Adipic Acid Dusts Can Lead to Deadly Combustible Dust Explosions

Cinnaminson, NJ, August 1st, 2012
 
Approximately 2.5 billion kilograms of adipic acid are produced annually.  This organic compound is used in the production of nylon, polyurethane, adhesives and plasticizers.
 
Adipic acid is a white crystalline powder. Some common other names for adipic acid include: Acifloctin; Acinetten; Adilatetten; Adipinic Acid; 1,4-Butanedicarboxylic Acid; 1,6-Hexanedioic Acid.  It is used in numerous manufacturing processes and when in dust form can be hazardous in several manners. 
 
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) lists adipic acid dusts as a combustible dust hazard.  It can be explosive in the presence of open flames, sparks or heat. 
 
It is important that in manufacturing processes that create adipic acid dusts that proper ventilation and engineering controls are in place to prevent airborne levels from accumulating into an explosion risk.
 
“Adipic acid is also a skin and eye irritant and a hazard if ingested or inhaled in sufficient quantities,” reported Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President, Marketing at EMSL Analytical, Inc., a leading combustible dust and industrial hygiene testing laboratory. “Whenever a combustible dust, such as adipic acid, is processed and handled there is the potential for an explosion and fire.  The extent of any adipic acid dust hazards can be determined by combustible dust testing services offered by EMSL Analytical.  EMSL can also provide occupational exposure testing services to help ensure workers are not being exposed to high levels of this chemical in the air.”
 
EMSL recently sponsored an educational video about combustible dust hazards that can be seen at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xX0apupkO3E
 
To learn more about combustible dust or industrial hygiene testing services please visit www.EMSL.com, call (800)220-3675 or email info@EMSL.com .
 
About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
EMSL Analytical is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider of environmental and materials testing services and products to professionals and the general public.  The company has an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies. 

Contact Information

Joseph Frasca

Senior Vice President of Marketing

EMSL Analytical

(1) 1-800-220-3675

jfrasca@emsl.com