Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for Fine-Pore Silica Gel

Identification

Product Name: Fine-Pore Silica Gel
Chemical Formula: SiO2·nH2O
Synonyms: Amorphous Silica, Silica Gel
CAS Number: 7631-86-9
Recommended Use: Drying agent, desiccant, moisture absorption
Manufacturer Information: Reach out directly to producer for contact address, phone, and emergency information

Hazard Identification

GHS Classification: Not considered hazardous under normal conditions
Health Hazards: Can irritate respiratory system, eyes, and skin when dust is present; swallowing large amounts may cause discomfort
Physical Hazards: Dust formation may present explosion hazard in confined spaces
Signal Word: None required
Pictogram: Not applicable
Precautionary Statements: Avoid generating dust, use proper ventilation, keep out of reach of children

Composition / Information on Ingredients

Chemical Name: Silicon Dioxide, synthetic amorphous
Purity: Over 98%
Other Constituents: Trace amounts of surface-bound water
Impurities: No significant impurities that affect classification

First Aid Measures

Inhalation: Move to fresh air, get medical attention if symptoms persist (such as cough or shortness of breath)
Eye Contact: Rinse open eye with plenty of water for several minutes; remove contact lenses if present and easy to do
Skin Contact: Wash skin thoroughly with soap and water; seek medical advice if irritation develops
Ingestion: Rinse mouth with water, drink water to dilute; do not induce vomiting; seek medical advice if feeling unwell
Notes to Physician: Treat symptomatically, no specific antidote

Fire-Fighting Measures

Suitable Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, dry powder, CO2, or foam for surrounding materials
Specific Hazards: Not flammable, but fine dust may contribute to explosion risk if mixed with air
Protective Equipment: Use self-contained breathing apparatus and protective clothing in case of significant fire or dust exposure
Special Procedures: Cool containers with water spray if exposed to fire; prevent runoff from entering drains

Accidental Release Measures

Personal Precautions: Restrict access, prevent dust buildup, wear appropriate respiratory protection
Spill Cleanup Methods: Use vacuum with HEPA filter or wet methods to prevent ongoing dust; avoid sweeping
Environmental Precautions: Avoid discharge to drains and surface waters; contain spill with non-combustible absorbent

Handling and Storage

Handling: Ensure good ventilation; minimize dust generation; keep packaging closed when not in use
Storage Conditions: Store in a dry, cool, well-ventilated area; keep away from sources of moisture; avoid contact with incompatible materials like hydrofluoric acid
Incompatible Materials: Avoid storing with strong acids, bases, or oxidizers; keep away from food and animal feed
Hygiene Measures: Wash hands after use, prevent eating or drinking in handling area

Exposure Controls and Personal Protection

Occupational Exposure Limits: OSHA PEL (Total Dust): 15 mg/m3; OSHA PEL (Respirable Dust): 5 mg/m3
Engineering Controls: Use local exhaust ventilation, process enclosures, or other engineering controls to control airborne dust
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Use dust-proof goggles, NIOSH-approved respirator in case of inadequate ventilation, chemical-resistant gloves, protective clothing as needed
Environmental Controls: Prevent dust from reaching drains or entering soil

Physical and Chemical Properties

Appearance: White to slightly translucent, granular or bead-like solid
Odor: Odorless
pH: 4 – 8 (in aqueous suspension)
Melting Point: Over 1700°C
Boiling Point: Not applicable
Solubility in Water: Insoluble
Bulk Density: Ranges from 0.5 to 0.8 g/cm3
Flash Point: Not flammable
Vapor Pressure: Not applicable
Autoignition Temperature: Not applicable
Partition Coefficient: Not applicable

Stability and Reactivity

Chemical Stability: Stable under normal temperatures and pressures
Possible Hazardous Reactions: Reacts with hydrofluoric acid to produce toxic silicon tetrafluoride gas
Conditions to Avoid: Contact with acids, strong oxidizers, strong bases, moisture
Hazardous Decomposition Products: None under normal use; crystalline silica may form at elevated temperatures

Toxicological Information

Acute Toxicity: Low acute oral and dermal toxicity
Chronic Exposure: Inhalation of crystalline silica (not present in fresh material) can cause silicosis; amorphous silica not classified as carcinogenic
Health Effects: Dust can cause mechanical irritation to eyes, skin, respiratory tract; not expected to be absorbed through the skin
Sensitization: No evidence found for skin or respiratory sensitization
Mutagenicity: No evidence of genetic toxicity
Other Effects: In rare cases, swallowing large amounts can cause gastrointestinal discomfort

Ecological Information

Ecotoxicity: Not classified as hazardous to the environment; minimal soil or water impact expected
Persistence/Degradability: Not degradable; remains as inert solid material
Bioaccumulation Potential: Not expected to bioaccumulate
Mobility in Soil: Immobile; binds tightly to soil particles
Other Adverse Effects: No reported significant hazards for aquatic or terrestrial organisms

Disposal Considerations

Waste Treatment Methods: Dispose of in accordance with local, regional, and national regulations
Product Disposal: Can be landfilled as non-hazardous waste; avoid release to drains or water bodies
Packaging Disposal: Rinse empty containers, recycle or dispose according to local standards
Special Precautions: Prevent dust generation during collection and transport

Transport Information

UN Number: Not regulated
UN Proper Shipping Name: Not classified as dangerous goods under transport regulations
Transport Hazard Class: None
Packing Group: Not applicable
Environmental Hazards: Not a marine pollutant
Special Precautions for User: Protect cargo from moisture and dust; use dedicated containers if possible

Regulatory Information

Safety, Health, and Environmental Regulations: Subject to national and international workplace safety regulations; ensure compliance with OSHA, REACH, TSCA, and local chemical safety laws
Labelling Requirements: No special hazard labeling required for consumer use; workplace use may require dust hazard warnings
Inventory Status: Listed on major chemical inventories worldwide
Restrictions: No significant restrictions on manufacture, sale, or use in most jurisdictions