MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET

I.  PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION

Manufacturer/Supplier:

ESPI Metals

1050 Benson Way, Ashland, OR 97520

Toll Free (800) 638-2581 * Fax (541) 488-8313

E-Mail: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Product Name:        Cobalt Silicide

Formula:                 CoSi₂

CAS Number:          12017-12-8

II.  HAZARDOUS INGREDIENTS

Hazardous Component:     Cobalt Silicide 

Percent (%):                      0-100

OSHA/PEL:                         0.1 mg(Co)/m³ 

ACGIH/TLV:                        0.02 mg(Co)/m³

HMIS Ratings: 

Health:                               1 

Flammability:                    1   

Reactivity:                         1

III.  PHYSICAL DATA

Boiling Point:                     No Data

Melting Point:                    1277 ^oC

Specific Gravity:               5.3 g/cc

Solubility in H₂O:              Insoluble

Appearance and Odor:     Metallic grey powder, Odorless

IV.  FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARDS DATA

Flash Point:  N/A 

Autoignition Temperature:  N/A

Flammable Limits:  Lower:  N/A      Upper:  N/A

Extinguishing Media:  Use suitable extinguishing media for surrounding material and type of fire.

Special Fire Fighting Procedures:  Firefighters must wear full face, self-contained breathing apparatus with full protective clothing to prevent contact with skin and eyes.

Unusual Fire & Explosion Hazard:  None known

V.  HEALTH HAZARD INFORMATION

Effects of Exposure:

To the best of our knowledge the chemical, physical and toxicological properties of cobalt silicide have not been thoroughly investigated and recorded.

Cobalt is an experimental neoplastigen and tumorigen.  It is an experimental carcinogen of the connective tissue and lungs.  Cobalt metal and inorganic compounds are classified as an animal carcinogen by the ACGIH.  Ingestion may cause burning in the mouth, esophagus and stomach.  Inhalation of dusts and fumes may cause irritation of the respiratory tract and labored breathing and coughing.  Sensitization, nausea, flushing of the face and ringing in the ears is also possible.  Chronic ingestion may result in pericardial effusion, polycythemia, cardiac failure, vomiting, convulsions and thyroid enlargement.  Corrosive to the skin and eyes.

Inorganic silicon compounds/silicon metal may be acute inhalation irritants.  Prolonged inhalation may cause pulmonary fibrosis known as silicosis.

Acute and Chronic Effects:

Inhalation:  Inhalation of cobalt can cause nose and throat irritation, cough, shortness of breath, and interstitial pneumonitis.  May cause development of an asthma-like condition in certain sensitive individuals.

Ingestion:  Ingestion will cause vomiting, diarrhea and sensation of hotness.

Skin:  Skin contact can result in an allergic dermatitis usually at points of flexure such as elbows and knees.

Eyes:  Causes moderate irritation to the eyes.

Medical Conditions Generally Aggravated by Exposure:  May aggravate pre-existing lung disorders.

Carcinogenicity:  NTP:  No               IARC Monographs:  No                      OSHA:  No

EMERGENCY AND FIRST AID PROCEDURES:

INHALATION:  Remove from exposure, seek immediate medical attention.

INGESTION:  Induce vomiting if conscious.  SEEK IMMEDIATE MEDICAL ATTENTION.

SKIN:  Wash with soap and water and a large volume of water.  Seek medical assistance as necessary, especially if irritation develops or persists.

EYES:  Flush with copious amounts of water for 15 minutes.

VI.  REACTIVITY DATA

Stability:  Stable

Conditions to Avoid:  None known

Incompatibility (Material to Avoid):  Acids, oxidizing agents.

Hazardous Decomposition Products:  Cobalt fume

Hazardous Polymerization:  Will not occur

VII.  SPILL OR LEAK PROCEDURES

Steps to Be Taken in Case Material Is Released or Spilled:  Wear appropriate respiratory and protective equipment specified in section VIII.  Isolate spill area and provide ventilation.  Vacuum up spill using a HEPA filter and place in a closed container for proper disposal.  Take care not to raise dust.

Waste Disposal Method:  In accordance with Local, State and Federal Waste Disposal Regulations.

VIII.  SPECIAL PROTECTION INFORMATION

Respiratory Protection:  Full mask air purifying respirator for concentration encountered.

Ventilation:  Use local exhaust to maintain concentration at low exposure levels.

Protective Gloves:  Impervious gloves

Eye Protection:  Safety Glasses

Other Protective Equipment:  Protective work clothing

IX.  SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS

Precautions To Be Taken in Handling and Storage:  Store in cool, dry conditions in well sealed containers.  Wash thoroughly after handling.  Keep container closed.

Other Handling and Storage Conditions:  Do not store together with oxidizing and acidic materials.

Work Practices:  Implement engineering and work practice controls to reduce and maintain concentration of exposure at low levels.  Use good housekeeping and sanitation practices.  Do not use tobacco or food in work area.  Wash thoroughly before eating and smoking.  Do not blow dust off clothing or skin with compressed air.  Maintain eyewash capable of sustained flushing, safety drench shower and facilities for washing.

DOT Regulations:

Hazard Class:                       None

The above information is believed to be correct, but does not purport to be all inclusive and shall be used only as a guide.  ESPI shall not be held liable for any damage resulting from handling or from contact with the above product.

Issued By:             S. Dierks

Date:                    September 2005