DCHAS-L Discussion List Archive

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-------Original Message-------=0D
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From: William Parks=0D
Date: 03/10/06 13:32:13=0D
To: actsnyc**At_Symbol_Here**cs.com=0D
Subject: Unexpected outcomes=0D
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  In response to question 1, boiling ether is usually something I as a
safety=0D
professional recommend not happen. The boiling point is very low, the vap
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concentration can build quickly, and as was discovered, the vapor is also
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extremely flammable.=0D
If boiling ether is a requirement, I recommend that the ventilation rate=0D
inside the hood be increased to extract vapors more quickly, and maybe he
at=0D
the flask in a water bath instead of directly on the burner. This will mo
st=0D
likely take longer to produce the end result, but should be much safer. A
lso=0D
  keeping in mind the when compounds spontainiously ignite, if the contai
ner=0D
is closed, an explosion could occur, spreading the burning liquid and=0D
flammable gases into the lab and away from the protection of the hood. Th
e=0D
hood should also be checked by a ventilation expert prior to reuse after 
the=0D
fire to insure proper working condition.=0D
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Question 2.=0D
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Water baths work both ways. If the flask is placed in a water bath for=0D
heating, when the heat portion is completed, the bath is turned off, and 
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liquid cools naturally, and slowly. These are 2 very important words to=0D
remember when heating and cooling highly flammable substances: easy and=0D
slowly.=0D
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I can be reached directly at 479/685-9343, and can help you find a=0D
professional to assist with the fume hood.=0D
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Bill Parks=0D
R.I.H.=0D
Chemphyxx=0D
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**Providing quality Occupational Safety and Health, Industrial Hygiene, a
nd Environmental services**