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:     Tantalum Silicide

Formula:              TaSi₂

CAS Number:       12039-79-1

II.   HAZARDOUS INGREDIENTS

Hazardous Components:  Tantalum Silicide 

Percent (%):                    0-100

OSHA/PEL:                        5 mg/m³ as Ta

ACGIH/TLV:                      5 mg/m³ dust as Ta

III.   PHYSICAL DATA

Boiling Point:                    N/A

Melting Point:                   2200 ^oC

Specific Gravity:              9.145 g/cc

Solubility in H₂O:             Insoluble

Appearance and Odor:    Grey powder, no odor

IV.   FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARDS DATA

Flash Point (Method Used):  Not considered fire hazard under most conditions.

Autoignition Temperature:  No Data

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

Extinguishing Media:  Use water, carbon dioxide, dry chemical extinguishing agents, dry sand, or dry ground dolomite.

Special Fire Fighting Procedures:  No special firefighting procedures needed, use normal procedures which include wearing NIOSH/MSHA approved self-contained breathing apparatus, flame and chemical resistant clothing, hats, boots and gloves.  If without risk remove material from fire area.

V.   HEALTH HAZARD INFORMATION

Effects of Exposure:  Mild (transient) skin irritation.  Lung Effects:  No specific data available.  Generally, insoluble tantalum compounds are not considered inhalation hazards.  Animal studies indicate no fibrotic activity from tantalum.  Insuluble tantalum compounds are considered practically non-toxic.  No data on long term effects.

Medical Conditions Aggravated:  None known.

Other Health Hazards:  None known.

Most Likely Routes of Entry:  Ingestion

EMERGENCY AND FIRST AID PROCEDURES:

EYE:  Immediately flush eyes, including under eyelids, with large amounts of water for at least 15 minutes.

SKIN:  Remove contaminated clothing, flood skin with large amounts of water.  If irritation persists seek medical attention.

INGESTION:  Induce vomiting, obtain medical attention.

INHALATION:  Remove to fresh air.

VI.   REACTIVITY DATA

Stability:  Stable

Incompatibility (Material to Avoid):  None

Hazardous Decomposition Products:  None

VII.   SPILL OR LEAK PROCEDURES

Steps to Be Taken in Case Material Is Released or Spilled:  Vacuum up spill using HEPA filter.

Waste Disposal:  In accordance with Local, State and Federal Waste Disposal Regulations.

VIII.   SPECIAL PROTECTION INFORMATION

Respiratory Protection:  Filter- dust, fume, mist

Ventilation:  Use with adequate ventilation.

Protective Gloves:  Neoprene

Eye  Protection:  ANSI approved safety goggles.

Other:  Normal lab wear.

IX.   SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS

Handling and Storage:  Keep container tightly closed.  Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area.  Wash thoroughly after use.  Do not breathe dust, vapor, mist or gas.

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:                    June 1993