Molybdenum compounds are poison by subcutaneous and intraperitoneal routes.  Molybdenum and its compounds are highly toxic based upon animal experiments.  Symptoms of acute poisoning include severe gastrointestinal irritation with diarrhea, coma and deaths from heart failure.  Experimental animals exposed to high levels accumulated Mo in the lungs, spleen, and heart, and showed a decrease of DNA and RNA in the liver, kidneys and spleen.  (Sax, Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials, eighth edition)

Acute Effects:

Inhalation:  May cause irritation to the upper respiratory system, loss of appetite, incoordination and dyspnea.

Ingestion:  May cause acute molybdenum poisoning.

Skin:  May cause irritation.

Eye:  May cause eye irritation.

Chronic Effects:

Inhalation:  May cause pneumonoconiosis.

Ingestion:  May cause chronic molybdenum poisoning.  May be implicated in Alzheimers disease.

Skin:  No chronic health effects recorded.

Eye:  No chronic health effects recorded.

Target Organs:  May affect the respiratory system. 

Medical Conditions Generally Aggravated by Overexposure:  Pre-existing respiratory 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 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):  Interhalogens, powdered metals, halocarbons, sodium nitrate, molten magnesium, lithium, OF₂

Hazardous Decomposition Products:  Oxides of molybdenum and Al₂O₃

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:  Dispose of in accordance with Local, State and Federal Waste Disposal Regulations.

VIII.  SPECIAL PROTECTION INFORMATION 

Respiratory Protection:  NIOSH/MSHA approved dust, mist, fume respirator.

Ventilation:  Use local exhaust to maintain concentration at or below the PEL.  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 Storing:  Store in tightly sealed containers.  Store in a cool, dry area.  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.

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

Revised/Verified:                 July 2002