A chemical fire is a fire that is caused by the combustion of a chemical. Chemical fires can be very dangerous, as they can release toxic fumes and gases. They can also be difficult to extinguish, as the chemicals involved may react with water or other extinguishing agents.
Some common chemicals that can cause fires include:
- Fuels: Gasoline, diesel, kerosene, propane, and butane
- Solvents: Acetone, benzene, toluene, and xylene
- Acids: Sulfuric acid, nitric acid, and hydrochloric acid
- Bases: Sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, and calcium hydroxide
- Oxidizers: Ammonium nitrate, potassium chlorate, and perchlorate
Chemical fires can be started by a number of different things, including:
- Friction: Occurs when two objects rub together and create heat
- Sparks: Occurs when two objects strike each other and create a spark
- Heat: Occurs when a chemical is exposed to high temperatures
- Chemical reaction: Occurs when two chemicals react with each other and produce heat
If you are ever in a situation where there is a chemical fire, it is important to evacuate the area immediately and call the fire department. Do not try to extinguish the fire yourself, as you could put yourself at risk.
Here are some safety tips to keep in mind in the event of a chemical fire:
- Evacuate the area immediately.
- Do not try to extinguish the fire yourself.
- Call the fire department.
- Stay upwind of the fire.
- Wear protective clothing, such as a respirator and gloves.
The chemical reaction that occurs when a match is struck is a combustion reaction. Combustion reactions are exothermic reactions, meaning that they release heat. In the case of a match, the heat released by the combustion reaction is what causes the match to ignite.
The specific chemical reaction that occurs when a match is struck depends on the type of match. Safety matches contain a match head that is made of potassium chlorate, sulfur, and powdered glass. When the match is struck, the friction generated by the striking surface causes the potassium chlorate to decompose, releasing oxygen. The oxygen then reacts with the sulfur to form sulfur dioxide. The heat from this reaction also causes the powdered glass to melt, which helps to spread the flame.
Strike-anywhere matches contain a match head that is made of phosphorus sesquisulfide, potassium chlorate, and powdered glass. When the match is struck, the friction generated by the striking surface causes the phosphorus sesquisulfide to decompose, releasing sulfur dioxide and phosphorus pentoxide. The sulfur dioxide reacts with the potassium chlorate to form potassium chloride and oxygen. The phosphorus pentoxide then reacts with the oxygen in the air to form phosphorus pentoxide. The heat from these reactions causes the match to ignite.
In both cases, the combustion reaction of a match is a self-sustaining reaction. Once the match is ignited, the heat from the reaction causes the match to continue burning until it is extinguished.
Chemical fires can be very dangerous, but by following these safety tips, you can help to keep yourself safe.