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

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Product Name:     Cesium Oxide

Formula:               Cs₂O

CAS Number:        20281-00-9

II.   HAZARDOUS INGREDIENTS

Hazardous Component:   Cesium Oxide

Percent (%):                   0-100

OSHA/PEL:                       N/E

ACGIH/TLV:                     N/E

III.   PHYSICAL DATA

Boiling Point:                   N/A (decomposes at 400 ^oC)

Melting Point:                  490 ^oC (in N₂)

Specific Gravity:             4.25

Solubility in H₂O:             Reacts with Water

Appearance and Odor:    Orange pieces, no odor

IV.   FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARDS DATA

Flash Point:  N/A

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

Special Fire Fighting Procedures:  Non-flammable material.  If involved in a fire toxic oxidation or decomposition products may form.  Leave the area unless fitted with a self-contained breathing apparatus and fire protective clothing.

Unusual Fire and Explosion Hazards:  Non-Flammable material.  No unusual fire or explosion hazards.

V.   HEALTH HAZARD INFORMATION

Effects of Exposure:

To the best of our knowledge the chemical, physical and toxicological properties of cesium oxide have not been thoroughly investigated and reported.

Cesium compounds may cause hyper-irritability, including spasms, dizziness, abdominal cramps, vomiting, diarrhea, convulsions and collapse. Chronic ingestion of cesium has been fatal to laboratory animals, possibly due to the replacement of potassium. Chronic exposure also can have blood and neuromuscular effects.

Acute and Chronic Effects:  No specific information available on toxicity or effects of overexposure.  Material is a severe corrosive to skin, eyes and mucous membranes.

Carcinogenicity:  NTP:  No               IARC:  No             OSHA:  No

EMERGENCY AND FIRST AID PROCEDURES:

INHALATION:  Remove victim to fresh air, keep warm and quiet, give oxygen if breathing is difficult and seek medical attention.

INGESTION: Give 1-2 glasses of milk or water and seek medical attention.  Never induce vomiting or give anything by mouth to an unconscious person. 

SKIN:  Remove contaminated clothing, brush material off skin, wash affected area with mild soap and water.  Seek medical attention if symptoms persist.

EYES:  Flush with lukewarm water, lifting upper and lower eyelids, for at least 15 minutes.  Seek medical attention if symptoms persist.

VI.   REACTIVITY DATA

Stability:  Stable

Conditions or Materials to Avoid:  Absorbs carbon dioxide and moisture from the atmosphere.

Incompatibility:  Water, mineral acids, halogens, halogenated hydrocarbons, and nitromethane

Hazardous Decomposition Products:  No data

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.  Scoop up or Vacuum up spill using a high efficiency particulate absolute (HEPA) air filter and place in a closed container for proper disposal.  Take care not to raise dust.

Waste Disposal Method:  Dispose of in accordance with Federal, State and Local regulations.

VIII.   SPECIAL PROTECTION INFORMATION

Respiratory Protection: NIOSH approved dust, mist, vapor respirator.

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

Eye Protection:  Safety glasses

Protective Gloves: Impervious gloves

Other Protective Clothing or Equipment: Protective work clothing.

IX.   SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS

Precautions to Be Taken in Handling and Storage:  Handle and store the material under an inert atmosphere of nitrogen or argon.  Keep away from heat.

Other Precautions:  The material may be irritating to the skin.  Wear gloves when handling.  In case of skin contact wash the affected area with soap and water.  Handle material in an efficient fume hood.

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.

Issued by:                             S. Dierks

Revised/Verified:                  December 1990