Why Are Catalytic Reactions Prone to Fire Hazards?
Several factors contribute to the fire hazards associated with catalytic reactions:
Exothermic Reactions: Many catalytic processes are highly exothermic, meaning they release a lot of heat. If not controlled, this heat can ignite flammable materials. Flammable Gases: Some catalytic reactions produce or involve flammable gases such as hydrogen, which can form explosive mixtures with air. Catalyst Deactivation: Over time, catalysts can become deactivated, potentially leading to unpredictable reactions and the accumulation of reactive intermediates. Hot Spots: Inefficient mixing or heat transfer can create localized hot spots in reactors, increasing the risk of ignition.