Can Gasoline Vapor in Sewers Lead to Explosions?

[Arjan.]

Hi,

i need to know something about the explosion risk of gasoline. I have to assess the risks of gasoline leaking into a sewer. They say the vapor can cause explosions.

I looked up some facts, but i can't find the answer.

1) Here's the data
temperature: 2 to 10°C
explosion boundaries of gasoline (in volume% with air): 0,6 - 8
vaporpressure of gasoline at 20 °C: 50-400 mbar
relative mass of air saturated with gasoline at 20°C (air = 1) : 1,15

2) Question: Can gasoline vapor explode in these conditions? What will be the % of gasoline in the air?
If it doesn't explode under these conditions, under what conditions will it explode?

 

[Bob S]

Gasoline vapors are aways an explosion hazard, especially in confined areas. In cases where there is no or little air motion, gasoline vapors will settle to low areas, because its GMW (gram molecular weight) is ~>100 vs. air = 29. Cars with gasoline tanks in garages are considered safe if gas or oil furnaces are mounted on raised structures.
Bob S

 

[sir-pinski]

Based on the data provided, it is possible for gasoline vapor to explode under these conditions. The explosion boundaries of gasoline are between 0.6-8% volume with air, and the relative mass of air saturated with gasoline at 20°C is 1.15. This means that if the concentration of gasoline vapor in the air exceeds 0.6-8%, it can lead to an explosion.

To calculate the exact percentage of gasoline in the air, we would need to know the volume of the space where the gasoline is leaking and the amount of gasoline being leaked. However, it is important to note that even a small amount of gasoline vapor can be dangerous and potentially lead to an explosion.

Other factors that can contribute to the risk of explosion include the temperature and vapor pressure of the gasoline. In this case, the temperature is relatively low (2-10°C) which may decrease the likelihood of an explosion. However, the vapor pressure of gasoline at 20°C is between 50-400 mbar which is high enough to potentially create an explosive mixture.

It is important to take precautions and prevent any gasoline from leaking into a sewer, as it can create an explosive environment. Proper ventilation and safety protocols should be followed when handling gasoline to minimize the risk of explosion.