Uses - Pesticide, manufacture of pharmaceuticals, mercuration of organic compounds, absorption of ethylene, catalyst. Materials to Avoid - Reducing agents. Avoid sources of heat including fire. Mercuric acetate will liberate toxic mercury fumes when heated to decomposition. Other Names - Diacetoxymercury, mercuriacetate, mercury diacetate, mercuryl acetate.
Caution is advised.
Signs and symptoms of acute exposure to mercuric acetate may be severe and include increased salivation, foul breath, inflammation and ulceration of the mucous membranes, abdominal pain, and bloody diarrhea. Acute exposure to mercuric acetate may require decontamination and life support for the victims. Emergency personnel should wear protective clothing appropriate to the type and degree of contamination. Rescue vehicles should carry supplies such as plastic sheeting and disposable plastic bags to assist in preventing spread of contamination. Move victims to fresh air.