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Aluminum

PubChem CID
5359268
Structure
Aluminum_small.png
Molecular Formula
Synonyms
  • ALUMINUM
  • 7429-90-5
  • Al
  • Aluminium
  • Aluminum metal
Molecular Weight
26.981538 g/mol
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Element Name
Dates
  • Create:
    2004-09-16
  • Modify:
    2025-01-10
Description
Aluminum is the most abundant metal in the earth's crust. It is always found combined with other elements such as oxygen, silicon, and fluorine. Aluminum as the metal is obtained from aluminum-containing minerals. Small amounts of aluminum can be found dissolved in water. Aluminum metal is light in weight and silvery-white in appearance. Aluminum is used for beverage cans, pots and pans, airplanes, siding and roofing, and foil. Aluminum is often mixed with small amounts of other metals to form aluminum alloys, which are stronger and harder. Aluminum compounds have many different uses, for example, as alums in water-treatment and alumina in abrasives and furnace linings. They are also found in consumer products such as antacids, astringents, buffered aspirin, food additives, and antiperspirants.
Aluminum powder, coated appears as a light gray or silver powdered metal. Easily ignited; burns with an intense flame.
Aluminum powder, pyrophoric appears as a light gray or silvery colored powdered metal.
See also: Aluminum hydride (annotation moved to).

1 Structures

1.1 2D Structure

Chemical Structure Depiction
Aluminum.png

1.2 Crystal Structures

2 Names and Identifiers

2.1 Computed Descriptors

2.1.1 IUPAC Name

aluminum
Computed by Lexichem TK 2.7.0 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)

2.1.2 InChI

InChI=1S/Al
Computed by InChI 1.0.6 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)

2.1.3 InChIKey

XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N
Computed by InChI 1.0.6 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)

2.1.4 SMILES

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

2.2 Molecular Formula

Al
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)

2.3 Other Identifiers

2.3.1 CAS

7429-90-5
91728-14-2

2.3.2 Deprecated CAS

1107613-92-2, 1107614-02-7, 113962-66-6, 121630-48-6, 12766-45-9, 1374563-19-5, 1374563-22-0, 1621997-91-8, 1799386-26-7, 182260-45-3, 1826890-06-5, 185464-37-3, 1946759-18-7, 2014335-16-9, 2247261-17-0, 2247261-42-1, 2247261-50-1, 2250318-40-0, 2412445-90-8, 257888-99-6, 2701539-61-7, 298688-47-8, 349608-51-1, 37202-64-5, 39302-71-1, 39332-62-2, 477951-22-7, 80341-19-1, 91728-14-2, 934749-46-9
1107613-92-2, 1107614-02-7, 113962-66-6, 121630-48-6, 12766-45-9, 1374563-19-5, 1374563-22-0, 1621997-91-8, 1799386-26-7, 182260-45-3, 1826890-06-5, 185464-37-3, 1946759-18-7, 2014335-16-9, 2247261-17-0, 2247261-42-1, 2247261-50-1, 2250318-40-0, 2412445-90-8, 257888-99-6, 2701539-61-7, 2758176-71-3, 2826961-24-2, 2832056-54-7, 2923573-53-7, 2923573-54-8, 2923573-55-9, 2924823-56-1, 298688-47-8, 349608-51-1, 37202-64-5, 39302-71-1, 39332-62-2, 477951-22-7, 80341-19-1, 91728-14-2, 934749-46-9
1107614-02-7, 113962-66-6, 121630-48-6, 12766-45-9, 182260-45-3, 185464-37-3, 257888-99-6, 298688-47-8, 37202-64-5, 39302-71-1, 39332-62-2, 80341-19-1, 91728-14-2, 934749-46-9

2.3.3 European Community (EC) Number

231-072-3

2.3.4 UNII

2.3.5 UN Number

2.3.6 ChEBI ID

2.3.7 DrugBank ID

2.3.8 DSSTox Substance ID

2.3.9 HMDB ID

2.3.10 ICSC Number

2.3.11 NCI Thesaurus Code

2.3.12 PharmGKB ID

2.3.13 RTECS Number

2.3.14 RXCUI

2.3.15 Wikidata

2.3.16 Wikipedia

2.4 Synonyms

2.4.1 MeSH Entry Terms

  • Aluminium
  • Aluminium 27
  • Aluminium-27
  • Aluminum
  • Aluminum 27
  • Aluminum-27

2.4.2 Depositor-Supplied Synonyms

3 Chemical and Physical Properties

3.1 Computed Properties

Property Name
Molecular Weight
Property Value
26.981538 g/mol
Reference
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Hydrogen Bond Donor Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Hydrogen Bond Acceptor Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Rotatable Bond Count
Property Value
0
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Exact Mass
Property Value
26.9815384 Da
Reference
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Monoisotopic Mass
Property Value
26.9815384 Da
Reference
Computed by PubChem 2.2 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
Property Name
Topological Polar Surface Area
Property Value
0 Ų
Reference
Computed by Cactvs 3.4.8.18 (PubChem release 2021.10.14)
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 2021.10.14)
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

Aluminum powder, coated appears as a light gray or silver powdered metal. Easily ignited; burns with an intense flame.
Aluminum powder, pyrophoric appears as a light gray or silvery colored powdered metal.
Aluminum powder, uncoated appears as a light gray solid. Denser than water. Contact may burn skin, eyes, and mucous membranes. May be toxic by ingestion, inhalation and skin absorption. Used to make other chemicals.
Aluminum metal held above melting point of 1220 °F (660 °C) for ease in handling. Cools and solidifies if released. Contact causes thermal burns. Plastic or rubber may melt or lose strength upon contact. Protective equipment designed for chemical exposure only is not effective against direct contact. Take care walking on the surface of a spill to avoid stepping into a pocket of molten aluminum below the crust. Do not attempt to remove aluminum impregnated clothing because of the danger of tearing flesh if there has been a burn.
Dry Powder, Other Solid; Other Solid; Dry Powder, Water or Solvent Wet Solid; Liquid, Other Solid; Dry Powder; Water or Solvent Wet Solid; Liquid; Pellets or Large Crystals, Other Solid; Pellets or Large Crystals; Dry Powder, Pellets or Large Crystals, Water or Solvent Wet Solid, Liquid; NKRA
A silvery-grey powder or tiny sheets
Silvery-white, malleable, ductile, odorless metal; [NIOSH]
Appearance and odor vary depending upon the specific aluminum compound.
Solid
SILVERY-WHITE-TO-GREY POWDER.
Silvery-white, malleable, ductile, odorless metal.

3.2.2 Color / Form

Tin-white, malleable, ductile metal, with somewhat bluish tint
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2001., p. 60
Silver white ductile metal, cubic
Lide, DR (ed.). CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. 81st Edition. CRC Press LLC, Boca Raton: FL 2000, p. 4-39
Crystalline solid
Lewis, R.J., Sr (Ed.). Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary. 13th ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 1997., p. 40
Silvery-white, malleable, ductile ... metal.
NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards & Other Databases. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Public Health Service, Center for Disease Control & Prevention. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2001-145 (CD-ROM) August 2001.

3.2.3 Odor

Odorless
NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards & Other Databases. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Public Health Service, Center for Disease Control & Prevention. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2001-145 (CD-ROM) August 2001.

3.2.4 Boiling Point

4221 °F at 760 mmHg (NIOSH, 2024)
2327 °C
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2001., p. 60
4221 °F

3.2.5 Melting Point

1220 °F (NIOSH, 2024)
660
1220 ° F
660 °C
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2001., p. 60
1220 °F

3.2.6 Solubility

Insoluble (NIOSH, 2024)
Insoluble in water and in organic solvents. Soluble in dilute hydrochloric acid.
Soluble in HCl, H2SO4, hot water, and alkalies.
Lewis, R.J. Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 10th ed. Volumes 1-3 New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons Inc., 1999., p. V2: 127
Insoluble in water.
Lide, DR (ed.). CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. 81st Edition. CRC Press LLC, Boca Raton: FL 2000, p. 4-39
Solubility in water: reaction
Insoluble

3.2.7 Density

2.7 (NIOSH, 2024) - Denser than water; will sink
2.70
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2001., p. 60
2.7 g/cm³

3.2.8 Vapor Pressure

0 mmHg (approx) (NIOSH, 2024)
1 mm Hg at 1284 °C
Lewis, R.J. Sax's Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 10th ed. Volumes 1-3 New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons Inc., 1999., p. V2: 127
0 mmHg (approx)

3.2.9 Stability / Shelf Life

In moist air, oxide film forms which protects metal from corrosion.
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2001., p. 60
Low melting solids or colorless, volatile liquids. /Alkylaluminum halides/
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2001., p. 60
Less sensitive than trialkylaminums to oxidation upon exposure to air. /Alkylaluminum halides/
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2001., p. 60

3.2.10 Autoignition Temperature

400 °C (powder)

3.2.11 Other Experimental Properties

...Capable of taking brilliant polish which is retained in dry air. In moist air, oxide film forms which protects metal from corrosion. ...Does not vaporize even at high temperatures, but finely divided aluminum dust is easily ignited, and may cause explosions. Reacts with dilute HCl, H2SO4, KOH and NaOH with evolution of hydrogen. Reduces the cations of many heavy metals to the metallic state E(o)(aq) Al+3/Al -1.66V.
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2001., p. 60
Good conductor of heat and electricity
Browning, E. Toxicity of Industrial Metals. 2nd ed. New York: Appleton-Century-Crofts, 1969., p. 3
Tensile strength (annealed) 6800 psi, cold rolled 16,000 psi; rapidly oxidized by water at 180 °C. ... Electrical conductivity approximately two-thirds that of copper. Aluminum qualifies as both a light metal and a heavy metal, according to their definitions.
Lewis, R.J., Sr (Ed.). Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary. 13th ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 1997., p. 40
Ionic radius = 57 pm. In combination with its high oxidation potential +1.66V and the +3 oxidation state, the ionic radius accounts for the stability of aluminum compounds.
Savory J, Wills MR; pp. 715-41 in Metals and Their Compounds in the Environment. Merian E, ed. NY, NY: VCH (1990)
For more Other Experimental Properties (Complete) data for ALUMINUM, ELEMENTAL (7 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

3.3 SpringerMaterials Properties

3.4 Chemical Classes

Metals -> Elements, Metallic
Metals -> Metals, Inorganic Compounds
Trace element

3.4.1 Cosmetics

Cosmetics ingredient -> Colorant; Other (Specify)
Cosmetic colorant
S13 | EUCOSMETICS | Combined Inventory of Ingredients Employed in Cosmetic Products (2000) and Revised Inventory (2006) | DOI:10.5281/zenodo.2624118

3.4.2 Food Additives

Drugs, Cosmetics -> FDA Regulatory Status of Color Additives

5 Chemical Vendors

6 Drug and Medication Information

6.1 FDA National Drug Code Directory

6.2 Drug Labels

Active ingredient and drug
Homeopathic product and label
Homeopathic product and label

6.3 Clinical Trials

6.3.1 ClinicalTrials.gov

6.3.2 NIPH Clinical Trials Search of Japan

6.4 Therapeutic Uses

Medicinally, aluminum and its salts are used in antacids, antidiarrheals, and protective dermatological pastes. It is also found in cosmetics and deodorants. /Aluminum and its salts/
National Research Council. Drinking Water & Health, Volume 4. Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 1981., p. 156
Aluminum foil has been used as a dressing for burns.
Reynolds, J.E.F., Prasad, A.B. (eds.) Martindale-The Extra Pharmacopoeia. 28th ed. London: The Pharmaceutical Press, 1982., p. 926
Aluminum powder has been used for dusting the skin around an ileostomy, caecostomy, or colostomy to prevent irritation due to proteolytic or irritant discharges. The skin is dried and freed from grease and repeated applications of the powder made until a thick film adheres. Alternatively, Compound Aluminum Paste may be employed; the paste is applied thickly round the fistula or sinus in order to prevent the discharge from coming in contact with the skin. Aluminum powder has been used as a dressing for burns, /topical/ ulcers, and indolent wounds. /Aluminum powder/
Reynolds, J.E.F., Prasad, A.B. (eds.) Martindale-The Extra Pharmacopoeia. 28th ed. London: The Pharmaceutical Press, 1982., p. 926
A veterinary wound healing powder contains 1.41-10.81% aluminum. /Aluminum/
Weathers EC; Wound healing powder for livestock; US Patent No 4440755 04/03/84
For more Therapeutic Uses (Complete) data for ALUMINUM, ELEMENTAL (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

6.5 Drug Warnings

The most frequent adverse effect of aluminum antacids is constipation. Decreased bowel motility, dehydration, or fluid restriction may predispose patients to intestinal obstruction. Hemorrhoids and fissures, or fecal impaction may occur. In patients with chronic renal failure, hyperaluminemia may occur and aluminum may accumulate in bones, lungs, and nerve tissue. Aluminum accumulation in the CNS may be the cause of dialysis dementia which sometimes occurs in chronic renal failure patients receiving long-term aluminum antacid therapy for hyperphosphatemia. Aluminum intoxication with severe osteomalacia and extensive aluminum deposition at the junction between calcified and noncalcified bone has been reported in several young children who were receiving large dosages of aluminum hydroxide for the management of hyperphosphatemia associated with azotemia; the children were not undergoing hemodialysis during aluminum hydroxide therapy.
McEvoy, G.K. (ed.). AHFS Drug Information 90. Bethesda, MD: American Society of Hospital Pharmacists, Inc., 1990 (Plus Supplements 1990)., p. 1619
Aluminum-containing phosphate binding agents increase gut aluminum absorption and predispose children with renal dysfunction toxicity. Children with azotemia, infants receiving aluminum-contaminated intravenous solutions, and uremic neonates drinking powdered milk with high aluminum content are particularly susceptible to this complication of therapy.
Ellenhorn, M.J. and D.G. Barceloux. Medical Toxicology - Diagnosis and Treatment of Human Poisoning. New York, NY: Elsevier Science Publishing Co., Inc. 1988., p. 1009

7 Food Additives and Ingredients

7.1 Food Additive Classes

JECFA Functional Classes
Food Contaminant -> METALS;

7.2 Food Additive Definition

EU Food Additive Definition
Aluminium powder is composed of finely divided particles of aluminium. The grinding may or may not be carried out in the presence of edible vegetable oils and/or food additive quality fatty acids. It is free from admixture with substances other than edible vegetable oils and/or food additive quality fatty acids.

7.3 Color Additive Status

Color Additive
Use
Drugs, Cosmetics
Restrictions
Externally applied drugs including eye area use. Externally applied cosmetics including eye area use.
End Note
1 - The color additives Antarctic krill meal, Astaxanthin, Astaxanthin dimethyldisuccinate, Ultramarine blue, Canthaxanthin, Haematococcus algae meal, Synthetic iron oxide, Dried algae meal, Tagetes (Aztec marigold) meal and extract, Corn endosperm oil, Paracoccus pigment, and Phaffia yeast are approved for specific uses in animal food (see 21 CFR 73.32. 73.35, 73.37, 73.50, 73.75, 73.185, 73.200, 73.275, 73.295, 73.315, 73.352, and 73.355, respectively).
Color additive regulations in 21 eCFR
Other regulations in 21 eCFR

7.4 Evaluations of the Joint FAO / WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives - JECFA

Chemical Name
ALUMINIUM
Evaluation Year
2011
Comments
New data did not substantially change the LOAEL range of 50–75 mg/kg bw per day, but one of the studies also provided a NOAEL of 30 mg/kg bw per day. This NOAEL was identified from a study in which aluminium citrate was administered in drinking-water. Aluminium citrate is more soluble than many other aluminium compounds and is likely to be more bioavailable from drinking-water than from food. The Committee concluded that the NOAEL of 30 mg/kg bw per day was an appropriate basis for establishing a PTWI for aluminium compounds.

8 Minerals

1 of 9
Formula
Al2(SO4)(OH)4.7H2O
System
Monoclinic ps Orthorhombic
2 of 9
Formula
Al
System
Cubic
3 of 9
Formula
▢Ca2(Mg3Al2)Si6Al2O22(OH)2(?)
System
Monoclinic
4 of 9
5 of 9
Name
aluminium
Link
6 of 9
Name
Aluminum
Link
7 of 9
IMA Number
IMA1980-085a
Formula
Al
IMA Symbol
Al
9 of 9
Mineral Description
Aluminum is the second most abundant metallic element in the Earth's crust after silicon, yet it is a comparatively new industrial metal that has been produced in commercial quantities for just over 100 years. It weighs about one-third as much as steel or copper; is malleable, ductile, and easily machined and cast; and has excellent corrosion resistance and durability. Measured either in quantity or value, aluminum's use exceeds that of any other metal except iron, and it is important in virtually all segments of the world economy. Some of the many uses for aluminum are in transportation (automobiles, airplanes, trucks, railcars, marine vessels, etc.), packaging (cans, foil, etc.), construction (windows, doors, siding, etc), consumer durables (appliances, cooking utensils, etc.), electrical transmission lines, machinery, and many other applications.Aluminum recovery from scrap (recycling) has become an important component of the aluminum industry. A common practice since the early 1900s, aluminum recycling is not new. It was, however, a low-profile activity until the late 1960s when recycling of aluminum beverage cans finally vaulted recycling into the public consciousness. Sources for recycled aluminum include automobiles, windows and doors, appliances, and other products. However, it is the recycling of aluminum cans that seems to have the highest profile.
USGS Mineral Commodity Summaries (PDF links)

9 Pharmacology and Biochemistry

9.1 Metabolism / Metabolites

Aluminum is poorly absorbed following oral or inhalation exposure and is essentially not absorbed dermally. The bioavailability of aluminum is strongly influenced by the aluminum compound and the presence of dietary constituents which can complex with aluminum and enhance or inhibit its absorption. Aluminum binds to various ligands in the blood and distributes to every organ, with highest concentrations found in bone and lung tissues. In living organisms, aluminum is believed to exist in four different forms: as free ions, as low-molecular-weight complexes, as physically bound macromolecular complexes, and as covalently bound macromolecular complexes. Absorbed aluminum is excreted principally in the urine and, to a lesser extent, in the bile, while unabsorbed aluminum is excreted in the faeces. (L739)
L739: ATSDR - Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (2008). Toxicological profile for aluminum. U.S. Public Health Service in collaboration with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxprofiles/tp22.html

9.2 Biological Half-Life

Depends on duration of exposure; if over 10 years, then urinary: 6 months; if under 1 year, then urinary: 9 days;; [TDR, p. 75]
TDR - Ryan RP, Terry CE, Leffingwell SS (eds). Toxicology Desk Reference: The Toxic Exposure and Medical Monitoring Index, 5th Ed. Washington DC: Taylor & Francis, 1999., p. 75
The mean plasma half-life of aluminum after iv admin in dogs is approx 4.5 hr.
Ellenhorn, M.J., S. Schonwald, G. Ordog, J. Wasserberger. Ellenhorn's Medical Toxicology: Diagnosis and Treatment of Human Poisoning. 2nd ed. Baltimore, MD: Williams and Wilkins, 1997., p. 1532
...Workers exposed to aluminum containing welding fume had cleared 50% of their dose within 8 hr after exposure.
Bingham, E.; Cohrssen, B.; Powell, C.H.; Patty's Toxicology Volumes 1-9 5th ed. John Wiley & Sons. New York, N.Y. (2001)., p. V2 372
The short-term biological half-time after heavy exposure is estimated to be about 8 hrs.
Chang, L.W. (ed.). Toxicology of Metals. Boca Raton, FL: Lewis Publishers, 1996, p. 97
A relationship between the duration of aluminum exposure and urinary concentrations has been found in humans. Welders exposed to 0.2-5.3 mg/cu m (8-hour workshift) for more than 10 years had a urinary aluminum half-time of at least 6 months compared to 9 days for individuals exposed for less than 1 year.
DHHS/ATSDR; Toxicological Profile for Aluminum (July 1999). Available from, as of May 21, 2004: https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxprofiles/tp22.html

9.3 Mechanism of Action

Aluminum Acetate is an astringent. An astrignent is a chemical that tends to shrink or constrict body tissues, usually locally after topical medicinal application. The shrinkage or constriction is through osmotic flow of water (or other fluids) away from the area where the astringent was applied. Astringent medicines cause shrinkage of mucous membranes or exposed tissues and are often used internally to check discharge of blood serum or mucous secretions. This can happen with a sore throat, hemorrhages, diarrhea, or with peptic ulcers. Externally applied astringents, which cause mild coagulation of skin proteins, dry, harden, and protect the skin. Acne sufferers are often advised to use astringents if they have oily skin. Astringents also help heal stretch marks and other scars. Mild astringent solutions are used in the relief of such minor skin irritations as those resulting from superficial cuts, allergies, insect bites, or fungal infections such as athlete's foot.
Excessive dietary aluminum has been proposed to be a factor contributing to several neurological disorders in humans. Six 8-week-old female Swiss Webster mice were fed for 10 wk purified diets containing 100 (control), 500 or 1000 ug aluminum/g diet. Brain and liver lipid peroxidation was determined by evaluating the production of 2-thiobarbituric acid reactive substances in brain and liver homogenates in the presence or absence of 50 uM ferrous iron. 2-Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances production in the absence of iron in brain homogenates from mice fed the 1000 ug/g diet was higher (30%) than that in the 100 ug/g control group (3.1 vs 2.4 nmol 2-thiobarbituric acid reactive substances/mg protein). The addition of ferrous iron increased 2-thiobarbituric acid reactive substances production in brain homogenates from all 3 dietary groups. The iron induced 2-thiobarbituric acid reactive substances production was 26% higher in the 1000 ug/g brain homogenates than in the 100 ug/g group (4.9 vs 3.9 nmol 2-thiobarbituric acid reactive substances/mg protein). Brain 2-thiobarbituric acid reactive substances production in the presence and absence of iron was similar between the 100 and 500 ug/g aluminum groups. 2-Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances production in liver homogenates measured either with or without iron was similar for the 3 groups. These results show that, in mice, dietary aluminum intoxication leads to increased brain 2-thiobarbituric acid reactive substance production, suggesting that enhanced lipid peroxidation may be one possible mechanism underlying the neurological damage associated with increased tissue aluminum.
Fraga CG et al; Toxicol Lett 51 (2): 213-9 (1990)
Evidence is presented indicating that dementias are associated with a relative insufficiency of magnesium in the brain. Such insufficiency may be attributable to low intake or retention of magnesium; high intake of a neurotoxic metal, such as aluminum, which inhibits activity of magnesium requiring enzymes; or impaired transport of magnesium and/or enhanced transport of the neurotoxic metal into brain tissue. It is proposed that Alzheimer's disease involves a defective transport process, characterized by both an abnormally high incorporation of aluminum and an abnormally low incorporation that an altered serum protein contributes to the progression of Alzheimer's disease by having a greater affinity for aluminum than for magnesium, in contrast to the normal protein, which binds magnesium better than aluminum. The altered protein crosses the blood-brain barrier more efficiently than the normal protein and competes with the normal protein in binding to brain neurons. Binding of the altered protein to the target neurons would both facilitate aluminum uptake and impede magnesium uptake. Evidence suggests that albumin is the serum protein that is altered.
Glick JL; Med Hypotheses 31 (3): 211-26 (1990)
Aluminum is established as a neurotoxin, although the basis for its toxicity is unknown. It recently has been shown to alter the function of the blood-brain barrier, which regulates exchanges between the central nervous system and peripheral circulation. The blood-brain barrier owes its unique properties to the integrity of cell membranes that comprise it. Aluminum affects some of the membrane-like functions of the blood-brain barrier. It increases the rate of transmembrane diffusion and selectively changes saturable transport systems without disrupting the integrity of the membranes or altering CNS hemodynamics. Such alterations in the access to the brain of nutrients, hormones, toxins, and drugs could be the basis of CNS dysfunction. Aluminum is capable of altering membrane function at the blood-brain barrier; many of its effects on the CNS a well a peripheral tissues can be explained by its actions as a membrane toxin.
Banks WA, Kastin AJ; Neurosci Biobehav Rev 13 (1): 47-5 (1989)
The endocrine response of porcine parathyroid gland tissue slices in vitro to aluminum was studied by electron microscopy and radioimmunoassay of parathyroid hormone. Medium aluminum concentrations were 20 to 500 ng/ml covering the range corresponding to concentrations reported in the plasma of aluminum intoxicated hemodialyzed patients. Aluminum inhibited iPTH release and caused severe cell alterations. This inhibition was incomplete and there was an aluminum insensitive iPTH capacity. This phenomenon seemed to be due to heterogeneous parathyroid cell population as regards to aluminum sensitivity, perhaps linked to the spontaneous aynchronous cyclic parathyroid cell changes. Sensitivity to aluminum was modulated by the extracellular calcium concentration. Sensitivity to extracellular calcium concentration variations persisted in aluminum intoxicated tissues. The severity of the observed cell lesions induced by high concentrations of aluminum suggested that that the recovery of an iPTH release capacity when parathyroid tissue was withdrawn from a toxic environment and switched to aluminum free media is more likely to be due to activation of a "less sensitive to aluminum" cell pool than to a true reversibility of the toxic effect.
Bourdau AM et al; Kidney Int 31 (1): 15-24 (1987)
For more Mechanism of Action (Complete) data for ALUMINUM, ELEMENTAL (11 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

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 metal/alloys (electrical wires, construction, automobiles, aircraft, appliances, cooking utensils, and foil), compounds (cosmetics, deodorants, catalysts, flocculating agents for water treatment, and drugs), finely divided dusts and flakes (thermite welding and pyrotechnics), and aluminum alkyls (mainly catalysts); [ACGIH] Foods containing relatively large amounts of aluminum include spices, baking powder, processed cheese, pancake mixes, pickled vegetables, and tea; Highest occupational exposures are in aluminum powder production and welding (often >100 ug/L in urine), followed by electrolytic production and corundum production (sometimes >100 ug/L in urine), and then other industries in which workers' urine concentrations of Al are seldom >100 ug/L (electrolytic production with new technology, aluminum sulfate production, grinding, melting and foundry, and optoelectronic manufacturing; [Nordberg, p. 551-2]
ACGIH - Documentation of the TLVs and BEIs, 7th Ed. Cincinnati: ACGIH Worldwide, 2020.
Nordberg - Nordberg GF, Fowler BA, Nordberg M (eds). Handbook on the Toxicology of Metals, 4th Ed. Boston: Elsevier, 2015., p. 551-2
Industrial Processes with risk of exposure

Aluminum Producing [Category: Industry]

Welding [Category: Weld]

Metal Thermal Spraying [Category: Plate]

Semiconductor Manufacturing [Category: Industry]

The active ingredient is no longer contained in any registered products ... "cancelled."
United States Environmental Protection Agency/ Prevention, Pesticides and Toxic Substances; Status of Pesticides in Registration, Reregistration, and Special Review. (1998) EPA 738-R-98-002, p. 295
For aluminum powder (USEPA/OPP Pesticide Code: 000111) there are 0 labels match. /SRP: Not registered for current use in the U.S., but approved pesticide uses may change periodically and so federal, state and local authorities must be consulted for currently approved uses./
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency/Office of Pesticide Program's Chemical Ingredients Database on Aluminum (7429-90-5). Available from, as of July 1, 2004: https://npirspublic.ceris.purdue.edu/ppis/
In manufacture of printing inks; in the aircraft industry
Browning, E. Toxicity of Industrial Metals. 2nd ed. New York: Appleton-Century-Crofts, 1969., p. 4
For absorbing occluded gases in manufacture of steel; ...dental alloys
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2001., p. 60
For more Uses (Complete) data for ALUMINUM, ELEMENTAL (17 total), please visit the HSDB record page.
Aluminum is used for beverage cans, pots and pans, airplanes, siding and roofing, and foil. It is often mixed with small amounts of other metals to form aluminum alloys, which are stronger and harder. Aluminum compounds have many different uses, for example, as alums in water-treatment and alumina in abrasives and furnace linings. They are also found in consumer products such as antacids, astringents, buffered aspirin, food additives, cosmetics, and antiperspirants. (L739, L740)
L739: ATSDR - Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (2008). Toxicological profile for aluminum. U.S. Public Health Service in collaboration with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxprofiles/tp22.html
L740: Wikipedia. Aluminium. Last Updated 16 June 2009. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aluminum

10.1.1 Use Classification

Food additives
Food Contaminant -> METALS; -> JECFA Functional Classes
Hazard Classes and Categories -> Flammable - 3rd degree, Reactive - 1st degree
Cosmetics -> Cosmetic colorant
S13 | EUCOSMETICS | Combined Inventory of Ingredients Employed in Cosmetic Products (2000) and Revised Inventory (2006) | DOI:10.5281/zenodo.2624118

10.1.2 Industry Uses

  • Processing aids, not otherwise listed
  • Lubricating agent
  • Paint additives and coating additives not described by other categories
  • Catalyst
  • Semiconductor and photovoltaic agent
  • Pigments
  • Other
  • Not Known or Reasonably Ascertainable
  • Intermediate
  • Alloys
  • Intermediates
  • Surface modifier
  • Density modifier
  • Other (specify)
  • Fillers
  • Oxidizing/reducing agents
  • Pigment

10.1.3 Consumer Uses

  • Other
  • Pigments
  • Filler
  • Flocculating agent
  • Catalyst
  • Softener and conditioner
  • Paint additives and coating additives not described by other categories
  • Flame retardants
  • Pigment
  • Fillers
  • Other (specify)
  • Adhesion/cohesion promoter
  • Solvents (for cleaning or degreasing)
  • Density modifier
  • Intermediates
  • Alloys
  • Intermediate
  • Sealant (barrier)
  • Not Known or Reasonably Ascertainable

10.1.4 Household Products

California Safe Cosmetics Program (CSCP)

Cosmetics product ingredient: Aluminum (Aluminum powder; CI 77000)

Aluminum is the most abundant metal in the earth's crust. It is always found combined with other elements such as oxygen, silicon, and fluorine. Small amounts of aluminum can be found dissolved in water. Aluminum metal is light in weight and silvery-white in appearance. Aluminum is used for beverage cans, pots and pans, airplanes, siding and roofing, and foil. Aluminum compounds have many different uses, for example, they are found in consumer products such as antacids, astringents, buffered aspirin, food additives, and antiperspirants.

Reason for Listing:

- Identified in the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry’s Toxic Substances Health Effects of Toxic Substances and Carcinogens, Nervous System

- Primary Maximum Contaminant Levels have been established and adopted under section 64431 or section 64444 of chapter 15 of title 22 of the California Code of Regulations

- Identified as a pollutant by California or the United States Environmental Protection Agency for one or more water bodies in California under section 303(d) of the federal Clean Water Act and section 130.7 of title 40 of the Code of Federal Regulations

Potential Health Impacts: Hematotoxicity and Neurotoxicity

Product count: 48

Household & Commercial/Institutional Products

Information on 88 consumer products that contain Aluminum in the following categories is provided:

• Auto Products

• Commercial / Institutional

• Hobby/Craft

• Home Maintenance

• Inside the Home

• Personal Care

10.2 Methods of Manufacturing

The principal method used in producing aluminum metal involves three major steps: refining of bauxite by the Bayer process to produce alumina, electrolytic reduction of alumina by the Hall-Heroult process to produce aluminum and casting of aluminumin to ingots.
DHHS/ATSDR; Toxicological Profile for Aluminum (July 1999). Available from, as of May 21, 2004: https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxprofiles/tp22.html
Reduction of alumina to virgin aluminum metal by the Hall-Heroult electrolytic process using carbon electrodes and cryolite flux.
International Labour Office. Encyclopaedia of Occupational Health and Safety. 4th edition, Volumes 1-4 1998. Geneva, Switzerland: International Labour Office, 1998., p. 82.7
... Processes for obtaining ultra-pure aluminum: (a) electrolytic (three layer); (b) zone refining; and (c) chemical refining
Lewis, R.J., Sr (Ed.). Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary. 13th ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 1997., p. 40
Fractional crystallization is used in refining lower grade aluminum
Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology. 3rd ed., Volumes 1-26. New York, NY: John Wiley and Sons, 1978-1984., p. V2 153 (1978)

10.3 Impurities

Impurities: Silicon, iron, titanium, and vanadium
Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology. 3rd ed., Volumes 1-26. New York, NY: John Wiley and Sons, 1978-1984., p. V2 155 (1978)
Other impurities: carbides of aluminum and iron, and the nitrides of aluminum and iron
CONSIDINE. CHEMICAL AND PROCESS TECHNOL ENCYC 1974 p.81
Aluminas in general commerce that are used for smelting of metal presently contain over 99% aluminum oxides. The generally accepted levels of chemical impurities are under 0.005% of iron, titanium, zinc and sodium oxides, titanium dioxide, and vanadium and phosphorous pentoxides; crystalline silica dioxide content generally ranges between 0.01 and 0.02%.
Bingham, E.; Cohrssen, B.; Powell, C.H.; Patty's Toxicology Volumes 1-9 5th ed. John Wiley & Sons. New York, N.Y. (2001)., p. V2 360

10.4 Formulations / Preparations

Aluminum with 65-70% purity is available as well as super purity aluminum with a purity of 99.94+%
CONSIDINE. CHEMICAL AND PROCESS TECHNOL ENCYC 1974 p.81
/Available/ Anode grades; as low micron powder; 99.0-99.999% purity; and as 99.99% purity pellets
CHEMCYCLOPEDIA 1986 p.162
...Most aluminum metal is used in single- and double-alloy systems, such as when it is alloyed with silicon or manganese, or as a double alloy with silicon, manganese, copper, magnesium, nickel, lead, bismuth, lithium, or zinc.
Bingham, E.; Cohrssen, B.; Powell, C.H.; Patty's Toxicology Volumes 1-9 5th ed. John Wiley & Sons. New York, N.Y. (2001)., p. V2 363

10.5 Consumption Patterns

24% used in manufacture of construction materials; 23% for cans, containers, and flexible packaging; 20% for transportation material and equipment; 12% for electrical equipment; 8% for appliances and durable equipment; 7% for fabricated machinery and parts; and 6% in other miscellaneous applications (1975)
SRI
Packaging, 38%; Transportation, 21%; Building, 16%; Electrical, 8%; Consumer Durables, 7%; and other uses, 10% (1985)
BUREAU OF MINES. MINERAL COMMODITY SUMMARIES 1986 p.8
(2003) Aluminum consumption was centered in the east central United States. Transportation accounted for an estimated 35% of domestic consumption; the remainder was used in packaging, 24%; building, 16% consumer durables, 8%; electrical, 7% and other, 10%.
USGS; Mineral Commodity Summaries 2004 (Aluminum). Available from, as of November 10, 2003: https://minerals.usgs.gov/minerals/pubs/commodity/aluminum/alumimcs04.pdf
Recycling: In 2003, aluminum recovered from purchased scrap was about 2.8 million tons, of which about 60% came from new (manufacturing) scrap and 40% from old scrap (discarded aluminum products). Aluminum recovered from old scrap was equivalent to about 17% of apparent consumption.
USGS; Mineral Commodity Summaries 2004 (Aluminum). Available from, as of November 10, 2003: https://minerals.usgs.gov/minerals/pubs/commodity/aluminum/alumimcs04.pdf

10.6 U.S. Production

Aggregated Product Volume

2019: 10,000,000,000 - <20,000,000,000 lb

2018: 10,000,000,000 - <20,000,000,000 lb

2017: 10,000,000,000 - <20,000,000,000 lb

2016: 5,000,000,000 - <10,000,000,000 lb

(1972) 4.6X10+12 GRAMS (PRIMARY & SECONDARY)
SRI
(1975) 4.41X10+12 GRAMS
SRI
(1985) 4.28X10+12 g
BUREAU OF MINES. MINERAL COMMODITY SUMMARIES 1986 p.8
(1991) 4.02x10+6 metric tons
SRI. 1992 Directory of Chemical Producers-United States of America. Menlo Park, CA: SRI International, 1992., p. 454
For more U.S. Production (Complete) data for ALUMINUM, ELEMENTAL (10 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

10.7 U.S. Imports

(1972) 6.73X10+11 GRAMS
SRI
(1975) 4.49X10+11 GRAMS
SRI
(1985) 1.40X10+12 g
BUREAU OF MINES. MINERAL COMMODITY SUMMARIES 1986 p.8
(1999) 4,000 thousand metric tons
USGS; Mineral Commodity Summaries 2004 (Aluminum). Available from, as of November 10, 2003: https://minerals.usgs.gov/minerals/pubs/commodity/aluminum/alumimcs04.pdf
For more U.S. Imports (Complete) data for ALUMINUM, ELEMENTAL (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

10.8 U.S. Exports

(1972) 2.39X10+11 GRAMS
SRI
(1975) 3.39X10+11 GRAMS
SRI
(1985) 9.80X10+11 g
BUREAU OF MINES. MINERAL COMMODITY SUMMARIES 1986 p.8
(1999) 1,650 thousand metric tons
USGS; Mineral Commodity Summaries 2004 (Aluminum). Available from, as of November 10, 2003: https://minerals.usgs.gov/minerals/pubs/commodity/aluminum/alumimcs04.pdf
For more U.S. Exports (Complete) data for ALUMINUM, ELEMENTAL (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

10.9 General Manufacturing Information

Industry Processing Sectors
  • Computer and Electronic Product Manufacturing
  • Utilities
  • Synthetic Dye and Pigment Manufacturing
  • Fabricated Metal Product Manufacturing
  • Rubber Product Manufacturing
  • Plastics Product Manufacturing
  • Printing Ink Manufacturing
  • Oil and Gas Drilling, Extraction, and Support activities
  • Primary Metal Manufacturing
  • Construction
  • Custom Compounding of Purchased Resins
  • All Other Chemical Product and Preparation Manufacturing
  • Services
  • Printing and Related Support Activities
  • Not Known or Reasonably Ascertainable
  • Plastics Material and Resin Manufacturing
  • Soap, Cleaning Compound, and Toilet Preparation Manufacturing
  • Petroleum Lubricating Oil and Grease Manufacturing
  • Food, beverage, and tobacco product manufacturing
  • Mining (except Oil and Gas) and support activities
  • Organic Fiber Manufacturing
  • Wholesale and Retail Trade
  • Miscellaneous Manufacturing
  • All Other Basic Organic Chemical Manufacturing
  • Electrical Equipment, Appliance, and Component Manufacturing
  • Machinery Manufacturing
  • Paint and Coating Manufacturing
  • Transportation Equipment Manufacturing
  • All Other Basic Inorganic Chemical Manufacturing
  • Other (requires additional information)
EPA TSCA Commercial Activity Status
Aluminum: ACTIVE
All commercial production of aluminum today is done in Hall-Heroult cells.
Ullmann's Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry. 6th ed.Vol 1: Federal Republic of Germany: Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. 2003 to Present, p. V2 234 (2003)
Available in bars, leaf, powder, sheets or wire. ... 1st obtained in impure form, by Oersted in 1825; prepared as metal powder by Wohler in 1827.
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2001., p. 321
The Hall-Heroult process has produced aluminum with a purity as great as 99.95%. Other techniques, such as electrolytic refining or fractional crystallization, are required to produce purer metal.
Ullmann's Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry. 6th ed.Vol 1: Federal Republic of Germany: Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. 2003 to Present, p. V2 241 (2003)
The most important raw material for the production of aluminum is bauxite, which contains 40-60% alumina (aluminum oxide).
DHHS/ATSDR; Toxicological Profile for Aluminum (July 1999). Available from, as of May 21, 2004: https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxprofiles/tp22.html
For more General Manufacturing Information (Complete) data for ALUMINUM, ELEMENTAL (7 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

11 Identification

11.1 NIOSH Analytical Methods

12 Safety and Hazards

12.1 Hazards Identification

12.1.1 GHS Classification

1 of 9
View All
Note
Pictograms displayed are for 93% (3759 of 4044) of reports that indicate hazard statements. This chemical does not meet GHS hazard criteria for 7% (285 of 4044) of reports.
Pictogram(s)
Flammable
Signal
Danger
GHS Hazard Statements

H228 (61.1%): Flammable solid [Danger Flammable solids]

H250 (35%): Catches fire spontaneously if exposed to air [Danger Pyrophoric liquids]

H261 (92%): In contact with water releases flammable gas [Danger Substances and mixtures which in contact with water, emit flammable gases]

Precautionary Statement Codes

P210, P222, P231, P231+P232, P233, P240, P241, P280, P302+P335+P334, P370+P378, P402+P404, 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 4044 reports by companies from 35 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.

Reported as not meeting GHS hazard criteria per 285 of 4044 reports by companies. For more detailed information, please visit ECHA C&L website.

There are 31 notifications provided by 3759 of 4044 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.

12.1.2 Hazard Classes and Categories

Flam. Sol. 1 (61.1%)

Pyr. Liq. 1 (35%)

Water-react. 2 (92%)

Not Classified

12.1.3 NFPA Hazard Classification

NFPA 704 Diamond
0-3-1
NFPA Health Rating
0 - Materials that, under emergency conditions, would offer no hazard beyond that of ordinary combustible materials.
NFPA Fire Rating
3 - Liquids and solids that can be ignited under almost all ambient temperature conditions. Materials produce hazardous atmospheres with air under almost all ambient temperatures or, though unaffected by ambient temperatures, are readily ignited under almost all conditions.
NFPA Instability Rating
1 - Materials that in themselves are normally stable but that can become unstable at elevated temperatures and pressures.

12.1.4 Health Hazards

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

Oxides from metallic fires are a severe health hazard. Inhalation or contact with substance or decomposition products may cause severe injury or death. Fire may produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Runoff from fire control or dilution water may cause environmental contamination. (ERG, 2024)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 135 [Substances - Spontaneously Combustible]:

Fire will produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Inhalation of decomposition products may cause severe injury or death. Contact with substance may cause severe burns to skin and eyes. Runoff from fire control or dilution water may cause environmental contamination. CAUTION: Pentaborane (UN1380) is highly toxic and may be fatal if inhaled, ingested or absorbed through skin. (ERG, 2024)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 138 [Substances - Water-Reactive (Emitting Flammable Gases)]:

Inhalation or contact with vapors, substance or decomposition products may cause severe injury or death. May produce corrosive solutions on contact with water. Fire will produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Runoff from fire control or dilution water may cause environmental contamination. (ERG, 2024)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 169 [Aluminum (Molten)]:

Contact causes severe burns to skin and eyes. Fire may produce irritating and/or toxic gases. (ERG, 2024)

ERG 2024, Guide 170 (Aluminum powder, coated)

· Oxides from metallic fires are a severe health hazard.

· Inhalation or contact with substance or decomposition products may cause severe injury or death.

· Fire may produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases.

· Runoff from fire control or dilution water may cause environmental contamination.

ERG 2024, Guide 138 (Aluminum powder, uncoated)

· Inhalation or contact with vapors, substance or decomposition products may cause severe injury or death.

· May produce corrosive solutions on contact with water.

· Fire will produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases.

· Runoff from fire control or dilution water may cause environmental contamination.

12.1.5 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)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 135 [Substances - Spontaneously Combustible]:

Flammable/combustible material. May ignite on contact with moist air or moisture. May burn rapidly with flare-burning effect. Some react vigorously or explosively on contact with water. Some may decompose explosively when heated or involved in a fire. May re-ignite after fire is extinguished. Runoff may create fire or explosion hazard. Containers may explode when heated. (ERG, 2024)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 138 [Substances - Water-Reactive (Emitting Flammable Gases)]:

Produce flammable gases on contact with water. May ignite on contact with water or moist air. Some react vigorously or explosively on contact with water. May be ignited by heat, sparks or flames. May re-ignite after fire is extinguished. Some are transported in highly flammable liquids. Runoff may create fire or explosion hazard. (ERG, 2024)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 169 [Aluminum (Molten)]:

Substance is transported in molten form at a temperature above 705 °C (1300 °F). Violent reaction with water; contact may cause an explosion or may produce a flammable gas. Will ignite combustible materials (wood, paper, oil, debris, etc.). Contact with nitrates or other oxidizers may cause an explosion. Contact with containers or other materials, including cold, wet or dirty tools, may cause an explosion. Contact with concrete will cause spalling and small pops. (ERG, 2024)

ERG 2024, Guide 170 (Aluminum powder, coated)

· 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, Guide 138 (Aluminum powder, uncoated)

· Produce flammable gases on contact with water.

· May ignite on contact with water or moist air.

· Some react vigorously or explosively on contact with water.

· May be ignited by heat, sparks or flames.

· May re-ignite after fire is extinguished.

· Some are transported in highly flammable liquids.

· Runoff may create fire or explosion hazard.

Flammable. Forms flammable gas on contact with water or damp air. Finely dispersed particles form explosive mixtures in air. Risk of fire and explosion on contact with acids, alcohol, oxidizing agents or water.

12.1.6 Hazards Summary

Aluminum is the most abundant metal in the earth's crust. It is always found combined with other elements such as oxygen, silicon, and fluorine. Aluminum as the metal is obtained from aluminum-containing minerals. Small amounts of aluminum can be found dissolved in water. Aluminum metal is light in weight and silvery-white in appearance. Aluminum is used for beverage cans, pots and pans, airplanes, siding and roofing, and foil. Aluminum is often mixed with small amounts of other metals to form aluminum alloys, which are stronger and harder. Aluminum compounds have many different uses, for example, as alums in water-treatment and alumina in abrasives and furnace linings. They are also found in consumer products such as antacids, astringents, buffered aspirin, food additives, and antiperspirants.
One of the difficulties in studying the adverse effects of aluminum is the frequent contamination of biological specimens with aluminum from the environment, e.g., improperly cleaned glassware. More than 95% of aluminum is excreted in the urine. The occupational lung disease Shaver's disease was thought to be caused by chronic inhalation of dusts containing aluminum minerals such as bauxite and corundum, often contaminated with silica. Studies of workers in Europe confirmed that stamped aluminum powder, even in the absence of silica, caused lung fibrosis (aluminosis) in past decades. Stamped aluminum powder is mainly used to make pyrotechnics; it commonly contains lubricating agents such as stearin or mineral oils. A study of a group of 64 aluminum welders for 1-24 years found no evidence of pulmonary fibrosis. Evidence of neurotoxicity was found in welders with urine aluminum levels >100 ug/L compared with welders with lower levels. Whether or not the neurobehavioral effects are reversible is not known. High levels of aluminum e.g., in dialysis patients or after chronic use of antacids, can interfere with bone remodeling and contribute to osteomalacia. Total parenteral nutrition solutions containing more that 4-5 ug/day can cause increased aluminum levels associated with CNS and bone toxicity. [Nordberg, p. 549-62] The TLV applies to insoluble aluminum compounds (metal, aluminum oxide, stamped aluminum, aluminum in bauxite ore dust, emery). Workers exposed to high levels of aluminum dust (40 years of exposure at 2.5 mg/m3) have x-ray and mild pulmonary function changes. In studies of animals chronically inhaling aluminum oxide, 2.45 mg Al/m3 is the NOAEL. The cases of aluminosis in Germany were related to the mineral oil used as a lubricant. Levels measured in patients with dialysis encephalopathy (59 ug/L in serum and 330 ug/L in urine) are estimated to be equivalent to workers being exposed for 40 years to 1.6 mg/m3. Klatzo et al. in 1965 suggested that aluminum played a role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease. That hypothesis is no longer supported. [ACGIH] The cause of potroom asthma in aluminum smelter workers is unknown. Hazards present in this environment include fluorides, sulfur dioxide, and coal tar pitch volatiles. There is no convincing evidence of an allergic mechanism. Potroom asthma develops from 1 week to 10 years after first exposure. [Asthma in the Workplace, p. 298-9] Interstitial fibrosis among aluminum powder workers was reported in the 1940s. [Harber, p. 488] Occupational asthma in a welder (manual metal arc welding on aluminium) and a foundry worker (aluminum chloride) confirmed by bronchoprovocation testing; [Malo] Aluminum metal can cause contact urticaria; [Kanerva, p. 219] Aluminum welders in the train and truck manufacturing industry with an average 15 years of experience had no increased symptoms compared to the control group. Measured air levels of total dust were 5-8 mg/m3. [Reference #1] Trialkylaluminum compounds are potentially corrosive to the skin and respiratory tract, but they are very reactive with air and water and practically never gain systemic access to exert internal toxicity. [Sullivan, p. 981] Soluble aluminum compounds include nitrates, acetates, sulfates, chlorides, bromides, iodides, and salts of Na, K, and ammonium; Insoluble aluminum compounds include all hydroxides, carbonates, and phosphates that are not ammonium compounds; [Nordberg, p. 15] See Aluminum production.
Nordberg - Nordberg GF, Fowler BA, Nordberg M (eds). Handbook on the Toxicology of Metals, 4th Ed. Boston: Elsevier, 2015., p. 549-62
ACGIH - Documentation of the TLVs and BEIs, 7th Ed. Cincinnati: ACGIH Worldwide, 2020.
Asthma in the Workplace - Chan-Yeung M, Malo J-L, Bernstein DI (eds.) Asthma in the Workplace, 4th Ed. New York: Taylor & Francis, 2013., p. 298-9
Harber - Harber P, Schenker MB, Balmes JR (eds). Occupational and Environmental Respiratory Diseases. St. Louis: Mosby, 1996., p. 488
Kanerva - Rustemeyer L, Elsner P, John SM, Maibach HI (eds). Kanerva's Occupational Dermatology, 2nd Ed. Berlin: Springer-Verlag, 2012., p. 219
Sullivan - Sullivan JB, Krieger GR (eds). Clinical Environmental Health and Toxic Exposures. Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2001., p. 981
Nordberg - Nordberg GF, Fowler BA, Nordberg M (eds). Handbook on the Toxicology of Metals, 4th Ed. Boston: Elsevier, 2015., p. 15

12.1.7 Fire Potential

...Finely divided aluminum dust is easily ignited... .
O'Neil, M.J. (ed.). The Merck Index - An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs, and Biologicals. 13th Edition, Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck and Co., Inc., 2001., p. 60
Certain polymerization catalysts, such as aluminum alkyls, react & burn violently on contact with water. /Aluminum alkyls/
National Research Council. Prudent Practices for Handling Hazardous Chemicals in Laboratories. Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 1981., p. 221
Aluminum alkyls are organic aluminum compounds that are highly reactive and dangerous because of spontaneous burning in air. /Aluminum alkyls/
Grant, W.M. Toxicology of the Eye. 3rd ed. Springfield, IL: Charles C. Thomas Publisher, 1986., p. 73
Prophoric material in flammable solvent. Vapors are heavier than air & may travel to a source of ignition & flash back. /Aluminum alkyls/
Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 13 ed. Quincy, MA: National Fire Protection Association, 2002., p. 49-16

12.1.8 Skin, Eye, and Respiratory Irritations

May cause minor irritation to lungs & eyes.
Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 13 ed. Quincy, MA: National Fire Protection Association, 2002., p. 49-18
Irritation of the eyes has been noted in patients who have been exposed /to aluminum alkyls/. /Aluminum alkyls/
Grant, W.M. Toxicology of the Eye. 3rd ed. Springfield, IL: Charles C. Thomas Publisher, 1986., p. 73
May cause minor irritation to lungs or eyes. /Aluminum (dust or powder)/
Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 12 ed. Quincy, MA: National Fire Protection Association, 1997., p. 49-17

12.2 Safety and Hazard Properties

12.2.1 Flammable Limits

Flammability
Combustible Solid, finely divided dust is easily ignited; may cause explosions.

12.2.2 Physical Dangers

Ignites in air when finely divided. Dust explosion possible if in powder or granular form, mixed with air.

12.2.3 Explosive Limits and Potential

Forms explosive mixtures in a dust cloud in air. Bulk dust when damp with water may heat spontaneously. Hazard greater as fineness increases.
Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 13 ed. Quincy, MA: National Fire Protection Association, 2002., p. 49-18
...Violently explosive when they come into contact with water. /Aluminum alkyls/
International Labour Office. Encyclopedia of Occupational Health and Safety. Vols. I&II. Geneva, Switzerland: International Labour Office, 1983., p. 422

12.2.4 OSHA Standards

Permissible Exposure Limit: Table Z-1 8-hr Time Weighted Avg: 15 mg/cu m (total dust). /Aluminum, metal (as Al)/
29 CFR 1910.1000; U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of July 1, 2004: https://www.ecfr.gov
Permissible Exposure Limit: Table Z-1 8-hr Time Weighted Avg: 5 mg/cu m (respirable fraction). /Aluminum, metal (as Al)/
29 CFR 1910.1000; U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of July 1, 2004: https://www.ecfr.gov

12.2.5 NIOSH Recommendations

Recommended Exposure Limit: 10-Hr Time-Weighted Avg: 10 mg/cu m (total). /Aluminum/
NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards & Other Databases CD-ROM. Department of Health & Human Services, Centers for Disease Prevention & Control. National Institute for Occupational Safety& Health. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2004-103 (2003).
Recommended Exposure Limit: 10 Hr Time-Weighted Avg: 5 mg/cu m (resp). /Aluminum/
NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards & Other Databases CD-ROM. Department of Health & Human Services, Centers for Disease Prevention & Control. National Institute for Occupational Safety& Health. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2004-103 (2003).
Recommended Exposure Limit: 10 Hr Time-Weighted Avg: 2 mg/cu m. /Aluminum (soluble salts and alkyls, as Al)/
NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards & Other Databases CD-ROM. Department of Health & Human Services, Centers for Disease Prevention & Control. National Institute for Occupational Safety& Health. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2004-103 (2003).
Recommended Exposure Limit: 10 Hr Time-Weighted Avg: 5 mg/cu m. /Aluminum (pyro powders and welding fumes, as Al)/
NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards & Other Databases CD-ROM. Department of Health & Human Services, Centers for Disease Prevention & Control. National Institute for Occupational Safety& Health. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2004-103 (2003).

12.3 First Aid Measures

Inhalation First Aid
Fresh air, rest.
Skin First Aid
Rinse skin with plenty of water or shower.
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.

12.3.1 First Aid

Excerpt from NIOSH Pocket Guide for Aluminum:

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.

Breathing: FRESH AIR - If a person breathes large amounts of this chemical, move the exposed person to fresh air at once. Other measures are usually unnecessary. (NIOSH, 2024)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 135 [Substances - Spontaneously Combustible]:

Refer to the "General First Aid" section. (ERG, 2024)

ERG 2024, Guide 170 (Aluminum powder, coated)

General First Aid:

· Call 911 or emergency medical service.

· Ensure that medical personnel are aware of the material(s) involved, take precautions to protect themselves and avoid contamination.

· Move victim to fresh air if it can be done safely.

· Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult.

· If victim is not breathing:

-- DO NOT perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation; the victim may have ingestedor inhaled the substance.

-- If equipped and pulse detected, wash face and mouth, then give artificial respiration using a proper respiratory medical device (bag-valve mask, pocket mask equipped with a one-way valve or other device).

-- If no pulse detected or no respiratory medical device available, provide continuouscompressions. Conduct a pulse check every two minutes or monitor for any signs of spontaneous respirations.

· Remove and isolate contaminated clothing and shoes.

· For minor skin contact, avoid spreading material on unaffected skin.

· In case of contact with substance, remove immediately by flushing skin or eyes with running water for at least 20 minutes.

· For severe burns, immediate medical attention is required.

· Effects of exposure (inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact) to substance may be delayed.

· Keep victim calm and warm.

· Keep victim under observation.

· For further assistance, contact your local Poison Control Center.

· Note: Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Life Support (ALS) should be done by trained professionals.

In Canada, an Emergency Response Assistance Plan (ERAP) may be required for this product. Please consult the shipping paper and/or the "ERAP" section.

ERG 2024, Guide 138 (Aluminum powder, uncoated)

General First Aid:

· Call 911 or emergency medical service.

· Ensure that medical personnel are aware of the material(s) involved, take precautions to protect themselves and avoid contamination.

· Move victim to fresh air if it can be done safely.

· Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult.

· If victim is not breathing:

-- DO NOT perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation; the victim may have ingestedor inhaled the substance.

-- If equipped and pulse detected, wash face and mouth, then give artificial respiration using a proper respiratory medical device (bag-valve mask, pocket mask equipped with a one-way valve or other device).

-- If no pulse detected or no respiratory medical device available, provide continuouscompressions. Conduct a pulse check every two minutes or monitor for any signs of spontaneous respirations.

· Remove and isolate contaminated clothing and shoes.

· For minor skin contact, avoid spreading material on unaffected skin.

· In case of contact with substance, remove immediately by flushing skin or eyes with running water for at least 20 minutes.

· For severe burns, immediate medical attention is required.

· Effects of exposure (inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact) to substance may be delayed.

· Keep victim calm and warm.

· Keep victim under observation.

· For further assistance, contact your local Poison Control Center.

· Note: Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Life Support (ALS) should be done by trained professionals.

Specific First Aid:

· In case of contact with substance, wipe from skin immediately; flush skin or eyes with running water for at least 20 minutes.

In Canada, an Emergency Response Assistance Plan (ERAP) may be required for this product. Please consult the shipping paper and/or the "ERAP" section.

(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.

Breathing: Fresh air

12.4 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)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 135 [Substances - Spontaneously Combustible]:

DO NOT USE WATER, CO2 OR FOAM ON MATERIAL ITSELF. Some of these materials may react violently with water. CAUTION: For Xanthates, UN3342 and for Dithionite (Hydrosulfite/Hydrosulphite) UN1384, UN1923 and UN1929, USE FLOODING AMOUNTS OF WATER for SMALL AND LARGE fires to stop the reaction. Smothering will not work for these materials, they do not need air to burn.

SMALL FIRE: Dry chemical, soda ash, lime or DRY sand, EXCEPT for UN1384, UN1923, UN1929 and UN3342.

LARGE FIRE: DRY sand, dry chemical, soda ash or lime EXCEPT for UN1384, UN1923, UN1929 and UN3342, or withdraw from area and let fire burn. CAUTION: UN3342 when flooded with water will continue to evolve flammable Carbon disulfide/Carbon disulphide vapors. 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: Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles. Do not get water inside containers or in contact with substance. Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out. Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of tank. ALWAYS stay away from tanks in direct contact with flames. (ERG, 2024)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 138 [Substances - Water-Reactive (Emitting Flammable Gases)]:

DO NOT USE WATER OR FOAM.

SMALL FIRE: Dry chemical, soda ash, lime or sand.

LARGE FIRE: DRY sand, dry chemical, soda ash or lime or withdraw from area and let fire burn. If it can be done safely, move undamaged containers away from the area around the fire.

FIRE INVOLVING METALS OR POWDERS (ALUMINUM, LITHIUM, MAGNESIUM, ETC.): Use dry chemical, DRY sand, sodium chloride powder, graphite powder or class D extinguishers; in addition, for Lithium you may use Lith-X® powder or copper powder. Also, see ERG Guide 170.

FIRE INVOLVING TANKS, RAIL TANK CARS OR HIGHWAY TANKS: Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles. Do not get water inside containers. Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out. Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of tank. ALWAYS stay away from tanks in direct contact with flames. (ERG, 2024)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 169 [Aluminum (Molten)]:

Do not use water, except in life-threatening situations and then only in a fine spray. Do not use halogenated extinguishing agents or foam. Move combustibles out of path of advancing pool if you can do so without risk. Extinguish fires started by molten material by using appropriate method for the burning material; keep water, halogenated extinguishing agents and foam away from the molten material. (ERG, 2024)

Use dry sand, special powder. NO water. NO carbon dioxide, foam.

12.4.1 Fire Fighting Procedures

Large fires must be isolated and allowed to burn out, but small ones can be controlled by sand, talc, or sodium chloride.
Clayton, G. D. and F. E. Clayton (eds.). Patty's Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology: Volume 2A, 2B, 2C: Toxicology. 3rd ed. New York: John Wiley Sons, 1981-1982., p. 1504
Smother with dry sand, dry clay, dry ground limestone, or use approved Class D extinguishers. DO NOT use carbon dioxide or halogenated extinguishing agents. DO NOT use water.
Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 13 ed. Quincy, MA: National Fire Protection Association, 2002., p. 49-18
If material on fire or involved in fire: Do not use water. Use suitable dry powder.
Association of American Railroads/Bureau of Explosives; Emergency Handling of Hazardous Materials in Surface Transportation. Association of American Railroads. Pueblo, CO. 2002., p. 51
Stop flow of liquid before extinguishing fire. Use dry chemical or carbon dioxide. DO NOT use water as straight stream directly on spilled material. Water fog can be used to control fire. DO NOT use halogenated extinguishing agents on spilled material. Violent reaction may result. Use water spray to keep fire-exposed containers cool. Fight fire from protected location or maximum possible distance. /Aluminum Alkyls/
Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 13 ed. Quincy, MA: National Fire Protection Association, 2002., p. 49-17

12.4.2 Firefighting Hazards

DO NOT use carbon dioxide or halogenated extinguishing agents. DO NOT use water.
Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 13 ed. Quincy, MA: National Fire Protection Association, 2002., p. 49-18

12.5 Accidental Release Measures

Public Safety: ERG 2024, Guide 170 (Aluminum powder, coated)

· CALL 911. Then call emergency response telephone number on shipping paper. If shipping paper not available or no answer, refer to appropriate telephone number listed on the inside back cover.

· Stay upwind, uphill and/or upstream.

· Keep unauthorized personnel away.

Spill or Leak: ERG 2024, Guide 170 (Aluminum powder, coated)

· 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.

Public Safety: ERG 2024, Guide 138 (Aluminum powder, uncoated)

· CALL 911. Then call emergency response telephone number on shipping paper. If shipping paper not available or no answer, refer to appropriate telephone number listed on the inside back cover.

· Keep unauthorized personnel away.

· Stay upwind, uphill and/or upstream.

· Ventilate closed spaces before entering, but only if properly trained and equipped.

Spill or Leak: ERG 2024, Guide 138 (Aluminum powder, uncoated)

· 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.

· Use water spray to reduce vapors or divert vapor cloud drift. Avoid allowing water runoff to contact spilled material.

· DO NOT GET WATER on spilled substance or inside containers.

Small Spill

· Cover with DRY earth, DRY sand or other non-combustible material followed with plastic sheet to minimize spreading or contact with rain.

· Dike for later disposal; do not apply water unless directed to do so.

Powder Spill

· Cover powder spill with plastic sheet or tarp to minimize spreading and keep powder dry.

· DO NOT CLEAN-UP OR DISPOSE OF, EXCEPT UNDER SUPERVISION OF A SPECIALIST.

12.5.1 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)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 135 [Substances - Spontaneously Combustible]:

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.

SPILL: Increase the immediate precautionary measure distance, in the downwind direction, as necessary.

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)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 138 [Substances - Water-Reactive (Emitting Flammable Gases)]:

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 300 meters (1000 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)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 169 [Aluminum (Molten)]:

IMMEDIATE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURE: Isolate spill or leak area for at least 50 meters (150 feet) in all directions. (ERG, 2024)

Evacuation: ERG 2024, Guide 170 (Aluminum powder, coated)

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.

Evacuation: ERG 2024, Guide 138 (Aluminum powder, uncoated)

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 300 meters (1000 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.

12.5.2 Spillage Disposal

Personal protection: particulate filter respirator adapted to the airborne concentration of the substance. Sweep spilled substance into covered dry containers.

12.5.3 Cleanup Methods

Environmental considerations: Water spill: Use natural barriers or oil spill control booms to limit spill travel. Use natural deep water pockets, excavated lagoons, or sand bag barriers to trap material at bottom. Remove trapped material with suction hoses.
Association of American Railroads/Bureau of Explosives; Emergency Handling of Hazardous Materials in Surface Transportation. Association of American Railroads. Pueblo, CO. 2002., p. 51
Environmental considerations: Land spill: Dig a pit, pond, lagoon, holding area to contain liquid or solid material. /SRP: If time permits, pits, ponds, lagoons, soak holes, or holding areas should be sealed with an impermeable flexible membrane liner./ Cover solids with a plastic sheet to prevent dissolving in rain or fire fighting water. Dike surface flow using soil, sand bags, foamed polyurethane, or foamed concrete.
Association of American Railroads/Bureau of Explosives; Emergency Handling of Hazardous Materials in Surface Transportation. Association of American Railroads. Pueblo, CO. 2002., p. 51

12.5.4 Disposal Methods

Aluminum compounds are treated under anhydrous conditions to prevent violent reactions, recover solvent, and form Al compounds suitable for landfill by reaction with anhydrous hydrolysis agent, eg calcium hydroxide. /Aluminum compounds/
Lee TE; Disposal of Aluminum-Containing Waste Materials, US Patent Number 4018867 4/19/77 (ETHYL CORP)
SRP: The most favorable course of action is to use an alternative chemical product with less inherent propensity for occupational exposure or environmental contamination. Recycle any unused portion of the material for its approved use or return it to the manufacturer or supplier. Ultimate disposal of the chemical must consider: the material's impact on air quality; potential migration in soil or water; effects on animal, aquatic, and plant life; and conformance with environmental and public health regulations.
Recycling: Sort, classify and put in a box properly labelled. Salvage profitably for reuse by local shop or sell as scrap metal.
United Nations. Treatment and Disposal Methods for Waste Chemicals (IRPTC File). Data Profile Series No. 5. Geneva, Switzerland: United Nations Environmental Programme, Dec. 1985., p. 82

12.5.5 Preventive Measures

Personnel protection: ... Wash away any material which may have contacted the body with copious amounts of water or soap and water. Avoid breathing dusts.
Association of American Railroads/Bureau of Explosives; Emergency Handling of Hazardous Materials in Surface Transportation. Association of American Railroads. Pueblo, CO. 2002., p. 51
Showers and double locker accommodations (one locker for work clothing, the other for personal clothing) should be provided and all employees encouraged to wash thoroughly at the end of the shift.
International Labour Office. Encyclopaedia of Occupational Health and Safety. 4th edition, Volumes 1-4 1998. Geneva, Switzerland: International Labour Office, 1998., p. 82.8
SRP: The scientific literature for the use of contact lenses in industry is conflicting. The benefit 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.
If material not on fire and not involved in fire: Keep sparks, flames, and other sources of ignition away. Keep material out of water sources and sewers. Do not attempt to sweep up dry material.
Association of American Railroads/Bureau of Explosives; Emergency Handling of Hazardous Materials in Surface Transportation. Association of American Railroads. Pueblo, CO. 2002., p. 51
For more Preventive Measures (Complete) data for ALUMINUM, ELEMENTAL (9 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

12.6 Handling and Storage

12.6.1 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)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 135 [Substances - Spontaneously Combustible]:

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.

SMALL SPILL: CAUTION: For spills of Xanthates, UN3342 and for Dithionite (Hydrosulfite/Hydrosulphite), UN1384, UN1923 and UN1929, dissolve in 5 parts water and collect for proper disposal. CAUTION: UN3342 when flooded with water will continue to evolve flammable Carbon disulfide/Carbon disulphide vapors. Cover with DRY earth, DRY sand or other non-combustible material followed with plastic sheet to minimize spreading or contact with rain. Use clean, non-sparking tools to collect material and place it into loosely covered plastic containers for later disposal. Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas. (ERG, 2024)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 138 [Substances - Water-Reactive (Emitting Flammable Gases)]:

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. Use water spray to reduce vapors or divert vapor cloud drift. Avoid allowing water runoff to contact spilled material. DO NOT GET WATER on spilled substance or inside containers.

SMALL SPILL: Cover with DRY earth, DRY sand or other non-combustible material followed with plastic sheet to minimize spreading or contact with rain. Dike for later disposal; do not apply water unless directed to do so.

POWDER SPILL: Cover powder spill with plastic sheet or tarp to minimize spreading and keep powder dry. DO NOT CLEAN-UP OR DISPOSE OF, EXCEPT UNDER SUPERVISION OF A SPECIALIST. (ERG, 2024)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 169 [Aluminum (Molten)]:

Do not touch or walk through spilled material. Do not attempt to stop leak, due to danger of explosion. Keep combustibles (wood, paper, oil, etc.) away from spilled material. Substance is very fluid, spreads quickly, and may splash. Do not try to stop it with shovels or other objects. Dike far ahead of spill; use dry sand to contain the flow of material. Where possible allow molten material to solidify naturally. Avoid contact even after material solidifies. Molten, heated and cold aluminum look alike; do not touch unless you know it is cold. Clean up under the supervision of an expert after material has solidified. (ERG, 2024)

12.6.2 Safe Storage

Separated from strong oxidants, strong bases, strong acids, water and halogens. See Chemical Dangers. Dry. Well closed.

12.6.3 Storage Conditions

Store in cool, dry, well-ventilated location. Separate from acids, alkalies, halogenated compounds, oxidizers, combustible materials.
Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 13 ed. Quincy, MA: National Fire Protection Association, 2002., p. 49-18
Extremely reactive with air, moisture and compounds containing active hydrogen and therefore must be kept under a blanket of inert gas. /Aluminum alkyls/
International Labour Office. Encyclopaedia of Occupational Health and Safety. 4th edition, Volumes 1-4 1998. Geneva, Switzerland: International Labour Office, 1998., p. 62.3
In general, materials ... toxic as stored or which can decompose into toxic components ... Should be stored in cool ... ventilated place, out of ... sun, away from ... fire hazard ... be periodically inspected and monitored. Incompatible materials should be isolated ...
Sax, N.I. Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials. 4th ed. New York: Van Nostrand Reinhold, 1975., p. 726
All possibility of contact with water must be avoided. Solution containing not more than 20% of these compounds in non-reactive solvents, however, can be handled without risk of spontaneous ignition. /Aluminum alkyls/
International Labour Office. Encyclopedia of Occupational Health and Safety. Vols. I&II. Geneva, Switzerland: International Labour Office, 1983., p. 422
For more Storage Conditions (Complete) data for ALUMINUM, ELEMENTAL (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

12.7 Exposure Control and Personal Protection

Protective Clothing: ERG 2024, Guide 170 (Aluminum powder, coated)

· Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).

· Structural firefighters' protective clothing provides thermal protection but only limited chemical protection.

Protective Clothing: ERG 2024, Guide 138 (Aluminum powder, uncoated)

· Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).

· Wear chemical protective clothing that is specifically recommended by the manufacturer when there is NO RISK OF FIRE.

· Structural firefighters' protective clothing provides thermal protection but only limited chemical protection.

Exposure Summary
TIH (Toxic Inhalation Hazard) - Term used to describe gases and volatile liquids that are toxic when inhaled. Some are TIH materials themselves, e.g., chlorine, and some release TIH gases when spilled in water, e.g., chlorosilanes. [ERG 2016].
Maximum Allowable Concentration (MAK)
1.5 [mg/m3] (respirable fraction), 4 mg/m3 (inhalable fraction)[German Research Foundation (DFG)]

12.7.2 Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL)

15.0 [mg/m3](total dust), 5 mg/m3(respirable fraction)
PEL-TWA (8-Hour Time Weighted Average)
15 mg/m³ (total dust), 5 mg/m³ (respirable fraction)
TWA 15 mg/m3 (total) TWA 5 mg/m3 (resp)

12.7.3 Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH)

N.D.

See: IDLH INDEX

12.7.4 Threshold Limit Values (TLV)

1.0 [mg/m3], respirable fraction
8 hr Time Weighted Avg (TWA): 1 mg/cu m /Aluminum metal and insoluble compounds/
American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists TLVs and BEIs. Threshold Limit Values for Chemical Substances and Physical Agents and Biological Exposure Indices. Cincinnati, OH, 2008, p. 11
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. /Aluminum metal and insoluble compounds/
American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists TLVs and BEIs. Threshold Limit Values for Chemical Substances and Physical Agents and Biological Exposure Indices. Cincinnati, OH, 2008, p. 5
A4: Not classifiable as a human carcinogen. /Aluminum metal and insoluable compounds/
American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists TLVs and BEIs. Threshold Limit Values for Chemical Substances and Physical Agents and Biological Exposure Indices. Cincinnati, OH, 2008, p. 11
1 mg/m
TLV-TWA (Time Weighted Average)
1 mg/m³ (respirable particulate matter) [2007]

12.7.5 Occupational Exposure Limits (OEL)

MAK (Maximale Arbeitsplatz Konzentration)
(inhalable fraction): 4 mg/m

12.7.6 Emergency Response Planning Guidelines

Emergency Response: ERG 2024, Guide 170 (Aluminum powder, coated)

· 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.

Emergency Response: ERG 2024, Guide 138 (Aluminum powder, uncoated)

· DO NOT USE WATER OR FOAM.

Small Fire

· Dry chemical, soda ash, lime or sand.

Large Fire

· DRY sand, dry chemical, soda ash or lime or withdraw from area and let fire burn.

· If it can be done safely, move undamaged containers away from the area around the fire.

Fire Involving Metals or Powders (Aluminum, Lithium, Magnesium, etc.)

· Use dry chemical, DRY sand, sodium chloride powder, graphite powder or class D extinguishers; in addition, for Lithium you may use Lith-X® powder or copper powder. Also, see GUIDE 170.

Fire Involving Tanks, Rail Tank Cars or Highway Tanks

· Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles.

· Do not get water inside containers.

· Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out.

· Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of tank.

· ALWAYS stay away from tanks in direct contact with flames.

12.7.7 Other Standards Regulations and Guidelines

USSR: 2 mg/cu m /Aluminum and alloys/
International Labour Office. Encyclopedia of Occupational Health and Safety. Vols. I&II. Geneva, Switzerland: International Labour Office, 1983., p. 132

12.7.8 Inhalation Risk

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

12.7.9 Effects of Long Term Exposure

Repeated or prolonged inhalation of dust particles may cause effects on the lungs. The substance may have effects on the nervous system. This may result in impaired functions.

12.7.10 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Excerpt from NIOSH Pocket Guide for Aluminum:

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)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 135 [Substances - Spontaneously Combustible]:

Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Wear chemical protective clothing that is specifically recommended by the manufacturer when there is NO RISK OF FIRE. Structural firefighters' protective clothing provides thermal protection but only limited chemical protection. (ERG, 2024)

Goggles, gloves, aprons and boots should be supplied. ... All furnacemen and carbon electrode workers should be supplied with visors, respirators, gauntlets, aprons, armlets and spats to protect them against burns, dust and fumes. ... Respirators with charcoal filters or alumina-impregnated masks give adequate protection against pitch and fluorine fumes; efficient dust masks are necessary for protection against carbon dust.
International Labour Office. Encyclopaedia of Occupational Health and Safety. 4th edition, Volumes 1-4 1998. Geneva, Switzerland: International Labour Office, 1998., p. 82.8
Wear appropriate personal protective clothing to prevent skin contact. /Aluminum (soluble salts and alkyls, as Al/
NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards & Other Databases CD-ROM. Department of Health & Human Services, Centers for Disease Prevention & Control. National Institute for Occupational Safety& Health. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2004-103 (2003).
Wear appropriate eye protection to prevent eye contact. /Aluminum (soluble salts and alkyls, as Al)/
NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards & Other Databases CD-ROM. Department of Health & Human Services, Centers for Disease Prevention & Control. National Institute for Occupational Safety& Health. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2004-103 (2003).
Protective clothing and a high standard of training in the necessary precautionary measures are essential for the handling of the materials. /Aluminum alkyls/
International Labour Office. Encyclopedia of Occupational Health and Safety. Volumes I and II. New York: McGraw-Hill Book Co., 1971., p. 271

(See personal protection and sanitation codes)

Skin: No recommendation

Eyes: No recommendation

Wash skin: No recommendation

Remove: No recommendation

Change: No recommendation

12.7.11 Respirator Recommendations

12.7.12 Preventions

Fire Prevention
NO contact with acids, alcohol, oxidizing agents or water. 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 goggles.
Ingestion Prevention
Do not eat, drink, or smoke during work.

12.8 Stability and Reactivity

12.8.1 Air and Water Reactions

Highly flammable. Coated form prevents spontaneous ignition in air. Can react with water to generate gaseous hydrogen and heat.
Highly flammable. Ignites spontaneously in air. Reacts with water to generate flammable gaseous hydrogen and heat.
Highly flammable. Produces flammable gases and heat on contact with water. May ignite on contact with water or moist air.
Violent reaction with water; contact may cause an explosion or may produce a flammable gas (hydrogen). Moist air produces hydrogen gas. Does not burn on exposure to air.

12.8.2 Reactive Group

Metals, Elemental and Powder, Active

12.8.3 Reactivity Alerts

Highly Flammable

Strong Reducing Agent

Water-Reactive

Strong Reducing Agent

Water-Reactive

Pyrophoric

Strong Reducing Agent

Water-Reactive

Air-Reactive

12.8.3.1 CSL Reaction Information
1 of 2
CSL No
Warning Message
Potentially explosive in the presence of Mg or Al powder
GHS Category
Explosive
Reference Source
User-Reported
Modified Date
7/8/18
Create Date
6/27/17
2 of 2
CSL No
Reactants/Reagents
ALUMINUM + CHLOROFORM
Warning Message
Potentially explosive
GHS Category
Explosive
Reference Source
User-Reported
Modified Date
7/8/18
Create Date
8/8/17

12.8.4 Reactivity Profile

ALUMINUM POWDER, COATED is a reducing agent. Coating moderates or greatly moderates its reactivity compared to the uncoated material. Reacts exothermically if mixed with metal oxides and heated (thermite process). Heating a mixture with copper oxides caused a strong explosion [Mellor 5:217-19 1946-47]. Reacts with metal salts, mercury and mercury compounds, nitrates, sulfates, halogens, and halogenated hydrocarbons to form compounds that are sensitive to mechanical shock [Handling Chemicals Safely, 1980 p. 135]. A mixture with powdered ammonium persulfate and water may explode [NFPA 491M, 1991]. Heating a mixture with bismuth trioxide leads to an explosively violent reaction [Mellor 9:649, 1946-47]. Mixtures with finely divided bromates (also chlorates and iodates) of barium, calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium or zinc can explode by heat, percussion, and friction, [Mellor 2:310, 1946-47]. Burns in the vapor of carbon disulfide, sulfur dioxide, sulfur dichloride, nitrous oxide, nitric oxide, or nitrogen peroxide [Mellor 5:209-212, 1946-47]. A mixture with carbon tetrachloride exploded when heated to 153 °C and also by impact [Chem. Eng. News 32:258, 1954; UL Bull. Research 34, 1945; ASESB Pot. Incid. 39, 1968]. Mixing with chlorine trifluoride in the presence of carbon results in a violent reaction [Mellor 2 Supp. 1, 1956]. Ignites in close contact with iodine. Three industrial explosions involving a photoflash composition containing potassium perchlorate with aluminum and magnesium powder have occurred [ACS 146:210, 1945; NFPA 491M 1991]. Reacts with methyl chloride in the presence of small amounts of aluminum chloride to give flammable trimethylaluminum. Gives a detonable mixture with liquid oxygen [NFPA 491M 1991]. The reaction with silver chloride, once started, proceeds with explosive violence [Mellor 3:402 1946-47]. In an industrial accident, the accidental addition of water to a solid mixture of sodium hydrosulfite and powdered aluminum caused the generation of SO2, heat and more water. The aluminum powder reacted with water and other materials to generate more heat, leading to a deflagration that killed five workers [Case Study, Accident Investigation: Napp Technologies, 14th International Hazardous Material Spills Conference].
ALUMINUM POWDER, PYROPHORIC is a reducing agent. Reacts very exothermically when mixed with metal oxides and ignited or heated (thermite process). Reacts explosively when mixed with copper oxides and heated [Mellor 5:217-19 1946-47]. Reacts with metal salts, mercury and mercury compounds, nitrates, sulfates, halogens, and halogenated hydrocarbons to form compounds that are sensitive to mechanical shock [Handling Chemicals Safely 1980. p. 135]. Mixtures with ammonium nitrate are used as an explosive. A mixture with powdered ammonium persulfate and water may explode [NFPA 491M 1991]. Heating with bismuth trioxide leads to an explosively violent reaction [Mellor 9:649 1946-47]. Mixtures with finely divided bromates (also chlorates and iodates) of barium, calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium or zinc can explode by heat, percussion, and friction [Mellor 2:310 1946-47]. Burns in the vapor of carbon disulfide, in sulfur dioxide, sulfur dichloride, nitrous oxide, nitric oxide, or nitrogen peroxide [Mellor 5:209-212 1946-47]. A mixture with carbon tetrachloride exploded when heated to 153 °C and also by impact [Chem. Eng. News 32:258 (1954); UL Bull. Research 34 (1945); ASESB Pot. Incid. 39 (1968)]. Mixing with chlorine trifluoride in the presence of carbon results in a violent reaction [Mellor 2 Supp. 1: 1956]. Ignites in close contact with iodine. Three industrial explosions involving a photoflash composition containing potassium perchlorate with aluminum and magnesium powder have occurred [ACS 146:210 1945; NFPA 491M 1991]. React with methyl chloride in the presence of small amounts of aluminum chloride to give flammable trimethylaluminum. Gives a detonable mixture with liquid oxygen [NFPA 491M 1991]. The reaction with silver chloride, once started, proceeds with explosive violence [Mellor 3:402 1946-47]. In an industrial accident, the accidental addition of water to a solid mixture of sodium hydrosulfite and powdered aluminum caused the generation of SO2, heat and more water. The aluminum powder reacted with the water and other reactants leading to an explosion that killed five workers [Case Study, Accident Investigation: Napp Technologies, 14th International Hazardous Material Spills Conference]. Particles can become electrostatically charged if swirled, transported by pneumatic means or poured.
ALUMINUM POWDER, UNCOATED is a reducing agent. Reacts very exothermically when mixed with metal oxides and ignited or heated (thermite process). Reacts explosively when mixed with copper oxides and heated [Mellor 5:217-19 1946-47]. Reacts with metal salts, mercury and mercury compounds, nitrates, sulfates, halogens, and halogenated hydrocarbons to form compounds that are sensitive to mechanical shock [Handling Chemicals Safely 1980. p. 135]. Mixtures with ammonium nitrate are used as an explosive. A mixture with powdered ammonium persulfate and water may explode [NFPA 491M 1991]. Heating with bismuth trioxide leads to an explosively violent reaction [Mellor 9:649 1946-47]. Mixtures with finely divided bromates (also chlorates and iodates) of barium, calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium or zinc can explode by heat, percussion, and friction [Mellor 2:310 1946-47]. Burns in the vapor of carbon disulfide, in sulfur dioxide, sulfur dichloride, nitrous oxide, nitric oxide, or nitrogen peroxide [Mellor 5:209-212 1946-47]. A mixture with carbon tetrachloride exploded when heated to 153 °C and also by impact [Chem. Eng. News 32:258 (1954); UL Bull. Research 34 (1945), ASESB Pot. Incid. 39 (1968)]. Mixing with chlorine trifluoride in the presence of carbon results in a violent reaction [Mellor 2 Supp. 1: 1956]. Ignites in close contact with iodine. Three industrial explosions involving a photoflash composition containing potassium perchlorate with aluminum and magnesium powder have occurred [ACS 146:210 1945; NFPA 491M 1991]. React with methyl chloride in the presence of small amounts of aluminum chloride to give flammable trimethylaluminum. Gives a detonable mixture with liquid oxygen [NFPA 491M 1991]. The reaction with silver chloride, once started, proceeds with explosive violence [Mellor 3:402 1946-47]. In an industrial accident, the accidental addition of water to a solid mixture of sodium hydrosulfite and powdered aluminum caused the generation of SO2, heat and more water. The aluminum powder reacted with the water and other reactants leading to an explosion that killed five workers [Case Study, Accident Investigation: Napp Technologies, presented by John Ferris, Paul Kahn, Mike Marshall, Fourteenth International Hazardous Material Spills Conference]. Particles can become electrostatically charged if swirled, transported by pneumatic means or poured.
ALUMINUM, MOLTEN, is a reducing agent. Coating moderates or greatly moderates its chemical reactivity compared to the uncoated material. Reacts exothermically if mixed with metal oxides and heated (thermite process). Heating a mixture with copper oxides caused a strong explosion [Mellor 5:217-19 1946-47]. Reacts with metal salts, mercury and mercury compounds, nitrates, sulfates, halogens, and halogenated hydrocarbons to form compounds that are sensitive to mechanical shock [Handling Chemicals Safely 1980. p. 135]. A number of explosions in which ammonium nitrate and powdered aluminum were mixed with carbon or hydrocarbons, with or without oxidizing agents, have occurred [Mellor 5:219 1946-47]. A mixture with powdered ammonium persulfate and water may explode [NFPA 491M 1991]. Heating a mixture with bismuth trioxide leads to an explosively violent reaction [Mellor 9:649 (1946-47)]. Mixtures with finely divided bromates (also chlorates and iodates) of barium, calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium or zinc can explode by heat, percussion, and friction, [Mellor 2:310 (1946-47]. Burns in the vapor of carbon disulfide, sulfur dioxide, sulfur dichloride, nitrous oxide, nitric oxide, or nitrogen peroxide, [Mellor 5:209-212,1946-47]. A mixture with carbon tetrachloride exploded when heated to 153 °C and also by impact, [Chem. Eng. News 32:258 (1954)]; [UL Bull. Research 34 (1945], [ASESB Pot. Incid. 39 (1968)]. Mixing with chlorine trifluoride in the presence of carbon results in a violent reaction [Mellor 2 Supp. 1: 1956]. Ignites in close contact with iodine. Three industrial explosions involving a photoflash composition containing potassium perchlorate with aluminum and magnesium powder have occurred [ACS 146:210 1945], [NFPA 491M 1991]. Is attacked by methyl chloride in the presence of small amounts of aluminum chloride to give flammable aluminum trimethyl. Give a detonable mixture with liquid oxygen [NFPA 491M 1991]. The reaction with silver chloride, once started, proceeds with explosive violence [Mellor 3:402 1946-47]. In an industrial accident, the accidental addition of water to a solid mixture of sodium hydrosulfite and powdered aluminum caused the generation of SO2, heat and more water. The aluminum powder reacted with water and other reactants to generate more heat, leading to an explosion that killed five workers [Case Study, Accident Investigation: Napp Technologies, 14th International Hazardous Material Spills Conference].

12.8.5 Hazardous Reactivities and Incompatibilities

A mixture of aluminum powder and ammonium nitrate can be used as an explosive. A number of explosions in which ammonium nitrate and aluminum are mixed with carbon, hydrocarbons, with or without oxidizing agents, have occurred.
Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 13 ed. Quincy, MA: National Fire Protection Association, 2002., p. 491-13
A violent reaction or flaming is likely in the reaction of chromic anhydride and aluminum powder.
Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 13 ed. Quincy, MA: National Fire Protection Association, 2002., p. 491-14
A 25% sodium hydroxide solution was filtered into a tank trailer thought to be made of mild steel. By the time it was discovered that the tank was made of aluminum, copious volumes of hydrogen were already boiling off. ... Aluminum reacts vigorously in sodium hydroxide.
Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials. 13 ed. Quincy, MA: National Fire Protection Association, 2002., p. 491-16
Strong oxidizers & acids, halogenated hydrocarbons [Note: Corrodes in contact with acids & other metals. Ignition may occur if powders are mixed with halogens, carbon disulfide, or methyl chloride].
NIOSH. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards & Other Databases CD-ROM. Department of Health & Human Services, Centers for Disease Prevention & Control. National Institute for Occupational Safety& Health. DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2004-103 (2003).
For more Hazardous Reactivities and Incompatibilities (Complete) data for ALUMINUM, ELEMENTAL (35 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

12.9 Transport Information

12.9.1 DOT Emergency Guidelines

/GUIDE 135: SUBSTANCES - SPONTANEOUSLY COMBUSTIBLE/ Fire or Explosion: Flammable/combustible material. May ignite on contact with moist air or moisture. May burn rapidly with flare-burning effect. Some react vigorously or explosively on contact with water. Some may decompose explosively when heated or involved in a fire. May re-ignite after fire is extinguished. Runoff may create fire or explosion hazard. Containers may explode when heated. /Aluminum powder, pyrophoric/
U.S. Department of Transportation. 2004 Emergency Response Guidebook. A Guide book for First Responders During the Initial Phase of a Dangerous Goods/Hazardous Materials Incident. Washington, D.C. 2004
/GUIDE 135: SUBSTANCES - SPONTANEOUSLY COMBUSTIBLE/ Health: Fire will produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Inhalation of decomposition products may cause severe injury or death. Contact with substance may cause severe burns to skin and eyes. Runoff from fire control may cause pollution. /Aluminum powder, pyrophoric/
U.S. Department of Transportation. 2004 Emergency Response Guidebook. A Guide book for First Responders During the Initial Phase of a Dangerous Goods/Hazardous Materials Incident. Washington, D.C. 2004
/GUIDE 135: SUBSTANCES - SPONTANEOUSLY COMBUSTIBLE/ Public Safety: CALL Emergency Response Telephone Number ... . As an 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. Stay upwind. Keep unauthorized personnel away. Keep out of low areas. /Aluminum powder, pyrophoric/
U.S. Department of Transportation. 2004 Emergency Response Guidebook. A Guide book for First Responders During the Initial Phase of a Dangerous Goods/Hazardous Materials Incident. Washington, D.C. 2004
/GUIDE 135: SUBSTANCES - SPONTANEOUSLY COMBUSTIBLE/ Protective Clothing: Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Wear chemical protective clothing that is specifically recommended by the manufacturer. It may provide little or no thermal protection. Structural firefighters' protective clothing will only provide limited protection. /Aluminum powder, pyrophoric/
U.S. Department of Transportation. 2004 Emergency Response Guidebook. A Guide book for First Responders During the Initial Phase of a Dangerous Goods/Hazardous Materials Incident. Washington, D.C. 2004
For more DOT Emergency Guidelines (Complete) data for ALUMINUM, ELEMENTAL (31 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

12.9.2 DOT ID and Guide

12.9.3 Shipping Name / Number DOT/UN/NA/IMO

UN 1309; Aluminum powder, coated
UN 1396; Aluminum powder, uncoated
IMO 4.1; Aluminum powder, coated
IMO 4.3; Aluminum powder, uncoated
NA 9260; Aluminum, molten

12.9.4 Shipment Methods and Regulations

No person may /transport,/ offer or accept a hazardous material for transportation in commerce unless that person is registered in conformance ... and the hazardous material is properly classed, described, packaged, marked, labeled, and in condition for shipment as required or authorized by ... /the hazardous materials regulations (49 CFR 171-177)./
49 CFR 171.2; U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of February 15, 2006: https://www.ecfr.gov
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations are published by the IATA Dangerous Goods Board pursuant to IATA Resolutions 618 and 619 and constitute a manual of industry carrier regulations to be followed by all IATA Member airlines when transporting hazardous materials.
International Air Transport Association. Dangerous Goods Regulations. 47th Edition. Montreal, Quebec Canada. 2006., p. 137
The International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code lays down basic principles for transporting hazardous chemicals. Detailed recommendations for individual substances and a number of recommendations for good practice are included in the classes dealing with such substances. A general index of technical names has also been compiled. This index should always be consulted when attempting to locate the appropriate procedures to be used when shipping any substance or article.
International Maritime Organization. International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code. London, UK. 2004., p. 63

12.9.5 DOT Label

Flammable Solid
Spontaneously Combustible
Dangerous When Wet
Class 9

12.9.6 Packaging and Labelling

Airtight.

12.9.7 EC Classification

H250; H261 / H228; H261

12.9.8 UN Classification

UN Hazard Class: 4.3; UN Pack Group: II

12.10 Regulatory Information

The Australian Inventory of Industrial Chemicals
Chemical: Aluminium
California Safe Cosmetics Program (CSCP) Reportable Ingredient

Hazard Traits - Hematotoxicity; Neurotoxicity

Authoritative List - ATSDR Neurotoxicants; CA MCLs; CWA 303(d)

Report - if used as a fragrance or flavor ingredient

REACH Registered Substance
New Zealand EPA Inventory of Chemical Status
Aluminium, solid: Does not have an individual approval but may be used under an appropriate group standard

12.10.1 DHS Chemicals of Interest (COI)

Chemicals of Interest(COI)
Aluminum (powder)
Theft: Minimum Concentration (%)
A Commercial Grade
Theft: Screening Threshold Quantities (in pounds unless otherwise noted)
100
Security Issue: Theft - EXP/IEDP
Explosive/Improvised Explosive Device Precursor material that, if stolen or diverted, can be converted into weapons using simple chemistry, equipment, or techniques.

12.10.2 Federal Drinking Water Guidelines

EPA 50-200 ug/L
USEPA/Office of Water; Federal-State Toxicology and Risk Analysis Committee (FSTRAC). Summary of State and Federal Drinking Water Standards and Guidelines (11/93) To Present

12.10.3 State Drinking Water Standards

(CA) CALIFORNIA 1000 ug/L
USEPA/Office of Water; Federal-State Toxicology and Risk Analysis Committee (FSTRAC). Summary of State and Federal Drinking Water Standards and Guidelines (11/93) To Present

12.10.4 State Drinking Water Guidelines

(AZ) ARIZONA 73 ug/L
USEPA/Office of Water; Federal-State Toxicology and Risk Analysis Committee (FSTRAC). Summary of State and Federal Drinking Water Standards and Guidelines (11/93) To Present
(CA) CALIFORNIA 200 ug/L
USEPA/Office of Water; Federal-State Toxicology and Risk Analysis Committee (FSTRAC). Summary of State and Federal Drinking Water Standards and Guidelines (11/93) To Present
(ME) MAINE 1430 ug/L
USEPA/Office of Water; Federal-State Toxicology and Risk Analysis Committee (FSTRAC). Summary of State and Federal Drinking Water Standards and Guidelines (11/93) To Present

12.10.5 FIFRA Requirements

As the federal pesticide law FIFRA directs, EPA is conducting a comprehensive review of older pesticides to consider their health and environmental effects and make decisions about their future use. Under this pesticide reregistration program, EPA examines health and safety data for pesticide active ingredients initially registered before November 1, 1984, and determines whether they are eligible for reregistration. In addition, all pesticides must meet the new safety standard of the Food Quality Protection Act of 1996. Pesticides for which EPA had not issued Registration Standards prior to the effective date of FIFRA '88 were divided into three lists based upon their potential for human exposure and other factors, with List B containing pesticides of greater concern and List D pesticides of less concern. Aluminum powder is found on List D. Case No: 4007; Pesticide type: herbicide, antimicrobial; Case Status: No products containing the pesticide are actively registered. Therefore ... "cancelled." Under FIFRA, pesticide producers may voluntarily cancel their registered products. EPA also may cancel pesticide registrations if registrants fail to pay required fees or make/meet certain reregistration commitments, or if EPA reaches findings of unreasonable adverse effects.; Active ingredient (AI): aluminum powder; AI Status: The active ingredient is no longer contained in any registered products ... "cancelled."
United States Environmental Protection Agency/ Prevention, Pesticides and Toxic Substances; Status of Pesticides in Registration, Reregistration, and Special Review. (1998) EPA 738-R-98-002, p. 295

12.10.6 FDA Requirements

Aluminum is an indirect food additive for use only as a component of adhesives.
21 CFR 175.105; U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of July 1, 2004: https://www.ecfr.gov
Certification of this color additive when used in externally applied drugs, including those intended for use in the area of the eye, in amounts consistent with good manufacturing practice is not necessary for the protection of the public health, and therefore batches thereof are exempt from the certification pursuant to section 721(c) of the act. /Aluminum powder/
21 CFR 73.1645; U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of July 1, 2004: https://www.ecfr.gov
Certification of this color additive when used in coloring externally applied cosmetics, including cosmetics intended for use in the area of the eye, in amounts consistent with good manufacturing practice is not necessary for the protection of the public health, and therefore batches thereof are exempt from the certification pursuant to section 721(c) of the act. /Aluminum powder/
21 CFR 73.2645; U.S. National Archives and Records Administration's Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Available from, as of July 1, 2004: https://www.ecfr.gov

12.11 Other Safety Information

Chemical Assessment

IMAP assessments - Aluminium: Human health tier I assessment

IMAP assessments - Aluminium: Environment tier I assessment

12.11.1 Special Reports

DHHS/ATSDR; Toxicological Profile for Aluminum (July 1999). Available from: http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxprofiles/tp22.html as of May 21, 2004
WHO; Environ Health Criteria 194: Aluminum (1997). Available from: http://www.inchem.org/documents/ehc/ehc/ehc194.htm#SectionNumber:1.1 as of June 2, 2004.
Anon; Information profiles on Potential Occupaional Hazards: Aluminum & Compounds, 2nd Draft (Revised); GRA & I Issue 21 NTIS/PB89-216238 (1989)> TD3: Information profiles are working papers used by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health to assist the Institute in establishing priorities. The proile summarizes data on organic and inorganic substances containing aluminum as the only metal. Each summary presents data on known and suspected health effects, the extent of worker exposure, physical and chemical properties and the industrial importance of the following aluminum compounds: aluminum metal, aluminum ammonium sulfate, aluminum chlorhydrate, aluminum chloride anhydrous, aluminum chloride hydrous, aluminum distearate, aluminum ethoxide, aluminum fluoride, aluminum hydride, aluminum hydroxide, aluminum nitrate, aluminum oxide, aluminum ortho-phosphate, aluminum potassium sulfate, aluminum silicate, aluminum sodium sulfate, aluminum sulfate, calcium aluminum silicate, diethylaluminum chloride, sodium aluminate, tri-n-butylaluminum, triethylaluminum, tri-n-hexylaluminum, triisobutylaluminum, tri-n-octylaluminum. Detailed literature searches are conducted to identify information to be used in the profile sumaries. Sponsored by National Inst. for Occupational Safety and Health, Rockville, MD.

13 Toxicity

13.1 Toxicological Information

13.1.1 Toxicity Summary

IDENTIFICATION: Aluminum is a silvery-white, ductile and malleable metal. It is released to the environment both by natural processes and from anthropogenic sources. It is highly concentrated in soil-derived dusts from such activities as mining and agriculture, and in particulate matter from coal combustion. Aluminum occurs ubiquitously in the environment in the form of silicates, oxides and hydroxides, combined with other elements such as sodium and fluorine and as complexes with organic matter. It is not found as a free metal because of its reactivity. Aluminum metal has a wide variety of uses, including structural materials in construction, automobiles and aircraft, and the production of metal alloys. Aluminum compounds and materials also have a wide variety of uses, including production of glass, ceramics, rubber, wood preservatives, pharmaceuticals and waterproofing textiles. Natural aluminum minerals, especially bentonite and zeolite, are used in water purification, sugar refining, brewing and paper industries. HUMAN EXPOSURE: Non-occupational human exposure to aluminum in the environment is primarily through ingestion of food and water. No acute pathogenic effects in the general population have been described after exposure to aluminum. Although it has been hypothesized that aluminum is a risk factor for Alzheimer's disease, present epidemiological evidence does not support a causal association between Alzheimer's disease and aluminum in drinking-water. Neurological syndromes including impairment of cognitive function, motor dysfunction and peripheral neuropathy have been reported in limited studies of workers exposed to aluminum fume. Iatrogenic exposure in patients with chronic renal failure, exposed to aluminum-containing dialysis fluids and pharmaceutical products, may cause encephalopathy, vitamin-D-resistant osteomalacia and microcytic anemia. Premature infants may develop increased tissue loading of aluminum, particularly in bone, when exposed to iatrogenic sources of aluminum. Although human exposure to aluminum is widespread, in only a few cases has hypersensitivity been reported following exposure to some aluminum compounds after dermal application or parenteral administration. There is insufficient information to allow for classification of the cancer risk from human exposures to aluminum and its compounds. Aluminum and its compounds appear to be poorly absorbed in humans. The mechanism of gastrointestinal absorption of aluminum has not yet been fully elucidated. The highest levels of aluminum may be found in the lungs, where it may be present as inhaled insoluble particles. The urine is the most important route of aluminum excretion. ANIMAL STUDIES: The acute toxicity of metallic aluminum and aluminum compounds is low. In short-term studies using rats, mice or dogs to various aluminum compounds in the diet or drinking-water, only minimal effects were observed at the highest administered doses. Adequate inhalation studies were not identified. Following intratracheal administration of aluminum oxide, particle-associated fibrosis was observed. No overt fetotoxicity was noted, nore were general reproductive parameters noted after gavage treatment of rats. There is no indication that aluminum is carcinogenic. It can form complexes with DNA and cross-link chromosomal proteins and DNA, but it has not been shown to be mutagenic in bacteria or induce mutation or transformation in mammalian cells in vitro. Chromosomal aberrations have been observed in bone marrow cells of exposed mice and rats. There is considerable evidence that aluminum is neurotoxic in experimental animals, although there is considerable variation among species. In susceptible species, toxicity following parenteral administration is characterized by progressive neurological impairment, resulting in death with status epilepticus. Osteomalacia, as it presents in man, is observed consistently in larger species (e.g. dogs and pigs) exposed to aluminum; a similar condition is observed in rodents. Absorption via the gastrointestinal tract is usually less than one percent. Aluminum is distributed in most organs within the body with accumulation occurring mainly in bone at high dose levels. To a limited extent, aluminum passes the blood-brain barrier and is also distributed to the fetus. Aluminum is eliminated effectively by urine.
World Health Organization/International Programme on Chemical Safety. Environmental Health Criteria 194. Aluminium. pp. 1-13 (1997)
The main targets of aluminum are the central nervous system and bones. Aluminum binds to dietary phosphorus and impairs gastrointestinal absorption of phosphorus. The decreased phosphate body burden results in osteomalacia and rickets. Aluminum's neurotoxicity is believed to involve different mechanisms. Changes in cytoskeletal protein functions as a result of altered phosphorylation, proteolysis, transport, and synthesis are believed to be one cause. Aluminum may induce neurobehavioral effects by affecting permeability of the blood-brain barrier, cholinergic activity, signal transduction pathways, lipid peroxidation, and impair neuronal glutamate nitric oxide-cyclic GMP pathway, as well as interfere with metabolism of essential trace elements because of similar coordination chemistries and consequent competitive interactions. It has been suggested that aluminum's interaction with estrogen receptors increases the expression of estrogen-related genes and thereby contributes to the progression of breast cancer (A235), but studies have not been able to establish a clear link between aluminum and increased risk of breast cancer (A15468). Certain aluminum salts induce immune responses by activating inflammasomes. (L739, A235, A236) Aluminum Acetate is an astringent. An astrignent is a chemical that tends to shrink or constrict body tissues, usually locally after topical medicinal application. The shrinkage or constriction is through osmotic flow of water (or other fluids) away from the area where the astringent was applied. Astringent medicines cause shrinkage of mucous membranes or exposed tissues and are often used internally to check discharge of blood serum or mucous secretions. This can happen with a sore throat, hemorrhages, diarrhea, or with peptic ulcers. Externally applied astringents, which cause mild coagulation of skin proteins, dry, harden, and protect the skin. Acne sufferers are often advised to use astringents if they have oily skin. Astringents also help heal stretch marks and other scars. Mild astringent solutions are used in the relief of such minor skin irritations as those resulting from superficial cuts, allergies, insect bites, or fungal infections such as athlete's foot.
A15468: Willhite CC, Karyakina NA, Yokel RA, Yenugadhati N, Wisniewski TM, Arnold IM, Momoli F, Krewski D: Systematic review of potential health risks posed by pharmaceutical, occupational and consumer exposures to metallic and nanoscale aluminum, aluminum oxides, aluminum hydroxide and its soluble salts. Crit Rev Toxicol. 2014 Oct;44 Suppl 4:1-80. doi: 10.3109/10408444.2014.934439. PMID:25233067
A235: Darbre PD: Metalloestrogens: an emerging class of inorganic xenoestrogens with potential to add to the oestrogenic burden of the human breast. J Appl Toxicol. 2006 May-Jun;26(3):191-7. PMID:16489580
A236: Aimanianda V, Haensler J, Lacroix-Desmazes S, Kaveri SV, Bayry J: Novel cellular and molecular mechanisms of induction of immune responses by aluminum adjuvants. Trends Pharmacol Sci. 2009 Jun;30(6):287-95. doi: 10.1016/j.tips.2009.03.005. Epub 2009 May 11. PMID:19439372
L739: ATSDR - Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (2008). Toxicological profile for aluminum. U.S. Public Health Service in collaboration with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxprofiles/tp22.html

13.1.2 EPA Provisional Peer-Reviewed Toxicity Values

Chemical Substance
Reference Dose (RfD), Chronic
1 mg/kg-day
Reference Concentration (RfC), Chronic
5 x 10^-3 mg/m^3
PPRTV Assessment
Weight-Of-Evidence (WOE)
Inadequate information to assess carcinogenic potential
Last Revision
2006

13.1.3 RAIS Toxicity Values

Inhalation Chronic Reference Concentration (RfC) (mg/m^3)
0.005
Inhalation Chronic Reference Concentration Reference
PPRTV Current
Oral Chronic Reference Dose (RfDoc) (mg/kg-day)
1
Oral Chronic Reference Dose Reference
PPRTV Current
Oral Subchronic Chronic Reference Dose (RfDos) (mg/kg-day)
1
Oral Subchronic Chronic Reference Dose Reference
ATSDR Final
Short-term Oral Reference Dose (RfDot) (mg/kg-day)
1
Short-term Oral Reference Dose Reference
ATSDR Final

13.1.4 USGS Health-Based Screening Levels for Evaluating Water-Quality

Chemical
Aluminum
USGS Parameter Code
01106
Chemical Classes
Trace element
Noncancer HBSL (Health-Based Screening Level)[μg/L]
70
Benchmark Remarks
Reference
Smith, C.D. and Nowell, L.H., 2024. Health-Based Screening Levels for evaluating water-quality data (3rd ed.). DOI:10.5066/F71C1TWP

13.1.5 NIOSH Toxicity Data

13.1.6 Evidence for Carcinogenicity

A4: Not classifiable as a human carcinogen. /Aluminum metal and insoluable compounds/
American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists TLVs and BEIs. Threshold Limit Values for Chemical Substances and Physical Agents and Biological Exposure Indices. Cincinnati, OH, 2008, p. 11

13.1.7 Carcinogen Classification

Carcinogen Classification
Not listed by IARC. IARC classified aluminum production as carcinogenic to humans (Group 1), but did not implicate aluminum itself as a human carcinogen. (L135) A link between use of aluminum-containing antiperspirants and increased risk of breast cancer has been proposed (A235), but studies have not been able to establish a clear link (A15468).

13.1.8 Health Effects

Aluminum targets the nervous system and causes decreased nervous system performance and is associated with altered function of the blood-brain barrier. The accumulation of aluminum in the body may cause bone or brain diseases. High levels of aluminum have been linked to Alzheimer’s disease. A small percentage of people are allergic to aluminium and experience contact dermatitis, digestive disorders, vomiting or other symptoms upon contact or ingestion of products containing aluminium. (L739, L740)
L739: ATSDR - Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (2008). Toxicological profile for aluminum. U.S. Public Health Service in collaboration with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxprofiles/tp22.html
L740: Wikipedia. Aluminium. Last Updated 16 June 2009. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aluminum

13.1.9 Exposure Routes

The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation.
inhalation, skin and/or eye contact
Oral (L739) ; inhalation (L739)
L739: ATSDR - Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (2008). Toxicological profile for aluminum. U.S. Public Health Service in collaboration with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxprofiles/tp22.html

13.1.10 Symptoms

Eye Exposure
Redness.
irritation eyes, skin, respiratory system
Inhalating aluminum dust causes coughing and abnormal chest X-rays. A small percentage of people are allergic to aluminium and experience contact dermatitis, digestive disorders, vomiting or other symptoms upon contact or ingestion of products containing aluminium. (L739, L740)
L739: ATSDR - Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (2008). Toxicological profile for aluminum. U.S. Public Health Service in collaboration with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxprofiles/tp22.html
L740: Wikipedia. Aluminium. Last Updated 16 June 2009. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aluminum

13.1.11 Target Organs

Neurological (Nervous System), Respiratory (From the Nose to the Lungs)
Eyes, skin, respiratory system

13.1.12 Adverse Effects

Neurotoxin - Other CNS neurotoxin

Asthma - Reversible bronchoconstriction (narrowing of bronchioles) initiated by the inhalation of irritating or allergenic agents.

Fibrogenic - Inducing tissue injury and fibrosis (scarring).

ACGIH Carcinogen - Not Classifiable.

13.1.13 Acute Effects

13.1.14 Minimum Risk Level

Intermediate Oral: 1.0 mg/kg/day (L134) Chronic Oral: 1.0 mg/kg/day (L134)
L134: ATSDR - Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (2001). Minimal Risk Levels (MRLs) for Hazardous Substances. U.S. Public Health Service in collaboration with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/mrls/

13.1.15 Interactions

Groups of 120 Atlantic salmon fry (Salmo salar, 1 g mass) were kept in through-flow tanks of water (pH 5) containing various concn of aluminum and silicic acid. The aluminum concn in all but the control tank (0.85 umol aluminum/l) were 6-7 umol/l, at acutely toxic levels. Silicon levels were 0.66 umol/l (control), 93.06, 24.89, 5.46, and 0.60 umol/l, corresponding to silicon:aluminum ratios of 13.0, 3.7, 0.9, and 0.1. Exchangeable aluminum, ie, aluminum retained on Amberlite, was 6.00, 5.00, 4.11, and 1.52 umol/l in test tanks, respectively. Fish were exposed for 96 hr, and the proportion of dead fish was recorded at 12-hr intervals. The whole experiment was run three times; data are from all runs combined. At a silicon:aluminum ratio of 13, acute toxicity of aluminum was eliminated and gill structures of the fish were normal. Percent survival versus time was higher for the higher silicon:aluminum ratio groups. Accumulation of aluminum by fish fell sharply as the exchangeable aluminum increased. Aluminum and silicon levels in fish were 0.44 and 0.01 (control), 0.40 and 0.54 (silicon:aluminum ratio of 13), 2.04 and 0.35 (silicon:aluminum ratio of 3.7), 2.49 and 0.33 (silicon :aluminum ratio of 0.9), 2.38 and 0.08 (silicon:aluminum ratio of 0.1) umol per g dry mass, respectively.
Birchall JD et al; Nature 338 (6211): 146-8 (1989)
To elucidate the interaction between aluminum and certain essential trace metals, an experiment was performed on rats fed diets with suboptimal or optimal levels of zinc or copper. Half of each group of animals were fed the same diet but with 1000 ppm aluminum added. Changes were noted after 120 days. Severe testicular damage was seen in rats fed either the low zinc or the low copper diet. The lesions included a wide range of spermatogenic cell degeneration and tubular atropy. When aluminum was added to the diet, the testicular destruction of zinc deficient rats was significantly reduced. This indicated that the presence of aluminum in the diet protected the testis against the damage caused by zinc deficiency. Pituitary glands were examined. Hypertrophy of basophils was more pronounced in rats fed the suboptimal zinc or copper diet. When aluminum was added to their diet, the changes were reversed. The mechanisms by which aluminum protects male gonadal functions against zinc deficiency are discussed. This study is the first to demonstrate the preventive effect of aluminum against testicular damage caused by zinc deficiency.
Liu JY, Stemmer KL; Biomed Environ Sci 3 (1): 1-10 (1990)
Adult, male New Zealand rabbits (three per group) were administered drinking water containing aluminum chloride (0, 100, or 500 mg aluminum/liter) together with citrate (0.11 M) ascorbate (0.11 M), or no added ligand and libitum for 12 weeks. They were fed ad libitum regular rabbit chow analyzed to contain 297 mg aluminum/kg. Treatment had no effect upon food and water intake or weight gain during the experimental period. No effect of aluminum was observed on tissue levels of the essential metals zinc, copper, and iron, or on hemoglobin and hematocrit values. Aluminum levels were fund to increase in a dose-dependent manner in stomach and intestinal mucosa, kidney, bone, urine, and fece. There was only a slight accumulation in liver, and no accumulation in brain (cerebral cortex or hippocampus). Although plasma aluminum was directly related to aluminum intake, whole blood aluminum bore no relation to aluminum dose. Citrate had no efefct on aluminum accumulation in the stomach or intestine, but significantly enhanced plasma and bone aluminum levels. Ascorbate did not enhance aluminum accumulation in any tissue studied and even prevented accumulation in bone. Both citrate and ascorbate enhanced excretion of aluminum. Ascorbate therapy may be of potential clinical use to enhance aluminum excretion.
Fulton B, Jeffery EH; Fundam Appl Toxicol 14 (4): 788-96 (1990)
Examined 25 dialysis patients that experienced accidental exposure to aluminum and parathyroid hormone (PTH). At the same time as parathyroid hormone decreased, serum calcium increased. Based on this observation it has been suggested that aluminum is incorporated, instead of calcium, into the bone and that this leads to the osteomalacia characteristic of aluminum-induced bone disease. Instead of being incorporated into osteoid bone tissue, calcium returns to the circulation which in turn inhibits the parathyroid hormone release from the parathyroid. In support of this hypothesis, ... found a strong correlation between bone aluminum content and the amount of bone occupied by unmineralized osteoid in humans. Experimental support for the hypothesis of calcium-aluminum interactions has also been provided in studies on chicks. /Aluminum/
Friberg, L., Nordberg, G.F., Kessler, E. and Vouk, V.B. (eds). Handbook of the Toxicology of Metals. 2nd ed. Vols I, II.: Amsterdam: Elsevier Science Publishers B.V., 1986., p. 19
For more Interactions (Complete) data for ALUMINUM, ELEMENTAL (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

13.1.16 Antidote and Emergency Treatment

Diagnosis: when history is unattainable, diagnosis depends on the demonstration of large amount of aluminum in vomitus, stomach contents or feces. /Aluminum compounds/
Thienes, C., and T.J. Haley. Clinical Toxicology. 5th ed. Philadelphia: Lea and Febiger, 1972., p. 169
Deferoxamine has been used to treat dialysis encephalopathy and osteomalacia with symptomatic relief reported. The use of deferoxamine for aluminum-toxic dialysis patients has been suggested for serum levels of aluminum between 100 and 200 ug/mL. Deferoxamine also has been used to diagnose aluminum-related osteodystrophy. After a deferoxamine infusion of 40 mg/kg over 2 hr, an increment in plasma aluminum concentration of 200 ug/L identified 35 of 37 patients with biopsy-proven aluminum-related osteodystrophy (sensitivity, 94%; specificity, 50%). Calcium disodium ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid does not appear as effective as deferoxamine in chelating aluminum. Especially in dialysis patients, aluminum-containing medications should be reduced.
Ellenhorn, M.J., S. Schonwald, G. Ordog, J. Wasserberger. Ellenhorn's Medical Toxicology: Diagnosis and Treatment of Human Poisoning. 2nd ed. Baltimore, MD: Williams and Wilkins, 1997., p. 1535

13.1.17 Medical Surveillance

Employment and periodic physical examinations should give special consideration to the skin, eyes and lungs. Lung function should be followed.
ITII. Toxic and Hazarous Industrial Chemicals Safety Manual. Tokyo, Japan: The International Technical Information Institute, 1982., p. 62

13.1.18 Human Toxicity Excerpts

/HUMAN EXPOSURE STUDIES/ Patients who had died with dialysis encephalopathy syndrome had brain gray matter aluminum levels that were 3 times higher (approximately 12 mg/kg dry weight) than those seen in patients who had been comparably dialyzed but did not have dialysis encephalopathy syndrome (approximately 4 mg/kg dry weight). Both of these groups were markedly higher than the 1 mg/kg dry weight level seen in controls. These data clearly indicate elevated brain levels of aluminum in dialyzed patients and emphasize the fact that only the highest levels of brain aluminum are associated with dialysis encephalopathy syndrome.
Sideman S, Manor D; Nephron 31: 1-10 (1982)
/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ Acroanesthesia... numbness of fingers, is reported from cotton mills in operations where there is long contact with aluminum in wet bobbin winding.
Hamilton, A., and H. L. Hardy. Industrial Toxicology. 3rd ed. Acton, Mass.: Publishing Sciences Group, Inc., 1974., p. 24
/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ Inhalation of fine particles of aluminum metal dust in factories caused... progressive encephalopathy... followed by dementia and convulsions; the brain showed a unique cellular change, neurofibrillary degeneration. /Metallic aluminum dust/
Venugopal, B. and T.D. Luckey. Metal Toxicity in Mammals, 2. New York: Plenum Press, 1978., p. 111
/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ On occasion workers chronically exposed to aluminum-containing dusts or fumes have developed severe pulmonary reactions including fibrosis, emphysema and pneumothorax. A much rarer encephalopathy has also been described. The factors which predispose to lung damage are not well characterized. ... /Aluminum (dust or fumes)/
Gosselin, R.E., R.P. Smith, H.C. Hodge. Clinical Toxicology of Commercial Products. 5th ed. Baltimore: Williams and Wilkins, 1984., p. II-128
For more Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for ALUMINUM, ELEMENTAL (27 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

13.1.19 Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ ...Inhalation or intratracheal injection... of aluminum dust caused respiratory infections... (rats and rabbits) /showed/ widespread interstitial fibrosis, with hyalinosis, emphysema and hemorrhages... from which often arise bullous emphysema, bronchopneumonia and hemorrhagic pneumonia. These changes were not limited to the pulmonary parenchyma but were present to some degree in the walls of the blood vessels and in the kidneys, and some fibrous thickening of interstitial tissue in the spleen, liver and meninges. /Aluminum dust/
Browning, E. Toxicity of Industrial Metals. 2nd ed. New York: Appleton-Century-Crofts, 1969., p. 8
/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ ...It was concluded that "there was experimental evidence that in animals inhalation of aluminum dust aggravated pulmonary tuberculosis."
Browning, E. Toxicity of Industrial Metals. 2nd ed. New York: Appleton-Century-Crofts, 1969., p. 10
/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ Very fine aluminum powders... were not fibrogenic in rats, guinea pigs, and hamsters when inhaled; alveolar proteinosis was consistent finding, condition not reported in fatal clinical cases of aluminosis. Focal pulmonary fibrosis seen in rats arises from artifactual intratracheal injection of ... 100 mg/rat.
Clayton, G. D. and F. E. Clayton (eds.). Patty's Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology: Volume 2A, 2B, 2C: Toxicology. 3rd ed. New York: John Wiley Sons, 1981-1982., p. 1499
/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ Because aluminum is only sparingly absorbed from the gut, LD50 values for aluminum ingestion are unavailable, since death occurs from intestinal blockage due to precipitated aluminum species rather than systemic aluminum toxicity.
Seiler, H.G., H. Sigel and A. Sigel (eds.). Handbook on the Toxicity of Inorganic Compounds. New York, NY: Marcel Dekker, Inc. 1988., p. 60
For more Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for ALUMINUM, ELEMENTAL (18 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

13.1.20 Human Toxicity Values

The fatal adult dose of aluminum ... by mouth is about 30 g. /form not stated/
Thienes, C., and T.J. Haley. Clinical Toxicology. 5th ed. Philadelphia: Lea and Febiger, 1972., p. 169

13.2 Ecological Information

13.2.1 Ecotoxicity Values

LC50 Pisidium casertanum >1.0 mg/L/96 hr; static, 20-25 °C, pH 3.5
WHO; Environ Health Criteria 194: Aluminum (1997). Available from, as of June 3, 2004: https://www.inchem.org/documents/ehc/ehc/ehc194.htm#SectionNumber:1.1
LC50 Pisidium casertanum >0.4 mg/L/96 hr; static, 20-25 °C, pH 4.5
WHO; Environ Health Criteria 194: Aluminum (1997). Available from, as of June 3, 2004: https://www.inchem.org/documents/ehc/ehc/ehc194.htm#SectionNumber:1.1
LC50 Pisidium compressum >0.4 mg/L/96 hr; static, 20-25 °C, pH 4.5
WHO; Environ Health Criteria 194: Aluminum (1997). Available from, as of June 3, 2004: https://www.inchem.org/documents/ehc/ehc/ehc194.htm#SectionNumber:1.1
LC50 Pisidium compressum >1.0 mg/L/96 hr; static, 20-25 °C, pH 3.5
WHO; Environ Health Criteria 194: Aluminum (1997). Available from, as of June 3, 2004: https://www.inchem.org/documents/ehc/ehc/ehc194.htm#SectionNumber:1.1
For more Ecotoxicity Values (Complete) data for ALUMINUM, ELEMENTAL (20 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

13.2.2 Ecotoxicity Excerpts

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ The toxicity of aluminum has been studied extensively in fish, less so in invertebrates, amphibians, and birds, and not at all in reptiles and free-ranging mammals. For aquatic organisms, Al bioavailability and toxicity are intimately related to ambient pH; changes in ambient acidity may affect Al solubility, dissolved Al speciation, and organism sensitivity to Al. At moderate acidity (pH 5.5 to 7.0), fish and invertebrates may be stressed due to Al adsorption onto gill surfaces and subsequent asphyxiation. At pH 4.5 to 5.5, Al can impair ion regulation and augment the toxicity of H+. At lower pH, elevated Al can temporarily ameliorate the toxic effects of acidity by competing for binding sites with H+. Aluminum toxicity in aquatic environments is further affected by the concentration of ligands such as dissolved organic matter, fluoride, or sulfate, and of other cations such as Ca and Mg which compete for cellular binding sites. Although risk of Al toxicity is often based on a model of free-ion (Al3+) activity, recent evidence suggests that factors determining Al toxicity may be more complex. In general, aquatic invertebrates are less sensitive to Al toxicity and acidity than fish; thus acidified, Al-rich waters may actually reduce predation pressure. Fish may be affected by asphyxiation at moderate acidic conditions or electrolyte imbalances at lower pH. In amphibians, embryos and young larvae are typically more sensitive than older larvae. Early breeding amphibians, which lay eggs in ephemeral ponds and streams subject to spring runoff, are most at risk from Al and acidification; those that breed later in the year in lakes or rivers are least vulnerable. Birds and mammals are most likely exposed through dietary ingestion of soil or Al-contaminated foods. Concentrations >1000 mg/kg in food may be toxic to young birds and mammals. Clinical signs in these animals are consistent with rickets because Al precipitates with P in the gut.
Sparling DW et al; Res Issues in Aluminum Toxicity: 47-68 (1997)

13.2.3 US EPA Regional Screening Levels for Chemical Contaminants

Resident Soil (mg/kg)
7.70e+04
Industrial Soil (mg/kg)
1.10e+06
Resident Air (ug/m3)
5.20e+00
Industrial Air (ug/m3)
2.20e+01
Tapwater (ug/L)
2.00e+04
MCL (ug/L)
4.00e+00
Risk-based SSL (mg/kg)
3.00e+04
Chronic Oral Reference Dose (mg/kg-day)
1.00e+00
Chronic Inhalation Reference Concentration (mg/m3)
5.00e-03
Volatile
Volatile
Mutagen
Mutagen
Fraction of Contaminant Absorbed in Gastrointestinal Tract
1

13.2.4 US EPA Regional Removal Management Levels for Chemical Contaminants

Resident Soil (mg/kg)
2.30e+05
Industrial Soil (mg/kg)
3.40e+06
Resident Air (ug/m3)
1.60e+01
Industrial Air (ug/m3)
6.60e+01
Tapwater (ug/L)
6.00e+04
MCL (ug/L)
4.00e+00
Chronic Oral Reference Dose (mg/kg-day)
1.00e+00
Chronic Inhalation Reference Concentration (mg/m3)
5.00e-03
Volatile
Volatile
Mutagen
Mutagen
Fraction of Contaminant Absorbed in Gastrointestinal Tract
1

13.2.5 Natural Pollution Sources

Does not occur free in nature.
Lewis, R.J., Sr (Ed.). Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary. 13th ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 1997., p. 40

13.2.6 Probable Routes of Human Exposure

Inhalation of /coarser variety of aluminum dust produced from molten metal... . /Aluminum dust/
Clayton, G. D. and F. E. Clayton (eds.). Patty's Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology: Volume 2A, 2B, 2C: Toxicology. 3rd ed. New York: John Wiley Sons, 1981-1982., p. 1497
Workers exposed to... dust of aluminum metal in production of explosives and fireworks. /Aluminum metal/
Friberg, L., G.R. Nordberg, and V.B. Vouk. Handbook on the Toxicology of Metals. New York: Elsevier North Holland, 1979., p. 280

14 Associated Disorders and Diseases

Associated Occupational Diseases with Exposure to the Compound

Contact urticaria [Category: Skin Disease]

Pneumoconioses, other [Category: Pneumoconiosis (Pulmonary Fibrosis)]

Asthma, occupational [Category: Airway Disease]

15 Literature

15.1 Consolidated References

15.2 NLM Curated PubMed Citations

15.3 Thieme References

15.4 Chemical Co-Occurrences in Literature

15.5 Chemical-Gene Co-Occurrences in Literature

15.6 Chemical-Disease Co-Occurrences in Literature

16 Patents

16.1 Depositor-Supplied Patent Identifiers

16.2 Chemical Co-Occurrences in Patents

16.3 Chemical-Disease Co-Occurrences in Patents

16.4 Chemical-Gene Co-Occurrences in Patents

17 Interactions and Pathways

17.1 Chemical-Target Interactions

17.2 Drug-Drug Interactions

18 Classification

18.1 MeSH Tree

18.2 ChEBI Ontology

18.3 ChemIDplus

18.4 CAMEO Chemicals

18.5 UN GHS Classification

18.6 EPA CPDat Classification

18.7 NORMAN Suspect List Exchange Classification

18.8 EPA DSSTox Classification

18.9 Consumer Product Information Database Classification

18.10 EPA TSCA and CDR Classification

18.11 LOTUS Tree

18.12 EPA Substance Registry Services Tree

18.13 MolGenie Organic Chemistry Ontology

19 Information Sources

  1. Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR)
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  20. EPA Provisional Peer-Reviewed Toxicity Values (PPRTVs)
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  36. Comparative Toxicogenomics Database (CTD)
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    http://ctdbase.org/about/legal.jsp
  37. Therapeutic Target Database (TTD)
  38. Crystallography Open Database (COD)
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    https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/zero/1.0/
  39. DailyMed
  40. EPA Chemical and Products Database (CPDat)
  41. EPA Regional Screening Levels for Chemical Contaminants at Superfund Sites
  42. Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA)
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  43. Hazardous Chemical Information System (HCIS), Safe Work Australia
  44. NITE-CMC
    Aluminium - FY2006 (New/original classication)
    https://www.chem-info.nite.go.jp/chem/english/ghs/06-imcg-1376e.html
    Aluminium metal - FY2015 (Revised classification)
    https://www.chem-info.nite.go.jp/chem/english/ghs/15-mhlw-0036e.html
  45. Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council
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    https://eur-lex.europa.eu/content/legal-notice/legal-notice.html
  46. FDA Regulatory Status of Color Additives
  47. USGS Health-Based Screening Levels for Evaluating Water-Quality Data
  48. National Drug Code (NDC) Directory
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  49. NIOSH Manual of Analytical Methods
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    https://www.cdc.gov/Other/disclaimer.html
  50. NIPH Clinical Trials Search of Japan
  51. NLM RxNorm Terminology
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    https://www.nlm.nih.gov/research/umls/rxnorm/docs/termsofservice.html
  52. PharmGKB
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    https://www.pharmgkb.org/page/policies
  53. Pistoia Alliance Chemical Safety Library
    ALUMINUM + CARBON TETRACHLORIDE + MAGNESIUM + CHLOROFORM
    https://safescience.cas.org/
  54. PubChem Elements
  55. SpringerMaterials
  56. Thieme Chemistry
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  57. Wikidata
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  59. Medical Subject Headings (MeSH)
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  60. PubChem
  61. GHS Classification (UNECE)
  62. LOTUS - the natural products occurrence database
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    https://lotus.nprod.net/
  63. EPA Substance Registry Services
  64. MolGenie
    MolGenie Organic Chemistry Ontology
    https://github.com/MolGenie/ontology/
  65. NCBI
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