Rubidium Metal

Moderately toxic by intraperitoneal route. A very reactive alkali metal (more reactive than potassium or cesium). In the body, rubidium substitutes for potassium as an intracellular ion. The ratio of Rb/K intake is important in the toxicology of rubidium. A ratio above 40% is dangerous. In rats, a failure to gain weight is the first symptom, followed by ataxia and hyperirritability. Symptoms include: skin ulcers, poor hair coat, sensitivity, and extreme nervousness leading to convulsions and death.A very dangerous fire and explosion hazard when exposed to heat or flame or by chemical reaction with oxidizers. Ignites on contact with air, oxygen, and halogens. Ignites spontaneously on contact with water. Reaction with water, moisture, or steam forms explosive hydrogen gas, which then ignites. Explodes in contact with liquid bromine. Can react explosively with air, halogens, mercury, nonmetals, vanadium chloride oxide, moisture, acids, oxidizers. Violent reaction with vanadium trichloride oxide (at 60°C), Cl2O2, P. Molten rubidium ignites in sulfur vapor and reacts vigorously with carbon. RbOH is more basic than KOH. Storage and handling: Keep under benzene, petroleum, or other liquids not containing gaseous O2. When heated to decomposition it emits toxic fumes of Rb2O. See also SODIUM and POTASSIUM SODIUM ALLOY.