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:     Zinc Telluride

Formula:              ZnTe

CAS Number:       1315-11-3

II.  HAZARDOUS INGREDIENTS

Hazard Component:      Zinc Telluride 

Percent (%):                 0-100 

OSHA/PEL:                    0.1 mg(Te)/m³ 

ACGIH/TLV:                   0.1 mg(Te)/m³

HMIS Ratings:

Health:                           2

Flammability:                0

Reactivity:                     0

III.  PHYSICAL DATA

Boiling Point:                 N/A

Melting Point:                1238.5 ^oC

Specific Gravity:           6.34 @ 15

Vapor Pressure:            N/E or N/A

Solubility in H₂O:           Decomposes

Appearance and Odor:  Red powder or pieces, no odor.

IV.  FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARDS DATA

Flash Point:  N/E or N/A 

Autoignition Temperature:  N/E or N/A

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

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

Special Firefighting Procedures:  Firefighters must wear full face, self-contained breathing apparatus and full protective clothing to prevent contact with skin and eyes.

Unusual Fire & Explosion Hazards:  When heated to decomposition, zinc telluride may emit toxic fumes of tellurium.

V.  HEALTH HAZARD INFORMATION

Effects of Exposure:

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

Zinc compounds have variable toxicity, but generally are of low toxicity.  Zinc is not inherently a toxic element.  However, when heated, it evolves a fume of zinc oxide which when inhaled fresh can cause a disease known as “brass founders”, “ague” or “brass chills.”  Zinc oxide dust which is not freshly formed is virtually innocuous.  There is no cumulative effect from the inhalation of zinc fumes.

Elemental tellurium has relatively low toxicity.  It is converted in the body to dimethyl telluride which imparts a garlic-like odor to the breath and sweat.  Heavy exposures may also result in headache, drowsiness, metallic taste, loss of appetite, nausea, tremors, convulsions, and respiratory arrest. (Sax, Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials, eighth edition)

Acute Effects:

Inhalation:  May cause brass chills, irritation to the respiratory system, dry mouth, garlic odor to breath, sweat and urine.

Ingestion:  May cause dry mouth, suppression of sweat, garlic odor to breath and urine.

Skin:  May cause irritation and itching.

Eye:  May cause irritation.

Chronic Effects:

Inhalation:  May cause nausea, anorexia, depression and somnolence.  May cause respiratory tract irritation with nasopharyngitis and laryngitis.

Ingestion:  May cause anorexia, nausea, depression and somnolence.

Skin:  May cause dermatitis.

Eye:  No chronic health effects recorded.

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

Carcinogenicity:  NTP:  No         IARC:  No             OSHA:  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 with soap and water, seek medical attention if symptoms persist. 

EYE:  Flush eyes, including under eyelids, with water for at least 15 minutes.  Seek medical attention if symptoms persist.

VI.  REACTIVITY DATA

Stability:  Stable

Conditions to Avoid:  Water/moisture

Incompatibility (Material to Avoid):  None recorded.

Hazardous Decomposition Products:  Fumes of tellurium.

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 the area where the spill occurred and insure that proper ventilation is available.  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:  Dispose of in accordance with Local, State and Federal Waste Disposal Regulations.

VIII.  SPECIAL PROTECTION INFORMATION

Respiratory Protection:  NIOSH approved respirator.

Ventilation:  Use local exhaust to maintain exposure below TLV.  General exhaust is recommended.

Protective Gloves:  Rubber gloves

Eye Protection:  Safety glasses.

Other Protective Equipment:  Wear protective gear suitable to prevent contamination.

IX.  SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS

Precautions to Be Taken in Handling and Storage:  Store in tightly closed containers in a cool, dry place.  Wash hands and face thoroughly after handling and before eating.

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.

Issued By:             S. Dierks

Dated:                   July 2007