Product Identification

Product Name

Tragacanth gum

Synonyms

Astragalus gum
Gum tragacanth

CAS

9000-65-1

EINECS

232-552-5

RTECS

XW7750000

RTECS Class

Natural Product; Primary Irritant

Beilstein/Gmelin

NA

Physical and Chemical Properties

Appearance

White to light yellow powder.

Usage

In pharmaceutical compounding and dispensing, e.G., To suspend heavy insol powders, as an excipient for tablets and to impart consistence to troches, also in making emulsions and emulsifying agents, as stabilizer, thickener, texturizer in food, in adhesives (mucilages, pastes), in textile sizing, textile printing and general printing inks, and in dyeing with insol color lakes.

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 if irritation or symptoms occur.

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

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

Keep container closed when not in use. 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 only in a well ventilated area. Avoid contact with eyes, skin, and clothing. Avoid ingestion and inhalation.

Hazards Identification

Inhalation

May cause respiratory tract irritation.

Skin

Causes skin irritation.

Eyes

Causes eye irritation.

Ingestion

Ingestion of large amounts may cause gastrointestinal irritation. May cause allergic reaction.

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

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

The toxicological properties of this material have not been investigated.

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

Accidental Release Measures

Small spills/leaks

Clean up spills immediately, using the appropriate protective equipment. Sweep up or absorb material, then place into a suitable clean, dry, closed container for disposal. Avoid generating dusty conditions. Provide ventilation.

Stability and Reactivity

Stability

Stable under normal temperatures and pressures.

Incompatibilities

Strong oxidizing agents.

Decomposition

Carbon monoxide, oxides of nitrogen, irritating and toxic fumes and gases, carbon dioxide.