ELECTRONIC SPACE PRODUCTS INTERNATIONAL
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MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET
I PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION
Trade Name: Boron Silicide Molecular Formula: B4Si
Chemical Family: Metal Silicide Synonyms: Silicon tetraboride
CAS #: 12007-81-7
II HAZARDOUS INGREDIENTS
Hazardous Components % OSHA/PEL ACGIH/TLV
Boron Silicide 0-100 N/E N/E
HMIS Ratings: Health: 1 Flammability: 0 Reactivity: 0 Protective Equipment: E: glasses, gloves, dust respirator
III PHYSICAL DATA
Boiling Point (oC): No data Melting Point: No data
Specific Gravity: 2.47 g/cc Vapor Pressure: N/E
Appearance and Odor: Black crystalline powder, no odor Solubility in H2O: Insoluble
IV FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARDS DATA
Flash Point: N/A Method Used: Non-flammable
Explosive Limits: Lower: N/A Upper: N/A
Extinguishing Media: Use suitable extinguishing media for surrounding materials and type of fire.
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 and Explosion Hazards: When heated to decomposition, boron silicide may emit toxic fumes of boron oxide and amorphous silicon dioxide.
V HEALTH HAZARD INFORMATION
Routes of Entry: Inhalation, skin, eyes, and ingestion
Effects of Exposure:
To the best of our knowledge the chemical, physical and toxicological properties of boron silicide have not been thoroughly investigated and recorded.
Boron compounds are very toxic and therefore considered an industrial poison. Boron is one of a group of elements, such as Pb, Mn, As, which effects the central nervous system. Boron poisoning causes depression of the circulation, persistent vomiting and diarrhea, followed by profound shock and coma. The temperature becomes subnormal and a scarlatina form rash may cover the entire body (Sax, Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials, eighth edition).
Acute Effects:
Inhalation: May cause mild respiratory irritation. Silicon metal is considered a nuisance particulate and may cause irritation to the mucous membrane.
Ingestion: No acute health effects recorded.
Skin: May cause mild irritation.
Eyes: May cause mild irritation
Chronic Effects:
Inhalation: May cause pulmonary granulomas.
Ingestion: No chronic health effects recorded.
Skin: May cause dermatitis.
Eyes: No chronic health effects recorded.
Medical Conditions Generally Aggravated by Exposure: Pre-existing respiratory disorders.
Target Organs: May effect the respiratory and central nervous system
Carcinogenicity: NTP: No IARC: 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: If conscious, give 1-2 glasses of milk or water and induce vomiting, seek medical attention.
SKIN: Remove contaminated clothing from affected area, brush material off skin, wash affected area with mild soap and water. Seek medical attention immediately.
EYE: 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: None
Incompatibility (Materials to Avoid): None
Hazardous Decomposition Products: Boron, boron oxide, amorphous silicon 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. 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 (Specify Type): NIOSH respirator approved for dust.
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 Equipment: Protective gear suitable to prevent contamination.
IX SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS
Precautions to Be Taken in Handling and Storage: Store in cool, dry area. Wash thoroughly after handling. Store in tightly sealed container. Avoid breathing boron silicide dust
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.
Some of the chemicals listed herein are research or experimental substances which may be toxic, as defined by various governmental regulations. In accordance with Environmental Protection Agency regulations and the Toxic Substance Control Act TSCA), these materials should only be handled by, or under the direct supervision of, a "technically qualified individual", as defined in 40 CFR 710.2(aa).
The above information is accurate to the best of our knowledge. However, since data, safety standards, and government regulations are subject to change, and the conditions of handling and use or misuse are beyond our control, ESPI makes no warranty, either expressed or implied with respect to the completeness or continuing accuracy of the information contained herein, and disclaims all liability for reliance thereon. Users should satisfy themselves that they have all current data relevant to their particular use.
Prepared by: S. Dierks
Dated: June 2004