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:     Ruthenium Oxide

Formula:               RuO₂

CAS Number:        12036-10-1

II.   HAZARDOUS INGREDIENTS

Hazardous Components:  Ruthenium Oxide 

Percent (%):                    0-100

OSHA/PEL:                       N/E

ACGIH/TLV:                      N/E

HMIS Ratings:

Health:                             1

Flammability:                   1

Reactivity:                        1

III.   PHYSICAL DATA

Boiling Point:                   Decomposes

Melting Point:                  Decomposes

Specific Gravity:              6.97 g/cc

Solubility in H₂O:             Insoluble

Appearance and Odor:     Black powder

IV.   FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARDS DATA

Flash Point:  N/A

Autoignition Temperature:  No Data

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

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

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

Unusual Fire and Explosion Hazards:  May emit toxic fumes upon decomposition.

V.   HEALTH HAZARD INFORMATION

Effects of Exposure:

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

Irritating to skin and mucous membranes.  Oxidation of ruthenium/ruthenium compounds may form the volatile, toxic and highly irritating ruthenium (VIII) oxide.

Acute Effects:

Inhalation:  May cause irritation to the upper respiratory system.

Ingestion:  No acute effects recorded.

Skin:  May cause irritation.

Eye:  May cause irritation.

Chronic Effects:  No chronic health effects recorded.

Medical Conditions Generally Aggravated by Exposure:  Pre-existing lung conditions.

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.  Seek medical attention if symptoms persist.

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 and water.  Seek medical attention if symptoms persist.

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

VI.   REACTIVITY DATA

Stability:  Stable

Conditions to Avoid:  Extreme heat

Incompatibility (Material to Avoid):  Oxidizers, acids, alcohols, aqua regia, organic solvents.

Hazardous Decomposition Products:  RuO₄

Hazardous Polymerization:  Will not occur

VII.   SPILL OR LEAK PROCEDURES

Steps to Be Taken If Spilled or Released:  Wear appropriate respiratory and protective equipment specified in section VIII.  Isolate spill area and provide ventilation.  Sweep or vacuum up spill using a high efficiency particulate absolute (HEPA) air filter and place in an airtight container.  Take care not to raise dust.

Waste Disposal Method:  Ship to precious metal refiner or dispose of in accordance with Federal, State and Local regulations.

VIII.   SPECIAL PROTECTION INFORMATION

Respiratory Protection:  NIOSH/MSHA approved dust respirator.

Ventilation:  Use local exhaust to maintain concentration at low exposure levels.  General exhaust is recommended.

Protective Gloves:  Rubber for all contact

Eye/Face Protection:  Goggles

Other Protective Clothing or Equipment:  Normal labwear

IX.   SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS

Precautions to Be Taken in Handling and Storage:  Store in cool dry place, keep tightly sealed when not in use, read MSDS before using.  Do not store together with incompatible materials.  Protect from moisture.  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.

TSCA Listed:           Yes

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

Revised/Verified:                  July 2011