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:     Rhodium Chloride

Formula:              RhCl₃*3H₂O

CAS Number:       10049-07-7

II.   HAZARDOUS INGREDIENTS

Hazardous Component:  Rhodium Chloride

Percent (%):                  0-100

OSHA/PEL:                     1.0 mg/m³

ACGIH/TLV:                   1.0 mg/m³

III.   PHYSICAL DATA

Boiling Point:                   N/E or N/A

Melting Point:                  N/E or N/A

Solubility:                        Very soluble

Specific Gravity:              N/E or N/A

Appearance and Odor:    Ruby-red crystalline powder, chlorine odor

IV.   FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARDS DATA

Flash Point (Method Used):  Non-Flammable

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

Extinguishing Media:  CO₂, foam, dry chemical, and as applicable for surroundings

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.

Unusual Fire and Explosion Hazards:  May emit toxic fumes of Cl₂

V.   HEALTH HAZARD INFORMATION

Effects of Exposure:

To the best of our knowledge the chemical, physical and toxicological properties of rhodium chloride have not been thoroughly investigated and reported.

Acute and Chronic Effects:  Skin irritant.  No other data available.

Carcinogenicity:  An experimental carcinogen

EMERGENCY AND FIRST AID PROCEDURES:

EXTERNAL:  Flush with soap and water for 15 minutes.  If irritation persists consult physician.

INTERNAL:  Contact poison control center immediately.

VI.   REACTIVITY DATA

Stability:  Stable

Conditions to Avoid:  Extreme heat.

Incompatible Materials:  Organic solvents, reducing agents, oxidizers, zinc.

Hazardous Decomposition Products:  Cl₂

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.  Isolate spill area and provide ventilation.  Scoop or vacuum up spill using a high efficiency particulate absolute (HEPA) air filter and place in an airtight plastic container.  Take care not to raise dust.

Waste Disposal Method:  Dispose of in accordance with State, Federal and Local regulations, or ship to precious metal refiner.

VIII.   SPECIAL PROTECTION INFORMATION

Respiratory Protection:  NIOSH/MSHA approved dust respirator.

Ventilation:  Fume hood.

Protective Gloves:  Rubber for all contact.

Eye Protection:  Goggles

Other Protective Equipment:  Normal labwear.

IX.   SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS

Precautions to Be Taken in Handling and Storage:  Store in cool dry place.  Keep tightly sealed when not in use.  Read MSDS before using.

Work Practices:  Implement engineering and work practice controls to reduce and maintain concentration of exposure.  Use good housekeeping and sanitation practices.  Do not use tobacco or food in work area.  Wash thoroughly before eating or 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.

Labeling:  In compliance with OSHA and NFPA requirements.

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

Date:                    July 1999