Seminar: 9/05/08 - Runaway Reactions: Examples, Whys, and Controls

Department of Chemical Engineering
West Virginia University

Seminar

Runaway Reactions: Examples, Whys, and Controls

Ronald J. Willey
Department of Chemical Engineering
Northeastern University
Boston, MA


ABSTRACT

Runaway reactions typically involve batch reactors processing an exothermic reaction mixture in which external cooling cannot keep up with the heat being generated. Often, a gas is generated as a by-product, and in a closed batch reactor pressure can build within. If the pressure exceeds the relief system pressure rating, a release of a hazard chemical can result. Even worse, if the pressure exceeds the vesselâ??s pressure rating, an explosion results. Three examples of industrial accidents due to runaway reactions will be presented (Seveso, Bhopal, and Sauget). The Arrhenius relationship is the underlying principle for runaways: as the reactants get hotter, they react faster, and gas pressure builds rapidly. Various controls include relief systems, and consideration of inherently safer approaches.

Friday, September 05, 2008 9:30am - 10:45am
Room 401, Engineering Sciences Building
Refreshments served at 9:15 am

Questions or Directions call: 304-293-2111, ext. 2418.

09/05/2008