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:       Tungsten (VI) Chloride

Formula:             WCl₆

CAS Number:       13283-01-7

II.   HAZARDOUS INGREDIENTS

Hazardous Components:  Tungsten Chloride

Percent (%):                    0-100

OSHA/PEL:                       1 mg (W)/m³

ACGIH/TLV:                      1 mg (W)/m³

HMIS Ratings:

Health:                             3

Flammability:                   0

Reactivity:                        2

III.   PHYSICAL DATA

Boiling Point:                     346.7 ^oC 

Freezing/Melting Point:    275 ^oC 

Specific Gravity:                3.52 g/cc

Solubility in H₂O:               Reacts

Appearance and Odor:       Blue to black crystalline powder.

IV.   FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARDS DATA

Flash Point:  N/A

Autoignition Temperature:  N/A

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

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

Special Fire Fighting Procedures:  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.  Cool container with water from maximum distance.  Isolate runoff to prevent environmental pollution.

Unusual Fire and Explosion Hazard:  In case of fire, hydrogen chloride may be released.

V.   HEALTH HAZARD INFORMATION

Effects of Exposure:

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

Tungsten compounds may be irritating to the eyes and respiratory tract.  Animal studies suggest that soluble tungsten compounds have the potential for causing adverse health effects involving the gastrointestinal tract and central nervous system.  These effects have not been observed in humans.  Chronic exposure to tungsten compounds may result in permanent lung damage.

Acute and Chronic Effects:

Inhalation:  SEVERE IRRITANT AND CORROSIVE.  Chronic exposure may result in permanent lung damage.

Ingestion:  SEVERE IRRITANT AND CORROSIVE.  Swallowing will lead to a strong corrosive effect on mouth and throat and to the danger of perforation of esophagus and stomach.

Skin:  SEVERE IRRITANT AND CORROSIVE to skin and mucous membranes.

Eye:  SEVERE IRRITANT AND CORROSIVE.

Medical Conditions, if any, Aggravated by the Chemical:  No data

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:  Do not induce vomiting.  Seek medical attention immediately.

SKIN:  Remove contaminated clothing, brush material off skin, wash affected area with mild soap and water.  Seek medical attention.

EYE:  Flush eyes with lukewarm water, lifting upper and lower eyelids, for at least 15 minutes.  Seek medical attention immediately.

VI.   REACTIVITY DATA 

Stability:  Stable

Conditions to Avoid:  Moisture.

Incompatibility (Materials to Avoid):  Water/moisture.

Hazardous Decomposition Products:  Hydrogen chloride, chlorine and metal oxide fume.

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 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.

Waste Disposal:  Consult state, local or federal regulations for proper disposal.

VIII.   SPECIAL PROTECTION INFORMATION 

Respiratory Protection:  NIOSH - approved dust-mist-vapor cartridge respirator.

Ventilation Requirements:  Handle in a controlled environment under dry argon.  Use local exhaust to maintain concentration at low exposure levels.

Protective Gloves:  Impervious gloves

Eye Protection:  ANSI approved safety goggles.

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

IX.   SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS 

Handling and Storage:  Handle and store under dry argon.  Keep container tightly sealed.  Protect from humidity and moisture.  Store in cool, dry conditions in well sealed containers.  Store away from water/moisture.  Ensure good ventilation at the workplace.  Wash thoroughly after use.

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 or smoking.  Do not blow dust off clothing or skin with compressed air.  Maintain safety drench shower, eyewash capable of sustained flushing 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.

Issued by:             S. Dierks

Date:                    September 2003