UNIMIN ZIRCON *** OBSOLETE ***
Flammability | 0 | |
Toxicity | 2 | |
Body Contact | 2 | |
Reactivity | 0 | |
Chronic | 0 | |
SCALE: Min/Nil=0 Low=1 Moderate=2 High=3 Extreme=4 |
Used in refractories, as foundry sand; as opacifier in glazes and enamels; in ceramics,
cements; casting mould coatings; as polishing materials; gem stones; source of zirconium
oxide, zirconium and hafnium metals. Also used in foundry cores; linings for glass
furnaces; in refractory porcelain; in refractory compositions for laboratory crucibles; in
fritted glass filters; as catalyst in alkyl and alkenyl hydrocarbon manufacture; as
stabilizer in silicone rubbers.
"silicic acid, zirconium(4+) salt (1:1)", "zirconium (IV) silicate (1:1) zirconium
orthosilicate", "hyacinth zircon baddeleyite Milled Zircon", "Zr-O2-Si-O2 Zr-Si-O4 O4-Si-
Zr"
Although ingestion is not thought to produce harmful effects, the material may still be damaging to the health of the individual following ingestion, especially where pre- existing organ (e.g. liver, kidney) damage is evident. Present definitions of harmful or toxic substances are generally based on doses producing mortality (death) rather than those producing morbidity (disease, ill-health). Gastrointestinal tract discomfort may produce nausea and vomiting. In an occupational setting however, ingestion of insignificant quantities is not thought to be cause for concern.
There is some evidence to suggest that this material can causeeye irritation and damage in some persons. The dust may produce eye discomfort and abrasive eye inflammation.
The material is not thought to produce adverse health effects or skin irritation following contact (as classified using animal models). Nevertheless, good hygiene practice requires that exposure be kept to a minimum and that suitable gloves be used in an occupational setting. Irritation and skin reactions are possible with sensitive skin.
Inhalation may produce health damage*. The material is not thought to produce respiratory irritation (as classified using animal models). Nevertheless inhalation of the material, especially for prolonged periods, may produce respiratory discomfort and occasionally, distress. Persons with impaired respiratory function, airway diseases and conditions such as emphysema or chronic bronchitis, may incur further disability if excessive concentrations of particulate are inhaled. Zirconium workers exposed to fume for 1-5 years showed no abnormalities due to zirconium. Animal studies also reveal a low order of hazard from inhaled zirconium.
Principal routes of exposure are by accidental skin and eye contact andinhalation of generated dusts. As with any chemical product, contact with unprotected bare skin; inhalation of vapor, mist or dust in work place atmosphere; or ingestion in any form, should be avoided by observing good occupational work practice.