Application of different sodium salts in inhibiting benzoyl peroxide dust explosion: The commonality and uniqueness of inhibition mechanisms

Background

Carbonates have been recognized as effective materials for inhibiting gas and dust explosions, while phase change hydrates have been proposed to have potential applications in the field of explosion inhibition.

Method

Using a 20 L spherical explosion test system, the inhibition effects of sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO₃) and trisodium phosphate dodecahydrate (Na₃PO₄·12H₂O, TPD) on the benzoyl peroxide dust explosion were evaluated, and the commonality and uniqueness of their inhibition mechanisms were revealed through thermodynamic analysis and numerical calculations of chemical reaction kinetics.

Significant results

The P_max and (dP/dt)_max of benzoyl peroxide explosion significantly decreased after adding NaHCO₃ or TPD, but there are significant differences in the inhibition law. The commonality of inhibition mechanisms is reflected in physical inhibition effects (heat absorption and heat transfer obstruction) and chemical inhibition effects (consuming key free radicals). The uniqueness of the inhibition mechanism depends on the thermal decomposition process behavior of the inhibitors. The TPD with high endothermic enthalpy of phase transition heat absorption effectively reduce the accumulation of heat in the explosion reaction system, and macroscopically exhibit better explosion inhibition effect than NaHCO₃. This work provide a reference for the application of hydrated salts in the prevention and control of organic dust explosion disasters.