Some hydride materials (e.g., sodium alanates) may be rapidly exothermic, even pyrophoric, if exposed to water or humid air or slowly exothermic, even pyrophoric, if exposed to oxygen. Reactive materials, including fine metal powders, should be handled (as in this incident) in an inert atmosphere such as a glove box. The protocol for handling these materials should be incorporated into a standard operating procedure and appropriate safety training conducted for laboratory personnel, including guest staff.

Additional discussion about working with reactive metal-hydride materials in the laboratory can be found in the Lessons Learned Corner on this website and in the Hydrogen Safety Best Practices Manual.