Any solvent stills containing reactive metals should be located in a fume-hood. The total volume of solvent used in these stills shall be kept to a minimum. Stills should be operated under an inert gas atmosphere of nitrogen or argon. Solvent flasks containing LiAlH 4 must never be heated. The use of sodium alone is recommended for diethylether and all other hydrocarbons such as toluene, benzene, pentane, hexane, heptane, etc.
Calcium hydride is recommended for methylenechloride.
The attached SOP should be followed when deactivating a solvent still containing reactive metals. Neutralization of solvent stills containing reactive metals or metal hydrides. Only properly trained persons are to perform this procedure. Orient yourself as to the location of the nearest emergency shower, fire blanket, and exit. If it is not, carefully attempt to break up any solid deposits in the flask using a large spatula.