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:     Niobium Silicide

Formula:              NbSi₂

CAS Number:       12034-80-9

II.   HAZARDOUS INGREDIENTS

Hazardous Components:  Niobium Silicide  

Percent (%):                    0-100            

OSHA/PEL:                        N/E

ACGIH/TLV:                      N/E

HMIS Ratings:

Health:                             1

Flammability:                  0

Reactivity:                       1

III.   PHYSICAL DATA

Boiling Point:                   N/E or N/A

Melting Point:                  1950 ^oC

Specific Gravity:             5.7 g/cc

Solubility in H₂O:             Not determined

Appearance and Odor:   Gray to black powder, no odor

IV.   FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARDS DATA

Flash Point (Method Used):  N/A

Autoignition Temperature:  N/A

Flammable Limits:  Upper:  N/A       Lower:  N/A

Extinguishing Media:  Use suitable extinguishing media for surrounding materials 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.  Fumes from fire are hazardous.  Isolate runoff to prevent environmental pollution.

Unusual Fire & Explosion Hazard:  Niobium silicide may emit toxic fumes if involved in a fire.

V.   HEALTH HAZARD INFORMATION

Effects of Exposure:

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

Niobium compounds have caused liver damage in animal studies.  Niobium metal has caused kidney damage in laboratory animals via intravenous route and fibrogenic effects in laboratory animals via intratracheal route.

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

Acute Effects:

Inhalation:  May cause irritation to the nose and throat.

Ingestion:  No acute health effects recorded.

Skin:  May cause irritation.

Eyes:  May cause irritation.

Chronic Effects:  Inhalation may cause kidney damage, fibrogenic effects on the lungs and silicosis.  No other chronic health effects recorded.

Routes of Entry:  Inhalation, skin, and eyes

Target Organs:  May affect the kidneys and lungs.

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

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:  If conscious, give 1-2 glasses of milk or water and induce vomiting.  Seek medical attention.

SKIN:  Remove contaminated clothing, brush material off skin, wash with soap and water, contact physician if symptoms persist.

EYES:  Flush eyes with lukewarm water, including under eyelids, for at least 15 minutes, contact physician if symptoms persist.

VI.   REACTIVITY DATA

Stability:  Stable

Conditions to Avoid:  None 

Incompatibility (Material to Avoid):  Oxidizing agents

Hazardous Decomposition Products:  Metal oxide fume, silicon oxide.

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, provide ventilation and extinguish sources of ignition.  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.  Use non-sparking tools.

Waste Disposal Method:   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 low exposure levels.  General exhaust is recommended

Protective Gloves:  Rubber Gloves

Eye Protection:  Safety glasses

Other Protective Gear:  Protective gear suitable to prevent contamination.

IX.   SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS

Precautions to Be Taken in Handling and Storage:  Store in tightly closed container.  Store in cool, dry area.  Wash thoroughly after handling.  Store away from oxidizing agents.

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

Issued by:             S. Dierks

Date:                    July 2004