Product Identification

Product Name

Diatomaceous earth

Synonyms

Diatomaceous earth, natural
Diatomite, uncalcined
Infusorial earth
Uncalcinated diatomaceous earth

CAS

61790-53-2

EINECS

310-127-6

RTECS

VV7311000

RTECS Class

Tumorigen

Beilstein/Gmelin

NA

Physical and Chemical Properties

Solubility in water

Insoluble

Melting Point

1710

Boiling Point

2200

Density

2.3 g/cm3 (20 C)

Usage

Uncalcined diatomaceous earth is used as a filtration agent, a functional filler in paints, plastics, paper, rubber, adhesives, catalysts, agricultural chemicals, pharmaceuticals and other chemicals, and a mild abrasive in polishes and cleaners, such as metal and car polishes, nail polishes and toothpastes. It is also used in clarifying liquids and oils; as an efficient thermal insulator; in manufacture of heat insulators, fire brick, and fire- and acid-proof packing materials; as an absorbent; in absorbent dynamite; as a solid carrier in chromatography; pozzolanic admixture in concrete mixes; as a natural insecticide and as a carrier for insecticides; anticaking agent and a conditioner in the fertilizer industry.

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.

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

Immediately 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

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

Handling

Wash thoroughly after handling. Use only in a well ventilated area. Minimize dust generation and accumulation. Avoid breathing dust, vapor, mist, or gas. Avoid contact with skin and eyes. Avoid ingestion and inhalation.

Hazards Identification

Inhalation

Contains crystalline silica which may lead to respiratory abnormalities and silicosis. Causes irritation of the mucous membrane and upper respiratory tract.

Skin

May cause skin irritation.

Eyes

Dust may cause mechanical irritation.

Ingestion

May cause irritation of the digestive tract.

EC Safety Phrase

S 22

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 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

Chronic exposure may cause lung damage. May cause silicosis-disabling pulmonary fibrosis characterized by fibrotic changes and miliary nodules in the lungs, dry cough, shortness of breath, emphysema, decreased chest expansion and increased susceptibility to tuberculosis.

Exposure limit(s)

TLV: ppm; 10 mg/m3 as TWA (ACGIH 1993-1994). OSHA PEL: TWA 20 mppcf 80 mg/m3/%SiO2 NIOSH REL: TWA 6 mg/m3 NIOSH IDLH: 3000 mg/m3

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. This material in sufficient quantity and reduced particle size is capable of creating a dust explosion. Extinguishing media: For small fires, use dry chemical, carbon dioxide, water spray or alcohol-resistant foam. Use extinguishing media most appropriate for the surrounding fire.

Accidental Release Measures

Small spills/leaks

Vacuum or sweep up material and place into a suitable disposal container. Clean up spills immediately, using the appropriate protective equipment. Avoid generating dusty conditions. Provide ventilation.

Stability and Reactivity

Disposal Code

3

Incompatibilities

Hydrogen fluoride, strong acids.

Stability

Stable under normal temperatures and pressures.

Decomposition

Oxides of silicon.

Transport Information

HS Code

2512 00 00