Product Identification

Product Name

Ammonium formate

Synonyms

Formic acid, ammonium salt

CAS

540-69-2

Formula

CH5NO2

Molecular Weight

63.05

EINECS

208-753-9

RTECS

BQ6650000

RTECS Class

Other

Merck

13,525

Beilstein/Gmelin

3625095

Beilstein Reference

4-02-00-00003

Physical and Chemical Properties

Appearance

White solid with a weak odor of ammonia.

Solubility in water

1020 g/L

Melting Point

119-121

Density

1.28 g/cm3 (25 C)

Usage

Chemical anal to ppt base metals from salts of noble metals.

First Aid Measures

Ingestion

If victim is conscious and alert, give 2-4 cupfuls of milk or water. Never give anything by mouth to an unconscious person. Get medical aid.

Inhalation

Remove from exposure to fresh air immediately. If not breathing, give artificial respiration. If breathing is difficult, give oxygen. Get medical aid if cough or other symptoms appear.

Skin

Flush skin with plenty of soap and water for at least 15 minutes while removing contaminated clothing and shoes. Get medical aid if irritation develops or persists. Wash clothing before reuse.

Eyes

Flush eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes, occasionally lifting the upper and lower eyelids. Get medical aid.

Handling and Storage

Storage

Keep from contact with oxidizing materials. Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from incompatible substances.

Handling

Use with adequate ventilation. Avoid contact with skin and eyes. Keep container tightly closed. Avoid ingestion and inhalation.

Hazards Identification

Inhalation

May cause respiratory tract irritation. Low hazard for usual industrial handling.

Skin

Causes skin irritation.

Eyes

Causes eye irritation.

Ingestion

May cause gastrointestinal irritation with nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. The toxicological properties of this substance have not been fully investigated.

EC Risk Phrase

R 36/37/38

EC Safety Phrase

S 26 36

Exposure Controls/Personal Protection

Personal Protection

Eyes: Wear appropriate protective eyeglasses or chemical safety goggles as described by OSHA's eye and face protection regulations in 29 CFR 1910.133 or European Standard EN166. Skin: Wear appropriate protective gloves to prevent skin exposure. Clothing: Wear appropriate protective clothing to minimize contact with skin.

Respirators

Follow the OSHA respirator regulations found in 29CFR 1910.134 or European Standard EN 149. Always use a NIOSH or European Standard EN 149 approved respirator when necessary.

Exposure Effects

Increases in blood pressure and pulse have been reported. An altered mental status (coma) may be seen, but is not characteristic unless hypoxemia occurs. Seizures may occur with extensive absorption. No data were available to assess the teratogenic potential of this agent. <br>Decreased egg production has occurred in experimental animals. Ammonia crosses the ovine placental barrier. <br>No data were available to assess the potential effects of exposure to this agent during lactation. <br>No information about possible male reproductive effects was found in available references.

Poison Class

4

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. This material in sufficient quantity and reduced particle size is capable of creating a dust explosion. To extinguish fire, use water, dry chemical, chemical foam, or alcohol-resistant foam.

Accidental Release Measures

Small spills/leaks

Vacuum or sweep up material and place into a suitable disposal container. Avoid generating dusty conditions. Provide ventilation.

Stability and Reactivity

Stability

Stable at room temperature in closed containers under normal storage and handling conditions.

Incompatibilities

Strong oxidizing agents.

Decomposition

Nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, ammonia.

Combustion Products

Toxic and irritating ammonia and formic acid gases may form in fire.