Cyclic Voltammetry: Hints and Tips

Safety

Purification and distillation of solvents should only be undertaken by an experienced chemist or laboratory technician. Incorrect procedures could lead to explosion or fire All organic solvents, to a lesser or greater degree, are toxic, and most are flammable. General safety procedures include working in a well ventilated area (a fume hood is usually necessary), with protective clothing including rubber gloves and safety glasses. Adequate ventilation must be ensured about the distillation apparatus to prevent the buildup of flammable and toxic solvent vapours. Even if the solvent is relatively harmless, most organic solvents can penetrate the skin easily carrying potentially toxic solutes with them. Similarly most electrolytes used with organic solvents are toxic and/or skin irritants. Always familiarize yourself with the potential hazards by reading the MSDS (Materials Safety Data Sheets) available from the suppliers of solvents and electrolytes. Always assume that new compounds (for which no safety data may be available) are toxic and handle them with due care. Only use the drying agent indicated for that particular solvent. Do NOT mix drying agents. Solvents may be grossly wet and require predrying before drying with highly reactive drying agents such as sodium wire or phosphorous pentoxide. Appropriate care should be exercised in the handling and disposal of reactive drying agents such as metal hydrides, phosphorous pentoxide, and sodium wire The constituent ions (both cations and anions) of electrolytes may be toxic and when dissolved in organic solvents they can be carried across the skin. In cases of accidental spillage, where a specific treatment is unknown, contaminated skin areas should be continuously flushed with water for at least several minutes.