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:     Magnesium Antimonide

Formula:              Mg₃Sb₂

CAS Number:       12057-75-9

II.   HAZARDOUS INGREDIENTS

Hazardous Components:  Magnesium Antimonide

Percent (%):                    0-100

OSHA/PEL:                       0.5 mg/m³

ACGIH/TLV:                     0.5 mg/m³

III.   PHYSICAL DATA

Boiling Point:                   N/E or N/A

Melting Point:                  961 ^oC

Specific Gravity:             4.08 g/cc @ 25

Solubility in H₂O:             Insoluble

Appearance and Odor:    Metallic pieces, no odor

IV.   FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARDS DATA

Flash Point:  N/A

Method Used:  Non-flammable

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

Extinguishing Media:  Use suitable extinguishing agent for surrounding materials and type of fire.

Special Fire Fighting 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:  When heated to decomposition, magnesium antimonide may emit toxic magnesium oxide fumes.

V.   HEALTH HAZARD INFORMATION

Effects of Exposure:

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

Magnesium compounds have variable toxicity.  The inhalation of fumes of freshly sublimed magnesium oxide may cause metal fume fever.  There is no evidence that magnesium produces true systemic poisoning.  Protection necessary for personnel handling and processing magnesium is usually no different from that which is necessary for other metals.

Most antimony compounds are poisons by ingestion, inhalation, and intraperitoneal routes.  Locally antimony compounds irritate the skin and mucous membranes.  (Sax, Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials, eight edition.)

Acute Effects:

Inhalation:  DANGER-POISON.  Inhalation of dust or powder may cause metal fume fever and irritation to the nose, throat, mouth and nasal septal ulceration.

Ingestion:  DANGER-POISON.  May cause irritation to the lining of the stomach and intestines.

Skin:  May cause irritation.

Eye:  May cause severe irritation.

Chronic Effects:

Inhalation:  May cause pneumonitis, liver and kidney abnormalities.

Ingestion:  No chronic health effects recorded.

Skin:  May cause dermatitis and keratitis.

Eye:  May cause conjuncitivitis.

Routes of Entry:  Ingestion, inhalation, skin, eyes.

Target Organs:  May affect the respiratory system, kidneys and nervous system.

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

Carcinogenicity:  NTP:  No     IARC:  No    OSHA:  No    EPA:  No

EMERGENCY AND FIRST AID PROCEDURES:

INHALATION:  Remove 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.  If irritation persists seek medical attention.

EYES:  Immediately flush eyes, including under eyelids, with large amounts of water for at least 15 minutes.  Seek medical attention if symptoms persist.

VI.   REACTIVITY DATA

Stability:  Stable

Conditions to Avoid:  None

Incompatibility (Material to Avoid):  None recorded

Hazardous Decomposition Products:  Magnesium oxide fumes.

Hazardous Polymerization:  Will not occur

VII.   SPILL OR LEAK PROCEDURES

Steps to Be Taken in Case Material Is Released or Spilled:  Wearing full protective equipment, isolate spill area and provide ventilation.  Vacuum up material 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/MSHA approved dust-mist-vapor cartridge respirator.

Ventilation:  Use local exhaust to maintain concentration at low exposure levels.  General exhaust is not recommended.  Handle in a controlled, enclosed process.

Protective Gloves:  Rubber

Eye Protection:  ANSI approved safety goggles

Other Protective Clothing or Equipment:  Protective gear suitable to prevent contamination.

IX.   SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS

Precautions to Be Taken in Handling and Storage:  Store in a cool, dry well-ventilated area.  Store in tightly sealed container.  Wash thoroughly after use.

Other Precautions:  Handle in a controlled, enclosed process.

Work Practices:  Lab coat and apron, flame and chemical resistant coveralls, eyewash capable of sustained flushing, safety drench shower and hygienic facilities for washing.  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.

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:                    May 2005