Thus this substitution disrupts many cellular processes (for instance, thallium may attack sulfur-containing proteins such as cysteine residues and ferredoxins). Other aspects of thallium’s chemistrydiffer strongly from that of the alkali metals, such its high affinity for sulfur ligands. It can thus enter the body via potassium uptake pathways. Part of the reason for thallium’s high toxicity is that, when present in aqueous solution as the univalent thallium(I) ion (Tl+), it exhibits some similarities with essential alkali metal cations, particularly potassium (due to similar atomic radii). Thallium is a suspected human carcinogen. Exposure to them should not exceed 0.1 mg per m2 of skin in an 8-hour time-weighted average (40-hour work week). Many thallium(I) compounds are highly soluble in water and are readily absorbed through the skin. Contact with skin is dangerous, and adequate ventilation should be provided when melting this metal. Thallium and its compounds are often highly toxic. 3A3Z™ Explosive Fertilizer Identification Kit.3A2Z™ Explosive Fertilizer Identification Kit.

Thallium poisoning antidote