Diborane Information
Diborane
Other Names |
Boroethane |
Chemical Formula |
B2H6 |
CAS Number |
19287-45-7 |
Industry Uses |
Rocket Propellant; Electronics |
Health Risks |
Irritant: Skin, eyes, throat, and airway; Coughing, shortness of breath; lung and kidney damage |
Vapor Pressure |
39.5 atm |
Water Solubility |
Decomposes |
Flammability |
Very Flammable |
Odor |
Repulsive, Sweet |
Diborane MSDS
What is Diborane?
Diborane is a colorless gas with a repulsive, sweet odor. It is highly unstable as it mixes easily with air and forms explosive mixtures. Diborane ignites spontaneously in moist air at room temperature. Diborane is used in rocket propellants, as a reducing agent, catalyst for hydrocarbon polymerization, and as a doping agent. It also is used in electronics to impart electrical properties to pure crystals. Diborane is extremely flammable and may explode if heated under pressure. It is a strong irritant and is toxic if inhaled causing organ damage.
Diborane Exposure and Health Risks
Diborane is toxic when inhaled. Whether short term exposure to high concentrations or long term exposure to low concentrations, diborane inhalation will result in adverse health effects like organ damage. Symptoms can appear immediately, but can be delayed for hours after exposure. Symptoms of diborane exposure include wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and chest pain. Diborane is highly toxic whether by inhalation, skin absorption, or ingestion. Lung and kidney damage is likely in the case of diborane poisoning. Diborane is a strong irritant, causing damage to skin, eyes, and mucous membranes.
Regulations
The table below summarizes the most-recent exposure limits.
Limit/Level |
Type |
Organization |
Not Recommended |
AEGL-1 (8 hrs) |
EPA |
2.0 ppm |
AEGL-2 (10 min) |
EPA |
0.13 ppm |
AEGL-2 (8 hrs) |
EPA |
7.3 ppm |
AEGL-3 (10 min) |
EPA |
0.46 ppm |
AEGL-3 (8 hrs) |
EPA |
0.1 ppm |
TWA (8 hrs) |
NIOSH |
0.1 ppm |
TWA (8 hrs) |
OSHA |
Measuring Diborane
Diborane concentration in the air can be measured in units of parts per million (ppm). We carry portable and fixed diborane monitors and kits, and all of our diborane products can be viewed HERE.
D16 |
The D16 is a versatile tool designed for gas leak detection, personal safety, spot checking, confined entry, and data logging, and more. It can be used as a portable monitor or as a stationary one that can be set to log data over long periods of time. This customizable unit can be fitted with a variety of sensors and is sold with every accessory you may need for fast and accurate portable gas detection. | |
D12 |
The D12 is designed for operation in hazardous areas. Its explosion-proof cast aluminum housing is rated for Class 1, Division 1, Group B, C, D locations and is UL, FM, and CSA certified. This monitor can be fitted with a variety of sensors to be used on a wide range of toxic and combustible gases. | |
F12 |
The Series F12 Gas Transmitter is an Intrinsically Safe monitor designed for the detection of toxic gases in hazardous areas. It is also well suited for general purpose applications. This highly customizable unit can be fitted with a variety of sensors and accessories and is compatible with most fixed mount toxic gas applications. | |
F12D |
The Series F12D Gas Transmitter is designed for detection of toxic gases in hazardous areas. It is also well suited for general purpose applications. This highly customizable unit can be fitted with a variety of sensors and accessories and is compatible with most fixed mount toxic gas applications. | |
B12 |
The B12 transmitter is a two-wire, 4-29 mA transmitter that is loop-powered to signal linearly proportional to gas concentration. Their electrochemical sensors are designed for use in ambient air or in ventilation ducts. This highly customizable application can be fitted with a variety of sensors and accessories. | 0-1000ppb |
Contact us for help choosing the right monitor for your application