Material Safety Data Sheet: Molybdenum (IV) Oxide

1. Identification

Chemical Name: Molybdenum (IV) Oxide
Synonyms: Molybdenum dioxide, Molybdenum(IV) oxide, MoO2
CAS Number: 18868-43-4
Recommended Use: Used in the production of molybdenum metal, catalysts, and ceramics
Supplier: Industrial chemical suppliers, advanced materials distributors
Emergency Contact: Refer to company-emergency line; Poison Control for exposures

2. Hazard Identification

GHS Classification: Not classified as hazardous under the Globally Harmonized System
Physical Hazards: Slight fire hazard in presence of heat or flame
Health Hazards: May irritate eyes, respiratory tract, and skin; prolonged or repeated exposure could cause respiratory discomfort
Environmental Hazards: Minimal; avoid uncontrolled release to soil or waterways
Signal Word: None required
Pictogram: Not required for this substance
Precautionary Statements: Avoid breathing dust, use adequate ventilation, wash hands after handling, keep away from food and drink

3. Composition / Information on Ingredients

Chemical Identity: Molybdenum (IV) Oxide
Common Name: MoO2
Chemical Formula: MoO2
Concentration: 100% by weight
Impurities: Typically less than 0.1% trace metals; not considered health-relevant

4. First Aid Measures

Inhalation: Move affected person to fresh air; support breathing as needed; get medical attention for symptoms
Skin Contact: Wash thoroughly with soap and water; remove contaminated clothing; seek medical care for irritation
Eye Contact: Rinse immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes; seek medical attention if irritation develops
Ingestion: Rinse mouth with water; never give anything by mouth to an unconscious person; consult physician if swallowed
Symptoms: May include cough, eye redness, cracked or dry skin, respiratory discomfort

5. Fire-Fighting Measures

Suitable Extinguishing Media: Dry chemical powder, carbon dioxide, foam, water spray
Unsuitable Extinguishing Media: None specifically identified
Special Hazards: In the event of a fire, harmful fumes of molybdenum oxides may form
Protective Equipment for Firefighters: Self-contained breathing apparatus, full protective suit
Further Advice: Avoid breathing combustion products; isolate area; run-off from fire control may pollute waterways

6. Accidental Release Measures

Personal Precautions: Use recommended personal protective gear; avoid dust generation
Emergency Procedures: Evacuate unprotected personnel; ensure proper ventilation; restrict access
Environmental Precautions: Prevent entry to sewers and waterways
Methods for Cleanup: Collect spillage with non-sparking tools; transfer to containers for recovery or disposal; clean affected area with water
Disposal Considerations: Dispose at approved facilities following local regulations

7. Handling and Storage

Handling Precautions: Avoid dust formation; handle in well-ventilated areas; do not eat, drink, or smoke during handling
Storage Conditions: Store in tightly closed containers; location should be dry, cool, and well-ventilated; protect from moisture
Incompatible Materials: Contact with strong acids, oxidizing agents, or halogens may cause reaction
Other Precautions: Use proper grounding and bonding for large quantities; maintain clean work zones

8. Exposure Controls and Personal Protection

Occupational Exposure Limits: OSHA/PEL: 10 mg/m3 (total dust); ACGIH TLV: 10 mg/m3 (inhalable fraction)
Engineering Controls: Local exhaust ventilation; fume hoods with filters; process isolation if dust accumulates
Personal Protective Equipment: Approved dust masks or respirators; safety glasses or chemical goggles; gloves composed of nitrile or neoprene; protective clothing where skin contact is likely
Hygiene Measures: Wash hands after handling; remove contaminated clothing before eating; regularly clean work areas

9. Physical and Chemical Properties

Appearance: Grey-black powder or crystalline solid
Odor: Odorless
Melting Point: About 1100°C (2012°F)
Boiling Point: No data available; decomposes before boiling
Density: About 6.47 g/cm3 at 25°C
Solubility in Water: Insoluble
Solubility in Other Solvents: Soluble in concentrated acids; insoluble in organic solvents
Vapor Pressure: Not applicable (solid at room temperature)
pH: Not applicable
Partition Coefficient (n-octanol/water): Not determined
Flash Point: Not flammable

10. Stability and Reactivity

Chemical Stability: Stable at ambient temperature and under normal storage
Reactivity: No dangerous reactions known under normal use
Conditions to Avoid: Strong heat, open flames, contact with strong acids or oxidizers
Hazardous Decomposition Products: Molybdenum oxides may form in fire or high temperature
Polymerization: No data; not expected to occur

11. Toxicological Information

Acute Toxicity: Not acutely toxic by oral, dermal, or inhalation routes at low exposures
Chronic Effects: Prolonged inhalation of dust can cause lung irritancy, possible symptoms of metal fume fever
Skin Corrosion/Irritation: May cause mild irritation with repeated contact
Serious Eye Damage/Irritation: Dust may cause transient irritation
Respiratory and Skin Sensitization: No sensitization expected
Carcinogenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic by NTP, IARC, or OSHA
Mutagenicity: No evidence found in available studies
Reproductive Toxicity: Not suspected based on available information

12. Ecological Information

Ecotoxicity: Low bioaccumulation potential; aquatic toxicity considered low in typical concentrations
Persistence and Degradability: Persistent as an inorganic compound; not expected to degrade biologically
Bioaccumulative Potential: Negligible potential for accumulation in organisms
Mobility in Soil: Limited mobility due to insolubility; may accumulate in sediment
Other Adverse Effects: Not expected to pose long-term hazards; caution against large-scale release into natural water bodies

13. Disposal Considerations

Waste Treatment Methods: Collect in approved containers; send to authorized hazardous waste facility
Disposal of Contaminated Packaging: Rinse thoroughly if recycling, otherwise dispose as hazardous waste
Local Regulations: Follow federal, state, and local environmental regulations for disposal
Special Precautions: Avoid spreading dust; ensure all personnel wear appropriate protection during disposal

14. Transport Information

UN Number: Not classified as dangerous goods for transport
Proper Shipping Name: Molybdenum dioxide
Transport Hazard Class: Not regulated
Packing Group: Not assigned
Environmental Hazards: Not a marine pollutant
Special Precautions: Prevent container tipping and damage in transit; maintain clear labeling

15. Regulatory Information

TSCA (Toxic Substances Control Act): Listed
REACH Registration: Exempt or registered as substance
SARA Title III (Section 313): Not listed
California Proposition 65: Not listed
WHMIS (Canada): Not controlled
Other Regulations: Most workplaces review OSHA hazard communication and applicable EU regulations; always check regional requirements