Material Safety Data Sheet: Bismuth Subnitrate

Identification

Product Name: Bismuth Subnitrate
Chemical Formula: BiONO3·H2O
Synonyms: Bismuth oxynitrate, Basic bismuth nitrate, Bismuthyl nitrate
CAS Number: 1304-85-4
Recommended Use: Laboratory reagent, pharmaceutical ingredient, industrial applications
Supplier:** Reach out directly to the vendor for contact and emergency details.

Hazard Identification

Classification: Non-flammable, not considered hazardous under normal conditions. Exposure causes irritation if dust reaches the eyes, nose, or skin. Inhalation of dust may cause respiratory tract discomfort. Intended strictly for external use. Ingestion may cause gastrointestinal traits like nausea or vomiting. Not classified as an environmental hazard.

Composition / Information on Ingredients

Chemical Name: Bismuth Subnitrate
CAS Number: 1304-85-4
Proportion: 98–100%
Impurities: Low levels of heavy metals may occur, generally below regulatory thresholds.

First Aid Measures

Eye Contact: Rinse eyes with clean water for 15 minutes. Hold eyelids open to flush thoroughly. Seek medical evaluation if symptoms persist.
Skin Contact: Remove contaminated clothing, wash affected area with soap and water. If irritation occurs, consult a physician.
Inhalation: Move person to fresh air. Provide oxygen if breathing is difficult. Get medical help for continued discomfort.
Ingestion: Rinse mouth thoroughly. Seek medical advice if a large quantity is consumed or if symptoms develop. Never provide anything by mouth if victim is unconscious.

Fire-Fighting Measures

Flammability: Product does not burn. Not combustible nor explosive.
Suitable Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, dry powder, or carbon dioxide on surrounding fires.
Fire Hazards: Avoid inhaling decomposed fumes from packaging or containers. Thermal decomposition may release nitrogen oxides and bismuth fumes.
Protective Equipment: Wear self-contained breathing apparatus and protective clothing during fire incidents. Stay upwind.

Accidental Release Measures

Personal Precautions: Avoid breathing dust. Use local exhaust ventilation. Wear gloves, goggles, and a dust mask.
Environmental Precautions: Prevent entry into drains, watercourses, or soil. Block off spill area. Notify local authorities if a significant discharge happens.
Cleanup Methods: Sweep or vacuum up material to avoid dust generation. Transfer to a labeled container for disposal. Wash spill area with water.

Handling and Storage

Handling: Keep containers tightly closed. Use only in well-ventilated spaces. Minimize dust generation. Practice good hygiene, washing hands and exposed skin after use.
Storage: Store in a cool, dry area away from incompatible substances like acids or strong oxidizers. Lock containers to prevent unauthorized use.

Exposure Controls and Personal Protection

Exposure Limits: No established OSHA or ACGIH exposure limits for bismuth subnitrate. Work in compliance with best occupational practices.
Engineering Controls: Use local exhaust or general room ventilation to control airborne dust.
Personal Protective Equipment:** Safety glasses with side shields, chemical-resistant gloves, and NIOSH-approved dust masks or respirators.
Hygiene Measures: Wash thoroughly after handling. Change contaminated clothing promptly.

Physical and Chemical Properties

Appearance: Fine, white crystalline powder
Odor: Odorless
Melting Point: Decomposes before melting
Boiling Point: Not applicable
Solubility: Insoluble in water, soluble in hydrochloric and nitric acids
Density: 4.9–5.2 g/cm³
pH (suspension): Slightly acidic
Vapor Pressure: Not applicable
Partition Coefficient (n-octanol/water): Not available
Explosive Properties: None
Oxidizing Properties: None

Stability and Reactivity

Chemical Stability: Stable under recommended storage and handling.
Conditions to Avoid: Excessive heat and moisture may trigger decomposition.
Incompatible Materials: Strong acids, strong oxidizing agents.
Hazardous Decomposition Products: May form bismuth oxide and nitrogen oxides if heated strongly or burned.
Polymerization: No known hazard of polymerization.

Toxicological Information

Routes of Exposure: Inhalation, ingestion, skin and eye contact.
Acute Effects: May cause irritation of mucous membranes or skin. Large oral doses can provoke nausea or vomiting.
Chronic Effects: Prolonged skin or respiratory contact with significant dust concentrations may lead to mild inflammation.
Carcinogenicity: Not listed as a carcinogen by IARC, NTP, OSHA.
Sensitization: No data suggests that sensitization is a risk.
Other Toxic Effects: Very high exposure to bismuth salts has caused kidney effects in rare case reports.

Ecological Information

Ecotoxicity: No observed acute toxicity to aquatic life from normal concentrations. Bismuth salts show low mobility in the environment.
Persistence and Degradability: Chemically stable, not readily biodegradable.
Bioaccumulative Potential: No evidence of bioaccumulation in aquatic organisms.
Mobility in Soil: Low, due to poor water solubility.
Other Adverse Effects: Product does not pose significant environmental risks but should not be released into surface water.

Disposal Considerations

Method: Dispose of as non-hazardous solid waste in accordance with local, state, and federal regulations.
Packaging: Triple rinse and puncture empty containers before discarding.
Special Precautions: Never release residues to natural waterways or soil. Contact hazardous waste professionals for guidance if unsure.

Transport Information

UN Number: Not regulated for transport.
Transport Hazard Class: Not classified.
Packing Group: None assigned.
Special Precautions during Transport: Secure containers, prevent rupture or tipping during shipping. Confirm with carrier for safe handling advice.

Regulatory Information

TSCA Status: Listed in the Toxic Substances Control Act inventory.
EINECS/ELINCS Number: Listed.
OSHA Hazard Communication: Not considered hazardous.
Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act (SARA) 302/304/311/312: Not listed.
California Proposition 65: No warning needed.
WHMIS Classification: Not controlled under Canadian WHMIS. Follow provincial or territorial requirements where applicable.