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

E-Mail: sales@espimetals.com

 

Trade Name:                    Germanium

Chemical Nature:             Metallic Element

Formula:                           Ge

CAS #:                               7440-56-4



II. HAZARDOUS INGREDIENTS

 

Hazardous Component:  Germanium

%:                                     0-100

OSHA/PEL:                     N/E

ACGIH/TLV:                   N/E

 

HMIS Ratings: Health: 1             Flammability: 0               Reactivity: 0



III. PHYSICAL DATA

 

Boiling Point:                   2830 oC

Melting Point:                  937 oC

Specific Gravity:              5.323 g/cc

Vapor Pressure:               13.3 hPa at 2080 oC

Solubility in H2O:            Insoluble

% Volatiles:                      N/A

Appearance and Odor:    Gray-white crystalline powder, silver colored solid, 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 if involved in fire.

Unusual Fire & Explosion Hazard: Germanium is capable of creating a dust explosion in powder form. May ignite on contact with chlorine or bromine + heat. May have a violent reaction with nitric acid. May have an explosive reaction when heated with potassium chlorate or potassium nitrate. May have an incandescent reaction when heated with oxygen or potassium.



V. HEALTH HAZARD INFORMATION


Effects of Exposure:


To the best of our knowledge the chemical, physical and toxicological properties of germanium 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.


Acute Effects:


Inhalation: Inhaled dust is rapidly absorbed. May cause irritation to the respiratory tract and acute germanium toxicity.

Ingestion: Generally considered of low toxicity.

Skin: Moderately toxic by subcutaneous route. May cause irritation.

Eye: May cause irritation.


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


Target Organs: May affect the skin, eyes and respiratory 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, lifting upper and lower eyelids, for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical attention if symptoms persist.



VI. REACTIVITY DATA


Stability: Stable

Conditions to Avoid: Heating in the presence of bromine, chlorine, fluorine, oxygen, potassium chloride and potassium nitrite.

Incompatibility (Material to Avoid): Aqua regia, concentrated sulfuric acid, fused alkalies, nitrates or carbonates, halogens and oxidants.

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.


Other Precautions: As a solid, this product does not present special health hazards. Conditions and work practices which generate dust or fumes should be avoided or controlled.

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.


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

Date:                    June 2007