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:      Germanium Oxide

Formula:               GeO_²

CAS Number:        1310-53-8

II.  HAZARDOUS INGREDIENTS

Hazardous Component: Germanium Oxide

Percent (%): 0-100

OSHA/PEL: N/E

ACGIH/TLV: N/E

HMIS Ratings:

Health:                           1

Flammability:                 0  

Reactivity:                      0

III.  PHYSICAL DATA

Boiling Point:                 N/E or N/A

Melting Point:                1086+/-5 ^oC

Specific Gravity:            6.239 g/cc

Solubility in H₂O:           Insoluble

Appearance and Odor:   White crystalline powder or pieces, no odor

IV.  FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARDS DATA

Flash Point:  N/A

Autoignition Temperature:  N/A

Flammable Limits:  Lower:  N/A      Upper:  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.

Unusual Fire & Explosion Hazard:  When heated to decomposition, germanium oxide may emit acrid smoke and irritating fumes.

V.  HEALTH HAZARD INFORMATION

Effects of Exposure:

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

Germanium compounds generally have a low order of toxicity.  High doses have resulted in kidney and bladder injury.  The anion and compound reactivity may contribute the greater part of the toxicity.

Chronic ingestion of germanium IV oxide has been shown to inhibit growth in chickens.  It has also caused reproductive effects in laboratory animals.

Acute Effects:

Inhalation:  Inhalation of germanium dioxide dusts may cause irritation to the respiratory tract.  May cause coughing, sneezing and shortness of breath.

Ingestion:  No acute health effects recorded.

Skin:  May cause irritation.

Eye:  May cause irritation.

Chronic Effects:

Inhalation:  May cause chronic germanium toxicity.  No other chronic effects recorded.

Target Organs:  No target organs recorded.

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, 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 oxidizing agents, acids.

Hazardous Decomposition Products:  Metal oxide fumes.

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.  Scoop or 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 respirator

Ventilation:  Use local exhaust to maintain concentration of exposure at low 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:  Keep container tightly closed.  Store in a cool, dry area.  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