Sulfur tetrafluoride

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

H314 (100%): Causes severe skin burns and eye damage [Danger Skin corrosion/irritation]

H330 (100%): Fatal if inhaled [Danger Acute toxicity, inhalation]

H335 (36%): May cause respiratory irritation [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure; Respiratory tract irritation]

P260, P261, P264, P271, P280, P284, P301+P330+P331, P302+P361+P354, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P316, P319, P320, P321, P363, P403+P233, P405, P410+P403, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Aggregated GHS information provided per 111 reports by companies from 4 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.

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

H314: Causes severe skin burns and eye damage [Danger Skin corrosion/irritation]

H318: Causes serious eye damage [Danger Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

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

H335: May cause respiratory irritation [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure; Respiratory tract irritation]

H370: Causes damage to organs [Danger Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure]

H372: Causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure [Danger Specific target organ toxicity, repeated exposure]

H373: May causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, repeated exposure]

P260, P261, P264, P264+P265, P270, P271, P280, P284, P301+P330+P331, P302+P361+P354, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P308+P316, P316, P317, P319, P320, P321, P363, P403+P233, P405, P410+P403, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

P260, P261, P264, P264+P265, P271, P280, P284, P301+P330+P331, P302+P361+P354, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P316, P317, P319, P320, P321, P363, P403+P233, P405, P410+P403, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Fresh air, rest. Half-upright position. Artificial respiration may be needed. Refer for medical attention.

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

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

Warning: Sulfur tetrafluoride is a highly irritating and corrosive gas.

Signs and Symptoms of Sulfur Tetrafluoride Exposure: Acute exposure to sulfur tetrafluoride may result in skin burns, eye and respiratory tract irritation, and pulmonary edema. Overexposure by any route can cause bloody stools, slow pulse rate, low blood pressure, coma, convulsions, and cardiac arrest.

Emergency Life-Support Procedures: Acute exposure to sulfur tetrafluoride 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 sulfur tetrafluoride.

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 100% humidified oxygen or other respiratory support.

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

4. Rush to a health care facility.

Dermal/Eye Exposure:

1. Remove victims from exposure. Emergency personnel should avoid self-exposure to sulfur tetrafluoride.

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 extremely thoroughly with soap and water.

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

7. Rush to a health care facility.

Ingestion Exposure:

Note: Ingestion of sulfur tetrafluoride gas is not expected to be a significant route of exposure.

1. 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 100% humidified oxygen or other respiratory support.

2. DO NOT induce vomiting or attempt to neutralize.

3. Give the victims water or milk: children up to 1 year old, 125 mL (4 oz or 1/2 cup); children 1 to 12 years old, 200 mL (6 ox or 3/4 cup); adults, 250 mL (8 oz or 1 cup). Water or milk should be given only if victims are conscious and alert.

4. Obtain authorization and/or further instructions from the local hospital for performance of other invasive procedures.

5. Rush to a health care facility. (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 unnecessary people away; isolate hazard area and deny entry. Stay upwind; keep out of low areas. Ventilate closed spaces before entering them. Wear positive pressure breathing apparatus and full protective clothing. Evacuate area endangered by gas.

This material is non-combustible. Small fires: dry chemical or carbon dioxide. Large fires: water spray, fog or foam. Do not get water inside container. Move container from fire area if you can do so without risk. Stay away from ends of tanks. Spray cooling water on containers that are exposed to flames until well after fire is out. Isolate area until gas has dispersed. (EPA, 1998)

NO water. In case of fire in the surroundings, use appropriate extinguishing media. In case of fire: keep cylinder cool by spraying with water. NO direct contact with water.

Wear self-contained breathing apparatus for firefighting if necessary.

Dry powder

If material involved in fire: Extinguish fire using agent suitable for type of surrounding fire. (Material itself does not burn or burns with difficulty). Do not use water. Cool all affected containers with flooding quantities of water. Apply water from as far a distance as possible. Use "alcohol" foam, dry chemical or carbon dioxide. Do not apply water to point of leak in tank car or container.

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.

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

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

· 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.

· Isolate area until gas has dispersed.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 125 [Gases - Toxic and/or Corrosive]:

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

SPILL: See ERG Table 1 - Initial Isolation and Protective Action Distances on the UN/NA 2418 datasheet.

FIRE: If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 1600 meters (1 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 1600 meters (1 mile) in all directions. (ERG, 2024)

Immediate precautionary measure

· Isolate spill or leak area for at least 100 meters (330 feet) in all directions.

· 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 1600 meters (1 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 1600 meters (1 mile) in all directions.

Small spill:

- ISOLATE in all directions: 100 m (300 ft)

Large spill:

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

- PROTECT people from downwind during DAY time: 0.5 km (0.3 mi)

- PROTECT people from downwind during NIGHT time: 2.4 km (1.5 mi)

- PROTECT people from downwind during DAY time: 2.4 km (1.5 mi)

- PROTECT people from downwind during NIGHT time: 5.9 km (3.7 mi)

Evacuate danger area! Consult an expert! Ventilation. Personal protection: gas-tight chemical protection suit including self-contained breathing apparatus.

/ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES/ Personal precautions, protective equipment and emergency procedures: Wear respiratory protection. Avoid breathing vapours, mist or gas. Ensure adequate ventilation. Evacuate personnel to safe areas. Environmental precautions: Prevent further leakage or spillage if safe to do so. Do not let product enter drains. Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up: Do not flush with water.

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.

SRP: The scientific literature for the use of contact lenses by industrial workers is inconsistent. The benefits or detrimental effects of wearing contact lenses depend not only upon the substance, but also on factors including the form of the substance, characteristics and duration of the exposure, the uses of other eye protection equipment, and the hygiene of the lenses. However, there may be individual substances whose irritating or corrosive properties are such that the wearing of contact lenses would be harmful to the eye. In those specific cases, contact lenses should not be worn. In any event, the usual eye protection equipment should be worn even when contact lenses are in place.

Eating and smoking should not be permitted in areas where liquid hydrogen fluoride or solutions containing hydrogen fluoride are handled, processed or stored. /Hydrofluoric acid/

If material not involved in fire: Keep sparks, flames, and other sources of ignition away. Keep material out of water sources and sewers. Attempt to stop leak if without undue personnel hazard. Use water spray to knock-down vapors.

Personnel protection; Avoid breathing vapors. Keep upwind. ... Avoid bodily contact with the material. ... Do not handle broken packages unless wearing appropriate personal protective equipment. Wash away any material which may have contacted the body with copious amounts of water or soap and water.

For more Preventive Measures (Complete) data for SULFUR TETRAFLUORIDE (7 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 125 [Gases - Toxic and/or Corrosive]:

Do not touch or walk through spilled material. Stop leak if you can do it without risk. If possible, turn leaking containers so that gas escapes rather than liquid. Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas. 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. Isolate area until gas has dispersed. (ERG, 2024)

Keep in a well-ventilated room. Fireproof if in building. Cool. Dry.

Hydrogen fluoride should be stored in cool, dry, well ventilated areas out of the direct rays of the sun. /Hydrofluoric acid/

Keep container tightly closed in a dry and well-ventilated place. Never allow product to get in contact with water during storage. Contents under pressure. Storage class (TRGS 510): Gases

· 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].

The compound is currently at the Holding Status AEGLs which have been reviewed by the NAC/AEGL Committee and are on hold due to insufficient data to develop AEGL values.

AEGLs Status: Holding

0.0091 [ppm]

0.10 [ppm]

0.82 [ppm]

0.1 ppm (0.4 mg/m³)

C 0.1 ppm (0.4 mg/m3)

none See Appendix G

See: IDLH INDEX

0.1 [ppm]

Ceiling Limit: 0.1 ppm.

0.1 ppm as TWA

0.1 ppm [1992]

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.

· Do not get water inside containers.

· 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.

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

The substance is corrosive to the eyes, skin and respiratory tract. The liquid may cause frostbite. Inhalation of this gas may cause lung oedema.

The substance may have effects on the bones and teeth. This may result in fluorosis.

Excerpt from NIOSH Pocket Guide for Sulfur tetrafluoride:

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)

Sulfur tetrafluoride is a colorless gas with a distinct sulfur odor. It is highly toxic by inhalation and a strong irritant to skin, eyes and mucous membranes. It reacts vigorously with water and acids to yield toxic fluoride and sulfur oxide fumes and an acidic solution. Sulfur tetrafluoride is heavier than air. Under prolonged exposure to fire or intense heat the containers may violently rupture or rocket. It is used as a fluoridizing agent and as an oil repellent.

Colorless gas with an odor like sulfur dioxide. [Note: Shipped as a liquefied compressed gas.]; [NIOSH]

COLOURLESS GAS WITH CHARACTERISTIC ODOUR.

Colorless gas with a distinct sulfur odor.

Colorless gas with an odor like sulfur dioxide. [Note: Shipped as a liquefied compressed gas.]

Colorless gas

Irritating odor that resembles sulfur dioxide

Distinct sulfur odor

-40 °F at 760 mmHg (EPA, 1998)

-38 °C @760 [mm Hg]

-191 °F (EPA, 1998)

-121.0 °C

Reacts with water (NIOSH, 2024)

Freely sol in benzene

Solubility in water: reaction

1.95 at -108 °F (EPA, 1998) - Denser than water; will sink

Liquid at -78 °C: 1.95 g/mL; solid at -183 °C: 2.349 g/mL

1.95 at -108 °F

1.95 @ -78°C

3.78(relative gas density)

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

3.78 (Air = 1)

Relative vapor density (air = 1): 3.78

10.5 atm at 70 °F (NIOSH, 2024)

1.522X10+4 mm Hg (2.0219 Pa) at 25 °C

10.5 atm at 70 °F

(70 °F): 10.5 atm

Stable under recommended storage conditions.

Thermostable to 600 °C

When heated it emits very toxic fumes of /hydrogen fluoride and sulfur oxides/.

Attacks glass, but not quartz or mercury

.. its corrosive action on metals can result in formation of hydrogen in containers & piping to create fire hazard

Attacks glass and metal

26.4 kJ/mol

12.63 eV

Low threshold= 0.033 mg/cu m High threshold= 0.13 mg/cu m. Irritating concn= 4.17 mg/cu m. /Hydrofluoric acid/

Decomposed by concentrated sulfuric acid. Thermostable at 600 °C

Surface tension: 257 dyn/cm at -73 °C

Sulfur tetrafluoride is an extremely reactive substance instantly hydrolized by water to sulfur oxide and hydrogen fluoride.

Readily hydrolyzes. Will react with water, steam, or acids to yield toxic and corrosive fumes

Violent reaction with water. It reacts vigorously with water and acids to yield toxic fluoride and sulfur oxide fumes, including fumes of hydrofluoric acid and sulfuric acid, and an acidic solution.

Fluoride Salts, Soluble

Water-Reactive

SULFUR TETRAFLUORIDE is a highly toxic and corrosive gas. On contact with water, steam, or mineral acids it decomposes and produces toxic and highly irritating fumes. When heated to decomposition it emits very toxic fluoride and sulfur oxides fumes [Lewis, 3rd ed., 1993, p. 1197]. Explosively violent reactions with 2-(hydroxymethyl)furan or 2-methyl-3-butyn-2-ol even below -50 °C have been recorded [Bretherick, 5th ed., 1995, p. 1432]. Ignition or explosion may occur on contact with dioxygen difluoride even below -100 °C [Streng, A. G., Chem. Rev., 1963, 63, p. 615].

Interaction /between sulfur tetrafluoride and 2-methyl-3-butyn-2-ol/ at -78 °C is explosively vigorous.

Decomposes in water

Will react with water, steam or acids to yield toxic and corrosive fumes.

Reaction of sulfur tetrafluoride with 2-hydroxymethylfuran in presence of triethylamine at -50 °C is explosive in absence of a solvent.

For more Hazardous Reactivities and Incompatibilities (Complete) data for SULFUR TETRAFLUORIDE (9 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Moisture, concentrated sulfuric acid, dioxygen difluoride [Note: Readily hydrolyzed by moisture, forming hydrofluoric acid & thionyl fluoride.]

IDENTIFICATION AND USE: Sulfur tetrafluoride (SF4) is a colorless gas. It is used as a selective fluorinating agent, capable of replacing oxygen in many organic, inorganic, and organometallic compounds with fluorine. It is also used in the production of water- and oil-repellant materials and lubricity improvers. HUMAN EXPOSURE AND TOXICITY: SF4 exerts severe local effects upon inhalation at rather low exposure levels, most probably due to respiratory tract irritation. Eye-irritating properties are suggested by a case study, in which workers were exposed to the breakdown products of sulphur hexafluoride. ANIMAL STUDIES: Local effects in the respiratory tract were found in a rat study at 4 ppm (18 mg/cu m).

The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation.

inhalation, skin and/or eye contact

Burning sensation. Cough. Sore throat. Headache. Nausea. Vomiting. Shortness of breath. Laboured breathing. Symptoms may be delayed.

Pain. Redness. Skin burns. ON CONTACT WITH LIQUID: FROSTBITE.

Redness. Pain. Blurred vision. Severe deep burns. ON CONTACT WITH LIQUID: FROSTBITE.

irritation eyes, skin, mucous membrane; eye, skin burns (from SF4 releasing hydrofluoric acid on exposure to moisture); liquid: frostbite; In Animals: dyspnea (breathing difficulty), lassitude (weakness, exhaustion), rhinorrhea (discharge of thin nasal mucus)

Eyes, skin, respiratory system

Dermatotoxin - Skin burns.

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

LCLo (rat) = 19 ppm/4h

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. /Sulfur 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 ... . 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 ... . Do not use emetics. For ingestion, rinse mouth and administer 5 mL/kg up to 200 mL of water for dilution if the patient can swallow, has a strong gag reflex, and does not drool ... . Administer activated charcoal ... . Cover skin burns with dry sterile dressings after decontamination ... . /Sulfur 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 ... . Consider administering a beta agonist such as albuterol for severe bronchospasms ... . Monitor cardiac rhythm and treat arrhythmias if necessary ... . Start IV administration of D5W /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 or lorazepam ... . Use proparacaine hydrochloride to assist eye irrigation ... . /Sulfur 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 if necessary. Immediately flush contaminated eyes with gently flowing water. Do not induce vomiting. If vomiting occurs, lean patient forward or place on the 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 for any exposure. /Hydrofluoric Acid (HF) and Related Compounds/

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

/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ ...the compound exerts severe local effects upon inhalation at rather low exposure levels, most probably due to respiratory tract irritation. Moreover, eye-irritating properties are suggested by a case study, in which workers were exposed to the breakdown products of sulphur hexafluoride.

/CASE REPORTS/ Six electrical workers accidentally exposed to degradation products of sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) during electrical repair work were followed up for one year. One degradation product, sulfur tetrafluoride (SF4), was identified from worksite measurements. Unprotected exposure in an underground enclosed space occurred for six hours over a 12 hour period. Initial symptoms included shortness of breath, chest tightness, productive cough, nose and eye irritation, headache, fatigue, nausea, and vomiting. Symptoms subsided when exposure was interrupted during attempts to identify the cause of the problem. Although exposure ended after several hours, four workers remained symptomatic for between one week and one month. Pulmonary radiographic abnormalities included several discrete areas of transitory platelike atelectasis in one worker, and a slight diffuse infiltrate in the left lower lobe of another. One worker showed transient obstructive changes in tests of pulmonary function. Examination at follow up after one year showed no persistent abnormalities.

/OTHER TOXICITY INFORMATION/ In view of the violent reaction of sulphur tetrafluoride with water, systemic exposure to this compound itself may be deemed negligible. Systemic exposure to hydrogen fluoride, sulphur dioxide, and thionyl dioxide - hydrolysis products - will, however, occur.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ ... Four hours of respiratory exposure to 19 ppm ( 86 mg/cu m ) caused death in one of 2 exposed rats, while all 2 rats survived a 1-hour exposure to 40 ppm ( 180 mg/cu m ). Further, rats repeatedly exposed to 4 ppm ( 18 mg/cu m ; 4 hours/day for 10 days over a 12-day period) showed signs of 'respiratory embarrassment'. Two rats sacrificed immediately after the 10th exposure, showed pulmonary damage, while rats allowed to recover for 14 days showed no clinical and anatomical lesion.

/ALTERNATIVE and IN VITRO TESTS/ Using quadrupole mass spectrometric analysis of sparked sulfur hexafluoride over energy and pressure ranges of 4-94 kj and 40-233 kPa, respectively, the by-products include sulfur tetrafluoride. The cytotoxic activity of certain of the more abundant decomposition products (prepared as mixtures of the specified by- product SF6) toward the Chinese hamster lung cells using a colony formation assay were investigated. Sulfur fluoride exhibited no sigificant cytotoxic activity at 0.5% concentration, although concentrations of 1 and 2% showed definite cytotoxicity, particularly after 4 hr of exposure.

Sulfur tetrafluoride's production and use as a chemical agent, as an intermediate andin the treatment agent for rubbers and polymers may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. Sulfur tetrafluoride can be formed as a degradation product of high temperature decomposition of sulfur hexafluoride. If released into the atmosphere, sulfur tetrafluoride will exist in the gas phase in the ambient atmosphere, based on a vapor pressure of 1.52X10+4 mm Hg at 25 °C. Sulfur tetrafluoride is a relatively heavy gas with a vapor density 3.78 times that of air. Therefore, if released in the atmosphere, it may tend to remain close to the ground and be transported to earth by wet deposition. Sulfur tetrafluoride reacts rapidly with water to yield hydrofluoric acid and thionyl fluoride. It also reacts and fumes in moist air. Therefore, hydrolysis is expected to be an important fate process in the ambient atmosphere. If released to soil, sulfur tetrafluoride is expected to have very high mobility based upon an estimated Koc of 27. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces would be expected to be an important fate process since the compound is a gas. However, rapid hydrolysis and leaching will attenuate the importance of volatilization from moist soil. Sulfur tetrafluoride is expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces based upon its vapor pressure. Biodegradation data were not available. If released into water, sulfur tetrafluoride is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment based upon the estimated Koc. Sulfur tetrafluoride hydrolyzes rapidly in water. Therefore, volatization from water and bioconcentration are not expected to be important fate processes. Occupational exposure to sulfur tetrafluoride may occur through inhalation of this compound at workplaces where sulfur tetrafluoride is produced or used. (SRC)

Sulfur tetrafluoride's production and use as a selective fluorinating agent(1), as a treatment to increase the water repellency of polymeric materials, in the preparation of high-lubricity elastomers, and for treatment of carbon blacks to prepare improved rubber vulcanizates(2) may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams(SRC). Sulfur tetrafluoride can be formed as a degradation product of high temperature decomposition of sulfur hexafluoride(3).

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 27(SRC), determined from a structure estimation method(2), indicates that sulfur tetrafluoride is expected to have very high mobility in soil(SRC). Volatilization of sulfur tetrafluoride from moist soil surfaces would be expected to be an important fate process(SRC) given the compound is a gas with a vapor pressure of 1.52X10+4 mm Hg at 25 °C(3). However, sulfur tetrafluoride reacts rapidly with water(3); therefore, rapid hydrolysis will attenuate the importance of volatilization from moist soil and leaching(SRC). Sulfur tetrafluoride is expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces based upon its vapor pressure(SRC). Biodegradation data were not available(SRC, 2015).

AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 27(SRC), determined from a structure estimation method(2), indicates that sulfur tetrafluoride is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment(SRC). Sulfur tetrafluoride reacts rapidly with water to yield hydrofluoric acid and thionyl fluoride(3). Therefore, volatilization from water and biocentration are not expected to be an important fate processes(SRC). 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 tetrafluoride, which has a vapor pressure of 1.52X10+4 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), is expected to exist solely as a gas in the ambient atmosphere. Sulfur tetrafluoride is a relatively heavy gas with a vapor density 3.78 times that of air(3). Therefore, if released in the atmosphere, it may tend to remain close to the ground and be transported to earth by wet deposition(SRC). Sulfur tetrafluoride reacts rapidly with water to yield hydrofluoric acid and thionyl fluoride(2). It also reacts and fumes in moist air(2). Therefore, hydrolysis is expected to be an important fate process in the ambient atmosphere(SRC).

Sulfur tetrafluoride reacts rapidly with water to yield hydrofluoric acid and thionyl fluoride(1). The hydrolysis reaction rate in water has been reported to be instantaneous(2). It has also been reported that sulfur tetrafluoride reacts and fumes in moist air(1).

Sulfur tetrafluoride reacts rapidly with water to yield hydrofluoric acid and thionyl fluoride(1). Therefore, bioconcentration in aquatic organisms weill not occur(SRC).

Using a structure estimation method based on molecular connectivity indices(1), the Koc of sulfur tetrafluoride can be estimated to be 27(SRC). According to a classification scheme(2), this estimated Koc value suggests that sulfur tetrafluoride is expected to have very high mobility in soil. Sulfur tetrafluoride reacts rapidly with water(3), therefore, leaching in moist soils will be attenuated by hydrolysis(SRC).

Sulfur tetrafluoride reacts rapidly with water to yield hydrofluoric acid and thionyl fluoride(1). Therefore, volatilization from water is not expected to be an important fate process(SRC). Sulfur tetrafluoride is a gas with vapor pressure of 1.52X10+4 mm Hg at 25 °C(1). Therefore, volatilization from moist soil surfaces would be expected to occur; however, rapid hydrolysis will attenuate the importance of volatilization from moist soil(SRC). Sulfur tetrafluoride is expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces based upon its vapor pressure(SRC).

Occupational exposure to sulfur tetrafluoride may occur through inhalation of this compound at workplaces where sulfur tetrafluoride is produced or used(SRC). Sulfur tetrafluoride was identified as a degradation product of sulfur hexafluoride during electrical repair work causing exposure to six electrical workers(1).

Sulfur tetrafluoride's production and use as a chemical agent, as an intermediate andin the treatment agent for rubbers and polymers may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. Sulfur tetrafluoride can be formed as a degradation product of high temperature decomposition of sulfur hexafluoride. If released into the atmosphere, sulfur tetrafluoride will exist in the gas phase in the ambient atmosphere, based on a vapor pressure of 1.52X10+4 mm Hg at 25 °C. Sulfur tetrafluoride is a relatively heavy gas with a vapor density 3.78 times that of air. Therefore, if released in the atmosphere, it may tend to remain close to the ground and be transported to earth by wet deposition. Sulfur tetrafluoride reacts rapidly with water to yield hydrofluoric acid and thionyl fluoride. It also reacts and fumes in moist air. Therefore, hydrolysis is expected to be an important fate process in the ambient atmosphere. If released to soil, sulfur tetrafluoride is expected to have very high mobility based upon an estimated Koc of 27. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces would be expected to be an important fate process since the compound is a gas. However, rapid hydrolysis and leaching will attenuate the importance of volatilization from moist soil. Sulfur tetrafluoride is expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces based upon its vapor pressure. Biodegradation data were not available. If released into water, sulfur tetrafluoride is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment based upon the estimated Koc. Sulfur tetrafluoride hydrolyzes rapidly in water. Therefore, volatization from water and bioconcentration are not expected to be important fate processes. Occupational exposure to sulfur tetrafluoride may occur through inhalation of this compound at workplaces where sulfur tetrafluoride is produced or used. (SRC)

Sulfur tetrafluoride's production and use as a selective fluorinating agent(1), as a treatment to increase the water repellency of polymeric materials, in the preparation of high-lubricity elastomers, and for treatment of carbon blacks to prepare improved rubber vulcanizates(2) may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams(SRC). Sulfur tetrafluoride can be formed as a degradation product of high temperature decomposition of sulfur hexafluoride(3).

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 27(SRC), determined from a structure estimation method(2), indicates that sulfur tetrafluoride is expected to have very high mobility in soil(SRC). Volatilization of sulfur tetrafluoride from moist soil surfaces would be expected to be an important fate process(SRC) given the compound is a gas with a vapor pressure of 1.52X10+4 mm Hg at 25 °C(3). However, sulfur tetrafluoride reacts rapidly with water(3); therefore, rapid hydrolysis will attenuate the importance of volatilization from moist soil and leaching(SRC). Sulfur tetrafluoride is expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces based upon its vapor pressure(SRC). Biodegradation data were not available(SRC, 2015).

AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), an estimated Koc value of 27(SRC), determined from a structure estimation method(2), indicates that sulfur tetrafluoride is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment(SRC). Sulfur tetrafluoride reacts rapidly with water to yield hydrofluoric acid and thionyl fluoride(3). Therefore, volatilization from water and biocentration are not expected to be an important fate processes(SRC). 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 tetrafluoride, which has a vapor pressure of 1.52X10+4 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), is expected to exist solely as a gas in the ambient atmosphere. Sulfur tetrafluoride is a relatively heavy gas with a vapor density 3.78 times that of air(3). Therefore, if released in the atmosphere, it may tend to remain close to the ground and be transported to earth by wet deposition(SRC). Sulfur tetrafluoride reacts rapidly with water to yield hydrofluoric acid and thionyl fluoride(2). It also reacts and fumes in moist air(2). Therefore, hydrolysis is expected to be an important fate process in the ambient atmosphere(SRC).

Sulfur tetrafluoride reacts rapidly with water to yield hydrofluoric acid and thionyl fluoride(1). The hydrolysis reaction rate in water has been reported to be instantaneous(2). It has also been reported that sulfur tetrafluoride reacts and fumes in moist air(1).

Sulfur tetrafluoride reacts rapidly with water to yield hydrofluoric acid and thionyl fluoride(1). Therefore, bioconcentration in aquatic organisms weill not occur(SRC).

Using a structure estimation method based on molecular connectivity indices(1), the Koc of sulfur tetrafluoride can be estimated to be 27(SRC). According to a classification scheme(2), this estimated Koc value suggests that sulfur tetrafluoride is expected to have very high mobility in soil. Sulfur tetrafluoride reacts rapidly with water(3), therefore, leaching in moist soils will be attenuated by hydrolysis(SRC).

Sulfur tetrafluoride reacts rapidly with water to yield hydrofluoric acid and thionyl fluoride(1). Therefore, volatilization from water is not expected to be an important fate process(SRC). Sulfur tetrafluoride is a gas with vapor pressure of 1.52X10+4 mm Hg at 25 °C(1). Therefore, volatilization from moist soil surfaces would be expected to occur; however, rapid hydrolysis will attenuate the importance of volatilization from moist soil(SRC). Sulfur tetrafluoride is expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces based upon its vapor pressure(SRC).

Occupational exposure to sulfur tetrafluoride may occur through inhalation of this compound at workplaces where sulfur tetrafluoride is produced or used(SRC). Sulfur tetrafluoride was identified as a degradation product of sulfur hexafluoride during electrical repair work causing exposure to six electrical workers(1).

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 ... 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.

Table: Table of Initial Isolation and Protective Action Distances for Sulfur tetrafluoride; Sulphur tetrafluoride ID: 2418 [Table#5887]

/GUIDE 125 GASES - CORROSIVE/ Fire or Explosion: Some may burn but none ignite readily. Vapors from liquefied gas are initially heavier than air and spread along ground. Some of these materials may react violently with water. Cylinders exposed to fire may vent and release toxic and/or corrosive gas through pressure relief devices. Containers may explode when heated. Ruptured cylinders may rocket.

/GUIDE 125 GASES - CORROSIVE/ Health: TOXIC; may be fatal if inhaled, ingested or absorbed through skin. Vapors are extremely irritating and corrosive. Contact with gas or liquefied gas may cause burns, severe injury and/or frostbite. Fire will produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Runoff from fire control may cause pollution.

/GUIDE 125 GASES - CORROSIVE/ 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.

For more DOT Emergency Guidelines (Complete) data for SULFUR TETRAFLUORIDE (9 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

UN 2418; Sulfur tetrafluoride

IMO 2.3; Sulfur tetrafluoride

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 tetrafluoride 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 tetrafluoride is included on the dangerous goods list.

Poison Gas Corrosive

UN Hazard Class: 2.3; UN Subsidiary Risks: 8