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Indium

PubChem CID
5359967
Structure
Indium_small.png
Molecular Formula
Synonyms
  • INDIUM
  • 7440-74-6
  • IN
  • Indium, elemental
  • indium atom
Molecular Weight
114.818 g/mol
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2024.11.20)
Element Name
Dates
  • Create:
    2004-09-16
  • Modify:
    2025-01-18
Description
Soft, ductile, shiny, silver-white metal. Mp: 155.6 °C; bp: 2080 °C. Density 7.31 g cm-3.
Indium(1+) is a monoatomic monocation and a monoatomic indium.
Indium has been used in trials studying the basic science of Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma.

1 Structures

1.1 2D Structure

Chemical Structure Depiction
Indium.png

1.2 Crystal Structures

2 Names and Identifiers

2.1 Computed Descriptors

2.1.1 IUPAC Name

indium
Computed by Lexichem TK 2.7.0 (PubChem release 2024.11.20)

2.1.2 InChI

InChI=1S/In
Computed by InChI 1.07.0 (PubChem release 2024.11.20)

2.1.3 InChIKey

APFVFJFRJDLVQX-UHFFFAOYSA-N
Computed by InChI 1.07.0 (PubChem release 2024.11.20)

2.1.4 SMILES

[In]
Computed by OEChem 2.3.0 (PubChem release 2024.12.12)

2.2 Molecular Formula

In
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2024.11.20)

2.3 Other Identifiers

2.3.1 CAS

7440-74-6

2.3.2 European Community (EC) Number

2.3.3 UNII

2.3.4 ChEBI ID

2.3.5 DrugBank ID

2.3.6 DSSTox Substance ID

2.3.7 ICSC Number

2.3.8 NCI Thesaurus Code

2.3.9 RTECS Number

2.3.10 Wikidata

2.3.11 Wikipedia

2.4 Synonyms

2.4.1 MeSH Entry Terms

Indium

2.4.2 Depositor-Supplied Synonyms

3 Chemical and Physical Properties

3.1 Computed Properties

Property Name
Molecular Weight
Property Value
114.818 g/mol
Reference
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2024.11.20)
Property Name
Hydrogen Bond Donor Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2024.11.20)
Property Name
Hydrogen Bond Acceptor Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2024.11.20)
Property Name
Rotatable Bond Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2024.11.20)
Property Name
Exact Mass
Property Value
114.9038788 Da
Reference
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2024.11.20)
Property Name
Monoisotopic Mass
Property Value
114.9038788 Da
Reference
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2024.11.20)
Property Name
Topological Polar Surface Area
Property Value
0 Ų
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2024.11.20)
Property Name
Heavy Atom Count
Property Value
1
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Formal Charge
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Complexity
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2024.11.20)
Property Name
Isotope Atom Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Defined Atom Stereocenter Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Undefined Atom Stereocenter Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Defined Bond Stereocenter Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Undefined Bond Stereocenter Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Covalently-Bonded Unit Count
Property Value
1
Reference
Computed by PubChem
Property Name
Compound Is Canonicalized
Property Value
Yes
Reference
Computed by PubChem (release 2021.10.14)

3.2 Experimental Properties

3.2.1 Physical Description

Soft, ductile, shiny, silver-white metal. Mp: 155.6 °C; bp: 2080 °C. Density 7.31 g cm-3.
Other Solid
Ductile, shiny, silver-white metal that is softer than lead; [NIOSH] Oxidation states: 1+, 2+, and 3+; Only 3+ stable in water; [Nordberg, p. 845]
SILVER-WHITE METAL OR BLACK POWDER.
Ductile, shiny, silver-white metal that is softer than lead.

3.2.2 Color / Form

Soft, white metal with bluish tinge. Ductile, malleable, softer than lead, leaves a mark on paper, crystalizes.
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Cambridge, UK: Royal Society of Chemistry, 2013., p. 920
Soft, silvery-white, malleable and ductile metal. Has plastic properties at cryogenic temperatures
Lewis, R.J. Sr. (ed) Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 11th Edition. Wiley-Interscience, Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ. 2004., p. V3: 2081

3.2.3 Boiling Point

3767 °F at 760 mmHg (NIOSH, 2024)
2072 °C
Haynes, W.M. (ed.). CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. 94th Edition. CRC Press LLC, Boca Raton: FL 2013-2014, p. 4-67
2000 °C
3767 °F

3.2.4 Melting Point

314 °F (NIOSH, 2024)
156.6 °C
Haynes, W.M. (ed.). CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. 94th Edition. CRC Press LLC, Boca Raton: FL 2013-2014, p. 4-67
314 °F

3.2.5 Solubility

Insoluble (NIOSH, 2024)
Insoluble in water in bulk form; soluble in most acids.
Lewis, R.J. Sr. (ed) Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 11th Edition. Wiley-Interscience, Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ. 2004., p. V3: 2081
Soluble in acids. Insoluble in alkalis.
Lewis, R.J. Sr.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 15th Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. New York, NY 2007., p. 686
Insoluble in hot or cold water; very slightly soluble in sodium hydroxide
American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists, Inc. Documentation of the Threshold Limit Values and Biological Exposure Indices. 6th ed. Volumes I, II, III. Cincinnati, OH: ACGIH, 1991., p. 797
Solubility in water: none
Insoluble

3.2.6 Density

7.31 (NIOSH, 2024) - Denser than water; will sink
7.31 g/cu cm at 20 °C
Haynes, W.M. (ed.). CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. 94th Edition. CRC Press LLC, Boca Raton: FL 2013-2014, p. 4-67
7.3 g/cm³
7.31

3.2.7 Vapor Pressure

0 mmHg (approx) (NIOSH, 2024)
1.14X10-19 Pa at melting point
Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology. 4th ed. Volumes 1: New York, NY. John Wiley and Sons, 1991-Present., p. V14 (1995) 156
0 mmHg (approx)

3.2.8 Corrosivity

Corrosion resistant at room temperatures. Oxidizes readily at higher temperatures.
Lewis, R.J. Sr.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 15th Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. New York, NY 2007., p. 686

3.2.9 Heat of Vaporization

98.56 kJ/mol-K
Felix N; Indium and Indium Compounds. Ullmann's Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry. 7th ed. (1999-2014). New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons. Online Posting Date: 15 Jun 2000

3.2.10 Other Experimental Properties

Emits a "tin cry" upon bending. Ductile, malleable, softer than lead, leaves a mark on paper. Quite stable in air. Crystallizes and is diamagnetic.
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Cambridge, UK: Royal Society of Chemistry, 2013., p. 920
Mohs' Hardness = 1.2
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Cambridge, UK: Royal Society of Chemistry, 2013., p. 920
Incandesces
Sax, N.I. Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. Vol 1-3 7th ed. New York, NY: Van Nostrand Reinhold, 1989., p. V3: 1985
BP: 2080 °C; mp: 156.61 °C
Lewis, R.J. Sr. (ed) Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 11th Edition. Wiley-Interscience, Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ. 2004., p. V3: 2081
Specific heat: 0.0568 cal/g/deg C
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Cambridge, UK: Royal Society of Chemistry, 2013., p. 920
Specific heat: 0.233 kJ/(kg K) at 25 °C; electrical resistivity: 291 ohm m at 20 °C; electrode oxidation-reduction potential: 0.38 V; Brinell hardness number: 0.9; tensile strength: 1.6 MPa at 20 °C.
Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology. 4th ed. Volumes 1: New York, NY. John Wiley and Sons, 1991-Present., p. V14 (1995) 156
For more Other Experimental Properties (Complete) data for Indium, Elemental (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

3.3 SpringerMaterials Properties

3.4 Chemical Classes

Metals -> Metals, Inorganic Compounds

4 Spectral Information

4.1 UV Spectra

Spectroscopic detection possible down to 10 ppm due to its characteristic lines in the indigo blue region at wavelengths 4511.36, 4101.76, 3256.09, and 3039.39 nm.
Felix N; Indium and Indium Compounds. Ullmann's Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry. 7th ed. (1999-2014). New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons. Online Posting Date: 15 Jun 2000

4.2 Other Spectra

Spark source mass spectrometry (SSMS) and graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry are used to analyze high purity indium.
Felix N; Indium and Indium Compounds. Ullmann's Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry. 7th ed. (1999-2014). New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons. Online Posting Date: 15 Jun 2000

6 Chemical Vendors

7 Drug and Medication Information

7.1 FDA National Drug Code Directory

7.2 Drug Labels

Drug and label
Active ingredient and drug
Homeopathic product and label

7.3 Clinical Trials

7.3.1 ClinicalTrials.gov

8 Minerals

1 of 4
Name
Formula
In
System
Quadratic (tetragonal)
2 of 4
Name
indium
Link
3 of 4
IMA Number
IMA1968 s.p.
Formula
In
IMA Symbol
In
PDF Link
4 of 4
Mineral Description
Indium is produced mainly from residues generated during zinc ore processing. It was named after the indigo line in its atomic spectrum. The first large-scale application for indium was as a coating for bearings in high-performance aircraft engines during World War II. Afterwards, production gradually increased as new uses were found in fusible alloys, solders, and electronics. In the middle and late 1980's, the development of indium phosphide semiconductors and indium-tin-oxide thin films for Liquid Crystal Displays (LCD) aroused much interest. By 1992, the thin-film application had become the largest end use. The amount of indium consumed is largely a function of worldwide LCD production. Increased manufacturing efficiency and recycling (especially in Japan) maintain a balance between demand and supply. The average indium price for 2000 was $188 per kilogram.
USGS Mineral Commodity Summaries (PDF links)
USGS Mineral Yearbook (PDF links)

9 Pharmacology and Biochemistry

9.1 Bionecessity

Indium is considered to be a nonessential element.
Norderg, G.F. et al; Handbook on the Toxicology of Metals 3rd ed. Academic Press, Burlington, MA. 2007, p. 573

9.2 Absorption, Distribution and Excretion

Routes of entry: Inhalation, ingestion; skin and/or eye contact. /Indium and compounds/
Pohanish, R.P. (ed). Sittig's Handbook of Toxic and Hazardous Chemical Carcinogens 5th Edition Volume 1: A-H,Volume 2: I-Z. William Andrew, Norwich, NY 2008, p. 1417

10 Use and Manufacturing

10.1 Uses

EPA CPDat Chemical and Product Categories
The Chemical and Products Database, a resource for exposure-relevant data on chemicals in consumer products, Scientific Data, volume 5, Article number: 180125 (2018), DOI:10.1038/sdata.2018.125
Sources/Uses
Used in bearings, solder, yellow glass, lubricants, motion picture screens, mirrors, transistors, and infrared detectors; [HSDB] Used to make semiconductors (indium phosphide and indium arsenide) and nanoparticles (indium phosphide); Also used in ceramic glazes, electroplating, dental alloys, solders, and medical radioisotopes; [Nordberg, p. 846] Increased potential for inhalation exposure to aerosols of powders or ceramics: manufacturing of inorganic indium compounds, ITO sputter target resurfacing between deposition runs, cleaning sputter chamber interior walls and shields, and abrasive blasting to remove residues on sputter chamber parts; Low indium exposure: use of indium metal solders, reflow of indium metal targets, alloying of indium metal with other metals, fabrication of InP-based semiconductor devices, and preparation of solder pastes; Also used to make nuclear control rods; [Reference #2]
Nordberg - Nordberg GF, Fowler BA, Nordberg M (eds). Handbook on the Toxicology of Metals, 4th Ed. Boston: Elsevier, 2015., p. 846
Industrial Processes with risk of exposure

Abrasive Blasting [Category: Clean]

Metal Preparation and Pouring [Category: Foundry]

Electroplating [Category: Plate]

Soldering [Category: Heat or Machine]

Semiconductor Manufacturing [Category: Industry]

Glass Manufacturing [Category: Industry]

Low-melting alloys, bearings, dental alloys, nuclear reactor control rods, low-pressure lamps, electrical contacts, alkaline dry batteries, phosphors, semiconductors (lasers, photodectors, integrated cirucits, CCDs in infra-red videos cameras), liquid crystal displays
Felix N; Indium and Indium Compounds. Ullmann's Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry. 7th ed. (1999-2014). New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons. Online Posting Date: 15 Jun 2000
In bearing alloys; as a thin film on moving surfaces made from other metals. In dental alloys. In semiconductor research. In nuclear reactor control rods (in the form of an Ag-In-Cd alloy)
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. Cambridge, UK: Royal Society of Chemistry, 2013., p. 920
Automobile bearings, ... low-melting brazing and soldering alloys, reactor control rods, electroplated coatings on silver-plated steel aircraft bearings that are tarnish resistant, radiation detector.
Lewis, R.J. Sr.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 15th Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. New York, NY 2007., p. 686
More recently, gallium and indium alloys have been incorporated into dental alloys as surface hardening agents for dental restoration.
Norderg, G.F. et al; Handbook on the Toxicology of Metals 3rd ed. Academic Press, Burlington, MA. 2007, p. 570
The more important uses of indium include the incorporation into solders, alloys, semiconductors, optoelectronics, plasma television screens, and, more recently, nanoparticles, nano whiskers, and dots. It is also used in automobile bearings as a hardening agent that improves resistance to corrosion.
Norderg, G.F. et al; Handbook on the Toxicology of Metals 3rd ed. Academic Press, Burlington, MA. 2007, p. 570

10.1.1 Use Classification

Hazard Classes and Categories -> Flammable - 3rd degree

10.1.2 Industry Uses

Other (specify)

10.1.3 Consumer Uses

Other (specify)

10.1.4 Household Products

Household & Commercial/Institutional Products

Information on 1 consumer products that contain Indium in the following categories is provided:

• Inside the Home

10.2 Methods of Manufacturing

Indium is recovered from fumes, dusts, slags, residues and alloys from zinc or lead-zinc smelting. The source material itself - a reduction bullion, flue dust, or electrolytic slime intermediate - is leached with sulfuric or hydrochloric acid. Then the solutions are concentrated if necessary, and crude indium is recovered as 99+% metal. This crude indium is then refined to 99.99%, 99.999%, 99.9999%, or higher grades by a variety of conventional chemical and electrochemical processes.
Chagnon MJ; Indium and Indium Compounds. Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology (1999-2014). John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Online Posting Date: March 12, 2010

10.3 Impurities

Typical Analysis of 99.99% purity indium:
Element
In
PPM
(99.99%)
Element
Ag
PPM
<1
Element
Al
PPM
<2
Element
As
PPM
1
Element
Bi
PPM
1
Element
Cd
PPM
5
Element
Cu
PPM
<2
Element
Fe
PPM
<2
Element
NI
PPM
<3
Element
Pb
PPM
<13
Element
Sb
PPM
<2
Element
Sn
PPM
<7
Element
Tl
PPM
<4
Element
Zn
PPM
<7N
Chagnon MJ; Indium and Indium Compounds. Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology (1999-2014). John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Online Posting Date: March 12, 2010
Typical analysis of high purity indium by GDMS (glow discharge mass spectroscopy):
Element
In
PPB
(99.9999%)
Element
Al
PPB
2
Element
As
PPB
<0.4
Element
B
PPB
<1
Element
Be
PPB
<1
Element
C
PPB
450
Element
Ca
PPB
<6
Element
Cl
PPB
41
Element
Co
PPB
<0.4
Element
Cr
PPB
<0.5
Element
Cu
PPB
<2
Element
F
PPB
<30
Element
Fe
PPB
<0.4
Element
Ga
PPB
<0.7
Element
Ge
PPB
<2
Element
K
PPB
<130
Element
Li
PPB
<2
Element
Mg
PPB
<0.7
Element
Mn
PPB
<0.3
Element
N
PPB
35
Element
Na
PPB
<0.9
Element
Ni
PPB
<0.7
Element
O
PPB
390
Element
P
PPB
<1
Element
S
PPB
<0.7
Element
Sc
PPB
<0.2
Element
Se
PPB
<5
Element
Si
PPB
19
Element
Ti
PPB
<0.1
Element
V
PPB
<0.3
Element
Zn
PPB
<2
Chagnon MJ; Indium and Indium Compounds. Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology (1999-2014). John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Online Posting Date: March 12, 2010
Qualities ranging from 99.97% to 99.99999% indium are commercially available. Impurities may be metallic (Ag, Cu, Pb, Sb, Sn, Cd, Tl, Zn, Fe, Al, Ga) and nonmetallic (S, Cl, O, Se, N). Their concentrations depend on the origin of the indium-containing feed material and on the production and refining process. Commercial grades are 99.97% (3N7), 99.99% (4N), 99.999% (5N), 99.9999% (6N), and 99.99999% (7N).
Felix N; Indium and Indium Compounds. Ullmann's Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry 7th ed. (1999-2014). NY, NY: John Wiley & Sons. Online Posting Date: June 15, 2000

10.4 Formulations / Preparations

Indium is made in purities from 99.999% (5N) purity to 99.99999+% (7N+) in small-size ingots. They can range from 5 grams to several hundred grams each, often with very specific dimensions depending on the use and the needs of the customer.
Chagnon MJ; Indium and Indium Compounds. Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology (1999-2014). John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Online Posting Date: March 12, 2010
Available forms: Small ingots or bars, shot, pencils, wire, sheets, powder, single crystals.
Lewis, R.J. Sr.; Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary 15th Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc. New York, NY 2007., p. 686
Indium is produced primarily in ingot form by most refiners. These ingots range from 0.5 to 10 kg in size. ... Indium ingots are generally used for metallurgical additives, sacrificial anodes, manufacturing of alloys, and bonding applications.
Chagnon MJ; Indium and Indium Compounds. Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology (1999-2014). John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Online Posting Date: March 12, 2010
Indium is made in shot form in 99.99% purity primarily, but also 99.999% and higher purity for the manufacture of specialty alloys where small-quantity additions need to be made. The higher-purity shot is used in the semiconductor industry.
Chagnon MJ; Indium and Indium Compounds. Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology (1999-2014). John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Online Posting Date: March 12, 2010
For more Formulations/Preparations (Complete) data for Indium, Elemental (7 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

10.5 Consumption Patterns

Domestic consumption in 1999 was estimated at about 52 tons. World consumption of indium is expected to increase throughout the next decade, especially for production of LCD's.
USGS; Minerals Yearbook 1999 Database on Indium. Available from, as of Oct 26, 2001: https://minerals.usgs.gov/minerals/pubs/commodity/myb/

Indium: Salient Consumption Statistics for the United States

Table: Data in metric tons

Year
2009
Consumption (estimated)
100
Year
2010
Consumption (estimated)
100
Year
2011
Consumption (estimated)
100
Year
2012
Consumption (estimated)
100
Year
2013 (estimated)
Consumption (estimated)
100

USGS; Mineral Commodity Summaries 2014. Indium. Available from, as of March 26, 2014: https://minerals.usgs.gov/minerals/pubs/mcs/2014/mcs2014.pdf

10.6 U.S. Production

Aggregated Product Volume

2019: 40,927 lb

2018: 22,935 lb

2017: 44,324 lb

2016: 90,103 lb

Indium production in the U.S. during 1999 was confined to the upgrading of imported metal and the recycling of scrap.
USGS; Minerals Yearbook 1999 Database on Indium. Available from, as of Oct 26, 2001: https://minerals.usgs.gov/minerals/pubs/commodity/myb/
Production volumes for non-confidential chemicals reported under the Inventory Update Rule.
Year
1986
Production Range (pounds)
No Reports
Year
1990
Production Range (pounds)
No Reports
Year
1994
Production Range (pounds)
No Reports
Year
1998
Production Range (pounds)
10 thousand - 500 thousand
Year
2002
Production Range (pounds)
No Reports
US EPA; Non-confidential Production Volume Information Submitted by Companies for Chemicals Under the 1986-2002 Inventory Update Rule (IUR). Indium (7440-74-6). Available from, as of March 25, 2014: https://epa.gov/cdr/tools/data/2002-vol.html
Production volume for non-confidential chemicals reported under the 2006 Inventory Update Rule. Chemical: Indium. Aggregated National Production Volume: < 500,000 pounds.
US EPA; Non-Confidential 2006 Inventory Update Reporting. National Chemical Information. Indiuim (7440-74-6). Available from, as of March 25, 2014: https://cfpub.epa.gov/iursearch/index.cfm
Non-confidential 2012 Chemical Data Reporting (CDR) information on the production and use of chemicals manufactured or imported into the United States. Chemical: Indium. National Production Volume: 244,902 lb/yr.
USEPA/Pollution Prevention and Toxics; 2012 Chemical Data Reporting Database. Indium (7440-74-6). Available from, as of March 25, 2014: https://java.epa.gov/oppt_chemical_search/

World refinery production:

Table: World Refinery Production (Data in metric tons)

Country
United States
2012
-
2013 (estimated)
-
Country
Belgium
2012
30
2013 (estimated)
30
Country
Canada
2012
62
2013 (estimated)
65
Country
China
2012
405
2013 (estimated)
410
Country
Japan
2012
71
2013 (estimated)
71
Country
Korea, Republic of
2012
165
2013 (estimated)
150
Country
Peru
2012
11
2013 (estimated)
10
Country
Russia
2012
13
2013 (estimated)
13
Country
Other countries
2012
25
2013 (estimated)
25
Country
World total (rounded)
2012
782
2013 (estimated)
770

USGS; Mineral Commodity Summaries 2014. Indium. Available from, as of March 26, 2014: https://minerals.usgs.gov/minerals/pubs/mcs/2014/mcs2014.pdf

10.7 U.S. Imports

It is estimated that 77 metric tons were imported during 1998.
USGS; Minerals Yearbook 1999 Database on Indium. Available from, as of Oct 26, 2001: https://minerals.usgs.gov/minerals/pubs/commodity/myb/

Indium: Salient Import Statistics for the United States

Table: Data in metric tons

Year
2009
Imports for consumption
105
Year
2010
Imports for consumption
117
Year
2011
Imports for consumption
146
Year
2012
Imports for consumption
109
Year
2013 (estimated)
Imports for consumption
90

USGS; Mineral Commodity Summaries 2014. Indium. Available from, as of March 26, 2014: https://minerals.usgs.gov/minerals/pubs/mcs/2014/mcs2014.pdf

10.8 U.S. Exports

Total exports for 1999 were estimated at about 25 tons.
USGS; Minerals Yearbook 1999 Database on Indium. Available from, as of Oct 26, 2001: https://minerals.usgs.gov/minerals/pubs/commodity/myb/

10.9 General Manufacturing Information

Industry Processing Sectors
  • Computer and Electronic Product Manufacturing
  • Electrical Equipment, Appliance, and Component Manufacturing
EPA TSCA Commercial Activity Status
Indium: ACTIVE
Hafnium can replace indium in nuclear reactor control rod alloys.
USGS; Mineral Commodity Summaries 2014. Indium. Available from, as of March 26, 2014: https://minerals.usgs.gov/minerals/pubs/mcs/2014/mcs2014.pdf
Indium has two natural isotopes: In-115 (95.72 %) and In-113 (4.28 %). The abundance of indium in the earth crust is comparable to that of silver, i.e., 0.1 ppm.
Felix N; Indium and Indium Compounds. Ullmann's Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry 7th ed. (1999-2014). NY, NY: John Wiley & Sons. Online Posting Date: June 15, 2000
Indium forms alloys with most other metals. Extensive solid solutions are formed with lead, thallium, and mercury.
Felix N; Indium and Indium Compounds. Ullmann's Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry 7th ed. (1999-2014). NY, NY: John Wiley & Sons. Online Posting Date: June 15, 2000
Seventy isotopes and isomers are now recognized (more than any other element). Natural indium contains two isotopes. One is stable. The other, (115)In, comprising 95.7% of natural indium is slightly radioactive with a very long half-life.
Haynes, W.M. (ed.). CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. 94th Edition. CRC Press LLC, Boca Raton: FL 2013-2014, p. 4-18
For more General Manufacturing Information (Complete) data for Indium, Elemental (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

11 Safety and Hazards

11.1 Hazards Identification

11.1.1 GHS Classification

1 of 3
View All
Note
Pictograms displayed are for 80.5% (284 of 353) of reports that indicate hazard statements. This chemical does not meet GHS hazard criteria for 19.5% (69 of 353) of reports.
Pictogram(s)
Irritant
Health Hazard
Signal
Danger
GHS Hazard Statements

H302 (15.9%): Harmful if swallowed [Warning Acute toxicity, oral]

H312 (13.3%): Harmful in contact with skin [Warning Acute toxicity, dermal]

H315 (16.1%): Causes skin irritation [Warning Skin corrosion/irritation]

H319 (13.9%): Causes serious eye irritation [Warning Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

H332 (15.6%): Harmful if inhaled [Warning Acute toxicity, inhalation]

H335 (15%): May cause respiratory irritation [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure; Respiratory tract irritation]

H372 (57.8%): Causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure [Danger Specific target organ toxicity, repeated exposure]

Precautionary Statement Codes

P260, P261, P264, P264+P265, P270, P271, P280, P301+P317, P302+P352, P304+P340, P305+P351+P338, P317, P319, P321, P330, P332+P317, P337+P317, P362+P364, P403+P233, P405, and P501

(The corresponding statement to each P-code can be found at the GHS Classification page.)

ECHA C&L Notifications Summary

Aggregated GHS information provided per 353 reports by companies from 20 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.

Reported as not meeting GHS hazard criteria per 69 of 353 reports by companies. For more detailed information, please visit ECHA C&L website.

There are 19 notifications provided by 284 of 353 reports by companies with hazard statement code(s).

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.

11.1.2 Hazard Classes and Categories

Acute Tox. 4 (15.9%)

Acute Tox. 4 (13.3%)

Skin Irrit. 2 (16.1%)

Eye Irrit. 2 (13.9%)

Acute Tox. 4 (15.6%)

STOT SE 3 (15%)

STOT RE 1 (57.8%)

Acute toxicity (Oral) - Category 5

Specific target organ toxicity - Repeated exposure - Category 1 (lung, skeletal system, gastrointestinal tract)

11.1.3 Health Hazards

Excerpt from NIOSH Pocket Guide for Indium:

Exposure Routes: Inhalation, ingestion, skin and/or eye contact

Symptoms: Irritation eyes, skin, respiratory system; possible liver, kidney, heart, blood effects; pulmonary edema

Target Organs: Eyes, skin, respiratory system, liver, kidneys, heart, blood (NIOSH, 2024)

11.1.4 Fire Hazards

Excerpt from ERG Guide 170 [Metals (Powders, Dusts, Shavings, Borings, Turnings, or Cuttings, etc.)]:

May react violently or explosively on contact with water. Some are transported in flammable liquids. May be ignited by friction, heat, sparks or flames. Some of these materials will burn with intense heat. Dusts or fumes may form explosive mixtures in air. Containers may explode when heated. May re-ignite after fire is extinguished. (ERG, 2024)

Not combustible. Finely dispersed particles form explosive mixtures in air.

11.1.5 Hazards Summary

Ionic indium is toxic to the kidneys; Colloidal indium is toxic to the liver; A single case report of pulmonary fibrosis: worker was exposed for 4 years to indium-tin oxide in a plant making flat-panel plasma screens; [Nordberg, p. 845, 851] A study of interstitial lung disease in indium-processing workers suggested that inhaled indium could be a potential cause of occupational lung disease. [Reference #1] A TLV-TWA of 0.1 mg/m3, measured as indium, is recommended for occupational exposure to indium and its compounds. This value is intended to minimize the potential for adverse effects on the lungs, including pulmonary edema, acute pneumonitis, and possible skeletal and gastrointestinal disorders. [ACGIH] See Indium tin oxide.
Nordberg - Nordberg GF, Fowler BA, Nordberg M (eds). Handbook on the Toxicology of Metals, 4th Ed. Boston: Elsevier, 2015., p. 845, 851
ACGIH - Documentation of the TLVs and BEIs, 7th Ed. Cincinnati: ACGIH Worldwide, 2020.

11.1.6 Fire Potential

Mixtures with sulfur ignite when heated.
Lewis, R.J. Sr. (ed) Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 11th Edition. Wiley-Interscience, Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ. 2004., p. 2081
Flammable in the form of dust when exposed to heat or flame.
Lewis, R.J. Sr. (ed) Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 11th Edition. Wiley-Interscience, Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ. 2004., p. 2081
Finely dispersed particles form explosive mixtures in air.
International Program on Chemical Safety/European Commission; International Chemical Safety Card on Indium(Peer Review Status: March 14, 2001, Validated). Available from, as of August 18, 2014: https://www.inchem.org/pages/icsc.html
Not combustible.
International Program on Chemical Safety/European Commission; International Chemical Safety Card on Indium (7440-74-6) (Peer Review Status: March 14, 2001, Validated). Available from, as of August 18, 2014: https://www.inchem.org/pages/icsc.html

11.1.7 Skin, Eye, and Respiratory Irritations

The substance is irritating to the eyes and respiratory tract.
International Program on Chemical Safety/European Commission; International Chemical Safety Card on Indium(Peer Review Status: March 14, 2001, Validated). Available from, as of August 18, 2014: https://www.inchem.org/pages/icsc.html
Irritation of eyes, skin, respiratory system... /Indium and compounds/
Pohanish, R.P. (ed). Sittig's Handbook of Toxic and Hazardous Chemical Carcinogens 5th Edition Volume 1: A-H,Volume 2: I-Z. William Andrew, Norwich, NY 2008, p. 1417

11.2 Safety and Hazard Properties

11.2.1 Flammable Limits

Flammability
Noncombustible Solid in bulk form, but may ignite in powdered or dust form.

11.2.2 Physical Dangers

Dust explosion possible if in powder or granular form, mixed with air.

11.2.3 Explosive Limits and Potential

Dust explosion possible if in powder or granular form, mixed with air.
International Program on Chemical Safety/European Commission; International Chemical Safety Card on Indium(Peer Review Status: March 14, 2001, Validated). Available from, as of August 18, 2014: https://www.inchem.org/pages/icsc.html
Explosive reaction with dinitrogen tetraoxide + acetonitrile.
Lewis, R.J. Sr. (ed) Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 11th Edition. Wiley-Interscience, Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ. 2004., p. 2081

11.2.4 NIOSH Recommendations

Recommended Exposure Limit: 10 hr Time Weighted Avg: 0.1 mg/cu m. [Note: The REL also applies to other indium compounds (as In).] /Indium/
NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards. Department of Health & Human Services, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention. National Institute for Occupational Safety & Health. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2010-168 (2010). Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npg

11.3 First Aid Measures

Inhalation First Aid
Fresh air, rest. Refer for medical attention.
Skin First Aid
Remove contaminated clothes. Rinse and then wash skin with water and soap.
Eye First Aid
First rinse with plenty of water for several minutes (remove contact lenses if easily possible), then refer for medical attention.
Ingestion First Aid
Rinse mouth.

11.3.1 First Aid

Excerpt from NIOSH Pocket Guide for Indium:

Eye: IRRIGATE IMMEDIATELY - If this chemical contacts the eyes, immediately wash (irrigate) the eyes with large amounts of water, occasionally lifting the lower and upper lids. Get medical attention immediately.

Skin: SOAP WASH - If this chemical contacts the skin, wash the contaminated skin with soap and water.

Breathing: RESPIRATORY SUPPORT - If a person breathes large amounts of this chemical, move the exposed person to fresh air at once. If breathing has stopped, perform artificial respiration. Keep the affected person warm and at rest. Get medical attention as soon as possible.

Swallow: MEDICAL ATTENTION IMMEDIATELY - If this chemical has been swallowed, get medical attention immediately. (NIOSH, 2024)

(See general first aid procedures)

Eye: Irrigate immediately - If this chemical contacts the eyes, immediately wash (irrigate) the eyes with large amounts of water, occasionally lifting the lower and upper lids. Get medical attention immediately.

Skin: Soap wash - If this chemical contacts the skin, wash the contaminated skin with soap and water.

Breathing: Respiratory support

Swallow: Medical attention immediately - If this chemical has been swallowed, get medical attention immediately.

11.4 Fire Fighting

Excerpt from ERG Guide 170 [Metals (Powders, Dusts, Shavings, Borings, Turnings, or Cuttings, etc.)]:

DO NOT USE WATER, FOAM OR CO2. Dousing metallic fires with water will generate hydrogen gas, an extremely dangerous explosion hazard, particularly if fire is in a confined environment (i.e., building, cargo hold, etc.). Use DRY sand, graphite powder, dry sodium chloride-based extinguishers, or class D extinguishers. Confining and smothering metal fires is preferable rather than applying water. If it can be done safely, move undamaged containers away from the area around the fire.

FIRE INVOLVING TANKS, RAIL TANK CARS OR HIGHWAY TANKS: If impossible to extinguish, protect surroundings and allow fire to burn itself out. (ERG, 2024)

In case of fire in the surroundings, use appropriate extinguishing media.

11.4.1 Fire Fighting Procedures

The only respirators recommended for fire fighting are self-contained breathing apparatuses that have full face-pieces and are operated in a pressure-demand or other positive pressure mode. /Indium and compounds/
Pohanish, R.P. (ed). Sittig's Handbook of Toxic and Hazardous Chemical Carcinogens 5th Edition Volume 1: A-H,Volume 2: I-Z. William Andrew, Norwich, NY 2008, p. 1418

11.5 Accidental Release Measures

11.5.1 Isolation and Evacuation

Excerpt from ERG Guide 170 [Metals (Powders, Dusts, Shavings, Borings, Turnings, or Cuttings, etc.)]:

IMMEDIATE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURE: Isolate spill or leak area in all directions for at least 50 meters (150 feet) for liquids and at least 25 meters (75 feet) for solids.

LARGE SPILL: Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 50 meters (160 feet).

FIRE: If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions. (ERG, 2024)

11.5.2 Spillage Disposal

Remove all ignition sources. Personal protection: particulate filter respirator adapted to the airborne concentration of the substance. Sweep spilled substance into covered containers. If appropriate, moisten first to prevent dusting. Carefully collect remainder. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations.

11.5.3 Cleanup Methods

Remove all ignition sources. Personal protection: particulate filter respirator adapted to the airborne concentration of the substance. Sweep spilled substance into covered containers. If appropriate, moisten first to prevent dusting. Carefully collect remainder. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations.
International Program on Chemical Safety/European Commission; International Chemical Safety Card on Indium(Peer Review Status: March 14, 2001, Validated). Available from, as of August 18, 2014: https://www.inchem.org/pages/icsc.html

11.5.4 Disposal Methods

Recovered indium has a recycled value, so a minium quantity is discarded. Closed containers are required for the disposal of indium and its. compounds. The environmental hazard from indium appears to result from the use and disposal of radioactive isotopes and not chemical toxicity. /indium and compounds/
Pohanish, R.P. (ed). Sittig's Handbook of Toxic and Hazardous Chemical Carcinogens 5th Edition Volume 1: A-H,Volume 2: I-Z. William Andrew, Norwich, NY 2008, p. 1418

11.5.5 Preventive Measures

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.

11.6 Handling and Storage

11.6.1 Nonfire Spill Response

Excerpt from ERG Guide 170 [Metals (Powders, Dusts, Shavings, Borings, Turnings, or Cuttings, etc.)]:

ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames) from immediate area. Do not touch or walk through spilled material. Stop leak if you can do it without risk. Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas. (ERG, 2024)

11.6.2 Safe Storage

Separated from food and feedstuffs, strong oxidants, strong acids and incompatible materials. See Chemical Dangers. Well closed.

11.6.3 Storage Conditions

Separated from food and feedstuffs, strong oxidants, strong acids and incompatible materials ... Well closed.
International Program on Chemical Safety/European Commission; International Chemical Safety Card on Indium(Peer Review Status: March 14, 2001, Validated). Available from, as of August 18, 2014: https://www.inchem.org/pages/icsc.html
Store in tightly closed containers in a cool, well-ventilated area away from mineral acids and sulfur. Where possible, automatically transfer from drums or other storage containers to process containers. /Indium and compounds/
Pohanish, R.P. (ed). Sittig's Handbook of Toxic and Hazardous Chemical Carcinogens 5th Edition Volume 1: A-H,Volume 2: I-Z. William Andrew, Norwich, NY 2008, p. 1418

11.7 Exposure Control and Personal Protection

11.7.2 Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL)

11.7.3 Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH)

N.D.

See: IDLH INDEX

11.7.4 Threshold Limit Values (TLV)

0.1 [mg/m3], as In
8 hr Time Weighted Avg (TWA): 0.1 mg/cu m. /Indium and compounds, as In/
American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists. Threshold Limit Values for Chemical Substances and Physical Agents and Biological Exposure Indices. ACGIH, Cincinnati, OH 2013, p. 35
Excursion Limit Recommendation: Excursions in worker exposure levels may exceed 3 times the TLV-TWA for no more than a total of 30 minutes during a work day, and under no circumstances should they exceed 5 times the TLV-TWA, provided that the TLV-TWA is not exceeded. /Indium and compounds, as In/
American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists. Threshold Limit Values for Chemical Substances and Physical Agents and Biological Exposure Indices. ACGIH, Cincinnati, OH 2013, p. 5
0.1 mg/m
TLV-TWA (Time Weighted Average)
0.1 mg/m³ [1990]

11.7.5 Other Standards Regulations and Guidelines

Occupational exposure limits and guidelines for indium and indium compounds. /Indium and indium compounds/
Country or region
Australia
Concentration (mg/cu m) (as indium)
0.1
Interpretation
TWA
Country or region
Belgium
Concentration (mg/cu m) (as indium)
0.1
Interpretation
TWA
Country or region
Canada, Alberta
Concentration (mg/cu m) (as indium)
0.1
Interpretation
TWA
Concentration (mg/cu m) (as indium)
0.3
Interpretation
STEL
Country or region
Canada, Quebec
Concentration (mg/cu m) (as indium)
0.1
Interpretation
TWA
Country or region
China
Concentration (mg/cu m) (as indium)
0.1
Interpretation
TWA
Concentration (mg/cu m) (as indium)
0.3
Interpretation
STEL
Country or region
Finland
Concentration (mg/cu m) (as indium)
0.1
Interpretation
TWA
Country or region
Ireland
Concentration (mg/cu m) (as indium)
0.1
Interpretation
TWA
Concentration (mg/cu m) (as indium)
0.3
Interpretation
STEL
Country or region
Malaysia
Concentration (mg/cu m) (as indium)
0.1
Interpretation
TWA
Country or region
Mexico
Concentration (mg/cu m) (as indium)
0.1
Interpretation
TWA
Concentration (mg/cu m) (as indium)
0.3
Interpretation
STEL
Country or region
Netherlands
Concentration (mg/cu m) (as indium)
0.1
Interpretation
TWA
Country or region
New Zealand
Concentration (mg/cu m) (as indium)
0.1
Interpretation
TWA
Country or region
Norway
Concentration (mg/cu m) (as indium)
0.1
Interpretation
TWA
Country or region
South Africa
Concentration (mg/cu m) (as indium)
0.1
Interpretation
TWA
Concentration (mg/cu m) (as indium)
0.3
Interpretation
STEL
Country or region
Spain
Concentration (mg/cu m) (as indium)
0.1
Interpretation
TWA
Country or region
Sweden
Concentration (mg/cu m) (as indium)
0.1
Interpretation
TWA
Country or region
Switzerland
Concentration (mg/cu m) (as indium)
0.1
Interpretation
TWA
Country or region
United Kingdom
Concentration (mg/cu m) (as indium)
0.1
Interpretation
TWA (MEL /maximum exposure limit/
Concentration (mg/cu m) (as indium)
0.3
Interpretation
STEL
IARC. Monographs on the Evaluation of the Carcinogenic Risk of Chemicals to Humans. Geneva: World Health Organization, International Agency for Research on Cancer, 1972-PRESENT. (Multivolume work). Available at: https://monographs.iarc.fr/ENG/Classification/index.php, p. V86 201 (2006)

11.7.6 Inhalation Risk

Evaporation at 20 °C is negligible; a harmful concentration of airborne particles can, however, be reached quickly.

11.7.7 Effects of Short Term Exposure

The substance is irritating to the eyes and respiratory tract.

11.7.8 Effects of Long Term Exposure

The substance may have effects on the kidneys. This may result in kidney impairment.

11.7.9 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Excerpt from NIOSH Pocket Guide for Indium:

Skin: No recommendation is made specifying the need for personal protective equipment for the body.

Eyes: No recommendation is made specifying the need for eye protection.

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. (NIOSH, 2024)

Extra personal protection: P3 filter respirator for toxic particles
International Chemical Safety Cards for Indium (CAS 7440-74-6); Available from, as of February 19, 2014: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/ipcsneng/neng1293.html

(See personal protection and sanitation codes)

Skin: No recommendation

Eyes: No recommendation

Wash skin: No recommendation

Remove: No recommendation

Change: No recommendation

11.7.10 Respirator Recommendations

11.7.11 Preventions

Fire Prevention
If powder: NO open flames, NO sparks, and NO smoking. Closed system, dust explosion-proof electrical equipment and lighting. Prevent deposition of dust.
Exposure Prevention
PREVENT DISPERSION OF DUST!
Inhalation Prevention
Use local exhaust or breathing protection.
Skin Prevention
Protective gloves.
Eye Prevention
Wear safety spectacles or eye protection in combination with breathing protection if powder.
Ingestion Prevention
Do not eat, drink, or smoke during work. Wash hands before eating.

11.8 Stability and Reactivity

11.8.1 Air and Water Reactions

No rapid reaction with air. No rapid reaction with water.

11.8.2 Reactive Group

Metals, Elemental and Powder, Active

11.8.3 Reactivity Profile

INDIUM is a non-combustible solid in bulk form but is flammable in the form of a dust. Reacts with strong oxidizing agents. Reacts explosively with dinitrogen tetraoxide dissolved in acetonitrile. Reacts violently with mercury(II)bromide at 350 °C. Mixtures with sulfur ignite when heated.

11.8.4 Hazardous Reactivities and Incompatibilities

Reacts with strong acids, strong oxidants and sulfur. This generates fire and explosion hazard.
International Program on Chemical Safety/European Commission; International Chemical Safety Card on Indium(Peer Review Status: March 14, 2001, Validated). Available from, as of August 18, 2014: https://www.inchem.org/pages/icsc.html
Violent reaction with mercury(II) bromide at 350 °C. Mixtures with sulfur ignite when heated.
Lewis, R.J. Sr. (ed) Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 11th Edition. Wiley-Interscience, Wiley & Sons, Inc. Hoboken, NJ. 2004., p. 2081

11.9 Transport Information

11.9.1 DOT Label

Flammable Solid

11.10 Regulatory Information

The Australian Inventory of Industrial Chemicals
Chemical: Indium
REACH Registered Substance
New Zealand EPA Inventory of Chemical Status
Indium: Does not have an individual approval but may be used under an appropriate group standard

11.10.1 CERCLA Reportable Quantities

Reportable quantities for indium radionuclides:
Radiodnuclide (m: Signifies a nuclear isomer which is a radionuclide in a higher energy metastable state relative to the parent isotope.
Indium-109
Atomic Number
49
Final Reportable Quantity Curie (Becquerel)
100 (3.7E 12)
Radiodnuclide (m: Signifies a nuclear isomer which is a radionuclide in a higher energy metastable state relative to the parent isotope.
Indium-110 (69.1 min)
Atomic Number
49
Final Reportable Quantity Curie (Becquerel)
100 (3.7E 12)
Radiodnuclide (m: Signifies a nuclear isomer which is a radionuclide in a higher energy metastable state relative to the parent isotope.
Indium-110 (4.9 hr)
Atomic Number
49
Final Reportable Quantity Curie (Becquerel)
10 (3.7E 11)
Radiodnuclide (m: Signifies a nuclear isomer which is a radionuclide in a higher energy metastable state relative to the parent isotope.
Indium-111
Atomic Number
49
Final Reportable Quantity Curie (Becquerel)
100 (3.7E 12)
Radiodnuclide (m: Signifies a nuclear isomer which is a radionuclide in a higher energy metastable state relative to the parent isotope.
Indium-112
Atomic Number
49
Final Reportable Quantity Curie (Becquerel)
1000 (3.7E 13)
Radiodnuclide (m: Signifies a nuclear isomer which is a radionuclide in a higher energy metastable state relative to the parent isotope.
Indium-113m
Atomic Number
49
Final Reportable Quantity Curie (Becquerel)
1000 (3.7E 13)
Radiodnuclide (m: Signifies a nuclear isomer which is a radionuclide in a higher energy metastable state relative to the parent isotope.
Indium-114m
Atomic Number
49
Final Reportable Quantity Curie (Becquerel)
10 (3.7E 11)
Radiodnuclide (m: Signifies a nuclear isomer which is a radionuclide in a higher energy metastable state relative to the parent isotope.
Indium-115m
Atomic Number
49
Final Reportable Quantity Curie (Becquerel)
100 (3.7E 12)
Radiodnuclide (m: Signifies a nuclear isomer which is a radionuclide in a higher energy metastable state relative to the parent isotope.
Indium-115
Atomic Number
49
Final Reportable Quantity Curie (Becquerel)
0.1 (3.7E 9)
Radiodnuclide (m: Signifies a nuclear isomer which is a radionuclide in a higher energy metastable state relative to the parent isotope.
Indium-116m
Atomic Number
49
Final Reportable Quantity Curie (Becquerel)
100 (3.7E 12)
Radiodnuclide (m: Signifies a nuclear isomer which is a radionuclide in a higher energy metastable state relative to the parent isotope.
Indium-117m
Atomic Number
49
Final Reportable Quantity Curie (Becquerel)
100 (3.7E 12)
Radiodnuclide (m: Signifies a nuclear isomer which is a radionuclide in a higher energy metastable state relative to the parent isotope.
Indium-117
Atomic Number
49
Final Reportable Quantity Curie (Becquerel)
1000 (3.7E 13)
Radiodnuclide (m: Signifies a nuclear isomer which is a radionuclide in a higher energy metastable state relative to the parent isotope.
Indium-119m
Atomic Number
49
Final Reportable Quantity Curie (Becquerel)
1000 (3.7E 13)
40 CFR 302.4 (USEPA); U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of March 31, 2014: https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/ECFR?page=browse

11.10.2 TSCA Requirements

Section 8(a) of TSCA requires manufacturers of this chemical substance to report preliminary assessment information concerned with production, exposure, and use to EPA as cited in the preamble in 51 FR 41329. Effective date: 8/27/01; Reporting date: 10/24/01.
40 CFR 712.30 (USEPA); U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of March 25, 2014: https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/ECFR?page=browse
Pursuant to section 8(d) of TSCA, EPA promulgated a model Health and Safety Data Reporting Rule. The section 8(d) model rule requires manufacturers, importers, and processors of listed chemical substances and mixtures to submit to EPA copies and lists of unpublished health and safety studies. Indium is included on this list. Effective date: 6/3/04; Sunset date: 8/2/04.
40 CFR 716.120 (USEPA); U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of March 25, 2014: https://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/ECFR?page=browse

11.11 Other Safety Information

11.11.1 Other Hazardous Reactions

Evaporation at 20 °C is negligible; a harmful concentration of airborne particles can, however, be reached quickly.
International Program on Chemical Safety/European Commission; International Chemical Safety Card on Indium(Peer Review Status: March 14, 2001, Validated). Available from, as of August 18, 2014: https://www.inchem.org/pages/icsc.html

12 Toxicity

12.1 Toxicological Information

12.1.1 NIOSH Toxicity Data

12.1.2 Exposure Routes

The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation of its aerosol and by ingestion.
inhalation, ingestion, skin and/or eye contact

12.1.3 Symptoms

Inhalation Exposure
Cough. Shortness of breath. Sore throat.
Eye Exposure
Redness. Pain.
Ingestion Exposure
Nausea. Vomiting.
irritation eyes, skin, respiratory system; possible liver, kidney, heart, blood effects; pulmonary edema

12.1.4 Target Organs

Eyes, skin, respiratory system, liver, kidneys, heart, blood

12.1.5 Adverse Effects

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

12.1.6 Acute Effects

12.1.7 Antidote and Emergency Treatment

/SRP:/ 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. /Poisons A and B/
Currance, P.L. Clements, B., Bronstein, A.C. (Eds).; Emergency Care For Hazardous Materials Exposure. 3Rd edition, Elsevier Mosby, St. Louis, MO 2005, p. 160
/SRP:/ 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 needed. Administer oxygen by nonrebreather mask at 10 to 15 L/min. Monitor for pulmonary edema and treat if necessary ... . Monitor for shock 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 ... . Cover skin burns with dry sterile dressings after decontamination ... . /Poisons A and B/
Currance, P.L. Clements, B., Bronstein, A.C. (Eds).; Emergency Care For Hazardous Materials Exposure. 3Rd edition, Elsevier Mosby, St. Louis, MO 2005, p. 160
/SRP:/ 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 bronchospasm ... . Monitor cardiac rhythm and treat arrhythmias as necessary ... . Start IV administration of D5W /SRP: "To keep open", minimal flow rate/. Use 0.9% saline (NS) or lactated Ringer's if signs of hypovolemia are present. For hypotension with signs of hypovolemia, administer fluid cautiously. Watch for signs of fluid overload ... . Treat seizures with diazepam or lorazepam ... . Use proparacaine hydrochloride to assist eye irrigation ... . /Poisons A and B/
Currance, P.L. Clements, B., Bronstein, A.C. (Eds).; Emergency Care For Hazardous Materials Exposure. 3Rd edition, Elsevier Mosby, St. Louis, MO 2005, p. 160-1

12.1.8 Medical Surveillance

For those with frequent or potentially high exposure (half the TLV or greater), the following are recommended before beginning work and at regular times after that: lung function tests. If symptoms develop or overexposure is suspected, the following may be useful: liver and kidney function tests, complete blood count. Consider chest x-ray after acute overexposure. /Indium and compounds/
Pohanish, R.P. (ed). Sittig's Handbook of Toxic and Hazardous Chemical Carcinogens 5th Edition Volume 1: A-H,Volume 2: I-Z. William Andrew, Norwich, NY 2008, p. 1417

12.1.9 Human Toxicity Excerpts

/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ Irritation of eyes, skin, respiratory system; possible liver, kidney, heart, blood effects. /Indium and compounds/
Pohanish, R.P. (ed). Sittig's Handbook of Toxic and Hazardous Chemical Carcinogens 5th Edition Volume 1: A-H,Volume 2: I-Z. William Andrew, Norwich, NY 2008, p. 1417
/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ Long term exposure: Possible liver, kidney, heart, blood effects (NIOSH). Indium may damage the developing fetus. May damage the lungs. /Indium and compounds/
Pohanish, R.P. (ed). Sittig's Handbook of Toxic and Hazardous Chemical Carcinogens 5th Edition Volume 1: A-H,Volume 2: I-Z. William Andrew, Norwich, NY 2008, p. 1417
/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ Short term exposure: Indium can affect you when breathed in. Contact can irritate the skin and eyes. Exposure to high levels may damage the kidneys and liver. Indium can iritate the lungs and may cause permanent damage. Higher exposures can cause pulmonary edema, a medical emergency that can be delayed for several hours. This can cause death. /Indium and compounds/
Pohanish, R.P. (ed). Sittig's Handbook of Toxic and Hazardous Chemical Carcinogens 5th Edition Volume 1: A-H,Volume 2: I-Z. William Andrew, Norwich, NY 2008, p. 1417
/OTHER TOXICITY INFORMATION/ Routes of entry: Inhalation, ingestion; skin and/or eye contact. /Indium and compounds/
Pohanish, R.P. (ed). Sittig's Handbook of Toxic and Hazardous Chemical Carcinogens 5th Edition Volume 1: A-H,Volume 2: I-Z. William Andrew, Norwich, NY 2008, p. 1417

12.1.10 Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Developmental or Reproductive Toxicity/ The subcellular behavior of several mineral elements was studied using modern techniques of observation like transmission electron microscopy and analysis like electron probe microanalysis and secondary ion mass spectrometry. In the present ultrastructural and analytical investigations, we undertake to compare the intracellular behavior of a heavy metal, gold, and a III-A group element, indium, on rat testicular tissues after their parenteral administrations. Our ultrastructural results showed that while gold was found only in the lysosomes of Leydig cells under electron dense needles, indium was observed as electron-dense deposits in the lysosomes of both Leydig and Sertoli cells. No ultrastructural modifications were observed in the testicular tissues of the control rats. The microanalytical study showed that gold was concentrated in lysosomes with sulfur as a sulfate crystalline structure whereas indium was concentrated in the same organelle as insoluble phosphate salt. These results demonstrated that testicular Leydig and Sertoli cells have the ability to selectively concentrate indium but gold was concentrated only in the first kind of cells. The mechanism implicated in this concentration phenomenon is a biochemical one involving intralysosomal hydrolytic enzymes, the acid phosphatase and the arylsulfatase. This mechanism occurs in order to protect the organism and to avoid the presence of toxic metals under soluble and free form.
Maghraoui S et al; Microscopy (Oxf) 62 (3): 397-403 (2013)
/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Developmental or Reproductive Toxicity/ Indium, a precious metal classified in group 13 (IIIB) in the periodic table, has been used increasingly in the semiconductor industry. Because indium is a rare metal, technology for indium recycling from transparent conducting films for liquid crystal displays is desired, and its safety evaluation is becoming increasingly necessary. The developmental toxicity of indium in experimental animals was summarized. The intravenous or oral administration of indium to pregnant animals causes growth inhibition and the death of embryos in hamsters, rats, and mice. The intravenous administration of indium to pregnant animals causes embryonic or fetal malformation, mainly involving digit and tail deformities, in hamsters and rats. The oral administration of indium also induces fetal malformation in rats and rabbits, but requires higher doses. No teratogenicity has been observed in mice. Caudal hypoplasia, probably due to excessive cell loss by increased apoptosis in the tailbud, in the early postimplantation stage was considered to account for indium-induced tail malformation as a possible pathogenetic mechanism. Findings from in vitro experiments indicated that the embryotoxicity of indium could have direct effects on the conceptuses. Toxicokinetic studies showed that the embryonic exposure concentration was more critical than the exposure time regarding the embryotoxicity of indium. It is considered from these findings that the risk of the developmental toxicity of indium in humans is low, unless an accidentally high level of exposure or unknown toxic interaction occurs because of possible human exposure routes and levels (i.e. oral, very low-level exposure).
Nakajima M et al; Congenit Anom (Kyoto) 48 (4): 145-50 (2008)

12.2 Ecological Information

12.2.1 ICSC Environmental Data

Environmental effects from the substance have not been investigated adequately.

12.2.2 Artificial Pollution Sources

Indium's production and use in low-melting alloys, bearing alloys and dental alloys(1) may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams(SRC).
(1) Felix N; Indium and Indium Compounds. Ullmann's Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry. 7th ed. (1999-2014). New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons. Online Posting Date: 15 Jun 2000

12.2.3 Probable Routes of Human Exposure

According to the 2006 TSCA Inventory Update Reporting data, the number of persons reasonably likely to be exposed in the industrial manufacturing, processing, and use of indium is 1000 or greater; the data may be greatly underestimated(1).
(1) US EPA; Inventory Update Reporting (IUR). Non-confidential 2006 IUR Records by Chemical, including Manufacturing, Processing and Use Information. Washington, DC: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Available from, as of Feb 7, 2014: https://cfpub.epa.gov/iursearch/index.cfm

13 Associated Disorders and Diseases

14 Literature

14.1 Consolidated References

14.2 NLM Curated PubMed Citations

14.3 Springer Nature References

14.4 Thieme References

14.5 Chemical Co-Occurrences in Literature

14.6 Chemical-Gene Co-Occurrences in Literature

14.7 Chemical-Disease Co-Occurrences in Literature

15 Patents

15.1 Depositor-Supplied Patent Identifiers

15.2 Chemical Co-Occurrences in Patents

15.3 Chemical-Disease Co-Occurrences in Patents

15.4 Chemical-Gene Co-Occurrences in Patents

16 Interactions and Pathways

16.1 Protein Bound 3D Structures

17 Classification

17.1 MeSH Tree

17.2 NCI Thesaurus Tree

17.3 ChEBI Ontology

17.4 ChemIDplus

17.5 CAMEO Chemicals

17.6 UN GHS Classification

17.7 EPA CPDat Classification

17.8 NORMAN Suspect List Exchange Classification

17.9 EPA DSSTox Classification

17.10 Consumer Product Information Database Classification

17.11 EPA TSCA and CDR Classification

17.12 EPA Substance Registry Services Tree

17.13 MolGenie Organic Chemistry Ontology

18 Information Sources

  1. Athena Minerals
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  8. ChemIDplus
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  9. DrugBank
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  12. EPA DSSTox
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  13. European Chemicals Agency (ECHA)
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  15. Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB)
  16. ILO-WHO International Chemical Safety Cards (ICSCs)
  17. New Zealand Environmental Protection Authority (EPA)
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  18. NJDOH RTK Hazardous Substance List
  19. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
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  20. Risk Assessment Information System (RAIS)
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    https://rais.ornl.gov/
  21. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
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  22. Haz-Map, Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases
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  28. Crystallography Open Database (COD)
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    https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/zero/1.0/
  29. DailyMed
  30. EPA Chemical and Products Database (CPDat)
  31. NITE-CMC
  32. National Drug Code (NDC) Directory
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  33. PubChem Elements
  34. Springer Nature
  35. SpringerMaterials
  36. Thieme Chemistry
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  42. NORMAN Suspect List Exchange
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  43. EPA Substance Registry Services
  44. MolGenie
    MolGenie Organic Chemistry Ontology
    https://github.com/MolGenie/ontology/
CONTENTS