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MIT Keeps Building 18 Closed After Mercury Synthesis Claim

8/30/2026

26 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

MIT closed Building 18 after a graduate student claimed to have synthesized dimethyl mercury.
The student visited an emergency room Wednesday night; a Saturday blood test showed no mercury exposure.
Cambridge firefighters responded around 9:40 p.m., isolated the lab and reported an unknown liquid on the floor.
MIT decontaminated the residence hall, sealed the dorm unit, and kept Building 18 closed through Sunday, citing low exposure risk.

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Story summary

MIT closed Building 18 after a graduate student claimed to have synthesized dimethyl mercury.
The student visited an emergency room Wednesday night; a Saturday blood test showed no mercury exposure.
Cambridge firefighters responded around 9:40 p.m., isolated the lab and reported an unknown liquid on the floor.
MIT decontaminated the residence hall, sealed the dorm unit, and kept Building 18 closed through Sunday, citing low exposure risk.