Standard Operating Procedure
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Read the EH&S Standard Operating Procedures Fact Sheet before filling out this form.
Print out the completed form and keep a readily accessible hard copy in the lab (also
keeping an electronic copy is highly recommended).
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Date:
May 22, 2012
SOP Title:
Hydrides-General (LiAlH4, NaH, CaH2)
Principal Investigator:
Richmond Sarpong
Room and Building:
841A Latimer Hall
Lab Phone Number:
(510) 643-2485
Section 1 – Process
The use of hydrides including LiAlH4, NaH, CaH2, etc.
Section 2 – Hazardous Chemicals
Hydride reagents (including LiAlH4, NaH and CaH2) are water reactive and liberate flammable H2 gas.
LiAlH4, and CaH2 may ignite when exposed to water, steam, or a moist atmosphere. Hydrides may
also cause skin, eye and respiratory irritation or burns.
Section 3 – Potential Hazards
Hydride reagents (including LiAlH4, NaH, and CaH2) are water reactive and liberate extremely
flammable H2 gas thus possess a potential fire risk. LiAlH4, and CaH2 may ignite when exposed to
water, steam, or a moist atmosphere. Hydrides may also cause skin, eye and respiratory irritation or
burns.
Section 4 – Approvals Required
Use of hydride reagents requires training and the approval of the appropriate lab member.
Section 5 – Designated Area
Hydride reagents should only be used in a fume hood free of water and moisture and away from all
heat and ignition sources. Hydride reagents should only be weighed out on a completely clean and dry
balance.
Section 6 – Special Handling Procedures and Storage Requirements
Clear all areas where the reagent will be opened prior to use. Be sure that there is no water or open
flame/sources of heat present. Do not use any hydride reagent while working alone. Be sure to know
the location of a type IV fire extinguisher or dry chemical in case of a metal fire.
Hydride reagents should be stored in a water free area away from an ignition source in a cool, dry place
such as in a plastic bag contained within a sealed metal container. They could be stored as a dispersion
in mineral oil or under an inert atmosphere(in a dry box). Care should be used to prevent the hydride
from being spilled within the metal container. Do not get water inside the storage container.
Hydride reagents should be weighed out using a completely dry spatula and added to a flame-dried
flask cooled under an inert atmosphere. Completely dry gloves should be worn. Only dry (water free)
solvents should be added to the flask (except in the case of CaH2 when used as a drying agent). Care
should be taken to prevent the particles from being released as a dust into the atmosphere.
After weighing out the hydride immediately seal the plastic bag and return to the metal container and
properly seal the container.
The hydride should be added to the reaction flask in a slow controlled manner.
At the end of the reaction, the hydride should be properly quenched slowly, at a low temperature.
If excess hydride reagent needs to be quenched, slowly add isopropanol at 0 C until all bubbling has
ceased.
Section 7 – Personal Protective Equipment
Wear a laboratory coat made of flame-retardant material or cotton. Wear chemically resistant gloves,
and safety glasses or goggles.
Section 8 – Engineering/Ventilation Controls
Work inside the hood. Keep the hood sash as low as possible to prevent spills/splashes outside the
hood.
Section 9 – Spill and Accident Procedures
In case of a fire, DO NOT EXTINGUISH WITH WATER. Sand, sodium chloride, sodium carbonate,
or a type IV fire extinguisher (type for metal fires) may be used. The use of sand is the preferred way
to extinguish a fire. Carbon dioxide fire extinguishers may be used for NaH but not for other hydrides.
In case of contact with your person flush effect area in a safety shower or eye wash for a minimum of
15 minutes and get immediate medical attention. Immediately remove any contaminated clothing.
Section 10 – Waste Disposal
All excess hydride should be completely quenched and added to a properly labeled waste container.
Section 11 - Decontamination
Remove all contaminated clothing; wash all contaminated skin with copious amounts of water.
Section 12 – Process Steps
Process Steps
Safety Measures
Training Documentation
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