Diarsenic Tetrahydride

Diarsenic tetrahydride, also known as arsenic hydride or arsine, is a colorless and highly toxic gas with the chemical formula AsH4. It is made up of two arsenic atoms and four hydrogen atoms that are covalently bonded together, forming a tetrahedral shape.

Arsine is produced by the reaction between a metal arsenide and an acid, typically hydrochloric acid. It is commonly used in the semiconductor industry to deposit thin films of metals onto silicon wafers, as well as in the manufacture of electronic components, such as transistors and integrated circuits.

However, arsine is extremely poisonous and exposure to even small amounts can be fatal. The toxic effects of arsine on the human body are due to its ability to interfere with cellular respiration, which can lead to cell death and organ failure. Symptoms of arsenic poisoning include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, muscle cramps, and convulsions.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has set a permissible exposure limit of 0.05 parts per million (ppm) for arsine in workplace air over an 8-hour workday. Personal protective equipment, such as respirators and gloves, should also be worn when handling arsine to reduce the risk of exposure.