Silicon nitride

Synonyms

Trisilicon tetranitride; [ChemIDplus] Silicon(IV) nitride: [Alfa Aesar MSDS]

Category

Metalloid Compounds (Silicon)

Description

White solid when pure, but may be brown or black; Exists in alpha and beta crystalline forms; [Merck Index] Grey odorless powder; [Alfa Aesar MSDS]

Sources/Uses

Used to make high-temperature gas turbines and diesel engines; [Merck Index] Silicon nitride is used in semiconductor components and in high-temperature ball bearings, dies, automotive engine parts, pressure valves, and cutting tools. [Ullmann]

Comments

No adverse gross or histopathological effects observed in 28-day oral study of rats up to the highest tested dose (1,000 mg/kg/day); No reproductive or developmental toxicity observed in oral study of rats up to the highest tested dose (1,000 mg/kg/day); No evidence of mutagenicity; [JECDB] May cause irritation; [Alfa Aesar MSDS] See "NITRIDES."

Biomedical References

Processes

Industrial Processes with risk of exposure:

• Metal Machining
• Semiconductor Manufacturing