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:     Hafnium Carbide

Formula:              HfC

CAS Number:       12069-85-1

II.   HAZARDOUS INGREDIENTS

Hazardous Components:  Hafnium Carbide

Percent (%):                    100

OSHA/PEL:                       0.5 mg/m³ (As Hf)

ACGIH/TLV:                      0.5 mg/m³

HMIS Rating:

Health:                               2

Reactivity:                         2

Flammability:                    1

III.   PHYSICAL DATA

Boiling Point:                  No data

Melting Point:                 3890 ^oC

Specific Gravity:             N/A

Solubility in H₂O:            Insoluble

Appearance and Odor:   Black powder, no odor

Other:                             May form methane gas.

IV.   FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARDS DATA

Flash Point (Method used):  N/A

Flammability:  Dust explosion Hazard.

Special Fire Fighting Procedures:  Wear NIOSH/MSHA approved self-contained breathing apparatus and full protective clothing.  DO NOT USE WATER!

Unusual Fire and Explosion Hazards:  Dust explosion hazard.  Material may form flammable methane gas on contact with water or moisture.  Material may also generate toxic fumes if involved in a fire.

V.   HEALTH HAZARD INFORMATION

Toxicity Data:  No data on this compound.

Route(s) of Entry:  Inhalation

Effects of Overexposure:

Inhalation:  Mild respiratory irritant.  May act as a nuisance dust.

Dermal/Eye Contact:  Mechanical irritant.  Watering & inflammation may occur.

Other:  Chronic exposure to Hf compounds may lead to liver damage.

Medical Conditions Generally Aggravated by Exposure:  Previous respiratory and eye disorders.

Carcinogenicity:  None      NTP:  No      IARC Monographs:  No     OSHA Regulated:  No

EMERGENCY AND FIRST AID PROCEDURES:

INGESTION:  Induce vomiting.  Seek medical attention.

INHALATION:  Remove victim to fresh air.  Administer oxygen.  Seek medical attention.

SKIN:  Brush material off skin.  Wash affected area with soap and water.

EYE:  Flush eyes with water for 15 minutes.  Seek medical attention.

VI.   REACTIVITY DATA

Stability:  Stable

Conditions Contributing to Instability:  Heat, moisture.

Conditions to Avoid:  Open flame, heat, moisture, Incompatibles.

Incompatibility (Materials to Avoid):  Strong acids, and oxidizing materials.

Hazardous Decomposition Products:  H₂ gas from contact with acids.

Hazardous Polymerization:  Will not occur

VII.   SPILL OR LEAK PROCEDURES

Steps to Be Taken in Case Material Is Released or Spilled:  Wearing full protective clothing, isolate the area and insure proper ventilation.  Vacuum up spill and place in a container for proper disposal.  Take care not to raise dust.

Waste Disposal Method:  In accordance with regulations.

VIII.   SPECIAL PROTECTION INFORMATION

Respiratory Protection:  NIOSH/MSHA approved respirator.

Ventilation:  Use local exhaust to maintain exposure below TLV.  Mechanical (general) is recommended

Special Ventilation Requirements:  Handle in controlled, inert atmosphere.

Protective Gloves:  Neoprene

Eye Protection:  Safety glasses with side shields.

Other Protective Clothing:  Wear full protective clothing at all times.

IX.   SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS

Other Handling and Storage Conditions:  Store in tightly closed containers in a cool, dry place.  Wash hands and face thoroughly.

Transportation Requirements:  Not classified by D.O.T.

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.

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.

Prepared by:          S. Dierks

Dated:                  July 1993