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:     Cobalt Oxide

Formula:              Co₃O₄

CAS Number:       1308-06-1

II.   HAZARDOUS INGREDIENTS

Hazardous Component:   Cobalt Oxide        

Percent (%):                    0-100

OSHA/PEL:                       0.1 mg(Co)/m³

ACGIH/TLV:                      0.02 mg(Co)/m³

HMIS Ratings:

Health:                             2

Flammability:                  0

Reactivity:                       0

III.   PHYSICAL DATA

Melting Point:                  Transition to CoO 900-950 ^oC            

Boiling Point:                   N/A

Specific Gravity:              6.07 g/cc

Solubility in H₂O:             Insoluble

Appearance and Odor:    Black powder, no odor.

IV.   FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARDS DATA

Flash Point:  N/A

Autoignition Temperature:  N/A

Flammable Limits:  Upper:  N/A       Lower:  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 with full protective clothing to prevent contact with skin and eyes.

Unusual Fire and Explosion Hazards:  None expected.

V.   HEALTH HAZARD INFORMATION

Effects of Exposure:

To the best of our knowledge the chemical, physical and toxicological properties of cobalt oxide 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.

Acute Effects: 

Inhalation:  May cause irritation to the upper respiratory tract.

Ingestion:  May cause gastrointestinal disorders.

Skin:  May cause irritation.

Eye:  May cause irritation.

Chronic Effects:

Inhalation:  May cause respiratory disease, occupational asthma and interstitial fibrosis.

Ingestion:  May cause cobalt poisoning.

Skin:  May cause allergic sensitization and dermatitis.

Eye:  No chronic effects recorded.

Carcinogenicity:  Cobalt oxide has not been classified as a known or suspected carcinogen by NTP or OSHA.  The IARC states that cobalt and compounds are possible carcinogens to humans - Group 2B (Monograph 52). 

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 induce vomiting, 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.

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

VI.   REACTIVITY DATA

Stability:  Stable under normal temperature and pressure.

Conditions to Avoid:  Moisture

Incompatibility (Material to Avoid):  Strong oxidizing agents.

Hazardous Decomposition Products:  Metal oxide fumes

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 all State, Local, and Federal regulations.

VIII.   SPECIAL PROTECTION INFORMATION

Respiratory Protection:  NIOSH approved dust respirator.

Ventilation:  Use local exhaust to maintain exposure levels below the PEL, TLV.   General exhaust is not recommended.

Protective Gloves:  Rubber gloves

Eye/Face Protection:  Safety glasses

Other Protective Clothing or Equipment:  Wear protective coverall as appropriate to avoid skin contact.

IX.   SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS

Precautions to Be Taken in Handling and Storage:  Keep container tightly sealed.  Store in a cool, dry place in tightly closed containers.  Wash thoroughly after handling.

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: 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:                  April 2009