Product Identification

Product Name

Germanium chloride

Synonyms

Germanium tetrachloride
Tetrachlorogermane

CAS

10038-98-9

Formula

Cl4Ge

Molecular Weight

214.4

EINECS

233-116-7

RTECS

LY5225000

RTECS Class

Mutagen; Primary Irritant

Merck

12,4418

Beilstein/Gmelin

184751 (G)

Physical and Chemical Properties

Appearance

Colorless, fuming liquid

Solubility in water

Hydrolyzes

Melting Point

-52

Boiling Point

82

Density

1.84 g/cm3

Usage

Intermediate in the production of purified germanium metal. In fiber optic production.

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

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

Skin

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

Handling and Storage

Storage

Store in a tightly closed container. Keep under a nitrogen blanket. 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. Do not allow water to get into the container because of violent reaction. Avoid contact with eyes, skin, and clothing. Avoid ingestion and inhalation.

Hazards Identification

Inhalation

May cause irritation of the respiratory tract with burning pain in the nose and throat, coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath and pulmonary edema. Inhalation may be fatal as a result of spasm, inflammation, edema of the larynx and bronchi, chemical pneumonitis and pulmonary edema.

Skin

May cause severe skin irritation with possible burns, especially if skin is wet or moist.

Eyes

Lachrymator. Causes eye irritation and possible burns.

Ingestion

May cause severe gastrointestinal tract irritation with nausea, vomiting and possible burns.

Hazards

Contact with metals may evolve flammable hydrogen gas.

UN (DOT)

1760

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

May cause liver and kidney damage.

Fire Fighting Measures

Fire Fighting

Wear a self-contained breathing apparatus in pressure-demand, MSHA/NIOSH (approved or equivalent), and full protective gear. Extinguishing media: Use foam, dry chemical, or carbon dioxide. DO NOT USE WATER!

Fire Potential

Non-combustible, substance itself does not burn but may decompose upon heating to produce corrosive and/or toxic fumes.

Accidental Release Measures

Small spills/leaks

Absorb spill with inert material, (e.g., dry sand or earth), then place into a chemical waste container. Provide ventilation.

Stability and Reactivity

Stability

Stable under normal temperatures and pressures.

Incompatibilities

Strong oxidizing agents.

Decomposition

Hydrogen chloride.

Combustion Products

Fire may produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases.

Transport Information

UN Number

1760

Hazard Class

8

Packing Group

I; II; III