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:                    Magnesium Boride                                                                      

Synonyms:                        Magnesium diboride

Formula:                           MgB₂                                                                                           

Chemical Family:             Metal boride

CAS #:                               12007-25-9

II. HAZARDOUS INGREDIENTS

Hazardous Component:  Magnesium Boride

%:                                     0-100

OSHA/PEL:                     N/E

ACGIH/TLV:                   N/E

HMIS Ratings: Health: 2             Flammability: 0               Reactivity: 0

III. PHYSICAL DATA

Boiling Point:                   N/A 

Melting Point:                  Decomposes

Specific Gravity:              N/E 

Vapor Density:                 N/A

Vapor Pressure:               N/E 

Solubility in H₂O:            N/E

Appearance and Odor:    Gray to black powder or pieces, no odor. 

% Volatile:                       N/A

IV. FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARDS DATA

Flash Point: N/A 

Flammability: Non-flammable                    

Autoignition Temperature: N/A

Flammable Limits: Lower: N/A  Upper: N/A                      

Extinguishing Media: Use suitable extinguishing agent 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 & Explosion Hazard: When heated to decomposition, magnesium boride may emit toxic magnesium oxide fumes.

V. HEALTH HAZARD INFORMATION

Effects of Exposure:

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

Magnesium compounds have variable toxicity. The inhalation of fumes of freshly sublimed magnesium oxide may cause metal fume fever. There is no evidence that magnesium produces true systemic poisoning. Protection necessary for personnel handling and processing magnesium is usually no different from that which is necessary for other metals.

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 affects 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 from rash may cover the entire body. (Sax, Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials, eight edition.)

Acute Effects:

Inhalation: May cause irritation to the mucous membranes, boron poisoning and metal fume fever.

Ingestion: May cause irritation to the gastrointestinal tract and boron poisoning.

Skin: May cause irritation.

Eye: May cause irritation.

Chronic Effects: Ingestion: May affect the central nervous system. No other chronic health effects recorded.

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

Routes of Entry: Ingestion, inhalation.

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

Carcinogenicity: NTP: No           IARC: No          OSHA: No         EPA: 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 if symptoms persist.

INGESTION: Give 1-2 glasses of milk or water and induce vomiting, seek medical attention if symptoms persist. Never induce vomiting or give anything by mouth to an unconscious person.

SKIN: Remove contaminated clothing, brush material off skin, wash affected area with mild soap and water. If irritation persists seek medical attention.

EYES: Immediately flush eyes, including under eyelids, with large amounts of water for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical attention if symptoms persist.

VI. REACTIVITY DATA

Stability: Stable

Conditions to Avoid: None

Incompatibility (Material to Avoid): None recorded

Hazardous Decomposition Products: Magnesium oxide fumes.

Hazardous Polymerization: Will not occur

VII. SPILL OR LEAK PROCEDURES

Steps to Be Taken in Case Material Is Released or Spilled: Wearing appropriate respiratory and protective equipment specified in section VIII. Isolate spill area and provide ventilation. Vacuum up material 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 Federal, State and Local regulations.

VIII. SPECIAL PROTECTION INFORMATION

Respiratory Protection: NIOSH approved respirator.

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 Clothing or Equipment: Protective gear suitable to prevent contamination.

IX. SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS

Precautions to Be Taken in Handling and Storage: Store in a cool, dry well-ventilated area. Store in tightly sealed container. Wash thoroughly after use.

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 damages resulting from handling or from contact with the above product.

Issued By:           S. Dierks

Date:                    December 2007