EMS CATALOG NO: 11450 
EMS PRODUCT: Bismuth Subnitrate
DATE:   05/08/95
PAGE NUMBER:  One of 4


MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET

The information contained herein is based on data considered
accurate. However, no warranty is expressed or implied
regarding the accuracy of these data or the results to be obtained
from the use thereof.

Electron Microscopy Sciences assumes no responsibility for
personal injury or property damage to vendees, users or
third parties caused by the material. Such vendees or users
assume all risks associated with the use of the material.


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FOR PRODUCT AND SALES INFORMATION
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CONTACT ELECTRON MICROSCOPY SCIENCES OFFICE ABOVE.

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PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION
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PRODUCT NAME: Bismuth Subnitrate

CAS NUMBER: 1304-85-4
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TOXICITY HAZARDS
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NO TOXICITY DATA AVAILABLE.
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HEALTH HAZARD DATA
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ACUTE EFFECTS:

May be harmful by inhalation, ingestion, or skin absorption.
Causes eye and skin irritation.
Material is irritating to mucous membranes and upper respiratory
tract. 
To the best of our knowledge, the chemical, physical, and Toxicological
Properties have not been thoroughly investigated.

FIRST AID:

In case of contact, immediately flush eyes with copious amounts
of water for at least 15 minutes.

In case of contact, immediately wash skin with soap and copious
amounts of water.

If inhaled, remove to fresh air. If not breathing give artificial
respiration. 

If breathing is difficult, give oxygen.

If swallowed, wash out mouth with water provided person is conscious.
Call a physician. Wash contaminated clothing before
reuse. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

An unique encephalopathy occurs in colostomy and ileostomy patients
using Bismuth Subnitrate, Bismuth Subgallate, and Tripotassium-Dicitrate-Bismuthate for control of fecal odor and
consistency. Symptoms include progressive mental confusion, irregular
myoclonic jerks, a distinctive pattern of disordered gait and a
variable degree of dysarthria. The severity of the disorder appeared
to be independent of dose and duration of 
therapy and was fatal to patients who continued the use of the
Bismuth compounds. Full recovery was rapid in those patients in
whom therapy was discontinued. Symptoms of chronic Bismuth toxicity
in humans consists of decreased appetite, weakness, rheumatic pain,
diarrhea, fever, metal line on the gums, foul breath, gingivitis
and dermatitis. Jaundice and conjuctival hemorrhage are rare, but
have been reported. Bismuth Nephropathy
with proteinuria may occur. The kidney is the site of highest
concentration with the liver being considerably lower. Bismuth
does pass into the amniotic fluid and into the fetus.

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PHYSICAL DATA 
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SPECIFIC GRAVITY: 4.930

APPEARANCE/ODOR: White Powder





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FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARD DATA
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EXTINGUISHING MEDIA: Carbon dioxide, dry chemical powder or appropriate
foam.

SPECIAL FIREFIGHTING PROCEDURES:

Wear self-contained breathing apparatus and protective clothing
to prevent contact with skin and eyes. Oxidizer.

UNUSUAL FIRE AND EXPLOSIONS HAZARDS:

Emits toxic fumes under fire conditions.

Contact with other material may cause fire.
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REACTIVITY DATA 
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INCOMPATIBILITIES:

Strong oxidizing agents. Strong acids. Sensitive to light.

HAZARDOUS COMBUSTION OR DECOMPOSITION PRODUCTS: Nitrogen Oxides
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SPILL OR LEAK PROCEDURES 
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STEPS TO BE TAKEN IF MATERIAL IS RELEASED OR SPILLED:

Evacuate area.
Wear respirator, chemical safety goggles, rubber boots and heavy
rubber gloves.
Sweep up, place in a bag and hold for waste disposal.
Avoid raising dust.
Ventilate area and wash spill site after material pickup is complete.

WASTE DISPOSAL METHOD:

The material should be dissolved in 1) water; 2) acid solution or
3) oxidized to a water-soluble state. Precipitate the material
as the sulfide, adjusting the ph of the solution to 7 to complete
precipitation. Filter the insolubles and dispose of them in a
hazardous waste site. Destroy any excess sulfide with sodium 
hypochlorite. Neutralize the solution before flushing down the drain.

Observe all Federal, State, and Local laws.

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PRECAUTIONS TO BE TAKEN IN HANDLING AND STORAGE
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Wear appropriate NIOSH/MSHA-approved respirator, chemical resistant
gloves, safety goggles, other protective clothing.

Safety shower and eye bath.
Mechanical exhaust required.
Do not breathe dust.
Avoid contact with eyes, skin and clothing.
Avoid prolonged or repeated exposure.
Wash thoroughly after handling.
Irritant.
Harmful solid.
Keep tightly closed.
Keep away from combustible materials, heat, sparks, and open flame.
Protect from light.
Store in a cool dry place.
Contact with combustible material may cause fire.
Harmful by inhalation, in contact with skin and if swallowed.
Irritating to eyes, respiratory system and skin.
Keep away from combustible material.
In case of contact with eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of
water and seek medical advice.
Wear suitable protective clothing, gloves and eye/face protection.
Target organ(s): Kidneys
Protect from light.
Keep tightly closed.