Hazards of liquid hydrogen in research and development facilities

Author / Creator

Von Elbe, Guenther, author

Available as

Online

Summary

The objective of this report was to establish the hazards associated with the use of liquid hydrogen in research and development facilities, and to review the applicable techniques of hazard preven...

The objective of this report was to establish the hazards associated with the use of liquid hydrogen in research and development facilities, and to review the applicable techniques of hazard prevention and control. For this, physical and chemical properties of hydrogen are summarized with emphasis on these properties to combustion and detonation processes. This information was collected from the experiences and practices in numerous facilities. Hazards are: possible pressure rupture of containers, intiation of flammable mixtures formed by release of hydrogen due to vessel failure or other causes, and the explosion of hydrogen and contaminating oxygen under cryogenic conditions. Theory of chemical reaction provides a complete understanding of the combustion and detonation characteristics of hydrogen-oxygen systems necessary to define chemical and physical requirements to inhibit and control combustion and detonation. Experience and practice in research and development facilities were analyzed and general safety procedures have been suggested, with subjects that warrant further investigation have been determined.

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