Argon

Formula Ar
Description Colorless odorless inert gas.
Uses Gas as shield in gas metal-arc welding, in metal processing.

 

Registry Numbers.

CAS 7440-37-1
EINECS 231-147-0
RTECS CF2300000
Std. Transport No. 4904503
UN (DOT) 1006
Merck Index 820
7440-37-1 is listed on the TSCA.

 

Chemical and physical properties.

Formula mass 39.94
Melting point, °C -189.2
Boiling point, °C -186
Vapor density (air=1) 1.66
Specific gravity/density 0.001633
Solubility in water 3.4 g/100 ml

 

Hazards and protection.

Storage Keep in a cool, dry, dark location in a tightly sealed container or cylinder. Keep away from incompatible materials, ignition sources and untrained individuals. Secure and label area. Protect containers/cylinders from physical damage.
Handling All chemicals should be considered hazardous. Avoid direct physical contact. Use appropriate, approved safety equipment. Untrained individuals should not handle this chemical or its container. Handling should occur in a chemical fume hood.
Protection Wear appropriate protective gloves, clothing and goggles. Always wear thermal protective clothing when handling refrigerated/cryogenic liquids.
Respirators Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).
Small spills or leaks Attempt to stop leak if without undue personnel hazard. Do not use water on material itself.
Stability No data.
Other hazards The gas is heavier than air and may accumulate in low ceiling spaces causing deficiency of oxygen.

 

Fire related information.

Fire fighting Extinguish fire using agent suitable for type of surrounding fire. (Material itself does not burn or burns with difficulty.) Cool all affected containers with flooding quantities of water. Do not use water on material itself. Apply water from as far a distance as possible.
Fire potential Non-flammable gas.
Hazards Containers may explode when heated. Ruptured cylinders may rocket.

 

Health related information.

Exposure effects

 
  The toxological properties of this substance have not been fully investigated.
Inhalation Acute effects - Asphyxia, dizziness, unconsiousness.
Skin Contact with liquid may cause frostbite.
Eyes Pain. Blurred vision. Severe deep burns.
First aid 
Ingestion Seek medical assistance.
Inhalation Move victim to fresh air. Apply artificial respiration if victim is not breathing. Do not use mouth-to-mouth method if victim ingested or inhaled the substance; induce artificial respiration with the aid of a pocket mask equipped with a one-way valve or other proper respiratory medical device. Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult.
Skin Remove and isolate contaminated clothing and shoes. Immediately flush with running water for at least 20 minutes. In case of contact with liquefied gas, thaw frosted parts with lukewarm water.
Eyes Immediately flush with running water for at least 20 minutes.

 

Shipping information.

DOT (UN) Transportation Information
UN number 1006
Response guide 121
Hazard class 2.2