The Reactivity of Ethylene Oxide In Contact With Iron Oxide Fines as Measured by Adiabatic Calorimetry

Abstract

Samples of various iron oxides suspended above ethylene oxide in an adiabatic calorimeter exhibit exothermic activity at temperatures as low as room temperature. A 7-Fe203 sample was found to show the highest reactivity with ethylene oxide. Ethylene oxide in combination with most of the iron oxide fines tested displayed exothermic activity below 100°C. Self-heat rates near 2000°C/min were observed for the y-Fe203 fines while rates in excess of 100°C/min were found for other fines (~-Fe203 and hydrated ~-Fe203). In two cases (c/.-Fe304 and o~-Fe203), pressurization rates above 1000 psi/min took place. No reactivity was observed for ethylene oxide with the FeO. Thermal inertia effects in commercial operation, such as heat uptake by the equipment to which fines are attached, are presumed to be a factor in limiting the occurrence of related exotherms in ethylene oxide manufacturing facilities.