Product Identification

Product Name

Boron

Synonyms

Formula
Formula
Trona

CAS

7440-42-8

Formula

B

Molecular Weight

10.81

EINECS

231-151-2

RTECS

ED7350000

RTECS Class

Other

Merck

12,1373

Beilstein/Gmelin

16262 (G)

Physical and Chemical Properties

Appearance

Gray-brown powder. No odor.

Solubility in water

insoluble

Melting Point

2000 - 2075

Boiling Point

2550

Density

3.33 g/cm3 (20 C)

Usage

In nuclear chemistry as neutron absorber, in ignitron rectifiers, in alloys, usually to harden other metals.

First Aid Measures

Ingestion

Do NOT induce vomiting. Allow the victim to rinse his mouth and then to drink 2-4 cupfuls of water, and seek medical advice.

Inhalation

Remove from exposure to fresh air immediately.

Skin

Flush skin with plenty of soap and water for at least 15 minutes while removing contaminated clothing and shoes.

Eyes

Irrigate exposed eyes with copious amounts of tepid water for at least 15 minutes. If irritation, pain, swelling, lacrimation, or photophobia persist, the patient should be seen in a health care facility.

Handling and Storage

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place. Keep container closed when not in use.

Handling

Handle and store in a controlled environment and inert gas such as argon. 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.

Hazards Identification

Inhalation

DANGER-POISON. May cause irritation to the mucous membrane and boron poisoning.

Skin

The oral mucosa, lips and throat may be red. Erythematous rash with desquamation (cooked lobster syndrome) may develop on the palms, soles, and buttocks. A generalized rash has also been reported.

Eyes

May cause mild irritation.

Ingestion

Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are common. The vomitus and feces may be blue-green in color. Hemorrhagic gastroenteritis can occur.

Hazards

Interaction of powdered boron and steam may become violent at red heat. The highly exothermic reactions with water might become combustive or explosive processes at sufficiently high temperatures and pressures.

Exposure Controls/Personal Protection

Personal Protection

Wear safety glasses and chemical goggles if splashing is possible. Wear appropriate protective gloves and clothing to prevent skin exposure.

Respirators

Wear a NIOSH/MSHA or European Standard EN 149 approved full-facepiece airline respirator in the positive pressure mode with emergency escape provisions.

Exposure Effects

Significant ingestions or dermal exposures can be associated with weak, rapid pulse, cyanosis and abnormally low blood pressure. The patient may present with reduced body temperature, elevated body temperature or normal body temperature. Headache, lethargy, restlessness, weakness, CNS irritation, and/or seizures may occur with long term or repeated exposures. There is insufficient information concerning the reproductive effects of borates in humans. Adverse testicular effects and infertility have been reported in animals. <br>There have been limited animal studies which suggest decreased ovulation, fetotoxicity and developmental defects may occur with very high exposure levels. Maternal toxicity was present in some studies.

Poison Class

-

Fire Fighting Measures

Fire Fighting

Wear a self-contained breathing apparatus in pressure-demand, MSHA/NIOSH (approved or equivalent), and full protective gear. During a fire, irritating and highly toxic gases may be generated by thermal decomposition or combustion. In case of fire, use water, dry chemical, chemical foam, or alcohol-resistant foam.

Fire Potential

Moderate as dust exposed to air or by chemical reaction with oxidizing materials.

Accidental Release Measures

Small spills/leaks

Absorb spill with inert material, (e.g., dry sand or earth), then place into a chemical waste container. While using the appropriate protective equipment, clean up spills immediately.

Stability and Reactivity

Stability

Stable under normal temperatures and pressures.

Incompatibilities

Strong oxidizing agents.

Decomposition

Irritating and toxic fumes and gases.