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MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET
I. PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION Manufacturer/Supplier: ESPI Metals Toll Free (800) 638-2581 * Fax (541) 488-8313 E-Mail: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Product Name: Mercury Oxide, Yellow Formula: HgO CAS Number: 21908-53-2
II. HAZARDOUS INGREDIENTS Hazardous Component: Mercury Oxide Percent (%): 0-100 OSHA/PEL: 0.1 mg(Hg)/m3 ACGIH/TLV: 0.025 mg(Hg)/m3 (skin) HMIS Ratings: Health: 3 Flammability: 0 Reactivity: 1
III. PHYSICAL DATA Melting Point: 500 oC (decomposes) Boiling Point: N/E Specific Gravity: 11.1 Solubility in H2O: 0.053 g/l @ 25 Appearance and Odor: Yellow to orange powder, no odor.
IV. FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARDS 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 Firefighting Procedures: Firefighters must wear full face, self-contained breathing apparatus and full protective clothing to prevent contact with skin and eyes. Fumes from fire are hazardous. Isolate runoff to prevent environmental pollution. 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 mercury oxide have not been thoroughly investigated and recorded. Mercury is a general protoplasmic poison; after absorption it circulates in the blood and is stored in the liver, kidneys, spleen and bone. In industrial poisoning, the principal effect is upon the central nervous system, the mouth, and gums. The cardinal symptoms of mercury poisoning are stomatitis, tremors, and psychic disturbances. In humans, it is readily absorbed by the respiratory tract, intact skin, and the gastrointestinal tract. Occasional incidental mercury may be without harm. Spilled and heated elemental mercury is particularly hazardous. A number of mercury compounds, in addition to the fulminate, can cause skin irritation and be absorbed through the skin. They are strong allergens and common air contaminants. Acute Effects: Inhalation: Danger-poison Ingestion: Danger-poison Skin: May cause irritation Eye: May cause irritation Chronic Effects: Inhalation: May cause mercury poisoning Ingestion: May cause kidney damage and possibly death. Skin: May cause dermatitis Eye: May cause conjunctivitis. Target Organs: May affect the skin, central nervous system, respiratory system, kidneys and eyes. Medical Conditions Generally Aggravated by Exposure: Allergies, Chronic respiratory disease, nerve system disorders, kidney disorders.
EMERGENCY AND FIRST AID PROCEDURES: INHALATION: If inhaled, remove to fresh air. If not breathing, give artificial respiration. If breathing is difficult, give oxygen. INGESTION: CALL A PHYSICIAN. If swallowed, if conscious, immediately induce vomiting. SKIN CONTACT: In case of contact, immediately flush skin with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes while removing contaminated clothing and shoes. Wash clothing before re-use. EYE CONTACT: In case of eye contact, immediately flush with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes.
VI. REACTIVITY DATA Stability: Stable Incompatibility (Material to Avoid): Oxidizing agents Hazardous Decomposition Products: Mercury fumes, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide. Hazardous Polymerization: Will not occur.
VII. SPILL OR LEAK PROCEDURES Steps to Be Taken in Case Material Is Released or Spilled: Wear self-contained breathing apparatus and full protective clothing. With clean shovel, carefully place material into clean, dry container and cover, remove from area. Flush spill area with water. Waste Disposal Method: Dispose in accordance with all applicable Federal, State, and Local Environmental Regulations.
VIII. SPECIAL PROTECTION INFORMATION Respiratory Protection: NIOSH approved respirator. Ventilation: Handle in a controlled, enclosed environment. Use local exhaust to maintain low levels of exposure. General exhaust is recommended. Eye Protection: Safety glasses. Protective Gloves: Rubber gloves. Other Protective Clothing or Equipment: Protective gear suitable to prevent contamination.
IX. SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS Precautions to Be Taken in Handling and Storage: Store in cool, dry area. Store in tightly sealed container. Open and handle container with care. 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: 6.1 Identification Number: UN1641 Packing Group: II Proper Shipping Name: Mercury Oxide
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: April 2004 |



