MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET PACKET
National Institute of Standards and Technology RM Number: 8559, 8560, 8561
Standard Reference Materials Program MSDS Number: 8559-8560 and 8561
100 Bureau Drive, Stop 2320 RM Name: 8559 - Natural Gas
Gaithersburg, Maryland 20899-2320 (Coal Origin)
8560 - Natural Gas
Phone: (301) 975-6776 (Petroleum Origin)
FAX: (301) 926-4751 8561 鈥? Natural Gas
E-mail: SRMMSDS@nist.gov (Biogenic)
Date of Issue: 10 May 2004
Reference Materials RM 8559, RM 8560, and RM 8561 are natural gas samples intended to provide compound
specific reference values for isotopic composition and uncertainty with 13C/12C ratios expressed in parts per thousand
relative to the VPDB (Vienna Peedee Belemnite) standard. Each RM consists of a 50-milliliter stainless steel
cylinder sealed with an all-metal seat in a bellows valve. The set contains the following materials with respective
Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS):
RM 8559 鈥? Natural Gas of Coal Origin (>80 % Methane)
RM 8560 鈥? Natural Gas of Petroleum Origin (>50 % Methane)
RM 8561 鈥? Biogenic Natural Gas (>95 % Methane)
MSDS 8559-8560-8561 Page 1 of 7
MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET
SRM Supplier: National Institute of Standards and Technology RM Number: 8559-8560
Standard Reference Materials Program MSDS Number: 8559-8560
100 Bureau Drive, Stop 2320 RM Name: 8559 - Natural Gas
Gaithersburg, Maryland 20899-2320 (Coal Origin)
8560 - Natural Gas
(Petroleum Origin)
Date of Issue: 10 May 2004
MSDS Coordinator: Mario J. Cellarosi
Phone: (301) 975-6776 FAX: (301) 926-4751
ChemTrec: 1-800-424-9300 E-mail: SRMMSDS@nist.gov
SECTION I. MATERIAL IDENTIFICATION
Material Name: Natural Gas
Description: Reference Materials RM 8559 and RM 8560 are natural gas samples intended to provide compound specific
reference values for isotopic composition and uncertainty with 13C/12C ratios expressed in parts per thousand relative to the
VPDB (Vienna Peedee Belemnite) standard. RM 8559 is a natural gas of coal origin (>80 % methane), while RM 8560 is
a natural gas of petroleum origin (>50 % methane). Each RM consists of a 50 mL stainless steel cylinder sealed with an
all-metal seat in a bellows valve. Each cylinder contains about 10 mmol (approximately 2 g) of gas compressed to about
5 MPa (800 psia).
Other Designations: Natural Gas (gas fuels; sweet natural gas; marathon natural gas)
Name Chemical Formula CAS Registry Number
Natural Gas Hydrocarbons Mixture 8006-14-2
DOT Classification: Flammable Gas; Class Hazard 2.1; ID No. UN1971; Methane
SECTION II. HAZARDOUS INGREDIENTS
Hazardous Component Nominal Concentration (%) Exposure Limits and Toxicity Data
OSHA TWA: 1800 mg/m3
100
Natural Gas
ACGIH TWA: 1800 mg/m3
simple asphyxiant
SECTION III. PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS
Natural Gas
Appearance: colorless Volatility (%): 100
Odor: varying odor Boiling Point (掳C): 鈥?161 to 鈥?88
Odor Threshold: not available Freezing Point (掳C): 鈥?183
Vapor Density (air = 1): 0.8 Water Solubility: insoluble
MSDS 8559-8560-8561 Page 2 of 7
SECTION IV. FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARD DATA
Flash Point (掳C): 鈥?180 Method Used: Not Applicable Autoignition Temperature(掳C): 482 鈥? 670
UPPER: 13 to 17
Flammability Limits in Air (Volume %):
LOWER: 3.8 to 6.5
Unusual Fire and Explosion Hazards: Natural gas is a severe fire hazard. Vapor/air mixtures are explosive. Vapors or
gasses may ignite at distant ignition sources and flash back. Containers may rupture or explode if exposed to heat.
Extinguishing Media: Use carbon dioxide or dry chemical.
Special Fire Procedures: Fire fighters should wear full protective clothing and self-contained breathing apparatus
(SCBA) when this material is involved in a fire. Keep cylinders cool with water spray. If possible, stop the product
flow. Move the cylinder from fire area if it can be done without risk.
SECTION V. REACTIVITY DATA
Stability: X Stable Unstable
Stable at normal temperature and pressure.
Conditions to Avoid: Avoid heat, flames, sparks and other sources of ignition. Protect cylinders from physical damage.
Containers may rupture or explode if exposed to heat. Dangerous gases may accumulate in confined spaces. DO NOT
store in poorly ventilated areas.
Incompatibility (Materials to Avoid): Natural gas is incompatible with oxidizing materials.
See Section IV: 鈥淔ire and Explosion Hazard Data鈥?
Hazardous Decomposition or Byproducts: Thermal decomposition of natural gas will produce oxides of carbon.
Hazardous Polymerization Will Occur X Will Not Occur
SECTION VI. HEALTH HAZARD DATA
X X
Route of Entry: Inhalation Skin Ingestion
Health Hazards (Acute and Chronic): Natural gas is a simple asphyxiant. Concentrations of 5 % to 8 % produced fetal
brain abnormalities such as brain hernias and hydrocephalus in pregnant mice. The symptoms of asphyxia depend on the
rapidity with which oxygen deficiency develops and how long it continues. In sudden acute asphyxia, unconsciousness
may be immediate. With slow development, there may be rapid respiration and pulse, air hunger, dizziness, reduced
awareness, tightness in the head, tingling sensations, incoordination, faulty judgment, emotional instability, and rapid
fatigue. As the asphyxia progresses, nausea, vomiting, collapse, unconsciousness, convulsions, deep coma, and death are
possible.
Skin contact with the liquid form of this gas may cause frostbite with redness, tingling and pain, or numbness. In more
severe cases, the skin may become hard and white with the development of blisters. Eye contact with the liquid form of
this gas may cause pain and blurred vision.
NOTE: Ensure adequate ventilation when using this material.
Medical Conditions Generally Aggravated by Exposure: Not Established
MSDS 8559-8560-8561 Page 3 of 7
Listed as a Carcinogen/Potential Carcinogen:
Yes No
In the National Toxicology Program (NTP) Report on Carcinogens X
In the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) Monographs X
By the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) X
EMERGENCY AND FIRST AID PROCEDURES:
Skin Contact: If frostbite or freezing occurs, immediately flush with plenty of lukewarm water (105 掳F to 115 掳F; 41 掳C
to 46 掳C). DO NOT USE HOT WATER. If warm water is not available, gently wrap affected parts in blankets. Get
immediate medical assistance.
Eye Contact: Immediately flush eyes, including under the eyelids, with copious amounts of water for at least
15 minutes. Obtain medical assistance immediately.
Inhalation: If adverse effects occur, move the victim to fresh air. If breathing is difficult, give oxygen. If the victim is
not breathing, give artificial respiration by qualified personnel. Obtain immediate medical assistance.
Ingestion: If a large amount is ingested, seek immediate medical attention.
NOTE TO PHYSICIAN: For inhalation, consider oxygen.
TARGET ORGAN(S) OF ATTACK: None reported.
SECTION VII. PRECAUTIONS FOR SAFE HANDLING AND USE
Steps to be Taken in Case Material Is Released: Ventilate closed spaces before entering. Remove leaking cylinder to
exhaust hood or safe outdoor area. Avoid heat, flames, sparks and other sources of ignition. Reduce vapors with water
spray. Keep unnecessary people away; isolate hazard area and deny entry.
Waste Disposal: Natural gas is subject to U.S. EPA disposal regulations (EPA 40, CFR 262); Hazardous Waste
Number D001. Dispose in accordance with all federal, state and local regulations. DO NOT return the empty cylinder
to the supplier. The cylinder is the property of the purchaser.
Handling and Storage: Store and handle in accordance with all current regulations and standards. Subject to storage
regulations: U.S. OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1001. Keep separated from incompatible substances. Secure and protect
cylinder from falling. Store in a cool, dry place and well-ventilated area. Use local exhaust ventilation system.
Ventilation equipment should be explosion-resistant if explosive concentrations are present. Keep containers tightly
closed when not in use. Keep valve protective cap on cylinder when not in use. Wear safety goggles, safety shoes, and
insulated gloves when handling or using cylinders. An eye wash station and drench shower should be readily available
near handling and use areas.
NOTE: Contact lenses pose a special problem; soft lenses may absorb irritants and all
lenses concentrate them. DO NOT wear contact lenses in the laboratory.
SECTION VIII. SOURCE DATA/OTHER COMMENTS
Sources: MDL Information Systems, Inc., MSDS Natural Gas,15 December 2003.
Disclaimer: Physical and chemical data contained in this MSDS are provided only for use in assessing the hazardous
nature of the material. The MSDS was prepared carefully, using current references; however, NIST does not certify the
data in the MSDS. The reference values for this material are given in the NIST Report of Investigation.
MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET
MSDS 8559-8560-8561 Page 4 of 7
SRM Supplier: National Institute of Standards and Technology RM Number: 8561
Standard Reference Materials Program MSDS Number: 8561
100 Bureau Drive, Stop 2320 RM Name: Natural Gas 鈥? Biogenic
Gaithersburg, Maryland 20899-2320 (Methane)
Date of Issue: 10 May 2004
MSDS Coordinator: Mario J. Cellarosi FAX: (301) 926-4751
Phone: (301) 975-6776 E-mail: SRMMSDS@nist.gov
ChemTrec: 1-800-424-9300
SECTION I. MATERIAL IDENTIFICATION
Material Name: Natural Gas 鈥? Biogenic (Methane)
Description: Reference Material 8561 is a biogenic natural gas sample (>95 % methane) intended to provide compound
specific reference values for isotopic composition and uncertainty with 13C/12C ratios expressed in parts per thousand
relative to the VPDB (Vienna Peedee Belemnite) standard. This RM consists of a 50 mL stainless steel cylinder sealed
with an all-metal seat in a bellows valve. The cylinder contains about 10 mmol (approximately 2 g) of gas compressed to
about 5 MPa (800 psia).
Other Designations: Methane (marsh gas; methyl hydride; natural gas)
Name Chemical Formula CAS Registry Number
Methane CH4 74-82-8
DOT Classification: Flammable Gas; Class Hazard 2.1; ID No. UN1971; Methane
SECTION II. HAZARDOUS INGREDIENTS
Hazardous Component Nominal Concentration (%) Exposure Limits and Toxicity Data
Methane >90 simple asphyxiant
SECTION III. PHYSICAL/CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS
Methane
Appearance: colorless and odorless Volatility (%): 100
Taste: tasteless Boiling Point (掳C): 鈥?162
Molecular Weight: 16.04 Freezing Point (掳C): 鈥?183
Water Solubility (% @ 17 掳C): 3.5
Vapor Density (air = 1): 0.555
Solvent Solubility: soluble in ether, alcohol,
Vapor Pressure (掳C @ 760 mm Hg): 鈥?161
benzene, and organic solvents
SECTION IV. FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARD DATA
MSDS 8559-8560-8561 Page 5 of 7
Flash Point (掳C): 鈥?223 Method Used: Not Applicable Autoignition Temperature(掳C): 537
15
Flammability Limits in Air (Volume %): UPPER:
5
LOWER:
Unusual Fire and Explosion Hazards: Methane is a severe fire hazard. Vapor/air mixtures are explosive above the
flash point. Vapors or gasses may ignite at distant ignition sources and flash back. Electrostatic discharges may be
generated by flow or agitation resulting in ignition or explosion. Containers may rupture or explode if exposed to heat.
Extinguishing Media: Use carbon dioxide or regular dry chemical.
Special Fire Procedures: Fire fighters should wear full protective clothing and self-contained breathing apparatus
(SCBA) when this material is involved in a fire. Keep fire cylinders cool with water spray. If possible, stop the product
flow. Move cylinder from the fire area if it can be done without risk.
SECTION V. REACTIVITY DATA
Stability: X Stable Unstable
Stable at normal temperature and pressure.
Conditions to Avoid: Avoid heat, flames, sparks, and other sources of ignition. Protect cylinders from physical damage.
Containers may rupture or explode if exposed to heat. Dangerous gases may accumulate in confined spaces. DO NOT
store in poorly ventilated areas.
Incompatibility (Materials to Avoid): Methane gas is incompatible with halogens, oxidizing materials, and
combustible materials. The following reactions occur with methane:
Methane + Reaction
Bromine: Explosive reaction
Chlorine: Explosive reaction, particularly in the presence of light or catalyst
Chlorine Dioxide: Spontaneous explosion
Dioxygen Difluoride: Explosive interaction
Dioxygenyl Tetrafluoroborate: Explosive interaction
Fluorine: Ignition
Interhalogens: Contact will result in fire or explosion.
Nitrogen Trifluoride: Explosive reaction on ignition
Oxidizers (strong): Fire and explosion hazard
Oxygen: Mixtures of the liquids are explosive
Oxygen Difluoride: Explodes when sparked
Trioxygen Difluoride: Explodes violently with the liquid
See Section IV: 鈥淔ire and Explosion Hazard Data鈥?
Hazardous Decomposition or Byproducts: Thermal decomposition of methane will produce oxides of carbon.
Hazardous Polymerization Will Occur X Will Not Occur
SECTION VI. HEALTH HAZARD DATA
X X X
Route of Entry: Inhalation Skin Ingestion
Health Hazards (Acute and Chronic): Methane gas is a simple asphyxiant. The symptoms of asphyxia depend on the
rapidity with which oxygen deficiency develops and how long it continues. In sudden acute asphyxia, unconsciousness
may be immediate. With slow development, there may be rapid respiration and pulse, air hunger, dizziness, reduced
awareness, tightness in the head, tingling sensations, in-coordination, faulty judgment, emotional instability, and rapid
MSDS 8559-8560-8561 Page 6 of 7
fatigue. As the asphyxia progresses, nausea, vomiting, collapse, unconsciousness, convulsions, deep coma, and death are
possible.
NOTE: Ensure adequate ventilation when using this material.
Medical Conditions Generally Aggravated by Exposure: Not Established
Listed as a Carcinogen/Potential Carcinogen:
Yes No
In the National Toxicology Program (NTP) Report on Carcinogens X
In the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) Monographs X
By the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) X
EMERGENCY AND FIRST AID PROCEDURES:
Skin Contact: Remove contaminated shoes and clothing. Rinse affected area with copious amounts of water for at least
15 minutes while removing contaminated clothing. Obtain medical assistance if necessary.
Eye Contact: Immediately flush eyes, including under the eyelids, with copious amounts of water for at least
15 minutes. Obtain medical assistance immediately.
Inhalation: If adverse effects occur, move the victim to fresh air. If breathing is difficult, give oxygen; if the victim is
not breathing, give artificial respiration by qualified personnel. Obtain immediate medical assistance.
Ingestion: If a large amount is ingested, seek immediate medical attention.
NOTE TO PHYSICIAN: For inhalation, consider oxygen.
TARGET ORGAN(S) OF ATTACK: None reported.
SECTION VII. PRECAUTIONS FOR SAFE HANDLING AND USE
Steps to be Taken in Case Material Is Released: Ventilate closed spaces before entering. Remove leaking cylinder to
exhaust hood or safe outdoor area. Avoid heat, flames, sparks and other sources of ignition. Reduce vapors with water
spray. Keep unnecessary people away, isolate hazard area and deny entry.
Waste Disposal: Methane gas is subject to U.S. EPA disposal regulations (EPA 40, CFR 262); Hazardous Waste
Number D001. Dispose in accordance with federal, state and local regulations. DO NOT return the empty cylinder to
the supplier. The cylinder is the property of the purchaser.
Handling and Storage: Store and handle in accordance with all current regulations and standards. Keep separated
from incompatible substances. Secure and protect cylinder from falling. Store in a cool, dry place and well-ventilated
area. Provide local exhaust ventilation system. Ventilation equipment should be explosion resistant if explosive
concentrations are present. Keep containers tightly closed when not in use. Keep valve protective cap on cylinder when
not in use. Keep separated from incompatible substances. Wear safety goggles, safety shoes, and insulated gloves when
handling or using cylinders. An eye wash station and drench shower should be readily available near handling and use
areas. DO NOT wear contact lenses in the laboratory.
SECTION VIII. SOURCE DATA/OTHER COMMENTS
Sources: MDL Information Systems, Inc., MSDS Methane Gas, 15 December 2003.
Disclaimer: Physical and chemical data contained in this MSDS are provided only for use in assessing the hazardous
nature of the material. The MSDS was prepared carefully, using current references; however, NIST does not certify the
data in the MSDS. The reference values for this material are given in the NIST Report of Investigation.
MSDS 8559-8560-8561 Page 7 of 7
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