MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET CHEMICAL NAME SULFURIC ACID CRC PRESS/LEWIS PUBLISHERS DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION AND RECOMMENDATIONS PRESENTED HEREIN ARE BASED ON SOURCES BELIEVED TO BE RELIABLE. CRC MAKES NO REPRESENTATION ON ITS COMPLETENESS OR ACCURACY. IT IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE USER TO DETERMINE THE CHEMICAL'S SUITABILITY FOR ITS INTENDED USE, THE CHEMICAL'S SAFE USE, AND THE CHEMICAL'S PROPER DISPOSAL. NO REPRESENTATIONS AND/OR WARRANTIES, EITHER EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, OF THE MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, OR OF ANY OTHER NATURE, ARE MADE WITH RESPECT TO THE IN- FORMATION PROVIDED IN THIS MSDS OR TO THE CHEMICAL TO WHICH INFORMATION MAY REFER. CRC NEITHER ASSUMES NOR AUTHORIZES ANY OTHER PERSON TO ASSUME FOR IT, ANY OTHER ADDITIONAL RE- SPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR THE USE OF, OR RELIANCE UPON, THIS INFORMATION. HAZARD WARNING INFORMATION HEALTH FIRE REACTIVE OTHER DEGREE OF HAZARD COLOR CODING OTHER CODES 3 0 2 W 0 = Minimum Hazard 1 = Slight Hazard 2 = Moderate Hazard 3 = Serious Hazard 4 = Severe Hazard HEALTH = BLUE FIRE = RED REACTIVITY = YELLOW OTHER = WHITE OX = Oxidizer ACID = Acid ALK = Alkali COR = Corrosive W = Use No Water SECTION I - GENERAL INFORMATION Characterization Acid, Mineral RCRA Number D002 EPA Class Characteristic (C) Waste DOT Proper Shipping Name Sulfuric acid Chemical Abstract Service (CAS) Number 7664-93-9 DOT Hazard Class and Label Requirements Corrosive Material; Corrosive DOT Emergency Guide Code 39 DOT Identification Number UN1830 (51-95%); 1831 (fuming); 1832 (spent) Chemical Formula H 2 SO 4 Synonyms Battery acid; hydrogen sulfate; oil of vitriol; sulfuric acid (aqueous); vitriol brown oil. SECTION II - HAZARDOUS INGREDIENTS AND IDENTITY INFORMATION Hazardous Components (specific identity) OSHA Exposure Criteria NIOSH Exposure Criteria Immediately Dangerous to Life and Health (IDLH) ACGIH Exposure Criteria Sulfuric acid (derivation: From sulfur, pyrite, hydrogen sulfide, or sulfur- containing smelter gases by the contact process with vanadium pentoxide as the catalyst. The first step is combustion of elemental sulfur or roasting of iron pyrites to yield sulfur dioxide, then catalytic oxida- tion to sulfur trioxide, then cooling in a stream of sulfuric acid to yield additional sulfuric acid). 1 ppm = 4.08 mg/m 3 PEL (8-hour): 0.24 ppm 1 mg/m 3 STEL: Not Established REL (10-hour): 0.24 ppm 1 mg/m 3 STEL: Not Established 15 mg/m 3 TLV: 0.24 ppm 1 mg/m 3 STEL: .75 ppm 3 mg/m 3 SECTION III - PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS Boiling Point 554F (290C) Specific Gravity (H 2 O = 1) 1.84 Vapor Pressure (mm Hg) <0.001 at 68F (20C) Molecular Weight 98.1 Vapor Density (Air = 1) 1.0 Melting Point 51F (10.5C) Solubility Miscible in water with violent reaction. Soluble in ethyl alcohol. Appearance and Odor Dense, oily liquid; colorless to dark brown depending upon purity. Odor Threshold = 150 ppm. SECTION IV - FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARD DATA Flash Point (method used) Non-Combustible Explosive Limits in Air % by Volume LEL: Not Determined UEL: Not Determined NFPA Classification Non-Combustible Liquid Autoignition Temperature Not Applicable Extinguishing Media Reacts with water producing heat and toxic fumes. Use dry chemical or carbon dioxide. Special Fire Fighting Procedures Poisonous gases are released in fire. Wear full protective clothing and (SCBA). Use water spray to flush and dilute a spill, to disperse vapors, and to keep fire-exposed containers cool. Do NOT direct solid stream of water at sulfuric acid. Unusual Fire and Explosion Hazards A non-combustible liquid that increases the burning of combustible materials. Containers may explode in fire. Releases toxic and corrosive sulfur oxides when involved in fire. Risk Management for Hazardous Chemicals Page: 2 1996 by CRC Press, Inc. SECTION V - REACTIVITY DATA Stability Conditions to Avoid Sulfuric acid is normally stable in closed containers under routine conditions of handling and storage. Extremely reactive; keep away from incompatible materials. Stable X Unstable Incompatibility (materials to avoid) Alkalines, reducing agents, carbides, chlorates, fulminates, nitrates, picrates, metals, acetic acid, acetic anhydride, acetonitrile, acrolein, acrylic acid, alcohols, ethers, ketones, oxidizing agents, and many oth- ers. Hazardous Polymerization Conditions to Avoid Under normal conditions of temperature and pressure, hazardous polymerization of sulfuric acid is not expected to occur. May Occur Will Not Occur X Hazardous Decomposition or By-products When heated to decomposition, sulfuric acid can emit highly toxic/poisonous gases and fumes, including toxic oxides of sulfur. SECTION VI - HEALTH HAZARD DATA Primary Route(s) of Entry: Inhalation? X Absorption (skin)? Ingestion? X Health Hazards INHALATION: Causes coughing, sneezing, nose irritation, nose bleeds, reflex bronchospasm, short- ness of breath, pulmonary edema (fluid in lungs), emphysema, permanent changes in pulmonary function, and severe bronchial constriction. SKIN & EYES: Eye contact causes blindness and tissue damage. Skin contact causes burns, blistering, local necroses, and membrane ulceration. Burns may be 2nd or 3rd degree. INGESTION: Corrosion of the mucosa of the mouth, throat, and esophagus with stomach discomfort and pain, nausea, intense thirst, vomiting, circulatory collapse, clammy skin, weak and rapid pulse, shallow respiration, scanty urine, circulatory shock and subsequent death. Carcinogenicity Unknown Human Unknown Animal NTP Listed? No IARC Cancer Review Group? No OSHA Regulated? 29 CFR 1910.1000 Table Z-1 Target Organs? Respiratory system; eyes; skin; teeth. Medical Conditions Generally Aggravated by Exposure Respiratory impairments (bronchitis, asthma) may be aggravated by exposure. Emergency and First-aid Procedures Eye contact: Flush immediately with water for 15 minutes (minimum); seek medical attention. Skin con- tact: Remove all contaminated clothing. Immediately wash area with large amounts of water. Seek medical assistance. For inhalation: Remove the person from exposure. Provide respiratory assistance and CPR. Transfer to medical facility. Observe for 48 hours for lung effects. If swallowed: Seek medical attention; contact poison control center. Give 1-2 glasses of water to drink. Do NOT induce vomiting (aspiration hazard). Never give anything by mouth to an unconscious person. SECTION VII - PRECAUTIONS FOR SAFE HANDLING AND USE Steps to be Taken in Case Material is Released or Spilled Absorb liquids in vermiculite or other material, neutralize with soda ash and collect and place in sealed containers. Ventilate area of spill or leak. Restrict those not involved in cleanup from entering area. Preferred Waste Disposal Method No citation. Precautions to be Taken in Handling and Storage Sulfuric acid is a powerful oxidizer that can greatly accelerate the burning of oxidizable materials. Store in tightly closed containers in cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heat. Other Precautions and Warnings Sources of ignition are prohibited where sulfuric acid is used, handled, or stored. SECTION VIII - CONTROL MEASURES AND PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT Respiratory Protection (specify type) Use half-mask respirator with acid cartridge for low or transient exposures (cartridge should be de- signed to protect against acid vapor or mist). For higher exposures, use a supplied-air respirator or a self-contained breathing apparatus operated in pressure demand or other positive pressure mode. Ventilation Local exhaust or general mechanical systems recommended. Protective Gloves Acid resistant synthetic rubber Eye Protection Chemical Goggles or Face Mask Other Protective Clothing Protective Apron Work/Hygiene Practices Always wash hands thoroughly after using chemical; never bring food, drink, or smoking materials into vicinity of chemicals. Risk Management for Hazardous Chemicals Page: 3 1996 by CRC Press, Inc. SULFURIC ACID H 2 SO 4 CAS: 7664-93-9
3 0 2 W IDENTIFICATION AND TYPICAL USES Sulfuric acid is a colorless (when pure) to dark-brown (when impure), odorless, dense, oily liquid. The pure compound is a solid below 51F (11C). It is the most used chemical in the world in terms of produc- tion and consumption. It is used in the production of phosphate fertilizers, dyes, explosives, glues, and a number of sulfates. It is also used in the purification of petroleum, in cleaning of steel surfaces (metal pick- ling), and as a dehydrating agent. RISK ASSESSMENT: HEALTH General Assessment Sulfuric acid is highly corrosive to the skin, eyes, di- gestive tract, and respiratory system (or any tissue it contacts). It is a human poison by ingestion and is dangerously toxic by inhalation. There are no data in the references regarding any carcinogenic, mutagenic, or teratogenic effects on long-term exposure to sulfuric acid. Its corrosive and irritating properties limit the possibility of long-term exposure since people cannot tolerate unprotected contact for even short periods of time. Inhalation produces severe irritation of the eyes, nose, and respiratory tract with coughing, stomach pains, intense thirst, dypsnea (labored breathing), bronchitis, headache, clammy skin, weak and rapid pulse, scanty urine, and total body weakness. The va- pors can cause laryngitis, pharyngitis, chemical bron- chitis, pneumonitis, and delayed pulmonary edema which can be fatal. There may be tearing, nasal dis- charge, throat irritation, ulceration of the nasal septa and nose irritation, nosebleeds, and nausea. Symp- toms of pulmonary edema, such as chest pain, conges- tion, coughing, and weakness, may be delayed up to 48 hours thereby creating a false sense of security with regard to health exposure risk. There may be total cir- culatory system collapse, shock, and death. Skin contact causes severe burning with possible vesiculation. Its extremely corrosive properties cause immediate burns, membrane ulceration, skin blister- ing, 2 nd and 3 rd degree burns, and local necrosis (tissue destruction) upon contact. Eye contact causes damage and the possibility of permanent blindness. Ingestion is extremely dangerous, even life- threatening. It causes severe poisoning, esophageal burns, throat swelling, convulsions, risk of stomach perforation, bloody vomiting, burning sensation on the mouth, acute tissue damage, diarrhea with pain, and possible coma. Acute Health Effects The following acute (short-term) health effects may occur immediately or shortly after exposure to sulfuric acid: Skin: Irritation/rash or burning feeling on contact with redness, blistering and vesiculation, lo- calized tissue destruction, and deep 2 nd or 3 rd degree burns. Initially, the contact site ap- pears bleached and turns brown prior to the formation of an ulcerous wound. These wounds are slow healing and may leave exten- sive scars. Eye: Severe irritation; may cause burns and damage with permanent blindness. Lung: Severe irritation of the mucous membranes in the nose, throat, and lungs with delayed pul- monary edema (fluid in the lungs), which can be fatal. Nasal irritation may progress to ul- cers and subsequent nose bleeds. Other: Ingestion cause serious burns to the mouth, throat, and stomach and can lead to shock, cir- culatory system collapse, and death. Chronic Health Effects Risk Management for Hazardous Chemicals Page: 4 1996 by CRC Press, Inc. The following chronic (long-term) health effects may occur at some time after exposure to sulfuric acid and can last for months or even years: Cancer Hazards: According to information presented in the references, sulfuric acid has not been adequately tested for its ability to cause cancer in test animals. Reproductive Hazard: According to information pre- sented in the references, sulfuric acid has not been adequately tested for its ability to adversely affect re- production in test animals. Other Chronic Effects: Repeated skin contact with dilute solutions causes dermatitis. Chronic exposure may also cause changes in pulmonary function leading to chronic bronchitis, gastritis, stomatitis, erosion of dental enamel, conjunctivitis, increased propensity for respiratory tract infections, and possible respiratory tract cancer. Recommended Risk-Reduction Measures Personnel should avoid direct contact with sulfuric acid. It is extremely corrosive and highly toxic to hu- mans. If a less toxic chemical cannot be substituted for a hazardous substance, then engineering controls are the most effective method of reducing exposures. The best protection is to enclose operations and/or provide local exhaust ventilation at the site of chemi- cal release. While not always operationally feasible, isolating operations can also reduce exposure. Using respiratory protection is less effective than the controls mentioned above, but is still advisable whenever working with or around sulfuric acid. Exposure levels are extremely low (1 mg/m 3 ) and difficult to accu- rately monitor, especially under emergency response conditions. For low concentrations, an acid gas car- tridge respirator (equipped with a mist/vapor filter) may provide acceptable protection. However, a self- contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) or a supplied- air respirator with full facepiece operated in pressure demand mode are the recommended respiratory pro- tection methods of choice. If a full facepiece is not available, then chemical goggles should be worn to protect the eyes. Whenever a chemical splash hazard exists, a face shield and a rubber apron should be worn. To prevent hand and skin exposures, acid- resistant gloves should be used. Glove manufacturers should be contacted and permeation studies obtained before final glove selections are made. Administrative controls should also be in place to minimize the potential for human exposures. These may include written procedures or policies which specify the methods and techniques that will be prac- ticed whenever personnel are to work with sulfuric acid. All personnel should receive training on the use, hazards, protective measures, emergency actions, and other precautions per 29 CFR 1910.1200 (Hazard Communication), prior to the first assignment in an area where sulfuric acid is used or stored. Before beginning employment and at regular in- tervals thereafter (e.g., annually), the following tests are recommended: Lung function tests (look for chronic respiratory diseases). Examination of the teeth with specific focus on any degree of erosion to the enamel. If symptoms occur or overexposure is suspected, the following additional tests are suggested: Consider chest X-ray following acute overexpo- sure (may be negative if taken immediately after exposure due to delayed onset of pulmonary edema). Other methods to reduce exposure include: Where possible, enclose operations and use local exhaust ventilation at the site of chemical release. If local exhaust ventilation or enclosure is not used, respiratory protection should be mandatory. Always ensure that proper protective clothing is worn when using chemical substances and that personnel are trained on its use and care. Wash thoroughly immediately after exposure to sulfuric acid and at the end of the work shift or before eating, drinking, or smoking. Hazard warning information should be posted in the work area. In addition, as part of an on-going education and training program, all information on the health and safety hazards of sulfuric acid should be communicated to all exposed workers. RISK ASSESSMENT: ENVIRONMENT General Assessment The environment is at risk of exposure during trans- portation, storage, disposal, or destruction of sulfuric acid. In almost every scenario, the threat of environ- mental exposure is contingent upon the proper han- dling of the chemical substance. Accidental spills, large or small, can result in fire, explosion, and possi- ble contamination of the surrounding environmental mediums (water, soil, and, to a lesser degree, air). Risk Management for Hazardous Chemicals Page: 5 1996 by CRC Press, Inc. Sulfuric acid is considered a non-combustible liq- uid. However, as an oxidizer, it can greatly accelerate the burning of ordinary combustible materials such as wood or paper. It is also extremely corrosive to many substances. It is incompatible with many materials, including organic materials, chlorates, carbides, fulmi- nates, water, and powdered metals. It reacts violently with water to release extreme heat and may cause fire or explosion. These characteristics require special consideration during any emergency situation involv- ing a leak or spill of sulfuric acid. Should sulfuric acid ever come into contact with incompatible substances either during use, transportation, or storage, the for- mation of highly toxic and/or explosive commodities is extremely possible. Sulfuric acid can enter the environment mainly through industrial discharges or spills. Acute Ecological Effects Acute (short-term) toxic effects may include the death of animals, birds, or fish and death or low growth rate in plants. Acute effects are seen 2 to 4 days after ani- mals or plants are exposed to sulfuric acid. Sulfuric acid has moderate acute toxicity to aquatic life. It is very corrosive and would badly burn any plants, birds, or land animals exposed to sulfuric acid. Chronic Ecological Effects Chronic (long-term) toxic effects may include short- ened life span, reproductive problems, lower fertility, and changes in appearance or behavior in exposed animals. These effects can be seen long after first ex- posure(s) to toxic chemicals. Sulfuric acid has moderate chronic toxicity to aquatic life. Insufficient data are available on the long-term effects of sulfuric acid to aquatic life, plants, birds, or land animals. $ Water Solubility Sulfuric acid is highly soluble in water and will react violently. Concentrations of over 1000 milligrams will mix with a liter of water. Persistence in the Environment Sulfuric acid is slightly persistent in the aquatic envi- ronment, with a half-life of between 2 to 20 days. The half-life of a pollutant is the amount of time it takes for one half of the chemical to be degraded. Bioaccumulation in Aquatic Organisms Some substances increase in concentration, or bioac- cumulate, in living organisms as they breathe con- taminated air, drink contaminated water, or eat con- taminated food. These chemicals can become con- centrated in the tissues and internal organs of animals as well as humans. Small quantities of acids will be neutralized by the alkalinity in aquatic ecosystems. However, larger quantities can actually lower the pH for extended peri- ods of time. Sulfuric acid solutions can contain sul- fate, whose concentration found in fish tissues is ex- pected to be about the same as the average concentra- tion in the water from which the fish was taken. Recommended Risk-Reduction Measures Proper training of all transporters will reduce the like- lihood of a mishap or accident resulting in a leak or spill to the environment. The correct use of DOT la- beling (per the MSDS) on all containers, trucks, and rail cars will enable emergency responders to react properly and quickly to any disaster thereby reducing the potential risk to the environment and to personnel. Storage of sulfuric acid should be segregated from incompatible chemicals to minimize the risk of cross- contamination or contact. Buildings designated for storage should be equipped with appropriate fire pro- tection systems (alarms, sprinklers, emergency light- ing, portable extinguishers). It must be kept cool and in a well-ventilated location away from direct sunlight. If a spill or leak to the environment has occurred, fire department, emergency response and/or hazardous materials spill personnel should be notified immedi- ately. Cleanup should be attempted only by those trained in proper spill containment procedures. Con- taminated soils should be removed for incineration and replaced with clean soil. If sulfuric acid should con- tact the water table, aquifer, or navigable waterway, time is of the essence. It is highly miscible in water and, therefore, total containment and remediation may not be entirely possible. When such spills occur, the local and/or state emergency response authorities must be notified. A comprehensive emergency response or disaster preparedness/recovery plan should be in place prior to any operations involving the use, transporta- tion, storage, or disposal of sulfuric acid. If sulfuric acid is spilled, the following steps are recommended: Restrict persons not wearing protective clothing from area of spill or leak until cleanup is com- plete and area can be opened for normal work. Ventilate area of spill or leak. Risk Management for Hazardous Chemicals Page: 6 1996 by CRC Press, Inc. Absorb liquids in vermiculite, dry sand, earth, or similar material and deposit in sealed containers. Neutralize remaining residue with soda ash or so- dium bicarbonate. Do NOT flush to drains, sew- ers, or waterways. Use water spray to cool and knock down vapors. Collect water for disposal. Protect against excessive water contact with sul- furic acid since it can react to evolve heat. It may be necessary to dispose of sulfuric acid as a hazardous waste. The responsible state agency or the regional office of the federal Environ- mental Protection Agency (EPA) should be con- tacted for specific recommendations. RISK ASSESSMENT: BUSINESS General Assessment Accidents or mishaps involving sulfuric acid can pres- ent a significant threat to business operations. The loss or damage of equipment or facilities can signifi- cantly affect fiscal viability. Lawsuits that may result from personnel injury/death, public exposures, and/or environmental contamination will also require a seri- ous expenditure of resources. Media attention sur- rounding an injury, death, or environmental damage can also result in a loss of profits and loss of current as well as future business. Recommended Risk-Reduction Measures Company attorneys, safety and health professionals, and environmental specialists should be involved in the development of any procedures dealing with safety or emergency response. A company official should be pre-designated as a public relations officer with spe- cific training in dealing with the press. Corporate plans and policies should be developed, approved, and implemented long before any need for such arises. REFERENCES Ahlbom, A. 1993. Biostatistics for Epidemiologists. New York: CRC Press/Lewis Publishers. American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists. 1988. Documentation of the Threshold Limit Values and Biological Expo- sure Indices, 5th Edition (with updates). Cincinnati: ACGIH Asante-Duah, D. K. 1993. Hazardous Waste Risk Assessment. New York: CRC Press/Lewis Publishers. Bloom, A. D. and F. J. DeSerres. 1995. Ecotoxicity and Human Health. New York: CRC Press/Lewis Publishers. Bueche, J. R. 1972. Principles of Physics, 2nd Edition. New York: McGraw-Hill. Calabrese, E. J., E. M. Kenyon. Air Toxics and Risk Assessment. New York: CRC Press/Lewis Publishers. Cockerman, L. G., B. S. Shane. 1994. Basic Environmental Toxicology. New York: CRC Press/Lewis Publishers. Cothern, C. R. 1995. Handbook for Environmental Risk Decisionmaking. New York: CRC Press/Lewis Publishers. Danse, I. R. 1991. Common Sense Toxics in the Workplace. New York: Van Nostrand Reinhold. Gardner, R. W. 1994. Chemical Intolerance. New York: CRC Press/Lewis Publishers. Hallenbeck, W. H. 1993. Quantitative Risk Assessment for Environ- mental and Occupational Health, 2nd Edition. New York: CRC Press/Lewis Publishers. Hosty, J. W., P. Foster. 1990. A Practical Guide to Chemical Spill Re- sponse. New York: Van Nostrand Reinhold. Howard, P. H., et. al. 1991. Handbook of Environmental Degradation Rates. New York: CRC Press/Lewis Publishers. Jones, F. E. 1994. Toxic Organic Vapors in the Workplace. New York: CRC Press/Lewis Publishers. Keith, L. H. and M. M. Walker. 1995. Handbook of Air Toxics. New York: CRC Press/Lewis Publishers. Landis, W. G., M. H. Yu. 1995. Introduction to Environmental Toxicol- ogy. New York: CRC Press/Lewis Publishers. Lauwerys, R. R., P. Hoet. 1993. Industrial Chemical Exposure. New York: CRC Press/Lewis Publishers. Lewis, R. J., Sr. 1993. Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary, 12th Edition. New York: Van Nostrand Reinhold. Lewis, R. J., Sr. 1992. Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materi- als, Volumes 1, 2, and 3, 8th Edition. New York: Van Nostrand Reinhold. Meyer, E. 1990. Chemistry of Hazardous Materials. Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice Hall. Rea, W. J. 1995. Chemical Sensitivity, Vol. I-III. New York: CRC Press/Lewis Publishers. Richardson, M. 1995. Dictionary of Substance and Their Effects, Vol. I- VI. New York: CRC Press/Lewis Publishers. Sacarello, H. L. A. 1994. The Comprehensive Handbook of Hazardous Materials. New York: CRC Press/Lewis Publishers. Sherman, J. D. 1988. Chemical Exposure and Disease. New York: Van Nostrand Reinhold. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. 1994. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Government Printing Office.