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:                    Nickel-Iron

Chemical Nature:             Alloy

Formula:                           NiFe



II. HAZARDOUS INGREDIENTS

 

Hazardous Component:                CAS#:                 %:                       OSHA/PEL:                     ACGIH/TLV:

Nickel                                               7440-02-0            50-81%                1.0 mg/m3                          1.5 mg/m3

Iron                                                  7439-89-6            19-50%                10 mg/m3                           5 mg/m3



III. PHYSICAL DATA


Boiling Point 760 mm Hg:No Data

Melting Point:                  No Data

Specific Gravity:              No Data

Vapor Density:                 No Data

% Volatiles by Weight:   Nonvolatile

Solubility in H2O:            Insoluble

Appearance and Odor:    Dull silver-colored metallic, no odor.



IV. FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARDS DATA


Flash Point (Method used): N/A

Autoignition Temperature: N/A

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


Extinguishing Media: To contain fire, smother with dry powdered dolomite or other suitable dry powdered extinguishing agent.

Special Fire Fighting Procedures: No special firefighting procedures needed, use normal procedures which include wearing NIOSH/MSHA approved self contained breathing apparatus, flame and chemical resistant clothing; hats, boots and gloves. If without risk, remove material from fire area. Cool containers with water from maximum distance.

Unusual Fire & Explosion Hazard: May emit toxic fumes.



V. HEALTH HAZARD INFORMATION


Effects of Exposure:


To the best of our knowledge the physical, chemical and toxicological properties of nickel-iron have not been thoroughly investigated and recorded.


Under normal handling and use, exposure to massive forms of nickel presents few health hazards. If, however, massive forms are converted to particulates, then both acute and chronic health hazards are possible. Nickel is a confirmed carcinogen with experimental carcinogenic, neoplastigenic, tumorigenic and teratogenic data. Poison by ingestion, intratracheal, intraperitoneal, subcutaneous and intravenous routes. An experimental teratogen. Ingestion of soluble salts causes nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Hypersensitivity to nickel is common and can cause allergic contact dermatitis, pulmonary asthma, conjunctivitis and inflammatory reactions around nickel containing medical implants and prosthesis (Sax, Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials, eighth edition).


Iron compounds have varying toxicity. Some iron compounds are suspected carcinogens. In general, ferrous compounds are more toxic than ferric compounds. Acute exposure to excessive levels of ferrous compounds can cause liver and kidney damage, altered respiratory rates and convulsions. (Sax, Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials, eighth edition)


Acute Effects:


Inhalation: Rare cases of asthma have been reported in individuals exposed to some forms of particulates containing nickel, particularly in the nickel sulfate form. Respiratory sensitization is possible in susceptible individuals. Inhalation of iron dust or powder may cause irritation to the respiratory system and possibly acute iron poisoning. Large amounts of iron may cause iron pneumoconiosis.

Ingestion: This is not a normal route of entry. Nickel has a low oral toxicity. No acute health effects for iron recorded.

Skin: Prolonged exposure to nickel may cause contact dermatitis or other allergic reactions, especially in sensitive individuals. Although contact with massive forms of nickel could cause dermatitis it is the finer powders which are the main hazard, especially in association with a moist environment.

Eye: May cause irritation.


Chronic Effects:


Inhalation: Inhalation of finely divided powder may cause pulmonary fibrosis. May cause chronic iron poisoning and pathological deposition of iron in the body tissue.

Ingestion: May cause damage to the liver.

Skin: No chronic health effects recorded.

Eye: No chronic health effects recorded.


Target Organs: May affect the liver and kidney.

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

 

Carcinogenicity: NTP: Yes          IARC: Yes         OSHA: Yes


EMERGENCY AND FIRST AID PROCEDURES:


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

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

SKIN: Flush with water and wash with mild soap and water. Seek medical attention if symptoms persist.

EYE: Flush with water, including under upper and lower eyelid, for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical attention if symptoms persist.



VI. REACTIVITY DATA


Stability: Stable

Conditions to Avoid: Thermal decomposition

Incompatibility (Material to Avoid): Oxidants, acids.

Hazardous Decomposition Products: Metal oxide fume

Hazardous Polymerization: Will not occur.



VII. SPILL OR LEAK PROCEDURES


Steps to be Taken in Case Material is Released or Spilled: For powder spills, wearing full protective clothing and respiratory protection eliminate all sources of ignition. Cover spill area with dry sand or dry vermiculite, mix well and carefully transfer to a well-marked container. Close container tightly. For solid material, sweep or pick up manually. Submit or retain for disposal.

Waste Disposal Method: In accordance with Local, State and Federal Waste Disposal Regulations.



VIII. SPECIAL PROTECTION INFORMATION


Respiratory Protection (Specify Type): NIOSH/MSHA approved, for dusting conditions.

Ventilation: Local

Protective Gloves: Rubber

Eye Protection: Safety Glasses

Other Protective Equipment: Lab Coat, apron, flame & chemical resistant coveralls.



IX. SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS


Precautions to Be Taken in Handling and Storage: Keep containers tightly closed. Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area. Ensure good ventilation at the workplace. Prevent formation of dust. 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 clothing or skin with compressed air. Maintain eyewash capable of sustained flushing, safety drench shower and facilities for washing.


DOT Regulations:

Solid Forms:

              Hazard Class:                   None

Powder:

              Hazard Class:                   4.1

              Identification Number:    UN3089

              Packing Group:                II

              Proper Shipping Name:   Metal powder, flammable, n.o.s. (Nickel-iron)



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:                    August 2006