Abstract
This article is a continuation of a case study in which we presented the results of research on processes generated under fire conditions by mixing molten ammonium nitrate (AN) with selected polymers. Here, we present an analysis of how certain materials, which may frequently appear in farm buildings and are commonly used in the immediate vicinity of humans, can potentially form explosives. The chosen materials include polyamides (PA) from which the wear-resistant machine elements are made (e.g., high-performance gears, wheels of transport trolleys); polyvinyl chloride (PVC) used, i.e., in construction carpentry, electrical insulation, and hydraulic pipes; polystyrene (PS) used, i.e., in insulation and containers; and poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), i.e., so-called organic glass and plexiglass. The research results showed that these seemingly harmless and safe materials, mixed with AN and heated under fire conditions, may turn into explosives and stimulate stored AN. This creates significant risks of an uncontrolled fire progress.
Highlights
Introduction the Presence of Common PlasticsPackaging, storage, and transport of fertilizers that are based on ammonium nitrate (AN) as their main component pose much more potential hazards than it seems to many producers and prospective users
I.e., the existence of various crystalline forms and their mutually influenced changes depending on pressure and temperature
Theofdifference between thedifferent reaction’s termination and its differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) analysis of AN the and temperature unplasticized PVC (uPVC) mixtureof with proportions
Summary
Storage, and transport of fertilizers that are based on ammonium nitrate (AN) as their main component pose much more potential hazards than it seems to many producers and prospective users. These, facilitate AN transport and storage and protect this highly hygroscopic substance from moisture. The circumstances change dramatically in the presence of heat, when the temperature rises above 170 ◦ C (PE, PP, AN). Such an impact and the resulting threats apply to flameless fire zones. Due to the heat transfer—occurring through the walls of containers, silos, rooms, etc.—metal doors, walls, and similar partitions cannot be considered entirely safe
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