Analysis of the dangerous consequences of storing pentane in polyurethane foam enterprises

In the production of polyurethane foam, using pentane instead of HCFC for foaming, which reduces the destruction of the ozone layer, on the other hand increases the risk in the process of polyurethane foam production and raw material storage because of low flash point (-35°C) of pentane. In this paper, the dangerous consequences of storing pentane and foaming materials containing pentane in polyurethane foam manufacturing enterprises are analyzed. The scenes of explosion after leakage are simulated in four kinds of situation, which are pentane stored in a completely closed space, the pressure relief area of 9m² and 18m² and completely open space. The flame propagation range, explosion overpressure, pressure wave propagation range and temperature change are calculated. Finally, it can be found that the maximum overpressure is 861.1kPa in the case of completely closed space. When in a fully open space, the maximum overpressure is 2.03kPa.When the pressure relief area is 9m² and 18m², the maximum overpressure are 16.50kPa and 24.06kPa respectively. Considering the factors of blockage outside pressure relief opening and indoor ventilation, pressure relief area of 9m² is adopted as the most reasonable way of pressure relief.