Section 1: Identification

Product Name Nitrous Oxide
CAS Number 10024-97-2
Synonyms Laughing gas, dinitrogen monoxide
Recommended Use Nitrous oxide is commonly used in medical procedures, as an anesthetic in dentistry, as an oxidizer in rocketry, as a food propellant in whipped cream dispensers, in automotive applications for performance enhancement, and as a general-purpose oxidizing gas in industrial settings.

Section 2: Hazard Identification

Classification GHS Labeling: Nitrous oxide is classified as an oxidizing gas and a simple asphyxiant.
Potential Hazards
  • High-pressure gas: Nitrous oxide is stored and transported under high pressure in compressed gas cylinders. Mishandling or exposure to elevated temperatures can lead to a rapid release of gas, which can result in cylinder rupture or explosion. Always handle nitrous oxide cylinders with care and ensure they are properly secured to prevent falling or tipping over.
  • Inhalation hazards: Inhalation of nitrous oxide can cause various physiological effects depending on the concentration and duration of exposure. In low to moderate concentrations, nitrous oxide can induce feelings of euphoria, dizziness, and relaxation. However, exposure to high concentrations can lead to more severe effects, including loss of consciousness, respiratory depression, and even death. Prolonged exposure to elevated levels of nitrous oxide can displace oxygen in the air, leading to asphyxiation. It is essential to ensure adequate ventilation when working with nitrous oxide to maintain oxygen levels within safe limits.
  • Environmental impact: Nitrous oxide is a potent greenhouse gas with a long atmospheric lifetime. It contributes to global warming and ozone layer depletion. While its immediate environmental impact is not as acute as some other industrial gases, the cumulative effect of increased atmospheric concentrations of nitrous oxide can have significant long-term implications for climate change and environmental sustainability.

Section 3: Composition/Information on Ingredients

Chemical Name Nitrous Oxide
CAS Number 10024-97-2
Concentration Typically found in a purity of 99.9% or higher.

Section 4: First Aid Measures

Inhalation If inhaled, move the affected person to fresh air immediately. If breathing is difficult, administer artificial respiration. Seek immediate medical attention.
Skin Contact In case of skin contact, remove contaminated clothing and wash the affected area with soap and water. Seek medical attention if irritation persists.
Eye Contact In case of eye contact, rinse eyes thoroughly with water for at least 15 minutes. Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do. Seek medical attention if irritation develops.
Ingestion Nitrous oxide is a gas and is not typically ingested. However, if swallowed accidentally, seek immediate medical attention.

Section 5: Fire-fighting Measures

Suitable Extinguishing Media Use carbon dioxide (CO2), dry chemical, water spray, or foam for extinguishing fires involving nitrous oxide.
Specific Hazards Containers may rupture or explode when exposed to fire due to pressure buildup. Inhalation of decomposition products may be harmful. Firefighters should wear self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and full protective gear.

Section 6: Accidental Release Measures

Personal Precautions Ensure adequate ventilation. Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and safety goggles.
Environmental Precautions Prevent the release of nitrous oxide into waterways, sewers, or confined spaces. Inform appropriate authorities in case of a significant release.

Section 7: Handling and Storage

Handling Use nitrous oxide in well-ventilated areas. Always handle cylinders with care to prevent damage. Secure cylinders upright to prevent them from falling.
Storage Store nitrous oxide cylinders in cool, dry, well-ventilated areas away from sources of ignition, flammable materials, and incompatible substances.

Section 8: Exposure Controls/Personal Protection

Engineering Controls Implement local exhaust ventilation to maintain airborne concentrations below occupational exposure limits.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
  • Eye/Face Protection: Safety goggles to protect against eye contact.
  • Skin Protection: Chemical-resistant gloves to prevent skin contact.
  • Respiratory Protection: Use NIOSH-approved respirators if ventilation is inadequate to maintain safe levels of nitrous oxide.

Section 9: Physical and Chemical Properties

Appearance Colorless, odorless gas
Odor Sweet, pleasant odor at low concentrations
Boiling Point -88.5°C (-127.3°F)
Melting Point -90.8°C (-131.4°F)
Density 1.977 g/L at 0°C and 101.3 kPa
Solubility in Water 0.15 g/L at 20°C

Section 10: Stability and Reactivity

Stability Stable under normal conditions of use and storage.
Incompatibility Avoid contact with reducing agents, combustible materials, and some metals as they can react violently with nitrous oxide.
Hazardous Decomposition Products Nitrous oxide decomposes at high temperatures, producing nitrogen and oxygen.

Section 11: Toxicological Information

Acute Toxicity LC50 (inhalation, rat) > 50,000 ppm/4h
Chronic Toxicity No chronic effects are expected from exposure to nitrous oxide under normal conditions.

Section 12: Ecological Information

Environmental Fate Nitrous oxide has a long atmospheric lifetime and is a potent greenhouse gas contributing to global warming.
Environmental Toxicity No specific environmental toxicity data available, but it is advisable to prevent its release into the environment.

Section 13: Disposal Considerations

Disposal Methods Dispose of nitrous oxide in accordance with local, state, and federal regulations. Empty cylinders should be returned to the supplier or recycled if possible.

Section 14: Transport Information

UN Number UN1070
Shipping Name Nitrous oxide
Class 2.2 (Non-flammable gas)
Packing Group Not applicable

Section 15: Regulatory Information

US Regulations
  • OSHA: 1910.101
  • CERCLA: Reportable Quantity (RQ) = 100 lbs.
  • SARA 302/304: Not listed
  • SARA 311/312: Immediate (acute) health hazard
  • SARA 313: Not listed
  • TSCA: Listed

Section 16: Other Information

Additional Information This product has been classified according to the hazard criteria of the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) and the Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200).

© 2022 TanksByMail All rights reserved.

Home Products Safety Data Sheets FAQs Contact Return Shipping Terms Privacy Policy Sitemap