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:     Boron Carbide

Formula:              B₄C

CAS Number:       12069-32-8

II.  HAZARDOUS INGREDIENTS

Hazardous Component:    Boron Carbide

Percent (%):                     0-100

OSHA/PEL:                        N/E

ACGIH/TLV:                      N/E

HMIS Ratings: 

Health:                              1  

Flammability:                    1     

Reactivity:                         0

III.  PHYSICAL DATA

Boiling Point:                  >3500 oC

Melting Point:                  2350 oC

Specific Gravity:              2.52 g/cc

Solubility in H2O:            Insoluble

Appearance and Odor:    Black powder, no odor.

IV.  FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARDS DATA

Flash Point:  N/A

Flammability:  Non-flammable

Autoignition Temperature:  N/A

Flammable Limits:  Upper:  NA    Lower:  NA

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 with full protective clothing to prevent contact with skin and eyes.

Unusual Fire & Explosion Hazards:  Boron carbide does not burn in an oxygen flame.

V.  HEALTH HAZARD INFORMATION

Effects of Exposure:

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

Boron affects the central nervous system.  Boron poisoning causes depression of the circulation, persistent vomiting and diarrhea, followed by profound shock and coma.  The temperature may become subnormal and a scarlatina form rash may cover the entire body.

Acute Effects:

Inhalation:  May cause irritation to the mucous membranes and boron poisoning.

Ingestion:  May cause irritation to the gastrointestinal tract and boron poisoning.

Skin:  May cause mild irritation.

Eye:  May cause mild irritation.

Chronic Effects:  Ingestion:  May affect the central nervous system.  No other chronic health effects recorded.

Target Organs:  May affect the central nervous system.

Medical Conditions Generally Aggravated by Exposure:  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 soap and water.  Seek medical attention if symptoms persist.

EYE:  Flush eyes with lukewarm water, including under upper and lower eyelid, for at least 15 minutes.  Seek medical attention if symptoms persist.

VI.  REACTIVITY DATA

Stability:  Stable

Conditions to Avoid:  None

Incompatibility (Material to Avoid):  Molten alkalis, oxidizing agents.

Hazardous Decomposition Products:  Boron oxide, 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 appropriate respiratory and protective equipment specified in section VIII.  Ventilate area of spill.  Vacuum up spill using a high efficiency particulate absolute (HEPA) filter and place in a closed container for proper disposal.  Take care not to raise dust.

Waste Disposal Method:  Disposal must be made in accordance with Federal, State and Local regulations.

VIII.  SPECIAL PROTECTION INFORMATION

Respiratory Protection:  NIOSH approved respirator.

Ventilation:  Use local exhaust to limit personal exposure to levels which do not exceed the TLV.  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:  Store in a cool, dry area.  Store in tightly sealed containers.  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:           June 2011