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

E-Mail: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Trade Name:       Tungsten Silicide

Formula:            WSi₂

CAS Number:      12039-88-2

II.   HAZARDOUS INGREDIENTS

Hazardous Component:  Tungsten Silicide

Percent (%):                   0-100

OSHA/PEL:                       N/E

ACGIH/TLV:                     5 mg (W)/m³

HMIS Rating:

Health:                            1

Flammability:                 0

Reactivity:                      1

III.   PHYSICAL DATA

Boiling Point:                  N/E

Melting Point:                 900 ^oC

Specific Gravity:            9.4 g/cc

Solubility in H₂O:           Insoluble

Appearance and Odor:  Blue-gray powder or pieces, no odor.

IV.   FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARDS DATA

Flash Point:  N/A

Flammability:  Non-flammable

Autoignition Temperature:  N/A

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

Extinguishing Media: Use suitable extinguishing agent 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.

Unusual Fire and Explosion Hazards:  When heated to decomposition, tungsten silicide may emit toxic fumes.

V.   HEALTH HAZARD INFORMATION

Effects of Exposure:

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

Tungsten compounds may be irritating to the eyes and respiratory tract.  Chronic exposure may result in permanent lung damage.

Inorganic silicon compounds may be acute inhalation irritants.  Prolonged inhalation may cause pulmonary fibrosis known as silicosis.

Acute Effects:

Inhalation:  May cause irritation to the respiratory tract.

Ingestion:  No acute effects recorded.

Skin:  May cause abrasive irritation.

Eye:  May cause abrasive irritation.

Chronic Effects:

Inhalation:  No chronic effects recorded.

Ingestion:  Large doses may cause nervous system disturbances and diarrhea.

Skin:  No chronic effects recorded.

Eye:  No chronic effects recorded.

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

Carcinogenicity:  NTP:  Yes     IARC:  Yes    OSHA:  Yes

EMERGENCY AND FIRST AID PROCEDURES:

INHALATION:  Remove to fresh air, keep warm and quiet, give oxygen if breathing is difficult and seek medical attention if symptoms persist.

INGESTION:  Give 1-2 glasses of milk or water and induce vomiting, seek medical attention if symptoms persist.  Never induce vomiting or give anything by mouth to an unconscious person.

SKIN:  Remove contaminated clothing, brush material off skin, wash affected area with soap and water, seek medical attention if symptoms persist.

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

VI.   REACTIVITY DATA

Stability:  Stable

Conditions to Avoid:  None

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

Hazardous Decomposition Products:  Metal oxide fume

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 all State, Federal and Local regulations.

VIII.   SPECIAL PROTECTION INFORMATION

Respiratory Protection:  NIOSH approved 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:  Wash hands and face thoroughly after handling and before meals.  Store in tightly closed containers, in a cool dry place.

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 or smoking.  Do not blow dust off clothing or skin with compressed air.  Maintain safety drench shower, eyewash capable of sustained flushing 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 only be used 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:                  May 2008