TESTING CHEMICAL OXIDIZERS

摘要

Oxidizers can turn ordinary materials into extreme hazards. The release of an oxidizing gas fromsolid oxidizers can accelerate the rate and increase the intensity of fires, including explosive reactions.Oxidizers can release an oxidizing gas as a result of thermal decomposition, chemical reaction, or fireexposure. The principle physical hazards of chemical oxidizers are (1) exothermic decomposition fromcontamination or exposure to elevated temperatures, (2) the ability to intensify a fire, and (3) explosivereaction. This paper reviews decomposition, burning behavior and reactivity test methods used to evaluatethese potential hazards. Prior to transportation, oxidizers are subject to screening tests to assess theirburning rate and to controlled, external heating if thermal decomposition is an issue. The EU requires ascreening test of oxidizers to assess only their burning rate. Current research directed at the developmentof test methods and criteria for oxidizers where these materials are stored are based on burning-rate only.Relying on compliance with ordinary regulations may be inadequate to ensure fire safety. Therefore,elements of a thorough hazard analysis of solid oxidizers are also presented.