FAI Spring 2023 Process Safety News.ai

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What are Examples of Applications for Heat of Combustion Testing?

Various industries use heat of combustion testing for different objectives and applications. Some examples include: 1. Fuel Development & Optimization: Heat of combustion testing is used considerably in the development of new fuels and in optimization of existing fuels. Scientists and engineers can use this method to determine the energy value as well as quantify the amount of waste heat that is generated during combustion of different substances, such as metal fuels, biofuels, and renewable fuels. These data are then used to optimize fuel composition and production processes, as well as minimize emissions, to create fuels that are more cost-effective, efficient, and environmentally friendly. 2. Reaction Analysis: Determination of material energy content is essential for research and development of new chemistries, as it allows researchers to assess the heats of formation of raw materials prior to a synthesizing into the final product to understand the total energy consumption/generation of the reaction. Before scaling up a reaction, it is important to fully understand the reactivity and energetic potential of the materials involved. This way the reaction can be optimized to achieve high yields and avoid any unwanted reactions, some of which can be extremely violent. 3. Aerosol Classification: In conjunction with ignition distance and enclosed space ignition tests using methods outlined in the United Nations Chemical Classification Manual, the results of heat of combustion tests can be used to characterize an aerosol product as non-flammable, flammable, or extremely flammable (see Figure 2). The classification of aerosols is essential in determining proper packaging and shipping groups for transportation purposes to avoid any accidents.

Spray aerosol

NO

YES

In the ignition distance test, does ignition occur at a distance >75 cm?

Does it have a heat of combustion <20 kJ/g?

Extremely flammable

YES Y

NO

Flammable

In the ignition distance test, does ignition occur at a distance >75 cm?

YES

Extremely flammable

NO

In the ignition distance test, does ignition occur at a distance >15 cm?

YES

Flammable

NO

In the enclosed space

YES

ignition test, is the time equivalent < 300 s/m 3 deflagration density <300 g/m 3 ?

Flammable

NO

Not classified as flammable aerosol

Figure 2: UN Classification of Spray Aerosols

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