aluminiumphosphide

H260: In contact with water releases flammable gases which may ignite spontaneously [Danger Substances and mixtures which in contact with water, emit flammable gases]

H300: Fatal if swallowed [Danger Acute toxicity, oral]

H311: Toxic in contact with skin [Danger Acute toxicity, dermal]

H330: Fatal if inhaled [Danger Acute toxicity, inhalation]

H400: Very toxic to aquatic life [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, acute hazard]

P223, P231+P232, P260, P262, P264, P270, P271, P273, P280, P284, P301+P316, P302+P335+P334, P302+P352, P304+P340, P316, P320, P321, P330, P361+P364, P370+P378, P391, P402+P404, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

H260 (100%): In contact with water releases flammable gases which may ignite spontaneously [Danger Substances and mixtures which in contact with water, emit flammable gases]

H300+H330 (33.3%): Fatal if swallowed or if inhaled [Danger Acute toxicity, oral; acute toxicity, inhalation]

H300 (100%): Fatal if swallowed [Danger Acute toxicity, oral]

H311 (55.6%): Toxic in contact with skin [Danger Acute toxicity, dermal]

H330 (33.3%): Fatal if inhaled [Danger Acute toxicity, inhalation]

H400 (100%): Very toxic to aquatic life [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, acute hazard]

Aggregated GHS information provided per 18 reports by companies from 6 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.

Information may vary between notifications depending on impurities, additives, and other factors. The percentage value in parenthesis indicates the notified classification ratio from companies that provide hazard codes. Only hazard codes with percentage values above 10% are shown. For more detailed information, please visit ECHA C&L website.

P260, P271, P284, P304+P340, P316, P320, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

H315: Causes skin irritation [Warning Skin corrosion/irritation]

H319: Causes serious eye irritation [Warning Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

H371: May cause damage to organs [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure]

P223, P231+P232, P260, P264, P264+P265, P270, P280, P301+P316, P302+P335+P334, P302+P352, P305+P351+P338, P308+P316, P321, P330, P332+P317, P337+P317, P362+P364, P370+P378, P402+P404, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Fresh air, rest. Half-upright position. Artificial respiration may be needed. No mouth-to-mouth artificial respiration. Refer immediately for medical attention.

Remove contaminated clothes. Rinse and then wash skin with water and soap. Wear protective gloves when administering first aid.

First rinse with plenty of water for several minutes (remove contact lenses if easily possible), then refer for medical attention.

Rinse mouth. Do NOT induce vomiting. Refer immediately for medical attention.

Warning: Effects may be delayed for several hours. Caution is advised.

Signs and Symptoms of Acute Aluminum Phosphide Exposure: Acute exposure to aluminum phosphide usually results in headache, cough, tightness and pain in the chest, shortness of breath, dizziness, lethargy, and stupor. Muscle pain, fatigue, chills, tremor, lack of coordination, seizures, and coma may be observed. Pulmonary edema and cardiac irregularities are also commonly found. Gastrointestinal effects include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Renal (kidney) damage, hepatic (liver) damage, and jaundice may also occur. Contact with aluminum phosphide may cause severe burns to skin and eyes.

Emergency Life-Support Procedures: Acute exposure to aluminum phosphide may require decontamination and life support for the victims. Emergency personnel should wear protective clothing appropriate to the type and degree of contamination. Air-purifying or supplied-air respiratory equipment should also be worn, as necessary. Rescue vehicles should carry supplies such as plastic sheeting and disposable plastic bags to assist in preventing spread of contamination.

Inhalation Exposure:

1. Move victims to fresh air. Emergency personnel should avoid self-exposure to aluminum phosphide.

2. Evaluate vital signs including pulse and respiratory rate, and note any trauma. If no pulse is detected, provide CPR. If not breathing, provide artificial respiration. If breathing is labored, administer oxygen or other respiratory support.

3. Obtain authorization and/or further instructions from the local hospital for administration of an antidote or performance of other invasive procedures.

4. Transport to a health care facility.

Dermal/Eye Exposure:

1. Remove victims from exposure. Emergency personnel should avoid self- exposure to aluminum phosphide.

3. Remove contaminated clothing as soon as possible.

4. If eye exposure has occurred, eyes must be flushed with lukewarm water for at least 15 minutes.

5. Wash exposed skin areas twice with soap and water.

6. Obtain authorization and/or further instructions from the local hospital for administration of an antidote or performance of other invasive procedures.

7. Transport to a health care facility.

Ingestion Exposure: No information is available. (EPA, 1998)

General First Aid:

· Call 911 or emergency medical service.

· Ensure that medical personnel are aware of the material(s) involved, take precautions to protect themselves and avoid contamination.

· Move victim to fresh air if it can be done safely.

· Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult.

· If victim is not breathing:

-- DO NOT perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation; the victim may have ingested or inhaled the substance.

-- If equipped and pulse detected, wash face and mouth, then give artificial respiration using a proper respiratory medical device (bag-valve mask, pocket mask equipped with a one-way valve or other device).

-- If no pulse detected or no respiratory medical device available, provide continuous compressions. Conduct a pulse check every two minutes or monitor for any signs of spontaneous respirations.

· Remove and isolate contaminated clothing and shoes.

· For minor skin contact, avoid spreading material on unaffected skin.

· In case of contact with substance, remove immediately by flushing skin or eyes with running water for at least 20 minutes.

· For severe burns, immediate medical attention is required.

· Effects of exposure (inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact) to substance may be delayed.

· Keep victim calm and warm.

· Keep victim under observation.

· For further assistance, contact your local Poison Control Center.

· Note: Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Life Support (ALS) should be done by trained professionals.

Specific First Aid:

· In case of contact with substance, wipe from skin immediately; flush skin or eyes with running water for at least 20 minutes.

Wear self-contained breathing apparatus when fighting fires involving this material. If contact with the material is anticipated, wear full protective clothing.

Do not use water or foam. Small fires can be extinguished with dry chemical, soda ash, or lime. Large fires -- withdraw from area and let fire burn. Move container from fire only if you can do it without risk. (EPA, 1998)

Use dry powder, dry sand, carbon dioxide. NO water.

If material on fire or involved in fire: Do not use water. Use dry chemical or carbon dioxide.

/Use/ carbon dioxide, dry chemical extinguisher. Do not use water.

Smother with dry sand, dry clay, dry ground limestone, or use approved Class D extinguishers. DO NOT use water. Violent reaction may result. Where access to the area is strictly controlled, it may be best to allow the release to burn.

Stop flow of liquid before extinguishing fire. Use dry chemical or carbon dioxide. DO NOT use water as straight stream directly on spilled material. Water fog can be used to control fire. DO NOT use halogenated extinguishing agents on spilled material. Violent reaction may result. Use water spray to keep fire-exposed containers cool. Fight fire from protected location or maximum possible distance. /Aluminum Alkyls/

Do not use water or water-based foam, as phosphine gas is formed. Small fires can be extinguished with dry chemical, soda ash, clay, or ground limestone, or use an approved Class D extinguisher. Large fires: Withdraw from area and let fire burn. Move container from fire only if you can do it without risk. ... The only respirators recommended for firefighting are self-contained breathing apparatuses that have full face-pieces and are operated in a pressure-demand or other positive-pressure mode. Wear self-contained breathing apparatus when fighting fires involving this material. If contact with the material is anticipated, wear full protective clothing.

Aluminum phosphide yield phosphine on reaction with water. Phosphine is spontaneously flammable in air.

· CALL 911. Then call emergency response telephone number on shipping paper. If shipping paper not available or no answer, refer to appropriate telephone number listed on the inside back cover.

· Keep unauthorized personnel away.

· Stay upwind, uphill and/or upstream.

· Ventilate closed spaces before entering, but only if properly trained and equipped.

· ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames) from immediate area.

· Do not touch or walk through spilled material.

· Stop leak if you can do it without risk.

· DO NOT GET WATER on spilled substance or inside containers.

· Use water spray to reduce vapors or divert vapor cloud drift. Avoid allowing water runoff to contact spilled material.

· FOR CHLOROSILANES, use alcohol-resistant foam to reduce vapors.

Small Spill

· Cover with DRY earth, DRY sand or other non-combustible material followed with plastic sheet to minimize spreading or contact with rain.

· Dike for later disposal; do not apply water unless directed to do so.

Powder Spill

· Cover powder spill with plastic sheet or tarp to minimize spreading and keep powder dry.

· DO NOT CLEAN-UP OR DISPOSE OF, EXCEPT UNDER SUPERVISION OF A SPECIALIST.

PH3 - when spill Aluminum phosphide into water.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 139 [Substances - Water-Reactive (Emitting Flammable and Toxic Gases)]:

IMMEDIATE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURE: Isolate spill or leak area in all directions for at least 50 meters (150 feet) for liquids and at least 25 meters (75 feet) for solids.

SPILL: See ERG Table 1 - Initial Isolation and Protective Action Distances on the UN/NA 1397 datasheet.

FIRE: If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions. (ERG, 2024)

Immediate precautionary measure

· Isolate spill or leak area in all directions for at least 50 meters (150 feet) for liquids and at least 25 meters (75 feet) for solids.

· For highlighted materials: see Table 1 - Initial Isolation and Protective Action Distances.

· For non-highlighted materials: increase the immediate precautionary measure distance, in the downwind direction, as necessary.

· If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions.

When spilled in water

Small spill:

- ISOLATE in all directions: 30 m (100 ft)

Large spill:

- ISOLATE in all directions: 400 m (1250 ft)

- PROTECT people from downwind during DAY time: 0.1 km (0.1 mi)

- PROTECT people from downwind during NIGHT time: 0.7 km (0.4 mi)

- PROTECT people from downwind during DAY time: 1.6 km (1.0 mi)

- PROTECT people from downwind during NIGHT time: 4.7 km (2.9 mi)

Evacuate danger area! Consult an expert! Personal protection: complete protective clothing including self-contained breathing apparatus. Do NOT wash away into sewer. Do NOT let this chemical enter the environment. Cover the spilled material with dry earth, dry sand or plastic sheet. Sweep spilled substance into covered sealable containers. Carefully collect remainder. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations.

Wear special protective clothing and positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus. ... Blanket release with dry sand, clay, or ground limestone. Shovel into suitable dry container.

Shut off ignition; no flares, smoking, or flames in hazard area. Do not touch spilled material. Do not get water on spilled material or inside container. Dike spill for later disposal. Blanket release with dry sand, clay, or ground limestone. Shovel small spill into clean, dry container, and cover. Move containers from spill area. Avoid breathing dust. Wear appropriate protective clothing and use appropriate respiratory protection. Cover large powder spill with plastic sheet or tarp to minimize spreading. Clean up only under supervision of an expert. DOT warns that this chemical is spilled in water: Dangerous from 0.5 to 10 km (0.3-6.0 miles) downwind. Small spills (from a small package or a small leak from a large package) when spilled in water: First: Isolate in all directions (feet/meters) 300/100. Then: Protect persons downwind (miles/kilometers) Day 0.3/0.5, Night 1.2/1.9. Large spills (from a large package or from many small packages): First: Isolate in all directions (feet meters) 2000/600. Then: Protect persons downwind (miles/kilometers) Day 3.6/5.8, Night 7.0+/11.0+.

Generators of waste (equal to or greater than 100 kg/mo) containing this contaminant, EPA hazardous waste number P006, must conform with USEPA regulations in storage, transportation, treatment and disposal of waste.

SRP: Wastewater from contaminant suppression, cleaning of protective clothing/equipment, or contaminated sites should be contained and evaluated for subject chemical or decomposition product concentrations. Concentrations shall be lower than applicable environmental discharge or disposal criteria. Alternatively, pretreatment and/or discharge to a permitted wastewater treatment facility is acceptable only after review by the governing authority and assurance that "pass through" violations will not occur. Due consideration shall be given to remediation worker exposure (inhalation, dermal and ingestion) as well as fate during treatment, transfer and disposal. If it is not practicable to manage the chemical in this fashion, it must be evaluated in accordance with EPA 40 CFR Part 261, specifically Subpart B, in order to determine the appropriate local, state and federal requirements for disposal.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 139 [Substances - Water-Reactive (Emitting Flammable and Toxic Gases)]:

ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames) from immediate area. Do not touch or walk through spilled material. Stop leak if you can do it without risk. DO NOT GET WATER on spilled substance or inside containers. Use water spray to reduce vapors or divert vapor cloud drift. Avoid allowing water runoff to contact spilled material. FOR CHLOROSILANES, use alcohol-resistant foam to reduce vapors.

SMALL SPILL: Cover with DRY earth, DRY sand or other non-combustible material followed with plastic sheet to minimize spreading or contact with rain. Dike for later disposal; do not apply water unless directed to do so.

POWDER SPILL: Cover powder spill with plastic sheet or tarp to minimize spreading and keep powder dry. DO NOT CLEAN-UP OR DISPOSE OF, EXCEPT UNDER SUPERVISION OF A SPECIALIST. (ERG, 2024)

Dry. Cool. Fireproof. Provision to contain effluent from fire extinguishing. Separated from water, other incompatible materials and food and feedstuffs. See Chemical Dangers.

Always keep container closed, dry. Store in a noncombustible, nonsprinklered building away from all combustible material. Isolate from strong acids.

Extremely reactive with air, moisture and compounds containing active hydrogen and therefore must be kept under a blanket of inert gas. /Aluminum alkyls/

· Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).

· Wear chemical protective clothing that is specifically recommended by the manufacturer when there is NO RISK OF FIRE.

· Structural firefighters' protective clothing provides thermal protection but only limited chemical protection.

TIH (Toxic Inhalation Hazard) - Term used to describe gases and volatile liquids that are toxic when inhaled. Some are TIH materials themselves, e.g., chlorine, and some release TIH gases when spilled in water, e.g., chlorosilanes. [ERG 2016].

AEGL 1: Notable discomfort, irritation, or certain asymptomatic non-sensory effects. However, the effects are not disabling and are transient and reversible upon cessation of exposure (Unit: ppm)

AEGL 2: Irreversible or other serious, long-lasting adverse health effects or an impaired ability to escape (Unit: ppm)

AEGL 3: Life-threatening health effects or death (Unit: ppm)

NR = Not recommended due to insufficient data

AEGLs Status: Final

1.3 [ppm]

2.0 [ppm]

3.6 [ppm]

8 hr Time Weighted Avg (TWA): 1 mg/cu m (respirable fraction) /Aluminum metal and insoluble compounds/

A4; Not classifiable as a human carcinogen. /Aluminum metal and insoluble compounds/

Peak Exposure Recommendation: Transient increases in workers' exposure levels may exceed 3 times the value of the TLV-TWA level for no more than 15 minutes at a time, on no more than 4 occasions spaced 1 hour apart during a workday, and under no circumstances should they exceed 5 times the value of the TLV-TWA level. In addition, the 8-hour TWA is not to be exceeded for an 8-hour work period. /Aluminum metal and insoluble compounds/

Intermediate Oral: 1.0 mg/kg/day (L134)

Chronic Oral: 1.0 mg/kg/day (L134)

· DO NOT USE WATER OR FOAM. (FOAM MAY BE USED FOR CHLOROSILANES, SEE BELOW)

Small Fire

· Dry chemical, soda ash, lime or sand.

Large Fire

· DRY sand, dry chemical, soda ash or lime or withdraw from area and let fire burn.

· FOR CHLOROSILANES, DO NOT USE WATER; use alcohol-resistant foam; DO NOT USE dry chemicals, soda ash or lime on chlorosilane fires (large or small) as they may release large quantities of hydrogen gas that may explode.

· If it can be done safely, move undamaged containers away from the area around the fire.

Fire Involving Tanks, Rail Tank Cars or Highway Tanks

· Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles.

· Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out.

· Do not get water inside containers.

· Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of tank.

· ALWAYS stay away from tanks in direct contact with flames.

Table: AEGLs for Aluminum Phosphide (ppm) [Table#5678]

Evaporation at 20 °C is negligible; a harmful concentration of airborne particles can, however, be reached quickly. Hydrolysis in atmospheric moisture or perspiration may yield gaseous phosphine which can be inhaled.

The substance is irritating to the eyes, skin and respiratory tract. Inhalation of decomposition products (phosphine) may cause lung oedema. The substance may cause effects on the cardiovascular system, nervous system, respiratory tract, liver and kidneys. This may result in impaired functions, respiratory failure, tachycardia and coma. Exposure could cause death.

For emergency situations, wear a positive pressure, pressure-demand, full facepiece self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) or pressure- demand supplied air respirator with escape SCBA and a fully-encapsulating, chemical resistant suit. (EPA, 1998)

Wear protective gloves and clothing to prevent any reasonable probability of skin contact. ... All protective clothing (suits, gloves, footwear, headgear) should be clean, available each day, and put on before work. ... Wear dust-proof chemical goggles and face shield unless full face-piece respiratory protection is worn.

Wear appropriate eye protection to prevent eye contact. /Aluminum (soluble salts and alkyls, as Al)/

NO open flames, NO sparks and NO smoking. NO contact with water, heat or many other substances.

PREVENT DISPERSION OF DUST! STRICT HYGIENE!

Use local exhaust or breathing protection.

Protective gloves.

Wear safety goggles or eye protection in combination with breathing protection.

Aluminum phosphide is a dark gray or dry, yellow, crystalline solid. It reacts with moisture to give phosphine, a flammable and poisonous gas. Normally, phosphine will spontaneously ignite upon contact with air. If there is an excess of water, the phosphine fire will not normally ignite any surrounding combustible material.

Dark gray or dark yellow crystals; [ICSC]

DARK GREY OR YELLOW CRYSTALS.

Dark gray or dark yellow crystals. Cubic zinc blende structure.

Dark grey or yellowish crystals

Green or yellow cubic crystals

Garlic odor

Does not melt or decompose at temperatures up to 1832 °F. (EPA, 1998)

2,550 °C

Reacts with water

Though stable when dry, it reacts with moist air, and violently with acids.

Solubility in water: reaction

2.85 at 59 °F (EPA, 1998) - Denser than water; will sink

2.40 g/cu cm at 25 °C

Relative density (water = 1): 2.9

2.85 @25 °C

Very low, even at 1000 °C

... Moisture sensitive ... stable up to 10 °C.

Liberates pyrophoric, poisonous phosphine gas on contact with moist air, water, steam.

Does not melt or decompose thermally at temp up to 1000 °C.

When heated to decomposition it emits toxic /phosphorus oxides/.

Does not melt or decompose thermally at temperatures up to 1000 °C

Specific gravity: 2.85 at 14 °C/4 °C

Reacts readily with moist air to produce toxic phosphine gas

Colorless gas; odor of carbide; BP 87.3 °C. Soluble in carbon disulfide

Heat of formation: -166.5 (crystalline) at 298.15 K

valence band parameter

thermal expansion coefficient

phonon wavenumber

dielectric constant

pseudobinary system

pyroelectric constant

crystal structure

Debye frequency

dielectricity

enthalpy

radiation

effective mass

isothermal section

Gibbs energy

Decomposed by water or moist air, evolving phosphine slowly, a toxic gas that often ignites [Merck 11th ed. 1989].

Based on a scenario where the chemical is spilled into an excess of water (at least 5 fold excess of water), half of the maximum theoretical yield of Phosphine gas will be created in 15 minutes. Experimental details are in the following: "Development of the Table of Initial Isolation and Protective Distances for the 2008 Emergency Response Guidebook", ANL/DIS-09-2, D.F. Brown, H.M. Hartmann, W.A. Freeman, and W.D. Haney, Argonne National Laboratory, Argonne, Illinois, June 2009.

Nitrides, Phosphides, Carbides, and Silicides

Strong Reducing Agent

Water-Reactive

Air-Reactive

ALUMINUM PHOSPHIDE is a reducing agent. Contact with mineral acids causes explosive evolution of toxic phosphine [Wang, C. C. et al., J. Inorg. Nucl. Chem., 1963, 25, p. 327]. Heating produces highly toxic fumes of phosphorus oxides. Can react vigorously upon contact with oxidizing agents. [Sax, 9th ed., p. 119].

... In contact with water, steam or alkali it slowly yields /phosphine/ which is spontaneously flammable in air.

Explosive reation on contact with mineral acids produces phosphine.

Reacts violently with water, steam, carbon dioxide, acids, alcohols, and foam fire extinguishers. Contact with water and bases slowly releases flammable phosphine gas.

Extremely reactive with air, moisture, and compounds containing active hydrogen... /Alkyl aluminum compounds/

IDENTIFICATION AND USE: Aluminum phosphide forms green or yellow cubic crystals with a garlic odor. It is used as fumigant, rodenticide, and insecticide for stored cereal grains; fumigant for control of burrowing rodents. HUMAN STUDIES: 195 patients with aluminum phosphide ingestion were admitted to hospital. Of 195 patients, 115 died. The nonsurvivors had more severe hypotension and metabolic acidosis than the survivors who had more severe vomiting. Autopsies conducted in 115 subjects revealed congestion of liver, spleen, kidneys, adrenals, gastrointestinal tract and brain that correlated with the severity of hypotension. Aluminum phosphide when ingested is highly toxic with fatal dose as low as 1.5 g. The dominant clinical feature is severe hypotension refractory to dopamine. There was a significantly greater rise in serum magnesium in patients with severe toxicity compared to patients with mild to moderate toxicity. Aluminum phosphide induced genotoxic effects such as sister chromatid exchange (SCE) and chromosome aberration (CA) in cultured human blood cells in the presence of a metabolic activator. ANIMAL STUDIES: Aluminum phosphide, a widely used fumigant and rodenticide leads to high mortality if ingested. Its toxicity is due to phosphine liberated when it comes in contact with moisture. Toxicity in rats appears to result as a consequence of both-energy insufficiency and oxidative stress, with a possible and preferential interaction with the tissue cytochromes. In rats, the deleterious effect of aluminum phosphide on heart is mediated by both declined cellular metabolism of the myocardium as well as by necrosis of the cardiac tissue resulting in the release of reactive oxygen intermediates. In a two-year rat feeding study no evidence of carcinogenicity was seen. Aluminum phosphide induced genetic and oxidative damages in rats. Chromosomal aberrations (CAs) and micronucleus (MN) assay were used for monitoring genotoxic damage. Aluminium phosphide caused increase in CA and MN assay rates. ECOTOXICITY STUDIES: One use pattern of aluminum and magnesium phosphide, as a burrow fumigant, poses a risk to threatened and endangered species of mammals and reptiles. The risks posed to these species occur if they are found in a burrow that is fumigated. Because of the high degree of toxicity of phosphine gas, all animals in a treated burrow will be killed. In 1981, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service determined that use of aluminum and magnesium phosphide as a burrow fumigant may jeopardize the black-footed ferret, the Utah prairie dog, the San Joaquin kit fox, the blunt-nosed leopard lizard, the eastern indigo snake, and the desert tortoise.

The main target organs of aluminum are the central nervous system and bone. Aluminum binds with dietary phosphorus and impairs gastrointestinal absorption of phosphorus. The decreased phosphate body burden results in osteomalacia (softening of the bones due to defective bone mineralization) and rickets. Aluminum's neurotoxicity is believed to involve several mechanisms. Changes in cytoskeletal protein functions as a results of altered phosphorylation, proteolysis, transport, and synthesis are believed to be one cause. Aluminum may induce neurobehavioral effects by affecting permeability of the blood-brain barrier, cholinergic activity, signal transduction pathways, lipid peroxidation, and impair neuronal glutamate nitric oxide-cyclic GMP pathway, as well as interfere with metabolism of essential trace elements because of similar coordination chemistries and consequent competitive interactions. It has been suggested that aluminum's interaction with estrogen receptors increases the expression of estrogen-related genes and thereby contributes to the progression of breast cancer (A235), but studies have not been able to establish a clear link between aluminum and increased risk of breast cancer (A15468). Certain aluminum salts induce immune responses by activating inflammasomes. Phosphine inhibits cytochrome c oxidase, preventing mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation. This non-competitive inhibition prevents cellular respiration and leads to multi-organ dysfunction. Phosphine can also react with hydrogen peroxide to form the highly reactive hydroxyl radical, which can cause lipid peroxidation. (A291, A292, L739, A235, A236)

Aluminum phosphide

4 x 10 ^-4 mg/kg-day

A4; Not classifiable as a human carcinogen. /Aluminum metal and insoluble compounds/

Not listed by IARC. IARC classified aluminum production as carcinogenic to humans (Group 1), but did not implicate aluminum itself as a human carcinogen. (L135) A link between use of aluminum-containing antiperspirants and increased risk of breast cancer has been proposed (A235), but studies have not been able to establish a clear link (A15468).

Aluminum targets the nervous system and causes decreased nervous system performance and is associated with altered function of the blood-brain barrier. The accumulation of aluminum in the body may cause bone or brain diseases. High levels of aluminum have been linked to Alzheimer's disease. A small percentage of people are allergic to aluminium and experience contact dermatitis, digestive disorders, vomiting or other symptoms upon contact or ingestion of products containing aluminium. Inhalation of phosphine may cause severe pulmonary irritation leading to acute pulmonary oedema, cardiovascular dysfunction, CNS excitation, coma and death. Gastrointestinal disorders, renal damage and leukopenia may also occur. Chronic exposure to phosphine can result in anemia, bronchitis, gastrointestinal effects, and visual, speech and motor problems. (L980, L982, L739, L740)

The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation of its aerosol and by ingestion.

Oral (L739) ; Inhalation (L739)

Sore throat. Cough. Shortness of breath. Headache. Dizziness. Nausea. Vomiting. Diarrhoea.

Redness. Burning sensation.

Redness. Pain.

Nausea. Vomiting. Diarrhoea. Abdominal pain. Headache. Convulsions. Shock or collapse. Unconsciousness.

Inhalating aluminum dust causes coughing and abnormal chest X-rays. A small percentage of people are allergic to aluminium and experience contact dermatitis, digestive disorders, vomiting or other symptoms upon contact or ingestion of products containing aluminium. Early symptoms of acute phosphine intoxication include pain in the diaphragm, nausea, vomiting, excitement, and a phosphorus smell on the breath. Higher levels can cause weakness, bronchitis, pulmonary edema, shortness of breath, convulsions, and death. Some effects, such as pulmonary edema, convulsions, and liver injury, may appear or continue to be present days after an exposure. Ingestion of metal phosphides results in release of phosphine in your stomach which can cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. (L980, L739, L740)

Neurotoxin - Other CNS neurotoxin

Occupational hepatotoxin - Secondary hepatotoxins: the potential for toxic effect in the occupational setting is based on cases of poisoning by human ingestion or animal experimentation.

Nephrotoxin - The chemical is potentially toxic to the kidneys in the occupational setting.

Toxic Pneumonitis - Inflammation of the lungs induced by inhalation of metal fumes or toxic gases and vapors.

IRIS Current

HEAST Current

Aluminum Phosphide

Children

General Population

Human Health Benchmarks for Pesticides - 2021 Update

LCLo (men) = 2,800 mg/m3

LD50: 11.5 mg/kg (Oral, Rat) (T29)

LC50: 15.5 mg/m3 over 4 hours (Inhalation, Rat) (T29)

LD50 Human oral 20 mg/kg

LD50 Rat oral 11.5 mg/kg

LC50 Rat inhalation 15.5 mg/cu m/4 hr

LD50 Rat (male) oral 14.13 mg/kg

LD50 Rat (female) oral 11.89 mg/kg

As there is no antidote for phosphine poisoning, treatment is mainly symptomatic. Artificial respiration, gastric lavage, and/or administration of activated charcoal may be necessary. (L982)

The present study was designed for determining the exact mechanism of cytotoxic action of aluminum phosphide (AlP) in the presence of iron sucrose as the proposed antidote. Rats received AlP (12 mg/kg) and iron sucrose (5-30 mg/kg) in various sets and were connected to cardiovascular monitoring device. After identification of optimum doses of AlP and iron sucrose, rats taken in 18 groups received AlP (6 mg/kg) and iron sucrose (10 mg/kg), treated at six different time points, and then their hearts were surgically removed and used for evaluating a series of mitochondrial parameters, including cell lipid peroxidation, antioxidant power, mitochondrial complex activity, ADP/ATP ratio and process of apoptosis. ECG changes of AlP poisoning, including QRS, QT, P-R, ST, BP and HR were ameliorated by iron sucrose (10 mg/kg) treatment. AlP initiated its toxicity in the heart mitochondria through reducing mitochondrial complexes (II, IV and V), which was followed by increasing lipid peroxidation and the ADP/ATP ratio and declining mitochondrial membrane integrity that ultimately resulted in cell death. AlP in acute exposure (6 mg/kg) resulted in an increase in hydroxyl radicals and lipid peroxidation in a time-dependent fashion, suggesting an interaction of delivering electrons of phosphine with mitochondrial respiratory chain and oxidative stress. Iron sucrose, as an electron receiver, can compete with mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes and divert electrons to another pathway. The present findings supported the idea that iron sucrose could normalize the activity of mitochondrial electron transfer chain and cellular ATP level as vital factors for cell escaping from AlP poisoning.

Aluminum phosphide (ALP), as an effective pesticide and a substance used for protecting rice during storage, has become one of the commonest causes of poisoning and even suicide in developing countries including Iran and India. The authors aimed to study the efficacy of sweet almond oil as an antidote in ALP toxicity. The present experimental study was conducted over 35 rats. The animals were divided into four groups: one group as the control group and three other groups which received ALP alone or ALP and sweet almond oil with different time intervals. In addition to estimating the survival rate of the animals, plasma cholinesterase activity as a possible factor affected in ALP poisoning was evaluated. Treatment by intragastric irrigation of sweet almond oil resulted in significant reduction of mortality. Moreover, mean plasma cholinesterase levels were inhibited in groups receiving ALP. Oral sweet almond oil, if especially used immediately after poisoning with ALP, improves the survival rate.

Aluminum phosphide (AlP), one of the most commonly used pesticides worldwide, has been the leading cause of self-poisoning mortalities among many Asian countries. The heart is the main organ affected in AlP poisoning. Melatonin has been previously shown to be beneficial in reversing toxic changes in the heart. The present study reveals evidence on the probable protective effects of melatonin on AlP-induced cardiotoxicity in rats. The study groups included a control (almond oil only), ethanol 5% (solvent), sole melatonin (50 mg/kg), AlP (16.7 mg/kg), and 4 AlP + melatonin groups which received 20, 30, 40 and 50 mg/kg of melatonin by intraperitoneal injections following AlP treatment. An electronic cardiovascular monitoring device was used to record the electrocardiographic (ECG) parameters. Heart tissues were studied in terms of oxidative stress biomarkers, mitochondrial complexes activities, ADP/ATP ratio and apoptosis. Abnormal ECG records as well as declined heart rate and blood pressure were found to be related to AlP administration. Based on the results, melatonin was highly effective in controlling AlP-induced changes in the study groups. Significant improvements were observed in the activities of mitochondrial complexes, oxidative stress biomarkers, the activities of caspases 3 and 9, and ADP/ATP ratio following treatment with melatonin at doses of 40 and 50 mg/kg. Our results indicate that melatonin can counteract the AlP-induced oxidative damage in the heart. This is mainly done by maintaining the normal balance of intracellular ATP as well as the prevention of oxidative damage. Further research is warranted to evaluate the possibility of using melatonin as an antidote in AlP poisoning.

Aluminum phosphide is used as a fumigant. It produces phosphine gas (PH3). PH3 is a mitochondrial poison which inhibits cytochrome c oxidase, it leads to generation of reactive oxygen species; so one of the most important suggested mechanisms for its toxicity is induction of oxidative stress. In this regard, it could be proposed that a drug like N-acetylcysteine (NAC) as an antioxidant would improve the tolerance of aluminum phosphide-intoxicated cases. The objective of this study was to evaluate the protective effects of NAC on acute aluminum phosphide poisoning. This was a prospective, randomized, controlled open-label trial. All patients received the same supportive treatments. NAC treatment group also received NAC. The blood thiobarbituric acid reactive substances as a marker of lipid peroxidation and total antioxidant capacity of plasma were analyzed. Mean ingested dose of aluminum phosphide in NAC treatment and control groups was 4.8 +/- 0.9 g vs. 5.4 +/- 3.3 g, respectively (p = 0.41). Significant increase in plasma malonyldialdehyde level in control group was observed (139 +/- 28.2 vs. 149.6 +/- 35.2 umol/L, p = 0.02). NAC infusion in NAC treatment group significantly decreased malondialdehyde level (195.7 +/- 67.4 vs. 174.6 +/- 48.9 umol/L, p = 0.03), duration of hospitalization (2.7 +/- 1.8 days vs. 8.5 +/- 8.2 days, p = 0.02), rate of intubation and ventilation (45.4% vs. 73.3%, p = 0.04). Mortality rate in NAC treatment and control groups were 36% and 60%, respectively with odds ratio 2.6 (0.7-10.1, 95% CI). NAC may have a therapeutic effect in acute aluminum phosphide poisoning.

The aim of the present study was to investigate the efficacy of acetyl-L-carnitine (ALCAR) on pathologic changes of mitochondrial respiratory chain activity, ATP production, oxidative stress, and cellular apoptosis/necrosis induced by aluminum phosphide (AlP) poisoning. The study groups included: the Sham that received almond oil only; the AlP that received oral LD50 dose of aluminum; the AC-100, AC-200, and AC-300 which received concurrent oral LD50 dose of AlP and single 100, 200, and 300 mg/kg of ALCAR by intraperitoneal injection. After 24 hr, the rats were sacrificed; the heart and blood sample were taken for measurement of biochemical and mitochondrial factors. The results specified that ALCAR significantly attenuated the oxidative stress (elevated ROS and plasma iron levels) caused by AlP poisoning. ALCAR also increased the activity of cytochrome oxidase, which in turn amplified ATP production. Furthermore, flow cytometric assays and caspase activity indicated that ALCAR prohibited AlP-induced apoptosis in cardiomyocytes.

Immediate first aid: Ensure that adequate decontamination has been carried out. If patient is not breathing, start artificial respiration, preferably with a demand-valve resuscitator, bag-valve-mask device, or pocket mask, as trained. Perform CPR if necessary. Immediately flush contaminated eyes with gently flowing water. Do not induce vomiting. If vomiting occurs, lean patient forward or place on left side (head-down position, if possible) to maintain an open airway and prevent aspiration. Keep patient quiet and maintain normal body temperature. Obtain medical attention. /Phosphine and Related Compounds/

Basic treatment: Establish a patent airway (oropharyngeal or nasopharyngeal airway, if needed). Suction if necessary. Watch for signs of respiratory insufficiency and assist ventilations if necessary. Administer oxygen by nonrebreather mask at 10 to 15 L/min. Monitor for pulmonary edema and treat if necessary ... . Monitor for shock and treat if necessary ... . Anticipate seizures and treat if necessary ... . For eye contamination, flush eyes immediately with water. Irrigate each eye continuously with 0.9% saline (NS) during transport ... . /Phosphine and Related Compounds/

Advanced treatment: Consider orotracheal or nasotracheal intubation for airway control in the patient who is unconscious, has severe pulmonary edema, or is in severe respiratory distress. Positive-pressure ventilation techniques with a bag-valve-mask device may be beneficial. Consider drug therapy for pulmonary edema ... . Monitor cardiac rhythm and treat arrhythmias if necessary ... . Start IV administration of D5W TKO /SRP: "To keep open", minimal flow rate/. Use 0.9% saline (NS) or lactated Ringer's (LR) if signs of hypovolemia are present. For hypotension with signs of hypovolemia, administer fluid cautiously. Consider vasopressors if patient is hypotensive with a normal fluid volume. Watch for signs of fluid overload ... . Treat seizures with diazepam (Valium) or lorazepam (Ativan) ... . Use proparacaine hydrochloride to assist eye irrigation ... . /Phosphine and Related Compounds/

/BIRDS and MAMMALS/ One use pattern of aluminum and magnesium phosphide, as a burrow fumigant, poses a risk to threatened and endangered species of mammals and reptiles. The risks posed to these species occur if they are found in a burrow that is fumigated. Because of the high degree of toxicity of phosphine gas, all animals in a treated burrow will be killed. In 1981, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) determined that use of aluminum and magnesium phosphide as a burrow fumigant may jeopardize the black-footed ferret, the Utah prairie dog, the San Joaquin kit fox, the blunt-nosed leopard lizard, the eastern indigo snake, and the desert tortoise.

3.10e+01

4.70e+02

8.00e+00

4.00e+00

4.00e-04

Volatile

9.40e+01

1.40e+03

2.40e+01

The substance is very toxic to aquatic organisms.

Aluminum phosphide's production may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams; its use as a insecticide/rodenticide in stored grains(1,2) will result in its direct release to the environment(SRC).

Aluminum phosphide reacts readily with moist air to produce toxic phosphine gas(1).

Phosphine residues present after fumigation of packaged fruits and vegetables decreased to 0.18-0.3 ppb after 1 day of storage.

At a dose of 3 aluminum phosphate tablets/ton free phosphine residue in coffee beans is just half of that found in the round pea berry. Coffee beans (0.097 ppm) are free of free phosphine residue at 20 days compared to that in the peaberry (0.176 ppm) which takes 33 days. Decrease of computed residues from coffee beans is faster (14 days) than that from the peaberry (26 days). Coffee beans have higher free phosphine holding capacity than the peaberry variety. In its initial pattern of free phosphine desorption, coffee resembles wheat. Coffee beans and peaberry dosed at aluminum phosphate tablets/ton had desorbed large amounts of free phosphine than those dosed at 3 tablets/ton. Even at this higher dose, both coffee beans and the peaberry varieties are free of free phosphine residue within 34 days. Absorption spectra of these fumigated coffee varieties reveal the absence of any bound residues of free phosphine. Air oxidation of free phosphine to phosphorus compounds is predominant in coffee beans. Coffee beans can safely be fumigated at 3 aluminum phosphate tablets/ton without having traces of either free or bound residues of free phosphine. /Aluminum phosphate/

Exposure of grain elevator workers to phosphine during fumigation treatments of grain with aluminum phosphide was assessed. Four industrial hygiene surveys were conducted to evaluate exposures. Long term (full shift) breathing zone sampling and area monitoring were conducted. Short term measurements were also made to evaluate 2 to 5 minute peak exposures during certain cycles of activity. Phosphine exposure levels were analyzed by spectrophotometry. The use of aluminum phosphide was associated with demonstrable and frequently excessive phosphine exposure; effects were observed even under conditions of very cold air temperature. Full shift personal exposure ranged from nondetectable to 1.6 ppm, a value greater than five times the current OSHA Permissible Exposure Limit of 0.3 ppm. Short term personal exposure during filling and emptying of automatic phosphide tablet dispensers ranged from 0.1 ppm, with an average exposure of 2.5 ppm. The recommended American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists short term exposure limit of 1 ppm was exceeded by many of these samples. Exposure to phosphine could be partially to uncontrolled point sources and lack of appropriate local exhaust ventilation.

Generators of waste (equal to or greater than 100 kg/mo) containing this contaminant, EPA hazardous waste number P006, must conform with USEPA regulations in storage, transportation, treatment and disposal of waste.

SRP: Wastewater from contaminant suppression, cleaning of protective clothing/equipment, or contaminated sites should be contained and evaluated for subject chemical or decomposition product concentrations. Concentrations shall be lower than applicable environmental discharge or disposal criteria. Alternatively, pretreatment and/or discharge to a permitted wastewater treatment facility is acceptable only after review by the governing authority and assurance that "pass through" violations will not occur. Due consideration shall be given to remediation worker exposure (inhalation, dermal and ingestion) as well as fate during treatment, transfer and disposal. If it is not practicable to manage the chemical in this fashion, it must be evaluated in accordance with EPA 40 CFR Part 261, specifically Subpart B, in order to determine the appropriate local, state and federal requirements for disposal.

Consult with environmental regulatory agencies for guidance on acceptable disposal practices. ... Allow to react slowly with moisture in the open, being sure that phosphine gas evolved is dissipated. Alternatively, mix with dry diluent and incinerate at temperature above 1000 °C with effluent gas scrubbing. In accordance with 40CFR165, follow recommendations for the disposal of pesticides and pesticide containers. Must be disposed of properly by following package label directions or by contacting your local or federal environmental control agency or by contacting your regional EPA office.

A poor candidate for incineration.

If ... THERE IS NO FIRE, go directly to the Table of Initial Isolation and Protective Action Distances /(see table below)/ ... to obtain initial isolation and protective action distances. IF THERE IS A FIRE, or IF A FIRE IS INVOLVED, go directly to the appropriate guide /(see guide(s) below)/ and use the evacuation information shown under PUBLIC SAFETY. /Aluminum phosphide (when spilled in water)/

Table: Table of Initial Isolation and Protective Action Distances for Aluminum phosphide (when spilled in water) ID: 1397 [Table#5672]

Table of Water-Reactive Materials Which Produce Toxic Gases. /Aluminum phosphide/

Table: Materials Which Produce Large Amounts of Toxic-by-Inhalation (TIH) Gas(es) When Spilled in Water [Table#5673]

If ... THERE IS NO FIRE, go directly to the Table of Initial Isolation and Protective Action Distances /(see table below)/ ... to obtain initial isolation and protective action distances. IF THERE IS A FIRE, or IF A FIRE IS INVOLVED, go directly to the appropriate guide /(see guide(s) below)/ and use the evacuation information shown under PUBLIC SAFETY. /Aluminum phosphide pesticide (when spilled in water)/

Table: Table of Initial Isolation and Protective Action Distances for Aluminum phosphide pesticide (when spilled in water) ID: 3048 [Table#5674]

Table of Water-Reactive Materials Which Produce Toxic Gases. /Aluminum phosphide pesticide/

Table: Materials Which Produce Large Amounts of Toxic-by-Inhalation (TIH) Gas(es) When Spilled in Water [Table#5675]

For more DOT Emergency Guidelines (Complete) data for Aluminum phosphide (20 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

UN 1397; Aluminum phosphide

UN 3048; Aluminum phosphide pesticide

IMO 4.3; Aluminum phosphide

IMO 6.1; Aluminum phosphide pesticide

No person may /transport,/ offer or accept a hazardous material for transportation in commerce unless that person is registered in conformance ... and the hazardous material is properly classed, described, packaged, marked, labeled, and in condition for shipment as required or authorized by ... /the hazardous materials regulations (49 CFR 171-177)./

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations are published by the IATA Dangerous Goods Board pursuant to IATA Resolutions 618 and 619 and constitute a manual of industry carrier regulations to be followed by all IATA Member airlines when transporting hazardous materials. Aluminum phosphide and aluminum phosphide pesticide are included on the dangerous goods list.

The International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code lays down basic principles for transporting hazardous chemicals. Detailed recommendations for individual substances and a number of recommendations for good practice are included in the classes dealing with such substances. A general index of technical names has also been compiled. This index should always be consulted when attempting to locate the appropriate procedures to be used when shipping any substance or article. Aluminum phosphide and aluminum phosphide pesticide are included on the dangerous goods list.

Dangerous When Wet Poison

Airtight. Do not transport with food and feedstuffs.

Symbol: F, T+, N; R: 15/29-28-32-50; S: (1/2)-3/9/14-30-36/37-45-61

UN Hazard Class: 4.3; UN Subsidiary Risks: 6.1; UN Pack Group: I