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:     Chromium Silicide

Formula:              Cr₃Si₂

CAS Number:       12134-19-9

II.   HAZARDOUS INGREDIENTS

Hazardous Component:   Chromium Silicide

Percent (%):                    0-100

OSHA/PEL:                       0.5 mg(Cr)/m³

ACGIH/TLV:                     0.5 mg(Cr)/m³

HMIS Ratings:

Health:                            1

Flammability:                 1

Reactivity:                      1

III.   PHYSICAL DATA

Boiling Point:                    No data

Melting Point:                   No data

Specific Gravity:              5.5 g/cc

Solubility in H₂O:             Insoluble

Appearance and Odor:    Gray to black crystalline powder, no odor.

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 Firefighting Procedures: Firefighters must wear full face, self-contained breathing apparatus and full protective clothing to prevent contact with skin and eyes.  Fumes from fire are hazardous.  Isolate runoff to prevent environmental pollution.

Unusual Fire and Explosion Hazards:  When heated to decomposition, chromium silicide may emit toxic fumes.

V.   HEALTH HAZARD INFORMATION

Effects of Exposure:

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

Chromium is a confirmed human carcinogen.  Chromium compounds may cause nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, skin and eye irritation and pneumoconiosis.

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

Acute Effects:

Inhalation: May cause a red, dry throat.

Ingestion: May cause gastrointestinal disorders.

Skin:  May cause abrasive irritation.

Eye:  May cause abrasive irritation.

Chronic Effects:

Inhalation: May cause histologic fibrosis of lungs, nasal and/or lung cancer.  No other chronic effects recorded.

Medical Conditions Generally Aggravated by Exposure: Pre-existing respiratory disorders, pulmonary functions and asthma.   

Carcinogenicity:  NTP:  Yes              IARC:  Yes            OSHA: Yes

EMERGENCY AND FIRST AID PROCEDURES:

INHALATION:  Remove victim to fresh air; give oxygen if breathing is difficult.  Seek medical attention.

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

SKIN:  Brush material off skin and wash area with soap and water.  Seek medical attention if symptoms persist.

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

VI.   REACTIVITY DATA

Stability:  Stable

Conditions to Avoid: None recorded.

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

Hazardous Decomposition Products:  Metal oxide 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 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 Local, State and Federal Waste Disposal Regulations.

VIII.   SPECIAL PROTECTION INFORMATION

Respiratory Protection:  NIOSH-approved dust respirator.

Ventilation: Use local exhaust to maintain concentration at or below PEL, TLV.  General exhaust is recommended

Protective Gloves: Rubber gloves

Eye Protection:  Safety glasses

Other Protective Equipment: Protective gear suitable to prevent contamination.

IX.   SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS

Precautions to Be Taken in Handling and Storage:  Store in tightly closed containers, in a cool dry place.  Wash hands and face thoroughly after handling and before meals.

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

Revised/Verified:                  February 2006