UN 3553 — Disilane
Placard: Toxic Gas / Flammable Gas. ERG Guide 116. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
UN 3553 is Disilane, assigned to ERG Guide 116. This entry should be verified with shipping papers, labels and the SDS before responders commit to close-range action.
Hazard overview: Disilane is extremely flammable and pyrophoric, meaning it may ignite spontaneously in air. Moisture contact may generate hydrogen and increase fire or explosion risk.
Response guidance: Use ERG Guide 116, isolate the area, keep people upwind and avoid incompatible agents. Keep water away unless incident command confirms it is safe for the specific material.
UN 3553 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 3553
- EXTREMELY FLAMMABLE.
- Will be easily ignited by heat, sparks or flames.
- Will form explosive mixtures with air. Acetylene (UN1001, UN3374) may react explosively even in the
- Disilane (UN3553) and Silane (UN2203) will ignite spontaneously in air and may re-ignite.
- Those substances designated with a (P) may polymerize explosively when heated or involved in a fire.
- Vapors from liquefied gas are initially heavier than air and spread along ground.
- Vapors may travel to source of ignition and flash back.
- Cylinders exposed to fire may vent and release flammable gas through pressure relief devices.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
Colorless gas with a repulsive odor. Pyrophoric (ignites spontaneously in air). Heavier than air.
| Also known as | DisilaneSilicon hydrideHexahydrodisiliconSi2H6 |
| CAS Number | 1590-87-0 |
| Appearance | Colorless gas with a repulsive odor. Pyrophoric (ignites spontaneously in air). Heavier than air. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (pyrophoric gas, ignites spontaneously) |
| Boiling Point | -14°C (7°F) |
| Vapor Density | 2.2 (heavier than air) |
| Water Reactivity | Reacts with moisture producing silica and hydrogen gas; may ignite spontaneously |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 3553
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Level A required; full encapsulation with SCBA; extreme fire and explosion hazard. Select final PPE using ERG guidance, SDS, monitoring and incident command.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 3553 Incident
- Keep unauthorized personnel away.
- Stay upwind, uphill and/or upstream.
- Isolate spill or leak area for at least 100 meters (330 feet) in all directions.
- Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 800 meters (1/2 mile).
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 3553 — DisilaneUse for: Quick radio or face-to-face size-up. Short, structured, field-ready.
Use for: Incident command briefing, staging area whiteboard, or pre-entry team brief.
Use for: Quick text to command or incoming units. Fits in a single SMS.