when it hits an organic substance if it is concentrated enough, and can easily cause severe burns to skin. Every precaution should be taken in its handling in the lab, including use of a dedicated hood with a rinsing mechanism that has no moving parts such as a blower to come into contact with the acid vapors. Highly protective clothing, gloves and goggles should always be worn. Under no circumstances should anyone try to handle the material without expert guidance.

    Formation of Explosive Compounds

    • When perchlorite crystals come into contact with organic materials, they can form dangerous compounds that can spontaneously explode. For this reason, the crystals must remain isolated and stored with great care. If there are spills or residue left behind, the perchlorate can react immediately if other substances come into contact with it, creating a hazard.

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