Alcohols flammable range

Only the first step differs from the tertiary butyl alcohol conversion scheme. It has given rise to considerable research, particularly by Asahi, Dow, Japan Catalytic, Kureha, Mitsubishi, Montedison, Nippon Kayaku, Nippon Zeon, Sohio, Toyo Soda Ube, etc. It takes place in the vapor phase, between 300 and 40O°C, at 0.1 to 0.5 Pa absolute in the presence of a fixed bed of unsupported mixed oxides based on molybdenum, bismuth, tellurium and various additives. To avoid the flammability range, the isobutene and air feed must be diluted with nitrogen and possibly steam. With a residence time of 2 to 3 s, once-through conversion is better than 95 per cent and the molar yield of methacrolein is up to 85 to 90 per cent... 

There are seven hydrocarbon-derivative families whose primary hazard is flammability (see Chapter 2, Figure 2.63) alkyl halide, amine, ether, alcohol, ketone, aldehyde, and ester. The alkyl halides, amines, and ethers are nonpolar. The ethers, alcohols, and aldehydes are polar and have wide flammable ranges. Some organic acids are flammable inorganic acids do not bum. However, flammability is not the primary hazard of most organic acids. They will be discussed in detail in Chapter 10. 

Worker safety issues are important when handling any organic solvent. Written procedures that follow the MSDS guidelines are recommended for all workers who handle any of the ester solvents. Workers must remember that all of the esters have flash points as listed in the physical property tables. The vapors which are heavier than air can travel considerable distance to an ignition source and flashback. The esters also create a special fire hazard because the solvents float on water. The use of carbon dioxide or dry chemical is recommended for small fires and alcohol-aqueous film-forming foam or water fog for large fires. Water may be ineffective but can be used to cool fire-exposed structures and vessels. All of the solvents have a limited flammability range... 

Flammable Range Animal and Vegetable Oils Fire-Extingnishing Agents Flydrocarbons Flydrocarbon Derivatives Alkyl Halide Amines Ethers Alcohol Isomers Ketone Aldehyde Esters... 

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