What are the dangers of osmium?

Answer 1

Osmium is considered to be a toxic metal. One compound of osmium is particularly poisonous, OsO4 which is a very volatile oxide, it is molecular which is unique amongst metal oxides, with a melting point of 400C. It causes pulmonary edema and can stain the cornea causing blindness.

Answer 2

osmium metal does not normally cause problems as it is relatively unreactive but all osmium compounds should be regarded as highly toxic. The metal dust is an irritant and presents a fire and explosion hazard. Osmium oxide, OsO4, is highly toxic, and boils at 130°C (760 mm). Concentrations in air as low as 10-7 g m-3 can cause lung congestion, skin damage, and severe eye damage. The oxide, in particular, should only ever be handled by a properly qualified chemist.

Answer 3

Osmium is highly toxic when inhaled or ingested, posing a significant health risk. It can also cause skin and eye irritation upon contact. Additionally, osmium tetroxide, a compound of osmium, is extremely toxic and can cause severe health effects, including lung damage and even death.

Answer 4

In it's natural state, it is not toxic. However, when used as compounds like osmium tetroxide it is extremely poisonous.