Flammable organic solvents
Many organic solvents can cause fires or even explode if not handled properly. Once the mixture of solvent and air burns, it spreads rapidly. The firepower can ignite flammable objects instantly. If it catches fire in a place with sufficient oxygen (such as caused by the leak of oxygen cylinder), the firepower is stronger and can make some non-flammable substances burn. When the flammable organic solvent vapor is mixed with air and reaches a certain concentration range, it may even explode. When using flammable organic solvents, pay attention to the following:
- Place containers of flammable liquids on the lower reagent rack.
- Keep the container tightly closed and only open the lid of the closed container when pouring the liquid.
Flammable organic solvents should be used in a well-ventilated place (such as a fume hood) without a source of ignition, but be careful not to use too much.
- When storing flammable solvents, the amount stored should be kept as small as possible so as not to pose a hazard.
- When heating flammable liquids, it is best to use an oil bath or water bath instead of an open flame.
- When using flammable organic solvents, special attention should be paid to the use temperature and experimental conditions.
- Combustion of a mixture of chemical gas and air can cause an explosion (for example, the energy released by the combustion of 3.25 grams of acetone gas is equivalent to 10 grams of explosives), so the combustion experiment must be performed with caution.
- During use, be alert to the following common fire sources: open flame (Bunsen burner, welding torch, oil lamp, fireplace, ignition, matches), sparks (power switch, friction), heat source (electric heating plate, filament, electric heating mantle, oven, heat dissipation appliances, removable heaters, cigarettes), electrostatic charges.
