Product Identification

Product Name

Poly(styrene)

Synonyms

Benzene, ethenyl-, homopolymer
Esbrite
Styron
Toporex
Vestyron

CAS

9003-53-6

Formula

(C8H8)n

EINECS

500-008-9

RTECS

WL6475000

RTECS Class

Tumorigen

Beilstein/Gmelin

NA

Physical and Chemical Properties

Appearance

Clear pellets

Solubility in water

Insoluble

Density

1.04-1.111 g/cm3 (20 C)

Usage

Common commercial polymer.

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 immediately.

Inhalation

Remove from exposure to fresh air immediately. If not breathing, give artificial respiration. If breathing is difficult, give oxygen. Get medical aid.

Skin

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

Handling and Storage

Storage

Store in a tightly closed container. Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from incompatible substances.

Handling

Wash thoroughly after handling. Remove contaminated clothing and wash before reuse. Use with adequate ventilation. Minimize dust generation and accumulation. Avoid contact with eyes, skin, and clothing. Keep container tightly closed. Avoid ingestion and inhalation.

Hazards Identification

Inhalation

May cause respiratory tract irritation. The toxicological properties of this substance have not been fully investigated.

Skin

May cause skin irritation.

Eyes

May cause eye irritation.

Ingestion

May cause irritation of the digestive tract. The toxicological properties of this substance have not been fully investigated.

Hazards

May be ignited by friction, heat, sparks or flames. Some may burn rapidly with flare burning effect. Powders, dusts, shavings, borings, turnings or cuttings may explode or burn with explosive violence. Substance may be transported in a molten form. May re-ignite after fire is extinguished.

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 prevent skin exposure.

Respirators

A respiratory protection program that meets OSHA's 29 CFR 1910.134 and ANSI Z88.2 requirements or European Standard EN 149 must be followed whenever workplace conditions warrant a respirator's use.

Exposure Effects

Laboratory experiments have resulted in mutagenic effects. Experimental carcinogen.

Poison Class

-

Fire Fighting Measures

Autoignition

426

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. Extinguishing media: Use agent most appropriate to extinguish fire. In case of fire use water spray, dry chemical, carbon dioxide, or appropriate foam.

Fire Potential

Flammable/combustible material.

Accidental Release Measures

Small spills/leaks

Clean up spills immediately, using the appropriate protective equipment. Avoid generating dusty conditions. Provide ventilation. Cover with dry earth, dry sand, or other non-combustible material followed with plastic sheet to minimize spreading and contact with water.

Stability and Reactivity

Stability

Stable under normal shipping and handling conditions.

Incompatibilities

Strong oxidizing agents.

Decomposition

Carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide.