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A technical-safety evaluation of the detonation effects of pyrotechnic compositions can be performed on the basis of TNT/PETN equivalence. The equivalence determination can be carried out by characterization of the blast wave generated because of detonation in free field tests, which however can be highly resource intensive and prone to uncertainties. Here, we present underwater ‘small-scale’ experiments for the determination of such equivalents.
Underwater experiments, as described in the European standard EN 13763-15:2004, are performed to test the capability of detonators to initiate secondary explosives by determining the released energy. At BAM this test was modified to compare the energy output of the pyrotechnic mixtures (those used in air bag gas generators and firework flash compositions) and thus to determine their equivalents of high explosives like TNT or PETN. In the modified tests, small cylindrical copper containers were filled with pyrotechnic substances, which were then attached to standard detonators. This explosive charge assembly was then lowered into a water tank of about 1000 l capacity. At the same depth as the charge assembly, a piezoelectric pressure sensor was immersed in the water at a horizontal distance of about 400 mm from the charge. By recording the time-dependent pressure during the test, the shock energy as well as the energy associated with the expanding gas bubble were determined.
Benefits of Digitization
(2023)
This presentation gives a brief overview on the current situation of fireworks safety and security on the EU market, outlines the current standardization request of the European Commission with new and more stringent requirements and gives a perspective to further challenges for fireworks in Europe.
Classification tests (UN 6a and 6c) of firework batteries and composite fireworks in metal wire cages were presented. The cages are intended to be used during transport to prevent the occurrence of projections in the event of a fire. However, the results of this investigation showed that, particularly in the case of articles with whistle effects packed in this way, confinement phenomena occurred that lead to mass explosions and must be considered in future classification.
A steel pipeline segment of 2.5 m length was subjected to quasi-static four-point bending load in three steps for studying the initial cracking and damage accumulation based on the Acoustic Emission (AE) technique and by the direct current potential drop (DCPD) technique. For the latter, a new post-test analysis method was established.
AE is found more sensitive to crack initiation than DCPD. Formation of mesoscopic and macroscopic cracks as well as their closure and the resulting friction generate weighted peak frequencies below 400 kHz, whereas microscopic cracking produces AE with broad band spectra identifiable by weighted peak frequencies above 400 kHz. Critical states alike the maximum load level and the leak opening were accompanied by peak amplitudes above 85 dBAE. This rather fundamental study provides a data base for possibly developing advanced strategies of detection and alarm systems based on acoustic monitoring of pipelines, or at least, steel structures.
Präsentation zum geplanten BAM-Forschungsvorhaben ("Safe transport of stabilized polymerizing substances: Investigation on the degradation of selected stabilizers"), bezogen auf den sicheren Transport (Straße, See) von polymerisierenden Substanzen. Der Schwerpunkt liegt dabei auf den systematischen Untersuchungen - mittels Thermal Activity Monitor (TAM IV) - zum zeitlichen Abbau des Stabilisators bei der Polymerisation sowie auf der Bestimmung der entsprechenden volumenabhängigen selbstbeschleunigenden Polymerisation (SAPT).
Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) may be used to avoid testing for explosive and self-reactive properties according to the legal regulations of chemicals substances and dangerous goods.
Demonstrated measured exothermic decomposition energy value significantly affected by numerous factors - choice of sample vessel, sample mass, baseline shape, peak shape, heating rate.
The efficient design of hypergolic-ionic-liquid (HIL) fuels with attractive features, (e.g., short ignition delay and high specific impulse) can be achieved by fine-tuning the molecular organization comprising both cations with appropriate alkyl chains and cyanoborohydride-based hydrogen-rich anions. Attractive features of the presented derivatives were attained by combining cations with various substituents (substituted 1H-1,2,4-triazol-4-ium, pyrrolidinium, ammonium and pyridinium cations) and the cyanoborohydride anion. All shown HILs display high thermal stabilities with thermal decomposition temperatures over 154 °C and possess higher densities (from 0.82 to 1.02 g cm−3) compared to the unsymmetrical dimethylhydrazine (UDMH, 0.793 g cm−3). The hypergolic ignition behavior of the propellant combination was evaluated by a drop test setup using white fuming nitric acid (WFNA) as an oxidizer and recorded using a high-speed camera. All compounds feature ignition delay times (ID) under 50 ms, while the 1-hexyl-1-methylpyrrolidin-1-ium cyanotrihydroborate congener (17) exhibited the shortest ID time (5 ms), which is comparable to the ID time of UDMH (4.8 ms with WFNA as an oxidizer). In addition, these HILs exhibit higher heats of formation (187.6 to 392.6 kJ mol−1), heats of combustion (34.39 to 47.15 kJ g−1) and specific impulse (176 to 205 s) compared to UDMH.
Self-reactive substances are unstable chemical substances which can easily decompose and may lead to explosion in transport, storage, or process situations. For this reason, their thermal stability properties are required to assess possible process safety issues and for classification purpose. In this study, the first quantitative structure–property relationships (QSPR) dedicated to this class of compounds were developed to predict the heat of decomposition of possible self-reactive substances from their molecular structures. The database used to develop and validate the models was issued from a dedicated experimental campaign on 50 samples using differential scanning calorimetry in homogeneous experimental conditions. QSPR models were derived using the GA-MLR methods (using a genetic algorithm and multi-linear regressions) using molecular descriptors calculated by Dragon software based on two types of inputs: 3D molecular structures determined using the density functional theory (DFT), allowing access to three-dimensional descriptors, and from SMILES codes, favoring the access to simpler models, requiring no preliminary quantum chemical calculations. All models respected the OECD validation guidelines for regulatory ac
ceptability of QSPR models. They were tested by internal and external validation tests and their applicability domains were defined and analyzed.
The production of materials with dimensions in the nanometre range has continued to increase in recent years. In order to ensure safety when handling these products, the hazard potential of such innovative materials must be known. While several studies have already investigated the effects of explosions (such as maximum explosion pressure and maximum pressure rise) of powders with primary particles in the nanometre range, little is known about the ignition temperatures and flame velocities. Therefore, the minimum ignition temperature (MIT) of metallic nano powders (aluminium, iron, copper and zinc) was determined experimentally in a so called Godbert-Greenwald (GG) oven. Furthermore, the flame velocities were determined in a vertical tube. In order to better classify the test results, the tested samples were characterised in detail and the lower explosion limits of the tested dust samples were determined. Values for the burning velocity of aluminium nano powders are higher compared to values of micrometre powders (from literature). While MIT of nanometre aluminium powders is within the range of micrometre samples, MIT of zinc and copper nano powders is lower than values reported in literature for respective micrometre samples.
The production of materials with dimensions in the nanometre range has continued to increase in recent years. In order to ensure safety when handling these products, the hazard potential of such innovative materials must be known. While several studies have already investigated the effects of explosions (such as maximum explosion pressure and maximum pressure rise) of powders with primary particles in the nanometre range, little is known about the ignition temperatures and flame velocities. Therefore, the minimum ignition temperature (MIT) of metallic nano powders (aluminium, iron, copper and zinc) was determined experimentally in a so called Godbert-Greenwald (GG) oven. Furthermore, the flame velocities were determined in a vertical tube. In order to better classify the test results, the tested samples were characterised in detail and the lower explosion limits of the tested dust samples were determined. Values for the burning velocity of aluminium nano powders are higher compared to values of micrometre powd
ers (from literature). While MIT of nanometre aluminium powders is within the range of micrometre samples, MIT of zinc and copper nano powders is lower than values reported in literature for respective micrometre samples.
Self-reactive substances are unstable chemical substances which can easily decompose and may lead to explosion. For this reason, their thermal stability properties are required within regulatory frameworks related to chemicals in order to assess their hazardous properties. Due to the fast development and availability of computers, predictive approaches like QSPR models are increasingly used in the evaluation process of hazardous substances complementary to experiments.
In that context, the HAZPRED project (2015-2018) aimed to develop QSPR models to predict physical hazards of substances to fill the lack of knowledge on these hazardous substances quickly.
An experimental campaign, based on 50 samples provided by Industrial producers, was carried out on potential self-reactive substances, for which no QSPR model already existed. Their heats of decomposition were characterized using differential scanning calorimetry in homogeneous experimental conditions.
QSPR models were derived using the GA-MLR method (using a genetic algorithm and multi-linear regressions) using molecular descriptors calculated by Dragon software based on both 3D molecular structures from density functional theory (DFT) optimizations, to access three-dimensional descriptors, and SMILES codes, favoring the access to simpler models, requiring no preliminary quantum chemical calculations. All models respected the OECD validation guidelines for regulatory acceptability of QSPR models. They were tested by internal and external validation tests and their applicability domains were defined and analyzed.
If improved models should be expected with larger database (and a better ratio between size and chemical diversity), these first models already represent a screening tool capable to access early reactive hazards.
Organic peroxide and self-reactive are classified into seven types according to their hazards. In order to determine the substance type, it is necessary to determine the properties based on test methods. The types range from type A, which is not accepted for transport in the packing in which it is tested, to type G, which is exempted from the provisions for organic peroxides or self-reactive substances.
The publicly available document encapsulates the first version of the Catalogue of Services of the future EC4Safenano Centre (CoS 2019).
The CoS 2019 is structured in 12 Service Categories and 27 Service Topics, for each of the 12 categories considered. This architecture configures a 12 x 27 matrix that allows ordering the potential EC4Safenano offer in 324 types of services/groups of services.
Each type of service/group of services is described, in a simple and friendly way, by means of a specific service sheet: the EC4Safenano - Service Data Sheet (EC4-SDS). These EC4-SDSs allow structuring and summarizing the information of each service, providing the customer with a concise view of characteristics of the service and also the contact details with the service provider.
The CoS 2019 deploys a map of services consisting of a set of 100 EC4-SDSs, covering 7 of the 12 Service Categories and 17 of the 27 Service Topics.
The harmonization of services is visualized as a future necessary step in EC4Safenano, in order to strengthen the offer and provide added value to customers with a growing offer of harmonized services in future versions of the CoS.
The information contained in this document is structured in 3 main sections, as follows:
• Catalogue structure. This section describes in short the main characteristics of the CoS 2019.
• Catalogue content. This section represents the core part of the document and encapsulates the set of 100 SDSs displaying the offer proposed by the CoS 2019.
• Online Catalogue. This section describes the resources implemented by EC4Safenano to facilitate the on-line consultation of the CoS 2019 by customers and other interested parties.
As more industrial interests focusing on using salt caverns and repurposed gas or petroleum reservoirs for alternative fuel storage, i.e. CO2/H2, the question raises whether microorganisms may impact the infrastructure, gas purity and storage condition over time.
Environments with high salinity (> 1.5 Meq of NaCl) are resided by halophiles (salt-loving microorganisms). To compensate for the intensive osmotic stress, they have resorted to two main adaptation strategies: 1) production of compatible solutes and 2) accumulation of intracellular KCl. Microbial community analysis of several high salinity environments revealed a number of recurring genera, including Halomonas and Halanaerobium. However, the impact of halophiles on the overall integrity and stability of the storage facilities remain largely unknown.
To evaluate the suitability and stability of saline storage facilities, several model halophilic microorganisms, such as members of Halomonas, will be selected as testing subjects. First, the impact of halophiles on the infrastructure will be determined using an integrative approach by combining a number of techniques, including electrochemistry, TOF-SIMS, SEM/FIB/EDS and FIB-TEM. Second, the abilities of halophiles to alter the fuel composition (i.e. increase/decrease the fractions of H2) will be monitored using gas chromatography by growing them under high pressure.
As a result of climate change and the accompanying mandatory shift to renewable energy resources, microorganisms will continue to play an important role in the energy sector, both to their benefit and detriment. Thus, it is important to achieve a certain level of understanding regarding the activities and mechanisms of halophiles prior to large-scaled excursions.
In this study, experimental determination and modelling investigations for the explosion regions of 1,3-dioxolane/inert gas/N2O and 1,3-dioxolane/inert gas/air mixtures were carried out and compared. The experimental measurements were carried out at 338 K and atmospheric pressure according to EN1839 method T using the inert gases N2, CO2, He and Ar. The results showed that the ratio of the lower explosion limit in N2O (LELN2O) to the lower explosion limit in air (LELair) is 0.52 and the ratio of the maximum oxygen content in air (MOCair) to the limiting oxidizer fraction in nitrous oxide (LOFN2O) is 0.36 ± 0.02 independent of the inert gas. When comparing the inert gas amount at the apex based on the pure oxidizing component, which is O2 in case of air, N2O-containing mixtures need less inert gas to reach the limiting oxidizer quantity whereas the efficiency of inert gases is in the same order. The coefficients of nitrogen equivalency however were found to differ to some extent. The explosion regions of 1,3-dioxolane/inert gas/oxidizer mixtures were modelled using the calculated adiabatic flame temperature profile (CAFTP) method as well as corrected adiabatic flame temperatures. The results indicate good agreement with experimental data for CO2, N2 and Ar- containing mixtures. The noticeable deviations that occur when He is the inert gas are due to the lacking transport data of that mixture.
Laboratory test results are of vital importance for correctly classifying and labelling chemicals as “hazardous” as defined in the UN Globally Harmonized System (GHS) / EC CLP Regulation or as “dangerous goods” as defined in the UN Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods. Interlaboratory tests play a decisive role in assessing the reliability of laboratory test results. Interlaboratory tests performed over the last 10 years have examined different laboratory test methods. After analysing the results of these interlaboratory tests, the following conclusions can be drawn:
1. There is a need for improvement and validation for all laboratory test methods examined.
2. To avoid any discrepancy concerning the classification and labelling of chemicals, the use of validated laboratory test methods should be state of the art, with the results accompanied by the measurement uncertainty and (if applicable) the probability of incorrect classification.
This paper addresses the probability of correct/incorrect classification (for example, as dangerous goods) on the basis of the measurement deviation obtained from interlaboratory tests performed by the Centre for quality assurance for testing of dangerous goods and hazardous substances (CEQAT-DGHS) to validate laboratory test methods. This paper outlines typical results (e.g. so-called “Shark profiles” – the probability of incorrect classification as a function of the true value estimated from interlaboratory test data) as well as general conclusions and steps to be taken to guarantee that laboratory test results are fit for purpose and of high quality.
According to UN Test O.2, surprisingly, the polychlorosilanes hexachlorodisilane (HCDS), octachlorotrisilane (OCTS) and decachlorotetrasilane (DCTS) formally fulfill the criteria of the “test for oxidizing liquids”. This result is in contrast to the properties of polychlorosilanes that are described in the literature and those we have experienced in our own production.
By investigating the reaction products from the UN O.2 test reactor, using IR, Raman and XPS spectroscopy, it was shown that the results are not due to oxidizing properties of HCDS, OCTS or DCTS, but are caused by the specified test substance cellulose. To our knowledge, this is the very first substance class in which the reference substance oxidizes the test sample, instead of vice versa. This represents an important limitation of the internationally used UN Test O.2 for this substance class. The cause for this false-positive result is the known high degree of affinity of oxygen to silicon.
It is shown that the correctly executed UN Test O.2 produces false-positive results and that the polychlorosilanes do not have an oxidizing effect and, therefore, do not have to be classified as “oxidizing substances”.
The presentation will give an overview of the testing required for physical hazards under the BPR and CLP Regulations (Regulation (EU) No 528/2012 and Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008), safety characteristics, actual Standards and the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria as well, the importance of quality assurance in testing and data reporting, and the testing and assessment strategies on topics that have been specifically asked by EU Member States.
This is a short review on ongoing work and interests in Division 2.6 of BAM with a focus on transport regulations and related testing. The behaviour of primer caps in different packaging configurations is addressed and the new apparatus for the "Minimum Burning Pressure" test is presented. Further topics regarding classification are touched with the aim to attract comments and stimulate cooperation internationally.
Laboratory test results are of vital importance for correctly classifying and labelling chemicals as “hazardous” as defined in the UN Globally Harmonized System (GHS) / EC CLP Regulation or as “dangerous goods” as defined in the UN Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods. Interlaboratory tests play a decisive role in assessing the reliability of laboratory test results. Interlaboratory tests performed over the last 10 years have examined different laboratory test methods. After analysing the results of these interlaboratory tests, the following conclusions can be drawn:
1. There is a need for improvement and validation for all laboratory test methods examined.
2. To avoid any discrepancy concerning the classification and labelling of chemicals, the use of validated laboratory test methods should be state of the art, with the results accompanied by the measurement uncertainty and (if applicable) the probability of incorrect classification.
This paper addresses the probability of correct/incorrect classification (for example, as dangerous goods) on the basis of the measurement deviation obtained from interlaboratory tests performed by the Centre for quality assurance for testing of dangerous goods and hazardous substances (CEQAT-DGHS) to validate laboratory test methods. This paper outlines typical results (e.g. so-called “Shark profiles” – the probability of incorrect classification as a function of the true value estimated from interlaboratory test data) as well as general conclusions and steps to be taken to guarantee that laboratory test results are fit for purpose and of high quality.
Predictive Methods for Determining the Thermal Decomposition Properties of Hazardous Substances
(2019)
Due to the fast development and availability of computers, predictive approaches are increasingly used in the evaluation process of hazardous substances complementary to experiments. Their use was recommended as alternative to experimental testing by the REACH regulation to complete the lack of knowledge on properties for existing substances that must be registered before 2018 (upon quantities). Among the proposed predictive approaches, Quantitative Structure Property Relationships (QSPR) are powerful methods to predict macroscopic properties from the only molecular structure of substances. In that context, the HAZPRED project (2015-2018, founded by the SAF€RA consortium) aims to develop theoretical models (e.g. QSPR) and small-scale tests to predict complex physico-chemical properties (e.g. thermal stability, explosivity) of hazardous substances to complete the lack of knowledge on these hazardous substances quickly or to understand their decomposition behaviour better. In particular, this contribution will present the work done in this project on the physical hazards of organic peroxides and self-reactive substances: gathering of existing experimental data, new experimental campaigns, review of existing models and proposition of new estimation methods.
The mixture of ammonium nitrate (AN) prills and fuel oil (FO), usually called ANFO, is extensively used in the mining industry as a bulk industrial explosive. One of the major performance predictors of ANFO mixtures is the fuel oil retention, which is itself governed by the porosity of the AN prills. Standardised tests routinely used to assess oil retention face several important limitations; the first being the difficulty to cover the wide range of porosity contents and morphologies from different types of ammonium nitrate prills; the second being the inability to evaluate the closed porosity, which is an important factor regarding the sensitivity of the explosive to detonation. In this study, we present how X-ray computed tomography (XCT), and the associated advanced data processing workflow, can be used to fully characterise the structure and morphology of AN prills. We show that structural parameters such as volume fraction of the different phases and morphological parameters such as specific surface area and shape factor can be reliably extracted from the XCT data, and that there is a good agreement with the measured oil retention values. XCT can therefore be employed to non-destructively and accurately evaluate and characterise porosity in ammonium nitrate prills.
Testing of hazardous materials and evaluating their hazardous properties concerning transport, handling or use is essential for the prevention of incidents. For this purpose, test methods have been developed and published that are used worldwide today (European Union, 2008, United Nations, 2019). For the evaluation of test results their correct measurement is of importance. On basis of the interlaboratory tests carried out by BAM and PTB within the framework of the CEQAT-DGHS in the last years, it is shown that there is a need for improvement in all the test methods examined so far. In addition to the interlaboratory tests further quality measures are mandatory (ISO, 2017). For example, methods for verifying the test equipment used in the laboratories should be developed.
The development of a verification method is demonstrated using the test method UN Test N.5 as an example. This test method is used to evaluate substances which in contact with water emit flammable gases. The basic principle of the verification method is demonstrated by Lüth et al. (2019). Requirements and difficulties during this development are discussed.
This test procedure UN Test N.5 has now been modified at BAM so that it is possible to measure very small or large amounts of both flammable and/or toxic gases over a long period of time in a validated and verified test apparatus, utilizing the principle of a gas collector. This allows us to determine slow as well as fast gas evolution rates. The determination of the evolution rates (e.g. total gas amount or flow rate) of toxic gases is of special interest because of the ongoing discussion how to evaluate and quantify toxic gases which are formed from a substance due to contact with water. Up today no validated test procedure for the measurement of evolution rates for toxic gases is described. It is shown that the newly modified test method could help to solve this problem.
The mixture of ammonium nitrate (AN) prills and fuel oil (FO), usually referred to as ANFO, is extensively used in the mining industry as a bulk explosive. One of the major performance predictors of ANFO mixtures is the fuel oil retention, which is itself governed by the complex pore structure of the AN prills. In this study, we present how X-ray computed tomography (XCT), and the associated advanced data processing workflow, can be used to fully characterise the structure and morphology of AN prills. We show that structural parameters such as volume fraction of the different phases and morphological parameters such as specific surface area and shape factor can be reliably extracted from the XCT data, and that there is a good agreement with the measured oil retention values. Importantly, oil retention measurements (qualifying the efficiency of ANFO as explosives) correlate well with the specific surface area determined by XCT. XCT can therefore be employed non-destructively; it can accurately evaluate and characterise porosity in ammonium nitrate prills, and even predict their efficiency.
Ammonium nitrate (AN) prills are commonly used as an ingredient in industrial explosives and in fertilisers. Conventional techniques (such as BET or mercury intrusion porosimetry) can measure the open porosity and specific surface area of AN prill, but the closed porosity is not obtainable. This work was focused on evaluating X-ray computed tomography (XCT) as a non-destructive technique for the assessment of porosity in AN prills. An advanced data processing workflow was developed so that the segmentation and quantification of the CT data could be performed on the entire 3D volume, yet allowing the measurements (e.g.; volume, area, shape factor…) to be extracted for each individual phase (prill, open porosity, closed porosity) of each individual prill, in order to obtain statistically relevant data. Clear morphological and structural differences were seen and quantified between fertiliser and explosive products. Overall, CT can provide a very wide range of parameters that are not accessible to other techniques, destructive or non-destructive, and thus offers new insights and complementary information.
Ammonium nitrate (AN) prills are commonly used as an ingredient in industrial explosives and in fertilisers. Conventional techniques (such as BET or mercury intrusion porosimetry) can measure the open porosity and specific surface area of AN prill, but the closed porosity is not obtainable. This work was focused on evaluating X-ray computed tomography (XCT) as a non-destructive technique for the assessment of porosity in AN prills. An advanced data processing workflow was developed so that the segmentation and quantification of the CT data could be performed on the entire 3D volume, yet allowing the measurements (e.g.; volume, area, shape factor…) to be extracted for each individual phase (prill, open porosity, closed porosity) of each individual prill, in order to obtain statistically relevant data. Clear morphological and structural differences were seen and quantified between fertiliser and explosive products. Overall, CT can provide a very wide range of parameters that are not accessible to other techniques, destructive or non-destructive, and thus offers new insights and complementary information.
Explosion and decomposition limits of flammable and chemically unstable gases were determined experimentally in a closed autoclave with an ignition energy higher than the standard 10 J a 20 J. The ignition source was a lightning arc caused by an exploding wire igniter as described in EN 1839 B. With a newly developed ignition system a graded ignition energy between 3 J and 1000 J was generated. Different types of gases were studied with this ignition system: methane as a typical fuel gas and reference gas for some standards for explosion limit determination, the refrigerant R32 (difluoromethane) as a mildly flammable gas with low burning velocity and high minimum ignition energy compared with methane as well as the chemical unstable gases acetylene, nitrous oxide and ethylene oxide, which can decompose explosively in the absence of air or other oxidizers. It was found that the influence of strong ignition sources on explosion and decomposition limits can be very different for different systems. In case of methane only the upper explosion limit was influenced significantly by the ignition energy, whereas the lower explosion limit was constant. In a standard test vessel with an inner volume of 14 dm3 it was difficult to quantify the upper explosion limit of methane exactly with the strong ignition source, because the explosion pressure did not increase abruptly near the explosion limit, but steadily over a large concentration range. Probably a larger explosion vessel is more appropriate in this case. In case of R32 however, it was the lower explosion limit that was influenced significantly by the ignition energy and not the upper explosion limit. A particularly strong dependency from the ignition energy was found for the decomposition limits of the chemically unstable gases in nitrogen. Here special regard is necessary in practical applications, if uncommonly strong ignition sources cannot be excluded.
CEQAT-DGHS Interlaboratory tests for method validation and measurement uncertainty determination
(2019)
An explosion in a chemical plant or a fire on a dangerous goods vessel - the reason for such accidents can be numerous. Prevention starts in the laboratory where chemicals are tested for their hazardous properties in order to be able to assess the risks involved in their handling. For this purpose, test methods have been developed and published. They are applied globally nowadays. Safety experts, manufacturers, suppliers, importers, employers or consumers must be able to rely on the validity of safety-related test methods and on correct test results and assessments in the laboratory.
Interlaboratory tests play a decisive role in assessing the reliability of test results. Participation in interlaboratory tests is not only a crucial element of the quality assurance of laboratories; as such it is explicitly recommended in DIN EN ISO/IEC 17025. In addition, interlaboratory tests are also used to develop and validate test methods and can be used for the determination of the measurement uncertainty.
Interlaboratory tests on different test methods have been performed by Bundesanstalt für Materialforschung und –prüfung (BAM) and Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB) in collaboration with the QuoData GmbH during the last 10 years. Significant differences between the results of the participating laboratories were observed in all interlaboratory tests. The deviations of the test results were not caused only by laboratory faults but also by deficiencies of the test method (see interlaboratory test reports of the CEQAT-DGHS Centre for quality assurance for testing of dangerous goods and hazardous substances: www.ceqat-dghs.bam.de).
In view of the interlaboratory test results the following conclusions can be drawn:
• To avoid any discrepancy on classification and labelling of chemicals it should become state of the art to use validated test methods and the results accompanied by the measurement uncertainty.
• A need for improvement is demonstrated for all examined test methods. Thus, interlaboratory tests shall initially aim at the development, improvement and validation of the test methods (including the determination of the measurement uncertainty) and not on proficiency tests.
• The laboratory management and the practical execution of the tests need to be improved in many laboratories.
• The term "experience of the examiner" must be seen critically: A "long experience with many tests" is not necessarily a guarantee for correct results.
CEQAT-DGHS Interlaboratory Test Programme for Chemical Safety - Need of Test Methods Validation -
(2019)
Safety experts, manufacturers, suppliers, importers, employers or consumers must be able to rely on the validity of safety-related test methods and on correct test results and assessments in the laboratory. Via the eChemPortal lots of data from the REACH registration dossiers are available. However, the quality and correctness of the information remains in the responsibility of the data submitter. Unfortunately, we found more or less appropriate information on physicochemical properties and concluded that more quality or adequacy of any data submitted will be needed.
Interlaboratory tests play a decisive role in assessing the reliability of test results. Interlaboratory tests on different test methods have been performed by Bundesanstalt für Materialforschung und –prüfung (BAM) and Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB) in collaboration with the QuoData GmbH during the last 10 years. Significant differences between the results of the participating laboratories were observed in all interlaboratory tests. The deviations of the test results were not caused only by laboratory faults but also by deficiencies of the test method.
In view of the interlaboratory test results the following conclusions can be drawn:
• To avoid any discrepancy on classification and labelling of chemicals it should become state of the art to use validated test methods and the results accompanied by the measurement uncertainty.
• A need for improvement is demonstrated for all examined test methods. Thus, interlaboratory tests shall initially aim at the development, improvement and validation of the test methods and not on proficiency tests.
• The laboratory management and the practical execution of the tests need to be improved in many laboratories.
• The term "experience of the examiner" must be seen critically: A "long experience with many tests" is not necessarily a guarantee for correct results.
Predictive Methods for Determining the Thermal Decomposition Properties of Hazardous Substances
(2019)
Due to the fast development and availability of computers, predictive approaches are increasingly used in the evaluation process of hazardous substances complementary to experiments. Their use was recommended as alternative to experimental testing by the REACH regulation to complete the lack of knowledge on properties for existing substances that must be registered before 2018 (upon quantities). Among the proposed predictive approaches, Quantitative Structure Property Relationships (QSPR) are powerful methods to predict macroscopic properties from the only molecular structure of substances.
In that context, the HAZPRED project (2015-2018, founded by the SAF€RA consortium) aims to develop theoretical models (e.g. QSPR) and small-scale tests to predict complex physico-chemical properties (e.g. thermal stability, explosivity) of hazardous substances to complete the lack of knowledge on these hazardous substances quickly or to understand their decomposition behaviour better.
In particular, this contribution will present the work done in this project on the physical hazards of organic peroxides and self-reactive substances: gathering of existing experimental data, new experimental campaigns, review of existing models and proposition of new estimation methods.
CEQAT-DGHS Interlaboratory Test Programme for Chemical Safety - Need of Test Methods Validation
(2019)
Safety experts, manufacturers, suppliers, importers, employers or consumers must be able to rely on the validity of safety-related test methods and on correct test results and assessments in the laboratory. Via the eChemPortal lots of data from the REACH registration dossiers are available. However, the quality and correctness of the information remains in the responsibility of the data submitter. Unfortunately, we found more or less appropriate information on physicochemical properties and concluded that more quality or adequacy of any data submitted will be needed.
Interlaboratory tests play a decisive role in assessing the reliability of test results. Interlaboratory tests on different test methods have been performed by Bundesanstalt für Materialforschung und –prüfung (BAM) and Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB) in collaboration with the QuoData GmbH during the last 10 years. Significant differences between the results of the participating laboratories were observed in all interlaboratory tests. The deviations of the test results were not caused only by laboratory faults but also by deficiencies of the test method.
In view of the interlaboratory test results the following conclusions can be drawn:
• To avoid any discrepancy on classification and labelling of chemicals it should become state of the art to use validated test methods and the results accompanied by the measurement uncertainty.
• A need for improvement is demonstrated for all examined test methods. Thus, interlaboratory tests shall initially aim at the development, improvement and validation of the test methods and not on proficiency tests.
• The laboratory management and the practical execution of the tests need to be improved in many laboratories.
• The term "experience of the examiner" must be seen critically: A "long experience with many tests" is not necessarily a guarantee for correct results.
Since the early drafting of the European standards for civil explosives, harmonised under directive 93/15/EEC and 2014/28/EU, blasting technology has developed notably. This is particularly evident for electronic detonators and electronic firing systems, and the EU commission agreed to initiate a standardisation initiative, also noting that the currently existing document on electronic detonators is “only” a Technical Specification (CEN/TS). This paper addresses the current activities in the area of standardisation. The EU is about to launch a formal standardisation request to cover the most recent technological developments not addressed by the current standards. The request would also include various adjustments of references to the new Directive for civil explosives, and in addition the task of developing a Technical Specification for on-site mixed explosives and corresponding manufacturing units. The latter has been included to address the nowadays frequently found mobile production on the basis of ammonium nitrate prills or emulsions.
Several decades have passed since the initial drafting of the European standards for explosives subject to European Directive 2014/28/EU, and this field as experienced some substantial technical innovations. While at the turn of the millenium the concept of electronic detonators had just been conceived, and it is mentioned in a Technical Specification, today electronic detonators exist in many variants, also regarding communication means between shotfirer and the detonating cap. Questions regarding safe functioning and prevention of inadvertent ignition have to be asked in a quite different way, where delicate electronic circuits are used, and where information is transmitted by radio waves. In addition, the safety of functioning is partly found in software components and the corresponding standards need to be reviewed thoroughly on these grounds.
A different but in recent times more and more popular technology, is the on-site production of explosives, being mostly emulsion explosives, ANFO, or combined products. Also here software in the machinery is starting to play an important role. The on-site produced explosive must fulfil safety requirements and has to be, in addition, quality controlled. This cannot solely be left to the hopefully proper design of the software and machinery, but needs to be made accessible to verification. Since this area seems broader in approach, it is not going to be addressed by a new standard. The state of the art technology shall be described in a Technical Specification with a perspective from requirements of the above mentioned European Directive.
The explosion regions of 1-propanol, 2-propanol, acetone and 1-butanol in air were measured in the presence of CO2, He, N2 and Ar in accordance with EN1839 method T at high temperatures and at atmospheric pressure. The experimental results show that 1-propanol, 2-propanol and acetone have very similar lower explosion limits (LELs). 1-Butanol shows a slightly wider explosion area near the LEL line. In addition, the explosion regions of all combustible/inert gas/air mixtures were calculated with the method of constant adiabatic flame temperature profiles (CAFTP), using the flame temperature profile along the explosion region boundary curve of each combustible/N2/air mixture as a reference to determine the explosion regions of combustible/inert gas/air mixtures with inert gases other than N2 at different initial temperatures. To calculate the explosion regions for systems containing He, the calculation method was modified to include the very different physical transport properties of He. Moreover, the procedure for calculating the apexes in the ternary explosion diagrams was modified. The calculation results show good agreement with the experimental results.
In this joint project, standardized measurement methods for hybrid
mixtures are developed, which serve to determine safety
characteristics for explosion protection.
A hybrid mixture is a multi-phase System consisting of fuel gas or
vapor, as well as air and flammable dust. This combination can occur
for instance in drying processes or during heterogenous reaction
processes.
Explosion and decomposition limits of flammable and chemically unstable gases were determined experimentally in a dosed autoclave with varying ignition energy up to 1000 J. The ignition source was a lightning arc caused by an exploding wire igniter as described in EN 1839 B .. In case of methane only the upper explosion limit was influenced significantly by the ignition energy, whereas the lower explosion limit was constant. In case of R32 however. it was the lower explosion limit that was influenced significantly by the ignition energy and not the upper explosion limit. A particularly strong dependency from the ignition energy was found for the decomposition limits of the chemically unstable gases in nitrogen.
The safety characteristics of flammable gases and liquids are required when identifying potentially explosive mixtures and taking appropriate actions concerning explosion protection. Examples are given here of the safe handling and evaluation of hazards during the processing, storage, transport, and disposal of flammable liquids and gases. The CHEMSAFE database is presented as a reliable source of safety characteristic data, and its new open-access version is introduced. CHEMSAFE currently contains assessed properties for about 3000 liquids, gases and mixtures. The lack of a broad experimental foundation in the extensive field of non-atmospheric conditions shows the need for further investigation and standardization. This article summarizes experimental evidence and estimation methods for safety characteristic data under non-atmospheric conditions pointing out current limitations. Suggestions for pre-normative research on safety data under non-atmospheric conditions are given.
Permitted explosives have a tradition of many decades in Germany and had been designed to the needs of the underground coal mining in the Ruhr. In neighboring countries of Germany similar provisions were made to prevent hazards from fire damp and coal dust explosions in underground coal mines. Due to the termination of coal mining in Germany and most other European countries, also the testing facilities are disappearing. This presentation outlines the current situation of testing regimes and facilities.
During a European convention of the authorities for market surveillance (AdCO) for explosives the activities of the notified bodies are presented, putting a focus on matters concerning market surveillance.
The presentation outlined in detail, which verifications are possible
with explosives, while practical tests involving initiation of
explosives are excluded. Elements of labeling and the conclusions in
view of quality control were explained, and typical failures by
manufacturers to comply were orally described.
Presentation of latest develeopements regarding conformity assessments of pyrotechnic articles within the forum of notified bodies according to article 37 of the EU Directive 2013/29/EU OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL of 12 June 2013 on the harmonisation of the laws of the Member States relating to the making available on the market of pyrotechnic articles (recast).
The safety characteristics of flammable gases and liquids are required when identifying potentially explosive mixtures and taking appropriate actions concerning explosion protection. Examples are given in this review of the safe handling and evaluation of hazards during the processing, storage, transport, and disposal of flammable liquids and gases. The CHEMSAFE database is presented as a reliable source of safety characteristic data, and ist new open-access version is introduced. CHEMSAFE currently contains assessed properties for about 3000 flammable liquids, gases and mixtures. The lack of a broad experimental foundation in the extensive field of non-atmospheric conditions shows the need for further investigation and standardization. This review summarizes experimental evidence and estimation methods for safety characteristic data under non-atmospheric conditions pointing out current limitations. Suggestions for pre-normative research on safety data under nonatmospheric conditions are given.
The safety characteristics of flammable gases and liquids are required when identifying potentially explosive mixtures and taking appropriate actions concerning explosion protection. Examples are given in this review of the safe handling and evaluation of hazards during the processing, storage, transport, and disposal of flammable liquids and gases. The CHEMSAFE database is presented as a reliable source of safety characteristic data, and ist new open-access version is introduced. CHEMSAFE currently contains assessed properties for about 3000 flammable liquids, gases and mixtures. The lack of a broad experimental foundation in the extensive field of non-atmospheric conditions shows the need for further investigation and standardization. This review summarizes experimental evidence and estimation methods for safety characteristic data under non-atmospheric conditions pointing out current limitations. Suggestions for pre-normative research on safety data under nonatmospheric conditions are given.
Testing of the impact sensitivity of explosives is one of the essential characterisation steps in a safety study. Threshold levels have been agreed from experience for certain processing steps and in relation to handling instructions. However, how reliable is the information, that an explosive has an impact sensitivity of X Joule? This will partly depend on the judgement of the test operator, but also on the statistical method, and on the energetic parameters of the test apparatus. This work focuses on the mechanical performance of the BAM-Fallhammer and how much of the initially available potential energy is transferred to the sample. The differences to the nominal value can be quite large under some conditions. Therefore the energy loss has to be characterised and should possibly be taken into account. In addition an attempt is made, to make results more comparable when the amount of energy loss has been determined by a method shown in the presentation.