Hydrophilic Titanium Dioxide, Solid

SECTION 2: Hazards identification

EMERGENCY OVERVIEW Suspect cancer hazard. Dust may cause mechanical irritation to skin, eyes and respiratory tract. See

Other Health Effects

Section. Can decompose at high temperatures forming toxic gases Effects (irritancy) on the skin and eyes may be delayed, and damage may occur without the sensation or onset of pain. Strict adherence to first aid measures following any exposure is essential. In general, long-term exposure to high concentrations of dust may cause increased mucous flow in the nose and respiratory system airways. This condition usually disappears after exposure stops. Controversy exists as to the role exposure to dust has in the development of chronic bronchitis (inflammation of the air passages into the lungs). Other factors such as smoking and general air pollution are more important, but dust exposure may contribute. (4) May cause shortness of breath, lung damage, pulmonary fibrosis or pneumoconiosis. Pneumoconiosis is the deposition of dust in the lungs and the tissue's reaction to its presence. When exposure to the dust is severe or prolonged, the lungs' defenses are overwhelmed. Titanium dioxide dust is considered possibly carcinogenic to humans based on animal evidence, which shows that high concentrations of pigment-grade (powdered) and ultrafine titanium dioxide dust causes respiratory tract cancer in rats exposed by inhalation and intratracheal instillation. (4)

Potential health effects

Inhalation Product may be mildly irritating to the nose, throat and respiratory tract and may cause coughing and sneezing. Excessive contact with powder may cause drying of mucous membranes of nose and throat due to absorption of moisture and oils. See "Other Health Effects" Section. Skin Contact This product may cause irritation due to abrasive action. Excessive contact with powder may cause drying of the skin due to absorption of moisture and oils. Avoid handling when the skin is moist, wet or abraded. Skin Absorption: Eye Contact Not likely to be absorbed through the skin. This product may cause irritation, redness and possible damage due to abrasiveness. Excessive contact with powder may cause drying of mucous membranes of the eyes due to absorption of moisture and oils. Ingestion Ingestion is not a likely route of exposure. This product may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort. Ingestion of large amounts may cause nausea, gastrointestinal upset and abdominal pain.