Quantifying Static Electricity Hazard with High Explosives

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the hazards associated with static electricity in the handling and storage of explosive materials, specifically in the context of fireworks. Participants explore the risks of static buildup in relation to the materials used for storage and the precautions taken during handling.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the safety of storing explosives in plastic containers due to the potential for static electricity buildup that could lead to detonation.
  • Another participant emphasizes the importance of consulting established codes for the manufacture of fireworks, suggesting that such guidelines are crucial for safety.
  • Concerns are raised about the lack of antistatic measures observed in a referenced video, including the absence of antistatic wrist straps and appropriate clothing.
  • Further commentary suggests that the observed practices in the video could be dangerously negligent, implying a risk to safety.
  • Links to resources on "Intrinsic Safety" and "Explosion Proof" standards are provided as potentially useful references for understanding safety measures.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the safety practices observed in the handling of explosives, with some agreeing on the importance of safety codes while others highlight specific concerns about current practices. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the adequacy of the precautions taken.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference specific safety codes and standards without providing detailed information, and there is uncertainty regarding the effectiveness of the observed safety measures in the video.

chemisthypnos
In the making of firework explosives, the explosive mixtures are handled with great care to avoid static electricity induced detonation of the explosives. Is it a good idea that they store the explosives in a plastic container - isn't there a risk of static buildup that could detonate the explosives?
 
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There are detailed codes for the manufacture of fireworks. I urge you to consult those rather than ask strangers on the Internet.

Sorry, But I don't have a link to the code.
 
I was surprised at a few thing in the video... No antistatic wrist straps? Man wearing a sweatshirt made of ?? rather than an antistatic overall?
 
CWatters said:
I was surprised at a few thing in the video... No antistatic wrist straps? Man wearing a sweatshirt made of ?? rather than an antistatic overall?
Yeah, no kidding. Darwin Award applicant in the making, IMO.

@chemisthypnos -- Here are a few links you may find useful ("Intrinsic Safety" and "Explosion Proof"):

http://www.transcat.com/media/pdf/cordex-is-explosion-proof.pdf (includes some standards)

https://www.oleumtech.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/AN-1039-001-AN-OleumTech-IS-vs-XP.pdf

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Intrinsic_safety

anorlunda said:
There are detailed codes for the manufacture of fireworks. I urge you to consult those rather than ask strangers on the Internet.
Good advice. :smile:
 

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