TITLE:
Non-Newtonian Fluids and Uncontrolled Emission of Toxic Gases: A Major Threat to Worker Safety
AUTHORS:
Thomas Neil McManus
KEYWORDS:
CO2, H2S, Confined Spaces, Fatal Events, Lethal Atmosphere, Infrastructures, Shear-Thinning, Pseudoplastic, Non-Newtonian Fluid, pH, Trapped Toxic Gas, Uncontrolled Rapid Emission
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Safety Science and Technology,
Vol.13 No.2,
June
30,
2023
ABSTRACT: This article explores the role of shear-thinning,pseudoplastic non-Newtonian fluids inthecausation of fatal accidents involving hazardous atmospheres. Analysis of fatal accidents indicates an appreciable likelihood of occurrence in structures in the infrastructure. When subjected to a shear force, such as stirring, stored gas emits from these fluids. Depending on the gas, lethal concentrations can develop almost instantaneously. Upon cessation of the stress, the ambient condition restores rapidly. Chemical and physical processes that provide reservoirs forthestorage of gases potentiate anaerobic respiration by microorganisms as the source of the gases stored in some non-Newtonian fluids. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is the most toxic gas followed by carbon dioxide (CO2) and ammonia (NH3). Very limited methods are available for controlling exposure to gases emitted duringthedisturbance of these fluids. Control strategies must accommodate almost instantaneous high-level emissions. Disturbance under controlled conditions that isolates emissions from workers is a possible means to minimize the risk of exposure. Engineering design that incorporates suitable control devices into equipment and structures is critical to the success of this strategy. The Prevention through Design program created by the U.S. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health is a formal initiative for coordinating an organized response to these challenges.