What is the proper cleaning procedure for glassware used in mercury nitrate synthesis? After disposing mercury waste, I am sure that there may be some residual mercury traces left in the glassware. How can I effectively remove these contaminants? Are specialized cleaning agents necessary, or are acid washing and using surfactants and other common cleaning agents enough?
To effectively clean glassware used in mercury nitrate synthesis and remove residual mercury contaminants, follow these steps:
1. **Initial Rinse**: Rinse glassware with distilled water immediately after use to remove unreacted chemicals.
2. **Soaking**: Soak the glassware in 1-2% nitric acid (HNO₃) for several hours or overnight to dissolve mercury compounds. Perform this step in a fume hood due to hazardous fumes.
3. **Washing with Detergents**: Use a non-phosphate detergent and warm water to wash the glassware, employing a soft brush for scrubbing.
4. **Acid Rinse**: Rinse with dilute nitric acid (1% HNO₃) or hydrochloric acid (1% HCl) to remove remaining traces of mercury.
5. **Final Rinse with Distilled Water**: Rinse thoroughly with distilled water multiple times to eliminate all acid residues.
6. **Drying**: Dry the glassware in an oven or air dry in a clean environment.
Consider using specialized cleaning agents designed for heavy metals, and test the cleaned glassware for residual mercury using detection kits. Always dispose of mercury waste according to hazardous waste regulations to maintain laboratory safety.
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