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:     Rhenium Oxide

Formula:              ReO₃

CAS Number:       1314-28-9

II.   HAZARDOUS INGREDIENTS

Hazardous Components:  Rhenium Oxide

Percent (%):                    0-100

OSHA/PEL:                        N/E

ACGIH/TLV:                      N/E

HMIS Ratings:

Health:                              2

Flammability:                   0

Reactivity:                        1

III.   PHYSICAL DATA

Boiling Point:                   400 ^oC (decomposes)

Melting Point:                  N/E

Specific Gravity:             6.9 - 7.4 g/cc

Solubility in H₂O:            Insoluble

Appearance and Odor:   Violet to green powder, no odor.      

IV.   FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARDS DATA

Flash Point:  N/E or N/A

Method Used:  Non-flammable

Explosive Limits:  Upper:  N/E        Lower:  N/E

Extinguishing Media:  Use suitable extinguishing media 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.  Fumes from fire are hazardous.  Isolate runoff to prevent environmental pollution.

Unusual Fire and Explosion Hazards:  None recorded

V.   HEALTH HAZARD INFORMATION

Effects of Exposure:

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

No toxic effects are known for rhenium metal.  Rhenium compounds may be irritating to the eyes and respiratory tract.

Acute Effects:

Inhalation:  May cause irritation to the respiratory tract.

Ingestion:  May cause chemical burns of the mouth, throat and gastrointestinal tract.

Skin:  May cause severe irritation and chemical burns.

Eye:  May cause chemical burns to eye tissue, visual impairment, including blindness.

Chronic Effects:

Inhalation:  May cause lung edema and laryngeal spasms.

Ingestion:  No chronic health effects recorded.

Skin:  May cause dermatitis.

Eye:  No chronic health effects recorded.

Target Organs:  May affect the respiratory system, skin and eyes.

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

Carcinogenicity:  NTP?  No         IARC Monographs?  No         OSHA Regulated?  No

EMERGENCY AND FIRST AID PROCEDURES:

INHALATION:  Remove to victim to fresh air; keep quiet; give oxygen if breathing is difficult.  Seek medical attention immediately.

INGESTION:  Give 1-2 glasses of water or milk, do not induce vomiting; seek medical attention immediately.  Never give anything by mouth to an unconscious person.

SKIN:  Remove contaminated clothing; brush material off skin; wash with mild soap and water; seek medical attention immediately.

EYE:  Immediately flush eyes with lukewarm water, lifting upper and lower eyelids, for at least 15 minutes.  Seek medical attention

immediately.

VI.   REACTIVITY DATA

Stability:  Stable

Conditions to Avoid:  Water/moisture

Incompatibility (Materials to Avoid):  Water/moisture, oxidizing agents

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-Special Protection Information.  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 Regulations.

VIII.   SPECIAL PROTECTION INFORMATION

Respiratory Protection:  NIOSH - approved dust, mist, vapor respirator.

Ventilation:  Handle in an inert gas in a controlled atmosphere.  Use local exhaust to maintain concentration at a low exposure level.  Mechanical exhaust is recommended.

Protective Gloves:  Rubber or neoprene gloves.

Eye Protection:  Safety goggles.

Other Protective Clothing or Equipment:  Protective gear suitable to prevent contamination.

Protective Equipment Summary - Hazard Label Information:  NIOSH/MSHA approved respirator, Impervious gloves, Safety Goggles, Clothes to prevent skin contact.

IX.   SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS

Precautions to be Taken in Handling and Storage:  Store in tightly sealed container.  Keep out of direct sunlight.  Wash thoroughly after handling.

Other Precautions:  This product is hygroscopic.  Handle and store in a controlled atmosphere and under an inert gas such as argon.  Protect from carbon dioxide.

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

Date:                     July 2005