Is Silane Harmful?

Is Silane Harmful?

Silane is a kind of fire at normal temperature and pressure; it will explode in air or halogen gas. Its fire and explosion are the result of reaction with oxygen. Silane is very sensitive to oxygen and air, that is, if the concentration is not low enough, it is diluted with other gases. When silane contains 2% in argon, 2.5% in nitrogen and 1% in hydrogen, it can still catch fire. Silane concentration is non-flammable when it is less than 1%, spontaneously ignited when greater than 3%, and combustible when 1% to 3%. As long as it has a certain concentration of silane, it will react explosively with oxygen at a temperature of -180°C.

Silane is a colorless gas that reacts with air and may cause suffocation. This gas usually burns when in contact with air, releasing dense white amorphous silica fumes. Its main health hazard is that its spontaneous flame can cause severe thermal burns, which can even be fatal if it is severe. If flame or high temperature acts on a certain part of the silane cylinder, the cylinder will explode before the safety valve is activated. If the pressure is too high or the speed is too fast when the silane is discharged, it will cause a hysteresis explosion. If the leaked silane does not ignite spontaneously, it will be very dangerous. Personnel dealing with emergency situations must have personal protective equipment and fire-fighting facilities adapted to the situation. Don't try to put out the fire before the gas supply is cut off.

The most important hazards and effects:

Eye contact: Diphenylsilane can irritate the eyes. The decomposition of silane produces amorphous silica. Eye contact with amorphous silica particles can cause irritation.

1. Inhalation of high concentrations of silane can cause headache, nausea, dizziness and irritation of the upper respiratory tract.

2. Silane can irritate the respiratory system and mucous membranes. Due to the presence of silicon crystals, excessive inhalation of silane can cause pneumonia and kidney disease.

Eye contact: Immediately rinse with clean water for at least 15 minutes, not too quickly, while opening the eyelids. Make the victim's eyes a "0" shape, and immediately seek ophthalmological treatment.

3. Exposure to high concentrations of gas can also cause spontaneous heat burns. Ingestion is unlikely to be a way of exposure to silane.

Skin contact: Silane can irritate the skin. The decomposition of silane produces amorphous silica. Skin contact with amorphous silica particles can cause irritation.