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:                    Osmium

Chemical Nature:             Metallic element

Molecular Formula:        Os

CAS #:                               7440-04-2

II. HAZARDOUS INGREDIENTS

Hazardous Component:  Osmium

%:                                     0-100

OSHA/PEL:                     N/E

ACGIH/TLV:                   N/E

HMIS Ratings: Health: 2             Flammability: 2               Reactivity: 1

III. PHYSICAL DATA

Boiling Point:                   5027 ^oC

Melting Point:                  3045 ^oC

Vapor Density:                 N/A

Vapor Pressure:               Essentially 0

Specific Gravity:              22.6 gm/cc

% Volatiles:                      0

Appearance and Odor:    Bluish-white metal, no odor.

Solubility in H₂O:            Insoluble

IV. FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARDS DATA

Flash Point: N/A

Autoignition Temperature: No data

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

Extinguishing Media: Flammable solid. If involved in a fire do not use water, carbon dioxide or halogenated extinguishers. Use dry chemical extinguishing agents, dry sand or dry ground dolomite.

Special Fire Fighting Procedures: Firefighters must wear NIOSH/MSHA approved self contained breathing apparatus, flame and chemical resistant clothing; hats, boots and gloves. If without risk, remove material from fire area.

Unusual Fire and Explosion Hazards: May emit toxic fumes upon decomposition.

V. HEALTH HAZARD INFORMATION

Effects of Exposure:

Osmium is considered poisonous and should be handled with caution. Effects include ocular disturbances, respiratory difficulties, heavy metal poisoning.

Acute Effects:

Inhalation: Irritating to mucous membranes and upper respiratory tract. May cause asthmatic condition, bronchitis.

Ingestion: May cause gastrointestinal irritation. No other effects known.

Skin: Causes irritation, dermatitis, ulceration of the skin.

Eye: Causes severe eye irritation, ocular disturbances, conjunctivitis. May cause blindness.

Chronic Effects:

Inhalation: Bronchitis

Ingestion: None known

Skin: Dermatitis

Eye: May cause blindness.

Other Health Hazards: Adverse health effects are due mainly to OsO₄

Most Likely Routes of Entry: Ingestion

Target Organs: May cause kidney damage, route of overexposure not known.

Medical Conditions Generally Aggravated by Exposure: None known

Carcinogenicity: NTP: No           IARC: No          OSHA: No         EPA: No

EMERGENCY AND FIRST AID PROCEDURES:

INHALATION: Remove victim to fresh air, keep warm and quiet, give oxygen if breathing is difficult. Seek immediate medical attention.

INGESTION: Seek immediate medical attention.

SKIN: Remove contaminated clothing, brush material off skin. Wash affected area with soap and water. Seek medical attention.

EYE: Immediately flush eyes, including under eyelids, with large amounts of water for at least 15 minutes. Seek immediate medical attention.

VI. REACTIVITY DATA

Stability: Stable

Conditions to Avoid: Extreme heat.

Incompatible Materials: ClF₃, OF₂, halogens, phosphorus, oxygen, oxidizers, acids, organic solvents, NH₄.

Hazardous Decomposition Products: Oxides of osmium. Osmium dust reacts violently with ClF₃ and OF₂. On heating in air it gives off poisonous fumes of osmium tetraoxide.

Hazardous Polymerization: Will not occur

VII. SPILL OR LEAK PROCEDURES

Steps to be taken if Spilled or Released: Wearing full protective equipment, cover spill with dry sand or vermiculite. Mix well and carefully transfer to a container.

Waste Disposal Method: Dispose of in accordance with State, Federal and Local regulations.

VIII. SPECIAL PROTECTION INFORMATION

Respiratory Protection: NIOSH/MSHA approved high efficiency particle respirator.

Ventilation: Handle in a glove box under a dry, inert atmosphere to prevent oxidation.

Protective Gloves: Rubber for all contact.

Eye/Face Protection: ANSI approved safety goggles.

Other Protective Equipment: Lab coat and apron, flame and chemical resistant coveralls.

IX. SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS

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

Other Precautions: Handle and store under dry protective gas. Keep ignition sources away. Protect against electrostatic charges. Fumes can combine with air to form an explosive mixture. Store away from air. Store away from halogens. 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.

Danger: Flammable, irritates lungs and eyes.

DOT Regulations:

Hazard Class:                   4.1

Identification Number:    UN3089

Packing Group:                II

Proper Shipping Name:   Metal powder, flammable, n.o.s., (osmium)

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:                    December 2005