Safety

Watch first: Do NOT Run SEM TECH Until You Understand This. This page summarizes the hazards; it is not a substitute for chemical safety training or local regulations.

Membrane Fabrication Hazards

• Solvents. THF, MEK, and cyclohexanone are flammable and harmful to breathe. THF can form explosive peroxides in old containers. No flames or sparks, work ventilated or outdoors, store solvents properly, wear nitrile gloves and eye protection.
• Resin dust. Pulverized resin is a fine particulate. Avoid breathing it; wear a dust mask when grinding dry, or pulverize wet.

Electrochemical Cell Hazards

• Chlorine gas. Saltwater electrolysis produces chlorine at the anode. Highly toxic. Never run cells in enclosed unventilated spaces. The strong odor is a warning cue, not a safety measure.
• Hydrogen gas. Produced at the cathode. Flammable and explosive when accumulated.
• Hydrogen sulfide. Sulfide ores can release H2S, deadly even at low concentrations.
• Toxic metals. Ores, e-waste, and tailings can contain arsenic, lead, mercury, cadmium, and chromium. Handle solutions and dried residues as hazardous.
• Platinosis. Repeated exposure to platinum group metal dust and salts can cause severe sensitization.
• Corrosives. Cells generate and consume strong acids and bases. Burns and fume hazards.
• Electrical. Current plus conductive liquid. Use proper supplies, fusing, and dry hands.

Minimum Practice

Ventilation, PPE (gloves, eye protection, respirator where indicated), gas monitoring for serious work, secondary containment for liquids, and compliance with local environmental and disposal rules. If you are not sure you can run something safely, do not run it.