Gallium Indium Eutectic SDS

Gallium Indium Eutectic SDS

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Gallium‘indium eutectic (often called EGaIn) is an alloy composed of gallium and indium in approximately a 75.5% to 24.5% ratio by weight. This low‘melting‘point metal has a melting temperature of around 15.7 °C, meaning it remains liquid at room temperature. Known for its excellent electrical and thermal conductivity, flowability, and compliance, gallium‘indium eutectic is frequently utilized in electronics, flexible circuit connections, and thermal management. However, its unique characteristics also demand awareness of handling precautions and safety measures, as outlined in its Safety Data Sheet (SDS).

Chemical Composition and Physical Properties

The alloy consists of high-purity gallium and indium typically 99.99% trace metal basis with a density around 6.2–6.25 g/mL at 25 °C and melting point near 15.7 °C.

Common Uses of Gallium‘Indium Eutectic

  • Soft electrical contacts and wiring in reconfigurable or flexible electronics
  • Thermal interface or heat spreader material in electronics cooling
  • Lab research into microfluidics, wetting behavior, and sensor design
  • Printing conductive traces or making temporary circuit connections

Because it does not solidify at room temperature, it stays fluid in small channels and forms tight seals with capillary force. Its excellent electrical properties (resistivity ~29.4 à 10⁻⁶ Ω·cm) make it well-suited for these roles.

Hazards and Safety Measures (Based on SDS)

Hazard Classification

The SDS classifies gallium‘indium eutectic under GHS categories:

  • Corrosive to metals (Category 1) – H290
  • Serious eye damage/irritation (Category 1) – H318
  • Skin corrosion/irritation (Category 1C) – H314
  • Acute toxicity, oral (Category 4) – H302
  • Specific target organ toxicity (repeated exposure, inhalation: lungs) – H372
  • Aquatic hazard, chronic (Category 3) – H412

Precautionary Recommendations

Key measures to reduce risk include the following, as recommended by the SDS:

  • P280 – Wear gloves, protective clothing, and eye/face protection.
  • P260 – Avoid inhaling vapors or sprays.
  • P264 – Wash thoroughly after handling.
  • P273 – Prevent release into the environment.
  • P301+P312+P330 – If swallowed, rinse mouth; do not induce vomiting; get medical help if unwell.
  • P303+P361+P353 – If on skin, remove contaminated clothing and rinse thoroughly.
  • P305+P351+P338 – In case of eye contact, rinse cautiously while removing lenses if possible.
  • P390 – Absorb spills to avoid material damage and contain properly.
  • P406 – Store in corrosion-resistant container with suitable inner liner.
  • P501 – Dispose of contents and containers via approved hazardous waste facilities.

First Aid and Emergency Response

If inhaled, move the patient to fresh air and monitor breathing. In case of skin contact, remove contaminated clothing and wash thoroughly. If it gets into the eyes, rinse with clean water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Ingestion requires rinsing the mouth without inducing vomiting and contacting a poison center or medical professional. These steps align with standard recommendations in most gallium‘indium eutectic SDS formulations.

Handling, Storage, and Spill Management

  • Handle only in well-ventilated areas and avoid mist or fume generation.
  • Use PPE chemical-resistant gloves, lab coat, goggles, face shield.
  • Store in sealed, corrosion-resistant containers away from incompatible materials like acids, oxidizers, halogens, moisture, and aluminum alloys.
  • For spills, let molten alloy cool and solidify before collection. Use non-reactive tools (e.g., plastic dustpan) and seal waste properly.
  • Clean contaminated surfaces thoroughly to avoid metal corrosion from contact.

Regulatory and Transport Information

Transported as a corrosive liquid under UN 2803, Hazard Class 8, Packing Group III.

Environmental and Health Considerations

Given its chronic aquatic toxicity (H412), gallium‘indium eutectic should never be released into water systems. Inhalation of fumes or fine debris poses long-term lung risk, making proper ventilation and respiratory protection essential. Repeated skin or eye exposure can cause severe irritation or burns, underscoring the importance of PPE.

Conclusion and Best Practices

Gallium‘indium eutectic is an innovative liquid metal alloy offering excellent performance in electronics, microfluidics, and thermal applications due to its liquid state at ambient temperatures and superior conductivity. However, its hygroscopic and reactive nature especially its corrosivity and toxicity requires controlled handling based on its Safety Data Sheet guidelines. Always wear appropriate protective gear, work in ventilated and chemically compatible spaces, and dispose of materials following environmental regulations. By balancing its unique benefits with strict safety protocols, users can leverage gallium‘indium eutectic effectively and responsibly in cutting-edge applications.

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