Determination of SADTs Using Accelerating Rate Calorimeter

Safe storage, proper handling, and dependable transport of self-reactive substances are fundamental operations required in the chemical process industries. One of the key parameters used to assess the extent of a substance’s reactivity is its self-accelerating decomposition temperature (SADT). Various methods for estimating SADTs have been well documented, including the “Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods: Manual of Tests and Criteria” by the United Nations. In this paper, using the Accelerating Rate Calorimeter (ARC) to assess SADT is the primary focus. Styrene polymerization and its applicable inhibitor effectiveness, including loss of inhibitor, are evaluated. Presented as a case study, a detailed kinetic model is developed illustrating the ability and flexibility to calculate the SADTs for any package sizes, shape and configurations. Complete simulations of time to reactions runaway and proposed relief protection for selected DOT transport vehicles are also included.