A large number of chemical products are synthesized using batch processes.
Multi-step synthesis reactions are being performed in a multipurpose plant
environment, using relatively simple production facilities. Although
developing inherent safe processes should always be the starting point, often
this cannot be realized. Therefore, a critical aspect in the development of
any chemical process is the early identification of potential hazards
associated with the process.
The assessment of thermal risks in chemical reactions is difficult, merely
because it involves various skills and disciplines.
Related skills and disciplines
Process design: The mode of operation of a chemical process is
particularly important in the risk-determining factor. Operating processes in
a batch-wise manner in which all reactants are charged initially is obviously
more difficult to control than a semi-batch or continuous process in which
reactants are charged in a more progressive way
Engineering: Assessing the potential risk via preventive and protective
measures and the right choice of it, requires knowledge about design, layout
of the plant and equipment and built-in controls etc. Heating/cooling capacity
and possible gas/vapour releases are especially important in this context.
Chemistry: The nature of the process and the behaviour of the chemicals
involved must be known and understood, not only under normal plant operation
but also in the case of a mal function or process deviations (e.g. over/under
dosing, contaminants, possibility of side reactions, instability etc.)
Physical chemistry: The reaction kinetics of a chemical reaction and
the thermo-physical properties of the reaction mass are of primary importance
for any risk assessment.
In assessing the overall process safety of chemical processes, identifying and
quantifying the thermal hazards is one of the crucial areas that one needs to
address. Therefore, the availability of thermo-analytical data about the
chemical process, to support such studies is vital. At DSM Resolve, a broad
spectrum of instrumental facilities/expertise is available to provide all the
required thermal data ranging from the thermal stability of materials, the
household of desired and secondary reaction, vent-sizing to explosion
parameters:
1. experimental testing of the flammability of dust,
liquid, vapor and gases
2. explosibility testing of dust
3.
investigation of exothermic reactions and decompositions
4. testing
thermal stability and reactivity of materials
Experimental testing can be expanded with professional advice.
Besides
the described test facilities, we also offer a live demonstration called
Exelect, which is an overall presentation of all aspects concerning explosion
safety.
