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: Potassium
Formula: K
CAS #: 7440-09-7
Synonyms: Kalium
II. HAZARDOUS INGREDIENTS
Hazardous Component: Potassium
%: 0-100
OSHA/PEL: N/E
ACGIH/TLV: N/E
HMIS Ratings: Health: 3 Flammability: 3 Reactivity: 4
III. PHYSICAL DATA
Boiling Point: 760 oC
Melting Point: 63.25 oC
Specific Gravity: 0.86 at 20 oC
Vapor Pressure: .0899 mm at 245 oC
Solubility in H2O: Reacts violently with water
% Volatile: N/A
Appearance and Odor: Silver metallic solid, no odor.
IV. FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARDS DATA
Flash Point: N/A
Flammability: Highly flammable
Autoignition Temperature: N/E
Explosive Limits: Lower: N/A Upper: N/A
Extinguishing Media: Dry powder only. DO NOT USE WATER.
Special Firefighting Procedures: Firefighters must wear a full face, self-contained breathing apparatus and full protective clothing to prevent contact with skin and eyes.
Unusual Fire and Explosion Hazard: On prolonged exposure to air, metallic potassium forms a layer of yellow potassium superoxide over a layer of potassium monoxide. Explosions may occur if this oxidized material is handled in any way. Explosive reaction with water. Contact with water releases flammable gases. When heated to decomposition potassium may emit toxic fumes of potassium oxide.
V. HEALTH HAZARD INFORMATION
Effects of Exposure:
To the best of our knowledge the chemical, physical and toxicological properties of potassium have not been thoroughly investigated and recorded.
Potassium compounds are not toxic. Any toxicity of the salts is due to the anion. (Sax, Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials)
Acute Effects:
Inhalation: Inhalation may result in respiratory effects such as inflammation, edema and chemical pneumonitis.
Ingestion: Swallowing will lead to a strong corrosive effect on mouth and throat and to the danger of perforation of esophagus and stomach.
Skin: Contact with skin can cause severe chemical burns.
Eye: Eye contact may result in permanent damage and complete vision loss.
Chronic Effects: No data
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 if symptoms persist.
INGESTION: Give 1-2 glasses of milk or water and seek immediate medical assistance. 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.
EYES: Immediately flush eyes with lukewarm water, including under eyelids for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical attention.
VI. REACTIVITY DATA
Stability: Air sensitive, moisture sensitive.
Conditions to Avoid: Contact with air or moisture. Reacts explosively with water.
Incompatibility (Material to Avoid): Water, air, oxidizers, halogens, sulfur, phosphorus, carbon, alcohols, halogenated hydrocarbons, carbonyl compounds, carbon dioxide, heavy metal powders.
Hazardous Decomposition Products: Hydrogen, potassium hydroxide, potassium peroxide and potassium superoxide.
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. The material will ignite spontaneously in air. Burning material may release toxic fumes. Leave the area unless fitted with a self-contained breathing apparatus. Smother fire with dry powder. Do not use water. Sweep or scoop up material and place in a closed container for proper disposal.
Waste Disposal Method: Material should be disposed of in accordance with Local, State and Federal regulations.
VIII. SPECIAL PROTECTION INFORMATION
Respiratory Protection (Specify Type): Wear a NIOSH/MSHA approved dust mask.
Ventilation: Handle in an inert gas such as argon. Handle in an enclosed, controlled process. Use local exhaust to maintain exposure at low levels. General exhaust is not recommended.
Protective Gloves: Rubber gloves
Eye Protection: Safety glasses
Other Protective Clothing or Equipment: Protective work clothing.
IX. SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS
Precautions to be Taken in Handling and Storage: Handle and store the material under an inert atmosphere of nitrogen or argon. Keep away from heat. Keep container tightly sealed.
Other Precautions: Potassium metal will react with air and moisture. Prolonged contact with air may result in the formation of potassium superoxide, a potentially explosive compound.
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: 4.3
Identification Number: UN2257
Packing Group: I
Proper Shipping Name: Potassium
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