UN/NA Number Reference
DOT Class 2.2 Non-Flammable Gas placard

UN 1006: Argon, compressed

49 CFR 172.101 Hazardous Materials Table·ERG 2024

DOT Classification and Shipping

UN 1006 is assigned the proper shipping name Argon, compressed in the U.S. DOT Hazardous Materials Table (49 CFR 172.101). It is classified as a Class 2.2 Non-Flammable Gas material. Required label(s): 2.2.

Packing group indicates the degree of danger within a hazard class: PG I is high danger, PG II medium, PG III low. The proper shipping name, hazard class, UN number, and packing group together form the basic shipping description that must appear on shipping papers and, where required, on the package and placard.

Emergency Response (ERG Guide 121)

Hazards: May cause asphyxiation in confined areas. Rapid expansion may cause frostbite. Containers may BLEVE.

Fire: Use agent for surrounding fire. Cool containers with water from distance.

Spill: Ventilate area. Do not touch liquid. Stop leak if safe.

Chemical and Physical Properties

Argon appears as a colorless odorless noncombustible gas. Heavier than air and can asphyxiate by displacement of air. Exposure of the container to prolonged heat or fire can cause it to rupture violently and rocket. If liquefied, contact of the very cold liquid with water may cause violent boiling. If the water is hot, there is the possibility that a liquid "superheat" explosion may occur. Contacts with water in a closed container may cause dangerous pressure to build.

CAS Number: 7440-37-1
Molecular Formula: Ar
Molecular Weight: 39.9 g/mol
Color / Form: Colorless monatomic gas
Odor: Odorless
Boiling Point: -185.847 C
Melting Point: -186.36 °C triple point (69 kPa)
Specific Gravity: 1.633 g/L
Vapor Density: 1.38 (heavier than air)
Water Solubility: Soluble in organic liquids
Log P: 0.74

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Reference data compiled from the DOT Hazardous Materials Table (49 CFR 172.101), the 2024 Emergency Response Guidebook, and public chemical databases (PubChem, NIOSH, EPA). Always verify the correct shipping description against the current regulation and the manufacturer's SDS Section 14 before shipping.