ELECTRONIC SPACE PRODUCTS INTERNATIONAL
1050 Benson Way, Ashland, OR 97520
Toll Free (800) 638-2581 * Fax (541) 488-8313
E-Mail: sales@espimetals.com
MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET
I PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION
Trade Name: Aluminum Sulfide Formula: Al2S3
Chemical Family: Metal sulfide CAS #: 1302-81-4
II HAZARDOUS INGREDIENTS
Hazardous Components % OSHA/PEL ACGIH/TLV
Aluminum Sulfide 0-100 N/E N/E
HMIS Ratings: Health: 4 Flammability: 0 Reactivity: 2
III PHYSICAL DATA
Boiling Point: 1500 oC (sublimes) Melting Point: 1100 oC
Specific Gravity: 2.02 at 13 oC Vapor Density: N/A
% Volatiles: N/A Solubility in H2O: Decomposes
Appearance and Odor: Yellowish powder and pieces, hydrogen sulfide odor.
IV FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARDS DATA
Flash Point (Method used): N/A Autoignition Temperature: N/A
Flammable Limits: Upper: N/A Lower: N/A
Extinguishing Media: Use suitable extinguishing media for surrounding materials and type of fire. DO NOT USE WATER.
Special Fire Fighting 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 & Explosion Hazards: When heated to decomposition, aluminum sulfide may emit toxic fumes of sulfur oxides. Contact with moisture or water may liberate hydrogen sulfide which may form explosive mixtures with air.
V HEALTH HAZARD DATA
Effects of Exposure:
To the best of our knowledge the chemical, physical and toxicological properties of aluminum sulfide have not been thoroughly investigated and recorded. Aluminum compounds have many commercial uses and are commonly found in industry. Many of these materials are active chemically and thus exhibit dangerous toxic and reactive properties. Inhalation of fine aluminum oxide particles is associated with shaver's disease (sax, Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials, eighth edition).
Hydrogen sulfide is a human poison by inhalation. Severe eye irritant and mucous membrane irritant. An asphyxiant. The irritant action has been explained on the bases that hydrogen sulfide combines with the alkali present in moist surface tissues to form sodium sulfide, caustic. Hydrogen sulfide does not combine with the hemoglobin of the blood; its asphyxiation is due to paralysis of the respiratory center. It is an insidious poison since sense of smell may be fatigued. The odor and irritating effects do not offer a dependable warning to workers who may be exposed to gradually increasing amounts and therefore become used to it (Sax, Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials, eighth edition).
Acute Effects:
Inhalation: SEVERE IRRITANT AND CORROSIVE. May cause irritation to the nose, throat and mucous membranes.
Ingestion: SEVERE IRRITANT AND CORROSIVE. May cause gastrointestinal irritation.
Skin: SEVERE IRRITANT AND CORROSIVE. May cause irritation to moist skin due to the liberation of hydrogen sulfide.
Eye: SEVERE IRRITANT AND CORROSIVE.
Chronic Effects:
Inhalation: Prolonged or repeated exposure may cause pneumoconiosis, coma and pulmonary edema.
Ingestion: No chronic health effects recorded.
Skin: No chronic health effects recorded.
Eye: No chronic health effects.
Medical Conditions Generally Aggravated by Exposure: Pre-existing respiratory disorders.
Target Organs: May effect the eyes, skin and respiratory system.
Carcinogenicity: NTP? No IARC Monographs? No OSHA Regulated? No
EMERGENCY AND FIRST AID PROCEDURES:
INHALATION: Remove victim to fresh air; keep warm and quiet; give oxygen if breathing is difficult and seek medical attention immediately.
INGESTION: Give 1-2 glasses of milk or water and DO NOT induce vomiting; seek medical attention immediately.
SKIN: Remove contaminated clothing; brush material off skin; wash affected area with mild soap and water; seek medical attention immediately.
EYES: 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 (Material to Avoid): Water/moisture, acids, oxidizing agents.
Hazardous Decomposition or Byproducts: Oxides of sulfur and hydrogen sulfide.
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. 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 Waste Disposal Regulations.
VIII SPECIAL PROTECTION INFORMATION
Respiratory Protection (Specify Type): NIOSH - approved dust, mist, vapor respirator.
Ventilation: Handle under dry protective gas. Handle in an enclosed process. Use local exhaust to maintain concentration at low exposure levels.
Protective Gloves: Butyl or polycarbonate gloves
Eye Protection: Safety goggles
Other Protective Clothing or Equipment: Protective work clothing.
IX SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS
Precautions to be taken in Handling and Storing: Hazard Label Information: Store in cool, dry area. Store in tightly sealed container. Wash thoroughly after handling.
Other Precautions: Aluminum sulfide decomposes to hydrogen sulfide in moist air. Handle and store in a controlled environment and in an inert gas such as argon. Store away from acids. Store away from oxidizing agents.
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.
Prepared by: S. Dierks
Dated: August 2005