Why Does Compressing Hydrogen Increase Explosion Risks?

In summary, the conversation discusses the risks associated with compressing hydrogen and how it can lead to explosions. The compression of any gas increases the chances of an explosion, as the higher the pressure, the more energy is released. This is because the container holding the compressed gas may fail, causing a rapid release of pressure. Additionally, if the released hydrogen comes in contact with a flammable substance, it can cause a secondary explosion. It is important to consider the safety precautions and containment measures when dealing with compressed hydrogen.
  • #1
Pranav Jha
141
1
It is repeatedly mentioned that "compressing hydrogen carries a significant risk of explosion"?. But why does compression of hydrogen carry explosion risk? Is it true for all gases?
 
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  • #2
Do we somehow increase the chances of "explosion" (defining the term while explaining would be helpful) by compressing a gas?
 
  • #3
Hydrogen by itself isn't explosive, but compressed oxygen with anything that is flammable or oxygen compressed with another flammable gas can be explosive.
 
  • #4
What role does "compression" play here?
 
  • #5
I meant how does compression go on to increase the chance of explosion?
 
  • #6
Pranav Jha said:
I meant how does compression go on to increase the chance of explosion?

The more highly compressed the hydrogen is the more will be required of its containment vessel. Given the same vessel a higher pressure will be more likely to breach the vessel. In addition, the higher the pressure, the more energy is released, the more likely the uncontrolled release will cause damage, injury, death, etc...

An explosion is a rapid release of pressure. In the case of a chemical bomb the pressure is produced by the chemical reaction and released because it's container (if it has one) is designed to fail at a certain pressure. In the case of compressed hydrogen the pressure results from the compressor which put it into the storage tank, the release happens if the container fails for some reason (impact, rust, overpressure, etc...)

Once the hydrogen is released there is a secondary danger that it will catch fire causing a much higher quantity of destructive energy to be released. The more hydrogen you start with the larger area it will expand into before it becomes to diluted to burn. The larger area offers a higher probability of it finding a source of ignition.
 
  • #7

1. What is compression?

Compression is the process of reducing the volume of a substance by applying pressure. This results in the molecules being forced closer together, increasing their density and reducing the amount of space they occupy.

2. How does compression affect gases?

Compression affects gases by decreasing the distance between gas molecules, causing them to collide more frequently. This leads to an increase in temperature and pressure, and can even result in the gas changing state into a liquid or solid.

3. What is an explosion?

An explosion is a sudden, violent release of energy that results in a rapid expansion of gases. This can be caused by a chemical reaction, combustion, or a sudden release of pressure, and can have destructive effects on its surroundings.

4. How does an explosion occur?

An explosion occurs when there is a buildup of energy in a confined space, causing a rapid and violent release of that energy. This can be triggered by a number of factors such as heat, light, or shock waves from other explosions.

5. What are some real-world applications of compression and explosion?

Compression and explosion have a wide range of practical applications, such as in engines where the compression of fuel and air leads to an explosion that powers the vehicle. They are also used in industrial processes such as mining and demolition, as well as in weapons and fireworks. Additionally, compression is an important concept in the study of gases and their behavior.

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