General Description
An off-white solid. Density 2.5 g / cm3.
Air & Water Reactions
Decomposes on contact with water or moisture in air to form flammable gaseous hydrogen [AAR 1991]. Insoluble in cold water; decomposes in hot water [Hawley].
Reactivity Profile
Calcium silicide reacts with acids to form gaseous silicon hydride, which ignites spontaneously in air [Lab. Gov. Chemist 1965]. Burns readily in fluorine [Mellor 6:663 1946-47].
Health Hazard
Inhalation or contact with vapors, substance or decomposition products may cause severe injury or death. May produce corrosive solutions on contact with water. Fire will produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Runoff from fire control may cause pollution.
Fire Hazard
Produce flammable gases on contact with water. May ignite on contact with water or moist air. Some react vigorously or explosively on contact with water. May be ignited by heat, sparks or flames. May re-ignite after fire is extinguished. Some are transported in highly flammable liquids. Runoff may create fire or explosion hazard.
