Thallium sulfate

Thallium sulfate is a chemical compound with the formula Tl2SO4. It is a colorless, odorless, tasteless, and heavy crystalline solid. Thallium sulfate is one of the compounds of thallium, a post-transition metal, and sulfate, an anion consisting of sulfur and oxygen atoms.

History

Thallium sulfate was first discovered in the late 19th century. It was initially used as a rat and ant poison due to its high toxicity. However, its use for these purposes has been discontinued in many countries, including the United States, due to the risk of human exposure and its potential to cause harm to the environment.

Properties and Structure

Thallium sulfate is a white crystalline solid at room temperature. It is soluble in water and its aqueous solution is colorless. The compound is made up of thallium cations (Tl+) and sulfate anions (SO4^2-). Each thallium cation is surrounded by eight oxygen atoms from four sulfate anions in a square antiprismatic geometry.

Production

Thallium sulfate is produced by reacting thallium(I) oxide with sulfuric acid. The reaction produces thallium sulfate and water.

Uses

Despite its toxicity, thallium sulfate has found use in a number of applications. It has been used in the manufacture of optical glass, as a catalyst in organic synthesis, and in some medical treatments. However, due to its high toxicity, its use is highly regulated and it is considered a hazardous substance.

Health Effects

Exposure to thallium sulfate can lead to serious health effects. It can be absorbed through the skin, inhaled, or ingested. Symptoms of thallium poisoning include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, as well as neurological symptoms such as tremors, hallucinations, and convulsions. Long-term exposure can lead to hair loss, changes in vision, and damage to the nervous system.

See Also

• Thallium
• Sulfate
• Thallium(I) oxide
• Sulfuric acid