Sulfur Hexafluoride SF6 Gas

Application

Electrical insulation and arc quenching; tracers; refrigerants; used as plasma etchants and cleaning agents in microelectronic chip manufacturing; formerly employed as anesthetics; also used to fill products like tennis balls and shoe insoles, or as desiccants to displace oxygen in mining operations; provides insulation and nuclear radiation shielding in military equipment.

> Description of First Aid Measures

General Advice: Immediate medical attention is required. Show this safety data sheet (SDS) to the

doctor in attendance

Eye Contact: Rinse thoroughly with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes and c旧nsult a physician if

feel uncomfortable

Skin Contact: Take off contaminated clothing and shoes immediately. Wash off with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes and consult a physician if feel uncomfortable

Ingestion: Do not induce vomitjng. Never g|ve anything by mouťh to an unconscjous person. Call a physician or Poison Control Center immediately.

Inhalation: Move victim into fresh air. If breathing is difficult, give oxygen. Do not use mouth to mouth resuscitation if victim ingested or inhaled the substance. If not breathing, give artificial respiration and consult a physician immediately.

Protecting of First-aiders: Ensure that medical personnel are aware of the substance involved. Take precautions to protect themselves and prevent spread of contamination.

> Most Important Symptoms and Effects, both Acute and Delayed

Substance accumulation, in the human body, may occur and may cause some concern following repeated or long-term occupational exposure.

> Indication of Any Immediate Medical Attention and Special Treatment Needed

1 Treat symptomatically.

2 Symptoms may be delayed.

> Specific Hazards Arising from the Substance or Mixture

1. High concentrations of gas may cause asphyxiation without warning.

2. Contact with gas may cause burns, severe injury and/ or frostbite.

3. Containers may explode when heated.

4. Fire exposed containers may vent contents through pressure relief valves.

5. May expansion or decompose explosively when heated or involved in fire.

> Advice for Firefighters

1. As in any fire, wear self-contained breathing apparatus (MSHA/NIOSH approved or equivalent)and full protective gear.

2. Fight fire from a safe distance, with adequate cover.

3. Prevent fire extinguishing water from contaminating surface water or the ground water system.

FAQs

1. What is Sulfur Hexafluoride SF6 used for?

SF6 is used for electrical insulation, arc quenching, refrigerants, tracers, plasma etching and cleaning in microelectronics, and insulation or shielding applications.

2. What are the main hazards of SF6?

High concentrations of SF6 may cause asphyxiation, and contact with the gas may cause frostbite or severe injury.

3. Is SF6 flammable?

SF6 itself is not flammable, but containers may explode when heated or exposed to fire.

4. What should be done if SF6 is inhaled?

Move the person to fresh air immediately. If breathing is difficult, give oxygen and seek medical attention.

5. How should SF6 be handled safely?

Use in a well-ventilated area, avoid high heat or fire exposure, and wear proper protective equipment when handling cylinders.