Product Details
Storage:
Inorganic #1 under dry mineral oil and inside a Flinn Saf-Stor™ Can. Sodium metal must always be stored under dry mineral oil to prevent contact with moist air.
Shelf Life:
Good, if stored safely.
Color:
New material: metallic gray. Old material: white gray.
Odor:
Metal itself is odorless but is usually stored under an oil or kerosene, either of which may have an odor.
Technical Note:
As you handle sodium be particularly attentive to the use of dry utensils and an entirely dry work surface. Use all appropriate personal safety apparel, i.e., gloves, apron, face shield, etc. Sodium would be the better choice to demonstrate the characteristics of an alkali metal than potassium. Potassium may develop potentially explosive peroxides.*All package sizes are packaged under mineral oil in plastic bottles, and then in a metal can for safer storage.