# NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards
Calcium cyanamide | CAS 156-62-7
CaCN2 | RTECS GS6000000
Synonyms & Trade Names Calcium carbimide, Cyanamide, Lime nitrogen, Nitrogen lime [Note: Cyanamide is also a synonym for Hydrogen cyanamide, NH2CN.] | DOT ID & Guide 1403 138 (with >0.1% calcium carbide)
Exposure Limits | NIOSH REL: TWA 0.5 mg/m3
OSHA PEL†: none
IDLH N.D. | Conversion
Physical Description Colorless, gray, or black crystals or powder. [fertilizer] [Note: Commercial grades may contain calcium carbide.]
MW: 80.1 | BP: Sublimes | MLT: 2444°F | Sol: Insoluble
VP: 0 mmHg (approx) | IP: NA |  | Sp.Gr: 2.29
Fl.P: NA | UEL: NA | LEL: NA |
Noncombustible Solid, but a fire risk if it contains calcium carbide.
Incompatibilities & Reactivities Water [Note: May polymerize in water or alkaline solutions to dicyanamide. Decomposes in water to form acetylene & ammonia.]
Measurement Methods NIOSH 0500
Personal Protection & Sanitation Skin: Prevent skin contact Eyes: Prevent eye contact Wash skin: When contaminated Remove: When wet or contaminated Change: Daily Provide: Eyewash, Quick drench | First Aid (See procedures) Eye: Irrigate immediately Skin: Soap flush immediately Breathing: Respiratory support Swallow: Medical attention immediately
Respirator Recommendations To be added later
Exposure Routes inhalation, ingestion, skin and/or eye contact
Symptoms Irritation eyes, skin, respiratory system; headache, dizziness, rapid breathing, low blood pressure, nausea, vomiting; skin burns, sensitization; cough; Antabuse-like effects
Target Organs Eyes, skin, respiratory system, vasomotor system
See also: INTRODUCTION