What Happens When Freon Explodes?
Most refrigerators and air conditioners use freon, which is the short form of the name "chlorodifloromethane." While it is non-toxic, it will eat away at the ozone layer of our atmosphere if released into the air, and so the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency closely regulates the sale of freon.
While freon is generally not flammable, there are circumstances that can cause a freon cylinder to explode.
Extreme Heat
Again, freon is not flammable. However, it is generally stored in cylinders that maintain a constant level of pressure on the freon. If you have a fire in the same space where you are storing freon cylinders, and the temperature gets above 900 degrees Celsius, the freon molecules will move more and more quickly in the cylinder, building up pressure.
Excess Pressure
When the pressure inside the cylinder becomes too great for the structure to hold it, the cylinder can rupture, or even explode.
Hazards
In addition to the flying debris from the exploding cylinder, when freon encounters excessive heat, it releases a highly toxic gas called phosgene. Toxins can emerge from freon at far lower temperatures than 900 Celsius, so if you are exposed to freon for extended periods of time, you may need to seek medical attention.
The Drip Cap
- Most refrigerators and air conditioners use freon, which is the short form of the name "chlorodifloromethane." Toxins can emerge from freon at far lower temperatures than 900 Celsius, so if you are exposed to freon for extended periods of time, you may need to seek medical attention.
References
Writer Bio
Leslie Renico's grant-writing career began in 2006 and her grants have brought in millions of dollars for nonprofits serving the poor and providing medical care for the needy. Renico has appeared on television and her articles have appeared in various online publications. She graduated from Saginaw Valley State University with a Bachelor of Arts in criminal justice in 1997.
Photo Credits
- window air conditioner image by Aaron Kohr from Fotolia.com
- window air conditioner image by Aaron Kohr from Fotolia.com
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