Sodium hydride

Sodium hydride is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula HNa and CAS number 7646-69-7. It is a powerful reducing agent and strong base commonly used in organic synthesis. With a molecular weight of 23.9977 g/mol, sodium hydride is classified as a Water-react. 1 substance, indicating its violent reaction with water to produce hydrogen gas and sodium hydroxide.

Sodium hydride is a white to gray crystalline solid at room temperature. It has no characteristic odor and is completely insoluble in water, reacting violently instead. The compound is also insoluble in most organic solvents but can be suspended in mineral oil for safer handling. It decomposes at high temperatures and reacts exothermically with moisture.

Sodium hydride is primarily used as a strong base in organic synthesis reactions, particularly for deprotonation of alcohols, phenols, and other acidic compounds. It serves as a reducing agent in chemical manufacturing and is essential in the production of pharmaceuticals, fine chemicals, and specialty polymers. It's also used in metallurgy for hydrogen generation and metal purification processes.

Sodium hydride requires strict safety measures including use of appropriate personal protective equipment: chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and protective clothing. Work must be conducted in a dry, well-ventilated area or fume hood, away from water and moisture sources. The GHS02 pictogram indicates fire hazard, so ignition sources must be eliminated during handling and storage.

Sodium hydride must be stored in tightly sealed containers under an inert atmosphere (nitrogen or argon) to prevent contact with moisture. Storage areas should be cool, dry, and well-ventilated, away from water, acids, and oxidizing agents. The container should be kept in a secondary containment system to manage any potential leaks or spills.

Immediate action is required for sodium hydride contact. For skin contact, brush off any solid material before washing with large amounts of water. For eye contact, flush immediately with water for at least 15 minutes. If ingested, do not induce vomiting and seek immediate medical attention. In case of inhalation, move to fresh air immediately and get medical help.

Sodium hydride disposal requires careful neutralization by trained professionals following local hazardous waste regulations. Small quantities can be cautiously quenched with alcohols under controlled conditions, but large amounts must be handled by licensed waste disposal companies. Never dispose of sodium hydride in regular waste streams or pour down drains due to its reactive nature.

Sodium hydride is classified under ADR Class 4.3 (substances which, in contact with water, emit flammable gases), Packing Group I, indicating high danger. Transportation requires specialized packaging meeting UN specifications, proper labeling with hazard placards, and compliance with dangerous goods regulations. Only authorized carriers with appropriate training and equipment should handle transport.

Sodium hydride is subject to strict chemical regulations including REACH registration requirements in Europe and CLP classification as Water-react. 1 with Danger signal word. It is not listed as an SVHC (Substance of Very High Concern). Users must comply with workplace safety directives, transportation regulations for dangerous goods, and local environmental protection laws.

Sodium hydride is available through OYSI, a specialized European distributor of technical chemicals. As a professional chemical supplier, OYSI can provide sodium hydride with appropriate documentation, safety data sheets, and regulatory compliance certificates. Contact OYSI directly for availability, packaging options, and delivery arrangements for your specific requirements in the European market.