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:   Lanthanum Boride

Formula:            LaB₆

CAS Number:     12008-21-8

II.  HAZARDOUS INGREDIENTS

Hazardous Component:  Lanthanum Boride 

Percent (%):                  0-100

OSHA/PEL:                      N/E  

ACGIH/TLV:                    N/E

HMIS Ratings:   

Health:                            1   

Flammability:                 0    

Reactivity:                      0

III.  PHYSICAL DATA

Boiling Point:                  Decomposes

Melting Point:                 2210 ^oC

Specific Gravity:             2.61g/cc

Solubility in H₂O:            Insoluble

Appearance and Odor:   Purple powder and pieces, no odor

IV.  FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARDS DATA

Flash Point:  N/A

Autoignition Temperature:  N/A

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

Extinguishing Media:  Use extinguishing media suitable 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 Hazards:  Contact with acids may emit flammable hydrogen gas and volatile boranes.

V.  HEALTH HAZARD INFORMATION

Effects of Exposure:

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

Lanthanons can cause delayed blood clotting leading to hemorrhages.  Exposure may also lead to sensitivity to heat, itching, increased awareness of odor and taste, and liver damage.

Boron effects the central nervous system.  Boron poisoning causes depression of the circulation, persistent vomiting and diarrhea, followed by profound shock and coma.  The temperature may become subnormal and a scarlatina form rash may cover the entire body.

Acute Effects:

Inhalation:  May cause irritation to the upper respiratory system and mucous membranes.

Ingestion:  May cause gastrointestinal disturbances.

Skin:  May cause irritation.

Eye:  May cause irritation.

Chronic Effects:

Inhalation:  May cause writhing, ataxia, labored respiration, walking on toes with arched back, sedation, pneumonoconiosis, hemoglobinemia and lung granuloma.

Ingestion:  May cause boron poisoning and act as a blood anticoagulant.

Skin:  No chronic health effects recorded.

Eye:  No chronic health effects recorded.

Target Organs:  May affect the blood, lungs and central nervous system.

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:  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, seek medical attention.

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

VI.  REACTIVITY DATA

Stability:  Stable

Conditions to Avoid:  None

Incompatibility (Material to Avoid):  Strong acids and halogens, fluorine.

Hazardous Decomposition Products:  Hydrogen gas, La₂O₃ and oxides of boron.

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 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 Method:  In accordance with Federal, State and Local regulations.

VIII.  SPECIAL PROTECTION INFORMATION

Respiratory Protection (Specify Type):  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 Clothing or Equipment:  Protective gear suitable to prevent contamination

IX.  SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS

Precautions to Be Taken in Handling and Storage:  Store in tightly sealed container.  Store in cool, dry area.  Store away from acids and halogens.  Wash thoroughly after handling.

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.

DOT Regulations:

Hazard Class:          None

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.

Prepared By:         S. Dierks

Dated:                   June 2007