NITROGEN (N2) DATASHEET

CAS Number: 07727-37-9
EC Number: 2317839 (Not EC classified as a dangerous substance)

General Information

Gaseous nitrogen comprises 78% of the earth’s atmosphere and is:
¨ Tasteless
¨ Odourless
¨ Colourless (Cold gas may appear white due to the ‘fogging’ of surrounding air)
¨ Non-flammable in air
¨ Chemically inert except at high temperature
¨ Only slightly soluble in water
¨ Non-Toxic, but asphyxiant at high concentrations due to oxygen depletion

Liquid nitrogen cryogenic (refrigerated) liquid gas:
¨ Can exist as a liquid at atmospheric pressure and –196 degrees C or below
¨ Absorbs a large amount of heat when it vaporises – As much as 420kJ per kg in an efficient system
¨ Has a very high heat transfer rate because of the extremely low temperature

Note
¨ The information provided on this datasheet is correct to the best of our knowledge and should be adequate for normal use. It should not be taken as exhaustive.
¨ ALPinE does not supply liquid nitrogen.
¨ Because the conditions of use of this product are outside our control and because ALPinE does not supply liquid nitrogen, ALPinE cannot accept responsibility for any injury, loss or damage resulting from the use of this product.

Handling & Storage
¨ Clear handling and emergency procedures that include all statutory regulations should be laid down and adhered to.
¨ Only trained personnel should handle liquid nitrogen.
¨ Personnel must wear protective equipment, especially to the eyes, face & skin and should work carefully to avoid liquid splashes.
¨ Containers must not be subjected to excessive heat or mechanical shock.
¨ Work areas must be well-ventilated.
¨ Work areas should be protected by Oxygen Depletion Monitors (see below).
¨ Containers should be stored upright, in a designated area, ideally outside or in a well-ventilated area.
¨ Containers must be clearly identified.
¨ Labels must not be removed from containers.
¨ If more than one gas or mixture is stored ensure that each can be easily identified and separated.
¨ Containers must not be handled by the valves.
¨ A suitable pressure regulator must be used.
¨ All equipment, hoses & valves must be suitable for the gas temperature and pressure and must be regularly inspected.
¨ A non-return system should be used if there is any risk of flow back into the container.
¨ Oil and grease must not be used on valves, fittings or other equipment.
¨ Valves should be opened and closed with moderate force, even when the container is empty.

Accidental Release Measures
¨ Evacuate Area.
¨ If necessary to enter the affected area, wear protective clothing and self-contained breathing apparatus.
¨ Close containers, valves, etc., and if appropriate remove equipment to the open air.
¨ Thoroughly ventilate affected areas.
¨ Check for leakage to other lower areas especially basements, sewers, etc.

Fire-Fighting Measures
¨ The product is non-flammable in air, thus no extinguishing media are needed
¨ Containers and equipment may detonate if heated due to the pressure build up caused by evaporation – Thus containers and equipment should ideally be sealed and removed from the affected area. Water spraying can be used to keep containers and equipment cool.
¨ If entering an affected area where there may be spills and/or evaporation wear self-contained breathing apparatus and eye/skin protection against liquid splashes.

Transport Information
See ‘Handling & Storage’ section above
¨ Driver must have copy of this information, be aware of the hazards and briefed on emergency actions
¨ Containers must be upright and properly secured
¨ Regulators and other fittings should be disconnected
¨ Vehicle used must have its load segregated from the driver’s compartment
¨ Containers must not be stored in vehicles
¨ In case of accident, the emergency services should be alerted to the presence of the containers

¨ HAZChem Code: 2RE
¨ UN Number: 1977
¨ Class: 2.2
¨ Transport Category: 3
¨ ADR / RID Item Number: 2,3 OA
¨ ADR / RID Hazard Number: 22
¨ Labelling ADR: Label 2: non-flammable non-toxic gas

http://www.amlab.co.uk/