Models for minimum explosible concentration of organic dust clouds handled in industries

Dust explosion hazard exists in plants and facilities wherever combustible dusts are hardled. Minimum explosible concentration of dust clouds is an important factor requiring special attention for hazard evaluation if any technological equipment is to be protected by inertisation. The mathematical models available for prediction of this parameter have been analysed for their application to organic dust clouds. Solution of the most general mode for determination of minimum explosible concentration of dust clouds proposed by Mitsui and Tanaka is presented, together with the comparison with experimental data. It has been found that the model is not successful in predicting the minimum explosible concentration for organic dusts. Recommendations on requirement of development of a new model for prediction of minimum explosible concentration of an organic dust such as polyethylen have been given.