Acetic acid leak in La Porte, TX - what are some chemicals you keep on your radar?
Sounds like there are two confirmed fatalities so far. Always heartbreaking to read this stuff. Here’s a link to the article: https://www.cnn.com/2021/07/27/us/texas-chemical-leak-lyondellbasell/index.html
What struck me was that acetic acid was the culprit, a chemical present in household vinegar. I’m assuming the dangers are far greater at higher percentages, but still surprising to me. I wanted to see if anyone has any chemicals onsite that people perceive as innocent but could still cause serious injury? Liquid nitrogen is one I’ve worked with in the past that fits this description.
Comments (2)
Acetic acid sold for cleaning is only 6% strength (mostly water). Glacial acetic acid is greater than 99% acetic acid. The release could have been anywhere in between and could have been very hot. I couldn’t find specific info on the current manufacturing method.
Anything can be dangerous if high pressure or temperature is involved. Hydraulic hoses for example.