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:   Potassium

Formula:             K

CAS Number:      7440-09-7

Synonyms:         Kalium

II.   HAZARDOUS INGREDIENTS

Hazardous Component:  Potassium

Percent (%):                  0-100

OSHA/PEL:                     N/E

ACGIH/TLV:                    N/E

HMIS Ratings:

Health:                           3

Flammability:                3

Reactivity:                     4

III.   PHYSICAL DATA

Boiling Point:                 760 ^oC

Melting Point:                63.7 ^oC

Specific Gravity:           0.86 g/cc                               

Vapor Pressure:            0.0899 mm at 245 ^oC

Solubility in H₂O:           Reacts violently with water

Appearance and Odor:  Silver metallic solid, no odor.

IV.   FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARDS DATA

Flash Point:  N/A

Flammability:  Highly flammable

Autoignition Temperature:  N/E

Explosive Limits:  Lower:  N/A         Upper:  N/A

Extinguishing Media:  Dry powder only.  DO NOT USE WATER.

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

Unusual Fire and Explosion Hazard:  On prolonged exposure to air, metallic potassium forms a layer of yellow potassium superoxide over a layer of potassium monoxide, explosions may occur if this oxidized material is handled in any way.  Explosive reaction with water.  Contact with water releases flammable gases.  When heated to decomposition potassium may emit toxic fumes of potassium oxide.

V.   HEALTH HAZARD INFORMATION

Effects of Exposure:

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

Potassium metal rapidly forms caustic and highly corrosive alkali hydroxide with evolution of heat.  Severe thermal and chemical burns will result at every point of human contact.

Acute Effects:

Inhalation:  Inhalation of dust will severely irritate the nasal cavity and respiratory tract.

Ingestion:  Ingestion will cause burns and perforations of the gastrointestinal tract.

Skin:  Severe thermal burns, corrosion and ulceration of the skin may occur on direct contact.

Eye:  Severe thermal burns, corrosion and ulceration of the eyes may occur on direct contact.

Chronic Effects:  No data

Medical Conditions Generally Aggravated by Exposure:  Pre-existing respiratory disorders.

Carcinogenicity: NTP:  No     IARC:  No    OSHA:  No

EMERGENCY AND FIRST AID PROCEDURES:

INHALATION:  (For dust or fume) Remove the victim to fresh air.  Closely monitor the victim for signs of respiratory problems, such as difficulty in breathing or coughing.  In such cases seek immediate medical attention.

INGESTION:  Seek medical attention immediately.  Keep the victim calm.  Give the victim water (only if conscious).  Induce vomiting only if directed by medical personnel.

SKIN:  Wash the affected area with water for at least 15 minutes.  Remove contaminated clothing if necessary.  Seek medical attention if irritation persists.

EYES:  Immediately flush eyes with copious amounts of water, including under eyelids for at least 10-15 minutes.  A victim may need assistance in keeping their eyelids open.  Seek immediate medical attention.

VI.   REACTIVITY DATA

Stability:  Air sensitive, moisture sensitive.

Conditions to Avoid:  Contact with air or moisture.  Reacts explosively with water.

Incompatibility (Material to Avoid):  Water, alcohols, oxidizers, oxygen, carbon dioxide, halogens, halocarbons, acids.

Hazardous Decomposition Products:  Flammable hydrogen with moisture, caustic oxide with air.

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.  The material will ignite spontaneously in air.  Burning material may release toxic fumes.  Leave the area unless fitted with a self-contained breathing apparatus.  Smother fire with dry powder.  Do not use water.  Sweep or scoop up material and place in a closed container for proper disposal.

Waste Disposal Method:  Material should be disposed of in accordance with Local, State and Federal regulations.

VIII.   SPECIAL PROTECTION INFORMATION

Respiratory Protection:  Wear a NIOSH/MSHA approved dust mask.

Ventilation:  Handle in an inert gas such as argon.  Handle in an enclosed, controlled process.  Use local exhaust to maintain exposure at low levels.  General exhaust is not recommended.

Protective Gloves:  Rubber gloves

Eye Protection:  Always wear approved chemical splash proof goggles.

Other Protective Clothing or Equipment:  Protective work clothing.  Prepare for the possibility of fire.

IX.   SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS

Precautions to be Taken in Handling and Storage:  Store in a tightly sealed container in argon and under mineral oil, in a cool dry place.  Handle in argon.

Other Precautions:  Potassium metal will react with air and moisture.  Prolonged contact with air may result in the formation of potassium superoxide, a potentially explosive compound.

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.

TSCA Listed:                       Yes

DOT Regulations:

Hazard Class:                     4.3

Identification Number:      UN2257

Packing Group:                  I

Proper Shipping Name:     Potassium

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 damages resulting from handling or from contact with the above product.

Issued by:                           S. Dierks

Revised/Verified:                  January 2009