Discussions

Question 11

A garage that specializes in foreign cars had a small magnesium fire when a car part was ignited. The mechanic knew from his training that he should not use water but could use a dry powder like a sodium chloride based fire extinguishing powder (MET-L-X) or a graphite based (LITH-X). He knows that the CO2 extinguishing powder is not a good choice.

Explain the reasons why the mechanic thinks using CO2 is not a good idea.

If MET-L-X or LITH-X is used, a residue could be left on the metal and if cleaned with water, the fire may be rekindled. Explain the chemical process involved in this phenomenon for both types of fire extinguishing powder.

Your total response must be at least 200 words in length. You are required to use at least your textbook as source material for your response. All sources used, including the textbook, must be referenced. Paraphrased and/or quoted material must have accompanying citations in APA format.

Reference

Meyer, E. (2014). Chemistry of hazardous materials (6th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson.

Question 12

A truck transporting concentrated acetic acid was involved in a non-injury accident resulting in the release of 300 gallons of acid. Part of the mitigation is to neutralize the spilled acid with a solid material such as air-slaked lime. Air-slaked lime is a commercially available product that consists of calcium hydroxide and calcium carbonate. Quicklime is the common name for calcium hydroxide. When quicklime is exposed to moist air, it absorbs atmospheric CO2 and forms calcium carbonate.

Show the chemical formula of air-slaked lime. Explain the chemical interaction involved with the use of air-slaked lime to neutralize the acid. Is this an effective neutralization method for this release?

Explain why OSHA requires employers to limit employee exposure to acetic acid vapors.

Your total response must be at least 200 words in length. You are required to use at least your textbook as source material for your response. All sources used, including the textbook, must be referenced. Paraphrased and/or quoted material must have accompanying citations in APA format.

Reference

Meyer, E. (2014). Chemistry of hazardous materials (6th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson.