MIT responds to HAZMAT alert after student claims chemical synthesis

A graduate student at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) triggered a HAZMAT response after claiming to have synthesized dimethylmercury, an extremely toxic mercury compound. The student reported the possible synthesis to medical personnel at a local emergency room, prompting MIT to close Building 18, a part of its chemistry complex, while emergency crews and university officials investigated.

MIT stated that the student was not authorized to work with dimethylmercury and that the substance was unrelated to his approved research. As a precaution, the university professionally cleaned shared spaces in the student’s residence hall and sealed his room.

While the student remained under medical observation, initial blood tests showed no evidence of mercury exposure. MIT also noted that new information had raised doubts regarding whether the dimethylmercury had actually been produced. The investigation and testing continued through the weekend.