Explosion fundamentals accidental

The risk to the public during consumer end use of hydrogen derives from the possibility of accidental fire and explosion, a direct consequence of the physical and chemical properties of hydrogen. These properties help to define the kinds of safety issues that must be addressed, the fundamental design goals for hydrogen systems, and the operational limitations of these systems. Table 9-1 summarizes the properties of hydrogen in contrast with those of other commonly used fuels. 

There are two fundamental modes of release for a chemical to the environment routine or accidental. Routine emissions are those which are expected to occur and are frequently the subject of a permit or control procedures. Accidental emissions are much more difficult to quantify since they are usually isolated occurrences and can range from minor leaks in a process unit to spills or explosions. The materials balance process most thoroughly describes the routine releases. 

---