What Are the Dangers of Neodymium?

The element neodymium (Nd) was not isolated in its pure form until 1925. It is not a free element and is never found naturally in its pure form. It is found primarily in misch metals as well as in the minerals monazite and bastnasite.

Properties

• In its pure form, neodymium has a bright metallic, silvery sheen. It is very reactive when exposed to air and tarnishes very quickly.

Uses

• Neodymium is an important component in the production of ceramics and glass. It is used in manufacturing the specially colored lenses of welding and glass making goggles. In its pure form it is used as a color additive in making colored glass and produces vibrant shades of violet and red, as well as pure grey. It is used to remove the green tint of glass that has been contaminated by iron. When combined with other elements, neodymium is used to manufacture inexpensive, but very powerful magnets. Neodymium salts are used as a color additive for enamels. Neodymium isotopes are used for dating geological samples from both earth and outer space. They are also used to help predict the size and strength of volcanic eruptions.

Warnings

• The chemical, physical, and toxicological hazards of neodymium have not been fully documented at this time. The medical evidence that is available suggests that neodymium compounds are toxic, but that the dangers are limited. All chemical compounds and elements should be treated as potentially toxic, and proper safety measures should be observed at all times whenever handling neodymium and neodymium compounds. Neodymium dust is highly combustible and is a fire hazard.

Exposure Hazards

• Eyes: Neodymium dust is an irritant and can cause stinging, redness, and watering of the eyes. Skin: Neodymium dust is mildly abrasive and causes skin irritation, rashes, skin granulomas, dermatitis, itching, and skin lesions. Ingestion: There is a low degree of toxicity due to the fact that neodymium is not easily absorbed by the body. However, if ingested in large amounts, neodymium can cause stomach and intestinal upset and can affect the blood’s coagulation rate. Inhalation: Repeated exposure to neodymium dust can cause respiratory tract problems including asthma attacks, lung granulomas, pnemoconiosis (lung congestion), and pneumonitis (lung inflammation). Prolonged exposure many cause immediate defecation, writhing, loss of muscle coordination, shortness of breath, fatigue, hypotension, and heart failure.

First Aid

• Eyes: Immediately flush eyes with clean water for at least 15 minutes. Be sure to rinse well under both upper and lower eyelids. Consult your doctor if redness and/or irritation persist. Skin: Remove all contaminated clothing. Thoroughly wash any affected skin with soap and water. If a rash or other irritation develops, see your doctor immediately. Ingestion: Call your local Poison Control immediately. Drink one to two glasses of milk or water and induce vomiting. Seek medical attention immediately. Inhalation: Move to fresh air immediately. If having trouble breathing, administer oxygen and call 911. Seek medical attention immediately. In any case of exposure or suspected exposure, if you have any questions or concerns, consult your doctor immediately.

Safety Precautions

• Safety measures that should be observed to avoid and minimize unnecessary exposure to the element and its compounds. Work in a well ventilated area. Wear proper breathing apparatus. Wear proper eye protection. Wear protective clothing and gloves. Do not hesitate to seek medical attention immediately if you suspect exposure or if you show signs of exposure. Neodymium’s health hazards pose the greatest risk to individuals who work directly with the element and its compounds. Because neodymium is not found in its pure form naturally, the majority of the population is never exposed to the element and its hazards.