Sulfur Hexafluoride

H280 (100%): Contains gas under pressure; may explode if heated [Warning Gases under pressure]

H336 (19.7%): May cause drowsiness or dizziness [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure; Narcotic effects]

P261, P271, P304+P340, P319, P403+P233, P405, P410+P403, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Aggregated GHS information provided per 239 reports by companies from 8 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.

Not Classified

H336: May cause drowsiness or dizziness [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure; Narcotic effects]

P261, P271, P304+P340, P319, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

H280: Contains gas under pressure; may explode if heated [Warning Gases under pressure]

P410+P403</a, and a href="https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/ghs/#P410+P403">P410+P403 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Fresh air, rest. Artificial respiration may be needed. Refer for medical attention.

ON FROSTBITE: rinse with plenty of water, do NOT remove clothes. Refer for medical attention .

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

Excerpt from NIOSH Pocket Guide for Sulfur hexafluoride:

Eye: FROSTBITE - If eye tissue is frozen, seek medical attention immediately; if tissue is not frozen, immediately and thoroughly flush the eyes with large amounts of water for at least 15 minutes, occasionally lifting the lower and upper eyelids. If irritation, pain, swelling, lacrimation, or photophobia persist, get medical attention as soon as possible.

Skin: FROSTBITE - If frostbite has occurred, seek medical attention immediately; do NOT rub the affected areas or flush them with water. In order to prevent further tissue damage, do NOT attempt to remove frozen clothing from frostbitten areas. If frostbite has NOT occurred, immediately and thoroughly wash contaminated skin with soap and water.

Breathing: RESPIRATORY SUPPORT - If a person breathes large amounts of this chemical, move the exposed person to fresh air at once. If breathing has stopped, perform artificial respiration. Keep the affected person warm and at rest. Get medical attention as soon as possible. (NIOSH, 2024)

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 liquefied gas, only medical personnel should attempt thawing frosted parts.

(General first aid procedures)

Eye: Frostbite - If eye tissue is frozen, seek medical attention immediately; if tissue is not frozen, immediately and thoroughly flush the eyes with large amounts of water for at least 15 minutes, occasionally lifting the lower and upper eyelids. If irritation, pain, swelling, lacrimation, or photophobia persist, get medical attention as soon as possible.

Skin: Frostbite - Compressed gases may create low temperatures when they expand rapidly. Leaks and uses that allow rapid expansion may cause a frostbite hazard. Wear appropriate personal protective clothing to prevent the skin from becoming frozen.

Breathing: Respiratory support

Excerpt from ERG Guide 126 [Gases - Compressed or Liquefied (Including Refrigerant Gases)]:

Use extinguishing agent suitable for type of surrounding fire.

SMALL FIRE: Dry chemical or CO2.

LARGE FIRE: Water spray, fog or regular foam. If it can be done safely, move undamaged containers away from the area around the fire. Damaged cylinders should be handled only by specialists.

FIRE INVOLVING 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 direct water at source of leak or safety devices; icing may occur. 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. Some of these materials, if spilled, may evaporate leaving a flammable residue. (ERG, 2024)

In case of fire in the surroundings, use appropriate extinguishing media. In case of fire: keep cylinder cool by spraying with water.

Suitable extinguishing media: Use water spray, alcohol-resistant foam, dry chemical or carbon dioxide.

Advice for firefighters: Wear self-contained breathing apparatus for firefighting if necessary.

Use water spray to cool unopened containers.

If material involved if fire: 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. Apply water from as far a distance as possible.

Special hazards arising from the substance or mixture: Sulphur oxides, Hydrogen fluoride

· 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.

· Many gases are heavier than air and will spread along the ground and collect in low or confined areas (sewers, basements, tanks, etc.).

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

· Do not touch or walk through spilled material.

· Stop leak if you can do it without risk.

· Do not direct water at spill or source of leak.

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

· If possible, turn leaking containers so that gas escapes rather than liquid.

· Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas.

· Allow substance to evaporate.

· Ventilate the area.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 126 [Gases - Compressed or Liquefied (Including Refrigerant Gases)]:

IMMEDIATE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURE: Isolate spill or leak area for at least 100 meters (330 feet) in all directions.

LARGE SPILL: Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 500 meters (1/3 mile).

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 for at least 100 meters (330 feet) in all directions.

Large Spill

· Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 500 meters (1/3 mile).

· 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.

Evacuate danger area! Ventilation. NEVER direct water jet on liquid. Personal protection: chemical protection suit including self-contained breathing apparatus.

ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES: Personal precautions, protective equipment and emergency procedures: Avoid breathing vapors, mist or gas. Ensure adequate ventilation. Evacuate personnel to safe areas; Environmental precautions: Do not let product enter drains; Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up: Clean up promptly by sweeping or vacuum.

SRP: Recycle any unused portion of the material for its approved use or return it to the manufacturer or supplier. Ultimate disposal of the chemical must consider: the material's impact on air quality; potential migration in air, soil or water; effects on animal, aquatic and plant life; and conformance with environmental and public health regulations. If it is possible or reasonable use an alternative chemical product with less inherent propensity for occupational harm/injury/toxicity or environmental contamination.

Product: Offer surplus and non-recyclable solutions to a licensed disposal company. Contact a licensed professional waste disposal service to dispose of this material; Contaminated packaging: Dispose of as unused product.

If material not involved in fire: Attempt to stop leak if without undue personnel hazard.

Personnel protection: Avoid breathing vapors. Keep upwind. ... Do not handle broken packages unless wearing appropriate personal protective equipment.

Appropriate engineering controls: Handle in accordance with good industrial hygiene and safety practice. Wash hands before breaks and at the end of workday.

Gloves must be inspected prior to use. Use proper glove removal technique (without touching glove's outer surface) to avoid skin contact with this product. Dispose of contaminated gloves after use in accordance with applicable laws and good laboratory practices. Wash and dry hands.

Handle in accordance with good industrial hygiene and safety practice. Wash hands before breaks and at the end of workday.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 126 [Gases - Compressed or Liquefied (Including Refrigerant Gases)]:

Do not touch or walk through spilled material. Stop leak if you can do it without risk. Do not direct water at spill or source of leak. Use water spray to reduce vapors or divert vapor cloud drift. Avoid allowing water runoff to contact spilled material. If possible, turn leaking containers so that gas escapes rather than liquid. Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas. Allow substance to evaporate. Ventilate the area. (ERG, 2024)

Fireproof if in building. Cool.

Keep container tightly closed in a dry and well-ventilated place. Contents under pressure.

· 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.

5000.0 [ppm]

3000 [ppm]

33000 [ppm]

200000 [ppm]

1000 ppm (6000 mg/m³)

TWA 1000 ppm (6000 mg/m3)

1000.0 [ppm]

See: IDLH INDEX

8 hr Time Weighted Avg (TWA): 1000 ppm.

Excursion Limit Recommendation: Excursions in worker exposure levels may exceed 3 times the TLV-TWA for no more than a total of 30 minutes during a work day, and under no circumstances should they exceed 5 times the TLV-TWA, provided that the TLV-TWA is not exceeded.

1000 ppm as TWA.

1000 ppm [1985]

6100 mg/m

· Use extinguishing agent suitable for type of surrounding fire.

Small Fire

· Dry chemical or CO2.

Large Fire

· Water spray, fog or regular foam.

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

· Damaged cylinders should be handled only by specialists.

Fire Involving 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 direct water at source of leak or safety devices; icing may occur.

· 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.

· Some of these materials, if spilled, may evaporate leaving a flammable residue.

A harmful concentration of this gas in the air will be reached very quickly on loss of containment.

Rapid evaporation of the liquid may cause frostbite.

Excerpt from NIOSH Pocket Guide for Sulfur hexafluoride:

Skin: FROSTBITE - Compressed gases may create low temperatures when they expand rapidly. Leaks and uses that allow rapid expansion may cause a frostbite hazard. Wear appropriate personal protective clothing to prevent the skin from becoming frozen.

Eyes: FROSTBITE - Wear appropriate eye protection to prevent eye contact with the liquid that could result in burns or tissue damage from frostbite.

Wash skin: No recommendation is made specifying the need for washing the substance from the skin (either immediately or at the end of the work shift).

Remove: No recommendation is made specifying the need for removing clothing that becomes wet or contaminated.

Change: No recommendation is made specifying the need for the worker to change clothing after the workshift.

Provide: FROSTBITE WASH - Quick drench facilities and/or eyewash fountains should be provided within the immediate work area for emergency use where there is any possibility of exposure to liquids that are extremely cold or rapidly evaporating. (NIOSH, 2024)

Personnel protection: Wear appropriate chemical protective gloves and goggles.

Sulfur hexafluoride appears as a colorless odorless gas. Noncombustible. Shipped as a liquefied gas under own vapor pressure. Contact may cause frostbite. Under prolonged exposure to fire or heat the containers may rupture violently and rocket.

Gas Vapor

Colorless, odorless gas. [Note: Shipped as a liquefied compressed gas. Condenses directly to a solid upon cooling.]; [NIOSH]

ODOURLESS COLOURLESS COMPRESSED LIQUEFIED GAS.

Colorless, odorless gas.

Colorless, odorless gas. [Note: Shipped as a liquefied compressed gas. Condenses directly to a solid upon cooling.]

Colorless gas [Note: Shipped as a liquefied compressed gas. Condenses directly to a solid upon cooling].

Odorless

Tasteless

Sublimes (NIOSH, 2024)

-63.8 °C (sublimes)

Sulfur hexafluoride is an unreactive substance. Sulfur hexafluoride is not attacked by water, acids, or bases, at room temperature. It is resistant to the action of carbon, copper or magnesium at red heat, and will not react with sodium below its boiling point. It reacts with sulfur vapor or hydrogen at 400 °C.

sublimes

Sublimes

-83 °F (Sublimes) (NIOSH, 2024)

-50.8 °C

-83 °F (sublimes)

-83 °F (Sublimes)

0.003 % at 77 °F (NIOSH, 2024)

In water, 31 mg/L at 25 °C

Solubility in water at 25 °C at partial pressure of 101.325 kPa = 5.4 cu cm/kg water.

SOLUBLE IN POTASSIUM HYDROXIDE AND ALCOHOL

0.297 mL dissolves in 1.0 mL transformer oil at 25 °C, 1 atm

For more Solubility (Complete) data for SULFUR HEXAFLUORIDE (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Solubility in water: none

(77 °F): 0.003%

6.5 g/L (gas); 1.67 (liquid)

Inert to nucleophilic attack; does not attack glass; one of heaviest known gases; density approx 5 times that of air; no fluorine exchange with anhydrous hydrogen fluoride; unchanged at 500 °C. .. thermodynamically unstable, but kinetically stable gas ... stable to silent electrical discharge

Specific volume: 2.5 cu ft/lb at 21.1 °C. Freezing point = -64 °C (sublimes); density, gas = 6.5 g/L; density, liquid = 1.67 g/L

Critical density: 0.736 kg/cu dm.

Triple point = -49.596 °C; density = 5.970 g/L

Relative density (water = 1): 1.9

1.67 @ -100°C

5.11(relative gas density)

5.11 (NIOSH, 2024) - Heavier than air; will sink (Relative to Air)

5 (Air = 1)

Relative vapor density (air = 1): 5

21.5 atm (NIOSH, 2024)

VP: 1 Pa at -158 °C (solid), 10 Pa at -147 °C (solid), 100 Pa at -133.6 °C (solid), 1 kPa at -116.6 °C (solid), 10 kPa at -94.4 °C (solid), 100 kPa at -64.1 °C (solid)

2367 kPa at 25 °C (1.78X10+4 mm Hg)

No rapid reaction with air. No rapid reaction with water.

Not Chemically Reactive

This substance undergoes chemical reactions only under relatively severe circumstances. They are resistant to ignition, although they may become flammable at very high temperatures. They may be resistant to oxidation reduction, except in the most severe conditions. These materials may be nontoxic. They can asphyxiate. Contact of very cold liquefied gas with water may result in vigorous or violent boiling of the product and extremely rapid vaporization due to the large temperature differences involved. If the water is hot, there is the possibility that a liquid "superheat" explosion may occur. Pressures may build to dangerous levels if liquid gas contacts water in a closed container [Handling Chemicals Safely 1980].

Incompatible materials: Strong oxidizing agents

Disilane explodes violently in contact with sulfur hexafluoride.

... Reacts with aluminum chloride at 200 °C to give sulfur chloride.

... /Reacts/ with sulfur trioxide at 250 °C to give sulfuryl fluoride.

... /Reacts/ with carbon or carbon disulfide at 500 deg and 400 atm.

Disilane

IDENTIFICATION AND USE: Sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) is a colorless gas. SF6 is used in several industrial applications. The insulation of electrical equipment, the magnesium casting processes and the semiconductor manufacturing are the main applications. Beside the industrial applications, SF6 is used in medical applications as an ultrasound contrast agent and as a tamponade gas in ophthalmology. It has been identified as one of the greehouse gases. HUMAN EXPOSURE AND TOXICITY: SF6 is a simple asphyxiant. its chemical inertness and its very low accumulation potential support the low concern for the toxicity of this substance. The possible formation of highly toxic breakdown products may occur when SF6 is subjected to high stress conditions; in particular electrical discharges occurring in the gas-insulated equipment may promote the formation of highly reactive species of toxicological concern. The degeneration products can be toxic, causing nausea and vomiting, pulmonary symptoms, and transient atelectasis. It may be contaminated with other fluorides of sulfur, such as sulfur pentafluoride and disulfur decafluoride, which are extremely toxic and are respiratory irritants. Inhaled as a mixture of 80% with 20% oxygen, it produces tingling, excitement, and altered hearing and is a mild anesthetic. Impairments of psychomotor, perceptual, and cognitive abilities were determined in nine male subjects exposed to inhaled SF6. In the clinical trials of SF6- based contrast agent Lumason, serious adverse reactions were observed in 2 subjects; one who experienced a hypersensitivity-type rash and near syncope symptoms and another who experienced anaphylactic shock shortly following Lumason administration. Other adverse events for European SF6-based contrast agent SonoVue included severe hypotension, bradycardia, cardiac arrest and acute myocardial infarction. Three fatalities occured in patients with pre-existing, severe coronary artery disease. No evidence of genotoxicity was found in the in vitro human lymphocyte chromosome aberration assay. European contrast agent Sonovue was not clastogenic in human lymphocytes in vitro. ANIMAL STUDIES: Commercial grade sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) showed no cytotoxicity in hamster lung cells (V-79) even after an exposure of 24-48 hr to a 95% SF6-5% air mixture. Sparked sulfur hexafluoride exhibited a strong cytotoxic effect and 1 hr of exposure killed 74% cells. The cytotoxicity increased with time of exposure and varied with the spark energy. In a 4 week study in rats cecitis, colitis, cecum erosion and ulcers were observed. The effects were reversible within 14 days after treatment cessation. Colon erosion was observed in one animal. These toxic effects were not observed in a confirmatory study in rats and in a similar study in cynomolgous monkeys. No impairment of fertility was observed in rats receiving SF6-based contrast agent Lumason at doses up to 8 times the human dose based on body surface area. No evidence of genotoxicity was found in the following studies conducted with Lumason: a bacterial mutagenesis (Ames) assay, and an in vivo mouse micronucleus assay. Similarly, Sonovue was neither mutagenic in Salmonella typhimurium nor in the mouse bone marrow micronucleus assay. ECOTOXICITY STUDIES: SF6 has been identified as a potent greenhouse gas.

◉ Summary of Use during Lactation

No published experience exists with the use of sulfur hexafluoride during breastfeeding. The half-life of the agent is about 10 minutes and absorption of the drug by the infant is unlikely. If sulfur hexafluoride is required by the mother, it is not a reason to discontinue breastfeeding. Because of the lack of information, the American College of Radiology states that temporary (~24 hours) pumping and discarding of milk may be considered.

◉ Effects in Breastfed Infants

Relevant published information was not found as of the revision date.

◉ Effects on Lactation and Breastmilk

The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation.

inhalation

Suffocation.

ON CONTACT WITH LIQUID: FROSTBITE.

See Skin.

asphyxia: increased breath rate, pulse rate; slight muscle incoordination, emotional upset; lassitude (weakness, exhaustion), nausea, vomiting, convulsions; liquid: frostbite

respiratory system

Other Poison - Simple Asphyxiant

In anesthetized cats ventilated with oxygen, 0.5 mL of the inert gas sulfur hexafluoride was substituted for vitreous. When the ventilating gas was changed to nitrous oxide 66%, balance oxygen, intraocular pressure incr from 14.4 to 30.3 mm Hg in 19.5 min. When the ventilating gas was changed back to oxygen, intraocular pressure decr from 29.1 to 12.0 mm Hg in 18.1 min. Nitrous oxide should be avoided in patients during and following intravitreal injection of sodium hexafluoride for up to 10 days.

To determine retinal toxicity after intravitreous balanced salt solution, sulfur hexafluoride gas, and perfluorocarbon liquid injection in rabbit eyes ... 22 eyes of 16 New Zealand albino rabbits were divided into groups: balanced salt solution (7 eyes); sulfur hexafluoride gas (4 eyes); and perfluorocarbon liquid (5 eyes). After the introduction of a needle through the sclera the vitreous was aspirated (0.3 mL), balanced salt solution, sulfur hexafluoride gas 100% and perfluorocarbon liquid (0.3 mL) were injected into rabbit vitreous cavity. The control group (6 eyes) was not submitted to any procedure. After three weeks the vitreous was aspirated and submitted to biochemical analysis and the eyes prepared for histological analysis. ... The eyes submitted to perfluorocarbon liquid and sulfur hexafluoride gas injection showed a greater L-glutamate increase in the vitreous compared to balanced salt solution and control groups (p<0.05). Histological results confirmed small changes in the sulfur hexafluoride group and important lesions in perfluorocarbon liquid group, such as external photoreceptor segment disruption, external and internal plexiform layer thinning, ganglionar and internal nuclear layer decrease of nucleus number, edema, and presence of macrophages in the superficial layers. No major histological changes were observed with balanced salt solution and in control groups. /The authors concluded that/ intravitreous injection of sulfur hexafluoride gas and perfluorocarbon are potentially toxic to rabbit retina, compared to control and balanced salt solution groups.

... Gross and histopathologic examinations of rats exposed for 6 hrs to a recirculated mixture of sulfur-hexafluoride in oxygen showed no evidence of effects attributable to the exposures. When adult males inhaled a mixture of sulfur-hexafluoride and oxygen, some effects were impairment of speech, sense of pervasion of the upper respiratory tract, and slight to marked vertigo. The possibility of the presence of small amounts of other fluorine compounds which are highly toxic caused suspension of studies on humans.

... Modern vitreoretinal techniques often use /long acting inert gases, such as sulfur hexafluoride or perfluoropropane / as intraocular ... tamponading agents. These gases may persist in the eye for up to three months after surgery. During this period further anesthesia using nitrous oxide will cause the intraocular gas bubble to expand, which can result in sight threatening increases in intraocular pressure.

For more Interactions (Complete) data for SULFUR HEXAFLUORIDE (11 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

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 as 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. /Simple asphyxiants 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. Anticipate seizures and treat if necessary ... . Use rapid rewarming techniques if frostbite occurs ... . /Simple asphyxiants and related compounds/

Advanced treatment: Consider orotracheal or nasotracheal intubation for airway control in the patient who is unconscious or is in severe respiratory distress. Monitor cardiac rhythm and treat arrhythmias if necessary ... . Start IV administration of D5W /SRP: "To keep open", minimal flow rate/. Treat seizures with diazepam or lorazepam ... . /Simple asphyxiants and related compounds/

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 as 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. /Choking Agents (Pulmonary/Lung-Damaging Agents)/

For more Antidote and Emergency Treatment (Complete) data for SULFUR HEXAFLUORIDE (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

/HUMAN EXPOSURE STUDIES/ As a noninvasive treatment technique, ultrasound-guided high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) has been considered as a routine treatment for uterine fibroids and adenomyosis in China. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) has been proposed as another option to assess the treatment efficacy during HIFU treatment. The aim of this investigation is to evaluate the adverse effects of HIFU ablation for benign uterine diseases in a group of patients studied with ultrasound contrast agent (UCA), in comparison with a group of patients not exposed to UCA. From November 2010 to December 2013, 2604 patients with benign uterine diseases were treated with HIFU. Among them, 1300 patients were exposed to an UCA, whereas 1304 patients were not.During HIFU procedure, the incidences of leg pain, sacral/buttock pain, groin pain, treatment area pain, and the discomfort "hot" sensation on skin were higher in the patients who were exposed to SonoVue (Bracco, Milan, Italy) than those who were not (20.5% vs 11.7%, 52.5% vs 42.3%, 6.5% vs 4.5%, 68.9% vs 55.4%, and 48.1% vs 42.9%, respectively). Among the postoperative adverse effects, the incidence of lower abdominal pain was significantly higher in patients who were exposed to an UCA than those who were not (51.2% vs 39.9%, P<0.05). Two patients who were exposed to an UCA had acute renal function failure. In conclusion, UCA may increase the incidences of some common HIFU-related adverse effects during HIFU treatment for benign uterine diseases, but most of which were acceptable and self-limited. After HIFU treatment, renal function should be monitored in patients with a history of hypertension or taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

/HUMAN EXPOSURE STUDIES/ To evaluate the safety of intravesical administration of a second-generation ultrasound (US) contrast agent for the diagnosis of vesicoureteral reflux in children. One thousand and ten children (563 girls, 447 boys; mean age: 2.9 years, range: 15 days-17.6 years) with 2,043 pelvi-ureter-units underwent contrast-enhanced voiding urosonography (ce-VUS) to rule out vesicoureteral reflux. A second-generation US contrast agent (SonoVue, Bracco, Milan) was administered intravesically through transurethral bladder catheterization at a dose of 0.5 mL/bladder filling. Possible adverse events were monitored during the examination and followed up for 7 days after ce-VUS by phone calls. Urine analysis and culture were performed 3-5 days before ce-VUS in all children and 24-48 hr in any patient who reported with adverse events. No case of serious adverse event was recorded. Minor events were reported in 37 children (3.66% of the study population). These included dysuria (n=26, 2.57%), urinary retention (n=2, 0.2%), abdominal pain (n=2, 0.2%), anxiety (n=1, 0.1%) and crying (n=1, 0.1%) during micturition, blood and mucous discharge (n=1, 0.1%), increased frequency of micturition (n=1, 0.1%), vomiting (n=1, 0.1%), perineal irritation (n=1, 0.1%), and an episode of urinary tract infection 10 days after ce-VUS (n=1, 0.1%). Of these adverse events, 91.9% were subacute in onset and 8.1% were delayed. All events were self-limited and none required hospitalization. There were no serious adverse events. Only a few minor events were reported, most likely due to the catheterization process. Thus, ce-VUS with intravesical administration of the second-generation US contrast agent (SonoVue) for vesicoureteral reflux detection or exclusion had a favorable safety profile in our study group.

/HUMAN EXPOSURE STUDIES/ The aim of the present retrospective study was to assess the incidence of adverse events (AE) of a second-generation ultrasound contrast agent in real clinical practice. A total of 28 Italian Centres provided data on the postmarketing use of SonoVue (Bracco Spa, Milan, Italy) in abdominal examination performed between December 2001 and December 2004. A total of 23 188 investigations were reported. No fatal event occurred. AEs were reported in 29 cases, of which only two were graded as serious; the rest, 27, were nonserious (23 mild, three moderate and one severe). The overall reporting rate of serious AE was 0.0086%. Overall, only four AEs required treatment (two serious, two nonserious including one moderate and one severe AEs). In conclusion, the present large-scale retrospective analysis showed that SonoVue has a good safety profile in abdominal applications, with an AE reporting rate lower than or similar to that reported for radiologic and magnetic resonance contrast agents.

/HUMAN EXPOSURE STUDIES/ Safety concerns regarding the use of echo-contrast agents during baseline and SE in patients with recent chest pain have been raised. The purpose of the present study was to provide evidence regarding the safety of flash-replenishment contrast dipyridamole-atropine echocardiography (DASE) in such patients. Five hundred consecutive individuals who presented to the Emergency Department with chest pain, normal electrocardiograms (ECG) and troponin I were selected based on a less than 5 days interval between chest pain episode and performance of contrast flash-replenishment DASE. Analysis of myocardial perfusion with SonoVue infusion after dipyridamole was routinely added on top of standard wall motion assessment during DASE. Adverse events (AEs) were reported according to standardized terminology and then compared with a historical control group in which contrast was not used. No deaths, myocardial infarctions, sustained arrhythmias, or any other life-threatening events were observed. Adverse events were not significantly different between the study group and the control group. In the selected subgroup of patients (n = 149) who underwent coronary angiography, accuracy of DASE with additional perfusion assessment was higher (88%, 95% C.I. 83-93%) than without (72%, 95% C.I. 65-79%). DASE with SonoVue infusion for myocardial perfusion assessment was exceptionally safe even when routinely performed within the first 5 days following a chest pain episode of undetermined origin in subjects without ECG and troponin abnormalities.

For more Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for SULFUR HEXAFLUORIDE (26 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ Sonovue administered at a dosage up to 20 mL/kg (500 fold more than the expected dose in humans) in rats and monkeys using the IV route did not induce any adverse effects or animal deaths. The acute toxicity potential of Sonovue is probably very low.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ In vivo assessment of corneal endothelial toxicity of air and SF6 /was conducted/ in the feline model. This research was motivated by the increased use of air in anterior segment surgery in human subjects. This was a prospective masked study. The eyes of 16 healthy adult cats were randomly assigned for the injection of 0.7 mL air into the anterior chamber of one eye and SF6 in the contralateral eye. Daily examination included slit lamp photographs, pachymetry, and tonometry. Specular microscopy was performed before, 7 days after, and 10 days after injection. The animals were euthanatized, and the corneas were processed for alizarin red-trypan blue staining and for light and electron microscopy. SF6 remained in the anterior chamber significantly longer than air. Both groups showed postinjection inflammation, which on average was maximal at day 2 and more severe with SF6. No difference in intraocular pressure (IOP) was observed between the two groups. Specular microscopy showed significant endothelial cell loss in the SF6 group (mean postinjection cell loss, 132 +/- 50 cells/sq mm) but not in the group injected with air. Alizarin red staining revealed significant regional differences in cell density only in the SF6 group and more pronounced endothelial cell loss in the superior area. These results indicate that both air and SF6 injected into the anterior chamber of the eye can induce intraocular reaction in the feline model and that SF6 is more toxic than air in terms of endothelial cell loss and anterior chamber inflammation.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Subchronic or Prechronic Exposure/ In a 4 week study in SD rats (0; 0.2; 1; 5 mL/kg) cecitis, colitis, cecum erosion and ulcers were observed from 0.2 mL/kg (dose-related in females but not in males). The effects were reversible within 14 days after treatment cessation. Colon erosion was observed in one animal at the 5 mL/kg dose. These toxic effects were not observed in a confirmatory study in rats and in a similar study in cynomolgous monkeys. Nor was caecum inflammation observed in the fertility and general reproductive performance studies conducted in male and female rats. The mechanism of the toxicity to the gastrointestinal system observed in the one rat study was not elucidated. However, it must be noticed that it was observed only in one study and one species. In summary, Sonovue up to 5 mL/kg administered for 28 days by the IV route to rats and monkeys showed a low toxicity potential in rats and monkeys.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Developmental or Reproductive Toxicity/ On day 16 of the chick embryo, a catheter was implanted in the allantoic vein carrying arterialized blood, and a syringe was attached to the blunt end of the shell connecting to the air cell. This technique allowed for repetitive sampling and analysis of air cell gas and arterialized blood when these eggs were exposed to a He-O2 or SF6-O2 atmosphere. Exposure to SF6-O2 incr arterial carbon dioxide tension from 37 to 62 Torr and reduced the pH by 0.14 units. These responses were brought about by changes in the gas conductance of the shell, resulting in a diffusive hypercapnia and respiratory acidosis in SF6-O2. During a 4 hr exposure to these foreign gases the observed pH changes were smaller than predicted because of marked shifts of HCO3- into the blood (SF6-O2) or out of the blood (He-O2).

For more Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for SULFUR HEXAFLUORIDE (15 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

The use and the safety of radiographic, MR- or ultrasound contrast media in the diagnostic work-up of pregnant or lactating patients is a frequently discussed question. As only sparse clinical data is available, a careful benefit-risk assessment must contain physico-chemical properties, preclinical data including teratogenicity and embryotoxicity, as well as maternal and fetal exposure. With consideration to the individual risks, iodinated contrast media, macrocyclic MR contrast media with increased stability or sulphur hexafluoride ultrasound contrast media may, if clinically justified, be administered in the smallest possible doses throughout pregnancy. After parental administration of an iodinated contrast medium after the 12th week of pregnancy, the neonate's thyroidal function should be checked during the first week after birth. After parental administration of iodinated, stable macrocyclic, gadolinium or ultrasound contrast media, lactation can be continued normally. In any case, contrast media should be used with caution and only if the benefits outweigh the risk.

Lumason is contraindicated in patients with: known or suspected right-to-left, bi-directional, or transient right-to-left cardiac shunts history of hypersensitivity reactions to sulfur hexafluoride lipid microsphere components or to any of the inactive ingredients in Lumason Do not administer by intra-arterial injection.

SonoVue should not be administered to patients with known hypersensitivity to sulfur hexafluoride or to any of the components of Sonovue.

/OTHER TOXICITY INFORMATION/ Many chemical compounds present in Earth's atmosphere behave as greenhouse gases. These are gases which allow direct sunlight (relative shortwave energy) to reach the Earth's surface unimpeded. As the shortwave energy (that in the visible and ultraviolet portion of the spectra) heats the surface, longer-wave (infrared) energy (heat) is reradiated to the atmosphere. Greenhouse gases absorb this energy, thereby allowing less heat to escape back to space, and trapping it in the lower atmosphere. Many greenhouse gases occur naturally in the atmosphere, such as carbon dioxide, methane, water vapor, and nitrous oxide, while others are synthetic. Those that are man-made include the chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and Perfluorocarbons (PFCs), as well as sulfur hexafluoride (SF6). Atmospheric concentrations of both the natural and man-made gases have been rising over the last few centuries due to the industrial revolution.

Sulfur hexafluoride's production and use as a gaseous insulator for high voltage generators, a component in electrical equipment and limited use in special applications ranging from medical applications to space research may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. Its former use as a tracer gas for both indoor and outdoor source dissemination experiments as well as for measuring gas exchange coefficients in lakes resulted in its direct release to the environment. Sulfur hexafluoride may occur in fluorite and granite. If released into the atmosphere, sulfur hexafluoride will exist in the gas phase in the ambient atmosphere, based on a vapor pressure of 1.78X10+4 mm Hg at 25 °C. Sulfur hexafluoride is one of the heaviest known gases with a vapor density approximately five times greater than air. Therefore, when released to the atmosphere, it will tend to remain close to the ground and be transported to soil by wet deposition. Long-term observations of sulfur hexafluoride in the atmosphere revealed that the concentration of sulfur hexafluoride increased by 2 orders of magnitude between 1970 and 1992. Perfluoro compounds have very long atmospheric lifetimes and thus relatively high Global Warming Potentials (GWP). GWP of sulfur hexafluoride is 25,000 (GWP of CO2 is 1). The main process of removal of sulfur hexafluoride from the troposphere has been reported to be its advection into the mesosphere, where the compound may be subjected to degradation via the reaction with free electrons; a global atmospheric lifetime of 3200 years was calculated for sulfur hexafluoride. Using a two-dimensional transport and chemistry model, the predicted atmospheric lifetime after photolysis for sulfur hexafluoride was determined to be greater than or equal to 600 years. If released to soil, sulfur hexafluoride is expected to have very high mobility based upon an estimated Koc of 29. Experimental data reported no absorption of sulfur hexalfuoride in soil. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon an experimental Henry's Law constant of 4.52 atm-cu m/mole. Sulfur hexafluoride may volatilize from dry soil surfaces based upon its vapor pressure. Biodegradation data were not available. If released into water, sulfur hexafluoride is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment based upon the estimated Koc. Volatilization from water surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon this compound's Henry's Law constant. Estimated volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 3.5 hours and 4.8 days, respectively. However, experimental data indicate that sulfur hexafluoride may not volatilize as rapidly as the Henry's Law constant predicts. An estimated BCF of 6 suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low. While hydrolysis is energetically favorable, the fluorine groups effectively shield the sulfur atom and impede this reaction. Occupational exposure to sulfur hexafluoride may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where sulfur hexafluoride is produced or used. Monitoring data indicate that the general population may be exposed to sulfur hexafluoride via inhalation of ambient air. (SRC)

Sulfur hexafluoride may occur in fluorite and granite. It was reported that sulfur hexafluoride was present in fluorite and in two of eight granites analyzed. Sulfur hexafluoride was detected in hot springs from volcanic and igneous areas, and in pre-1940 ground waters from Maryland. These results indicated that small concentrations were present in waters that pre-dated industrial production of sulfur hexafluoride(1).

/OTHER TOXICITY INFORMATION/ Many chemical compounds present in Earth's atmosphere behave as greenhouse gases. These are gases which allow direct sunlight (relative shortwave energy) to reach the Earth's surface unimpeded. As the shortwave energy (that in the visible and ultraviolet portion of the spectra) heats the surface, longer-wave (infrared) energy (heat) is reradiated to the atmosphere. Greenhouse gases absorb this energy, thereby allowing less heat to escape back to space, and trapping it in the lower atmosphere. Many greenhouse gases occur naturally in the atmosphere, such as carbon dioxide, methane, water vapor, and nitrous oxide, while others are synthetic. Those that are man-made include the chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and Perfluorocarbons (PFCs), as well as sulfur hexafluoride (SF6). Atmospheric concentrations of both the natural and man-made gases have been rising over the last few centuries due to the industrial revolution.

Sulfur hexafluoride's production and use as a gaseous insulator for high voltage generators, a component in electrical equipment and limited use in special applications ranging from medical applications to space research may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. Its former use as a tracer gas for both indoor and outdoor source dissemination experiments as well as for measuring gas exchange coefficients in lakes resulted in its direct release to the environment. Sulfur hexafluoride may occur in fluorite and granite. If released into the atmosphere, sulfur hexafluoride will exist in the gas phase in the ambient atmosphere, based on a vapor pressure of 1.78X10+4 mm Hg at 25 °C. Sulfur hexafluoride is one of the heaviest known gases with a vapor density approximately five times greater than air. Therefore, when released to the atmosphere, it will tend to remain close to the ground and be transported to soil by wet deposition. Long-term observations of sulfur hexafluoride in the atmosphere revealed that the concentration of sulfur hexafluoride increased by 2 orders of magnitude between 1970 and 1992. Perfluoro compounds have very long atmospheric lifetimes and thus relatively high Global Warming Potentials (GWP). GWP of sulfur hexafluoride is 25,000 (GWP of CO2 is 1). The main process of removal of sulfur hexafluoride from the troposphere has been reported to be its advection into the mesosphere, where the compound may be subjected to degradation via the reaction with free electrons; a global atmospheric lifetime of 3200 years was calculated for sulfur hexafluoride. Using a two-dimensional transport and chemistry model, the predicted atmospheric lifetime after photolysis for sulfur hexafluoride was determined to be greater than or equal to 600 years. If released to soil, sulfur hexafluoride is expected to have very high mobility based upon an estimated Koc of 29. Experimental data reported no absorption of sulfur hexalfuoride in soil. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon an experimental Henry's Law constant of 4.52 atm-cu m/mole. Sulfur hexafluoride may volatilize from dry soil surfaces based upon its vapor pressure. Biodegradation data were not available. If released into water, sulfur hexafluoride is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment based upon the estimated Koc. Volatilization from water surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon this compound's Henry's Law constant. Estimated volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 3.5 hours and 4.8 days, respectively. However, experimental data indicate that sulfur hexafluoride may not volatilize as rapidly as the Henry's Law constant predicts. An estimated BCF of 6 suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low. While hydrolysis is energetically favorable, the fluorine groups effectively shield the sulfur atom and impede this reaction. Occupational exposure to sulfur hexafluoride may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where sulfur hexafluoride is produced or used. Monitoring data indicate that the general population may be exposed to sulfur hexafluoride via inhalation of ambient air. (SRC)

Sulfur hexafluoride may occur in fluorite and granite. It was reported that sulfur hexafluoride was present in fluorite and in two of eight granites analyzed. Sulfur hexafluoride was detected in hot springs from volcanic and igneous areas, and in pre-1940 ground waters from Maryland. These results indicated that small concentrations were present in waters that pre-dated industrial production of sulfur hexafluoride(1).

Sulfur hexafluoride's production and use as a gaseous insulator for high voltage generators and other electrical equipment and radar wave guides(1); a component in various electrical equipment; and limited use in special applications ranging from medical applications to space research(2,3) may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. Its former use as a tracer gas for both indoor and outdoor source dissemination experiments as well as for measuring gas exchange coefficients in lakes(2-5) resulted in its direct release to the environment(SRC).

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 29(SRC), determined from a log Kow of 1.68(2) and a regression-derived equation(3), indicates that sulfur hexafluoride is expected to have very high mobility in soil(SRC). Experimental data suggest that sulfur hexafluoride does not absorb to soil(4). Volatilization of sulfur hexafluoride from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process(SRC) given an experimental Henry's Law constant of 4.52 atm-cu m/mole(5). Sulfur hexafluoride is expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon a vapor pressure of 1.78X10+4 mm Hg(6). Biodegradation data were not available(SRC, 2015).

AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 29(SRC), determined from a log Kow of 1.68(2) and a regression-derived equation(3), indicates that sulfur hexafluoride is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment(SRC). Volatilization from water surfaces is expected(4) based upon the experimental Henry's Law constant of 4.52 atm-cu m/mole(5). Using this Henry's Law constant and an estimation method(3), volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 3.5 hours and 4.8 days, respectively(SRC). However, study results indicate that the amount of sulfur hexafluoride volatilized may be much less than would be predicted from the Henry's Law constant(5). In these cases, equilibrium was not attained and the rate of volatilization was determined by mass-transport across the air-water interface(5). According to a classification scheme(6), an estimated BCF of 6(SRC), from an estimated log Kow(2) and a regression-derived equation(3), suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC). While hydrolysis is energetically favorable, the fluorine groups effectively shield the sulfur atom and impede this reaction(7). Because sulfur hexafluoride is inert over a wide range of environmental conditions, it has great potential as a geothermal tracer(8). An important aspect of sulfur hexafluoride is its extremely low aqueous solubility; this gives it the potential to delineate unsaturated zones underground(8). Biodegradation data were not available(SRC, 2015).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), sulfur hexafluoride, which has a vapor pressure of 1.78X10+4 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), is expected to exist solely as a gas in the ambient atmosphere. Sulfur hexafluoride is one of the heaviest known gases with a vapor density approximately five times that of air(3). Therefore, if released in the atmosphere, it will tend to remain close to the ground and be transported to earth by wet deposition(SRC). Long-term observations of sulfur hexafluoride in the atmosphere have revealed that the concentration of sulfur hexafluoride has increased by 2 orders of magnitude between 1970 and 1992(4). In addition, scientists at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration have reported that perfluoro compounds have very long atmospheric lifetimes (on the order of millennia) and thus significant global warming potentials(4). The main process of removal of sulfur hexafluoride from the troposphere has been reported to be its advection into mesosphere, where the substance may be subjected to degradation via the reaction with free electrons(5); a global atmospheric lifetime of 3200 years was calculated for sulfur hexafluoride(5). Using a two-dimensional transport and chemistry model which includes removal by electrons and ions in the mesosphere and lower thermosphere, the predicted atmospheric lifetime after photolysis for sulfur hexafluoride was determined to be greater than or equal to 600 years(6). The main products of sulfur hexafluoride arc decomposition in the presence of air are thionyl fluoride, sulfur tetrafluoride, and sulfur tetrafluoromonoxide plus metal fluorides and sulfides(7).

According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), sulfur hexafluoride, which has a vapor pressure of 1.78X10+4 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), is expected to exist solely as a gas in the ambient atmosphere. With few exceptions, sulfur hexafluoride is chemically inert at ambient temperature and atmospheric pressure(3). Its high resistance has been ascribed to its high S-F bond strength, coordinate saturation, steric hindrance, and nonpolarity(4). While hydrolysis is energetically favorable, the fluorine groups effectively shield the sulfur atom and impede this reaction(5). Sulfur hexafluoride is very resistant to attack and extreme conditions are required for reactions to occur(4). For example, it resists molten potassium hydroxide and steam at 500 °C(4). Thermodynamically sulfur hexafluoride is unstable and should react with many materials, including water, but these reactions are kinetically impeded by the fluorine shielding the sulfur(3). Exposed to 1000 °C temperatures, sulfur hexafluoride decomposes to thionyl fluoride and sulfur tetrafluoride to the extent of 10 mol percent. In spite of its decomposition, the dielectric strength of sulfur hexafluoride remains the same. The main products of sulfur hexafluoride decomposition in the presence of air are thionyl fluoride, sulfur tetrafluoride, and sulfur tetrafluoromonoxide plus metal fluorides and sulfides(3).

An estimated BCF of 6 was calculated in fish for sulfur hexafluoride(SRC), using an experimental log Kow of 1.68(1,SRC) and a recommended regression-derived equation(2). According to a classification scheme(3), this BCF suggests the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC).

The Koc of sulfur hexafluoride is estimated as 29(SRC), using a log Kow of 1.68(1) and a regression-derived equation(2). According to a classification scheme(3), this estimated Koc value suggests that sulfur hexafluoride is expected to have very high mobility in soil. Experimental data suggests that sulfur hexafluoride does not absorb at all in soils(4). The adsorption of sulfur hexafluoride was studied in four soils that differed markedly in pH, texture, and organic carbon content by injecting 100 ppm of the gas into bottles containing 5 g of soil and following the concentration of the sulfur hexafluoride in the head space air for 15 days(4). The experiments were conducted using both air-dried soils and soils moistened to fifty percent of their water holding capacity. None of the soils tested adsorbed any sulfur hexafluoride. Sulfur hexafluoride's lack of adsorptivity is one characteristic that makes it an ideal tracer gas(4).

The Henry's Law constant for sulfur hexafluoride is 4.25 atm-cu m/mole(1). This Henry's Law constant indicates that sulfur hexafluoride is expected to volatilize rapidly from water surfaces(2). Based on this Henry's Law constant, the volatilization half-life from a model river (1 m deep, flowing 1 m/sec, wind velocity of 3 m/sec)(2) is estimated as 3.5 hours(SRC). The volatilization half-life from a model lake (1 m deep, flowing 0.05 m/sec, wind velocity of 0.5 m/sec)(2) is estimated as 4.8 days(SRC). Sulfur hexafluoride's Henry's Law constant indicates that volatilization from moist soil surfaces may occur(SRC). However, experiments were conducted in which volatilization of sulfur hexafluoride from a shower was determined(1); results showed the amount of sulfur hexafluoride volatilized was much less than would be predicted from the Henry's Law constant(1). In these cases, equilibrium was not attained and the rate of volatilization was determined by mass-transport across the air-water interface(1). Sulfur hexafluoride is expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon a vapor pressure of 1.78X10+4 mm Hg(3).

Recent experimental data concerning sulfur hexafluoride suggest an early 1996 emission rate of 5.9 Gg/year and an interhemispheric exchange time of 1.3 years(1). The atmospheric burden of sulfur hexafluoride has increased from 5000 tons in 1970 to 90,000 tons in 1995, corresponding to emissions of <0.5 tons/yr in 1970 to 6,250 tons/yr in 1995(2). This amount increases by 7% every year. In 2002, emissions of sulfur hexafluoride to the atmosphere from the US electrical power industry totaled 589 metric tons(3).

SOIL: Soil air samples were collected at depths of 50, 100, and 200 cm in Central Park, NY (March 2001 to 2002), Riverside Park, NY (February 2001 to 2002), Pallisades, NY (March to April 2000), Sparkill, NY (May 2000 to February 2002), and Winthrop, ME (November 2000 to July 2001). Mean sulfur hexafluoride mixing ratio ranges at the 5 sampling sites were calculated as 15.0-15.8 parts per trillion, 9.0-10.7 parts per trillion, 8.2-8.7 parts per trillion, 8.6-8.9 parts per trillion, and 4.8 parts per trillion, respectively(1).

URBAN/SUBURBAN: In a field study conducted along US Highway 70 near Raleigh, NC during May 1983, the concentration of sulfur hexafluoride emitted from automobiles ranged from 1.5 to 13.4 parts per billion(1). Air monitoring at sites that include urban, non-urban, and marine environments in California was conducted during 21 July 1976 to 21 July 1997. The average sulfur hexafluoride concentration in the northern hemisphere was determined to range from 0.24 to 0.9 parts per thousand(2).

RURAL/REMOTE: Above 25 km height, sulfur hexafluoride concentrations are lagging the tropospheric ones by several years: 4.5 years for the tropics, 6 years for mid-latitudes and up to 10 years for the arctic winter vortex(1). Due to is enormous global warming potential, sulfur hexafluoride is now being systematically monitored by a number of air sampling programs which may nclude high resolution latitude profiles over the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, weekly flask samples from remote, globally distributed sites, hourly in situ measurements in rural or industrial areas, and a series of archived air samples(1). The natural background of sulfur hexafluoride is lower than 0.4 parts per trillion(2). Observations from four background monitoring stations, Neumayer, Antarctica (1986-1994), Cape Grim, Tasmania (1978-1994), Izana, Canary Islands (1991-1994) and Alert, Canada (1993-1994), of sulfur hexaflouride were as follows: for the period from January 1978 to December 1994 the data confirm a stable and unbroken quadratic rise in tropospheric sulfur hexafluoride from 0.5 to 3.11 parts per trillion in the southern hemisphere and for July 1991 to December 1994 from 2.69 to 3.44 parts per trillion in the northern hemisphere(3). The global mean tropospheric increase rate in late 1994 was 0.225 parts per trillion/year (6.9%/yr)(3). The long term trend and interhemispheric gradients are due to industrial production and emission, rising approximately linearly with time and with 94% emissions located mainly in the northern atmosphere(3). Monitoring at a background site in Shangdianzi China during June 2009 to May 2011 detected a mean background level of sulfur hexafluoride of 7.22X10-12 mol/mol(4). Since 1995 two different sampling programs in The Halocarbons and other Atmospheric Trace Species (HATS) group have measured sulfur hexafluoride (SF6); the combined data set is calculated by taking weighted averages of co-located measurements from background NOAA/ESRL GMD air measurement program(5); the combined global mean concentration of sulfur hexafluoride has increased (almost linearly) from 3.1 ppt in 1995 to 8.6 ppt in 2015(5).

Use of ... SF6 in the Netherlands (kiloton CO2 equivalents yr-1) and the Global Warming Potential (GWP) used. NOTE: Not covered by the Montreal Protocol [Table#2234]

According to the 2012 TSCA Inventory Update Reporting data, 2 reporting facilities estimate the number of persons reasonably likely to be exposed during the manufacturing, processing, or use of sulfur hexafluoride (2551-62-4) may be as low as <10 workers up to the range of 50-99 workers per plant; the data may be greatly underestimated due to confidential business information (CBI) or unknown values(1).

NIOSH (NOES Survey 1981-1983) has statistically estimated that 9,282 workers (1,529 of these are female) are potentially exposed to sulfur hexafluoride in the US(1). Occupational exposure may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where sulfur hexafluoride is produced or used(SRC). In the presence of an electrical discharge such as an arc, spark, or corona, a portion of sulfur hexafluoride decomposes into lower fluorides of sulfur that can react to form a number of chemically active byproducts (concentration, % by volume): SOF2 (SF4) (0.5); SOF4 (0.085); SF4 (0.085); S2F10 (0.025); SO2F2 (0.006); SO2 (0.002); HF (1.0). This is now well documented and accepted by workers under laboratory or practical operations in gas insulated switchgear (GIS) power systems(2). Monitoring data indicate that the general population may be exposed to sulfur hexafluoride via inhalation of ambient air(SRC).

SRP: Recycle any unused portion of the material for its approved use or return it to the manufacturer or supplier. Ultimate disposal of the chemical must consider: the material's impact on air quality; potential migration in air, soil or water; effects on animal, aquatic and plant life; and conformance with environmental and public health regulations. If it is possible or reasonable use an alternative chemical product with less inherent propensity for occupational harm/injury/toxicity or environmental contamination.

Product: Offer surplus and non-recyclable solutions to a licensed disposal company. Contact a licensed professional waste disposal service to dispose of this material; Contaminated packaging: Dispose of as unused product.

/GUIDE 126 GASES - COMPRESSED or LIQUEFIED (Including Refrigerant Gases)/ Fire or Explosion: Some may burn but none ignite readily. Containers may explode when heated. Ruptured cylinders may rocket.

/GUIDE 126 GASES - COMPRESSED or LIQUEFIED (Including Refrigerant Gases)/ Health: Vapors may cause dizziness or asphyxiation without warning. Vapors from liquefied gas are initially heavier than air and spread along ground. Contact with gas or liquefied gas may cause burns, severe injury and/or frostbite. Fire may produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases.

/GUIDE 126 GASES - COMPRESSED or LIQUEFIED (Including Refrigerant Gases)/ Public Safety: CALL Emergency Response Telephone Number on Shipping Paper first. If Shipping Paper not available or no answer, refer to appropriate telephone number listed on the inside back cover. As an immediate precautionary measure, isolate spill or leak area for at least 100 meters (330 feet) in all directions. Keep unauthorized personnel away. Stay upwind. Many gases are heavier than air and will spread along ground and collect in low or confined areas (sewers, basements, tanks). Keep out of low areas. Ventilate closed spaces before entering.

/GUIDE 126 GASES - COMPRESSED or LIQUEFIED (Including Refrigerant Gases)/ Protective Clothing: Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Wear chemical protective clothing that is specifically recommended by the manufacturer. It may provide little or no thermal protection. Structural firefighters' protective clothing will only provide limited protection.

For more DOT Emergency Guidelines (Complete) data for SULFUR HEXAFLUORIDE (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

UN 1080; Sulfur hexafluoride

IMO 2.2; Sulfur hexafluoride

49 045 75; Sulfur hexafluoride

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. Sulfur hexafluoride is 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. Sulfur hexafluoride is included on the dangerous goods list.

Non-Flammable Gas

UN Hazard Class: 2.2