Pyrophoricity analysis
Description
What is pyrophoricity?
Pyrophoricity refers to the ability of a substance, whether solid or liquid, to spontaneously ignite upon contact with air at ambient temperature, without any external energy input. This means that the auto-ignition temperature is lower than or equal to the ambient temperature. This property makes certain substances particularly dangerous to handle, store, or transport without appropriate precautions.
A material is classified as pyrophoric when it can ignite in less than 5 minutes after exposure to air. This characteristic is common in certain fine metal powders or organometallic compounds. Examples of pyrophoric solids include white phosphorus and aluminum powder. Among liquids, substances such as trichlorosilane and dimethylzinc are well known for their pyrophoric nature.
Why test pyrophoricity in the laboratory?
Pyrophoricity analysis is essential in industry to anticipate fire or explosion risks and ensure regulatory compliance of hazardous substances. It concerns a variety of sectors:
- Chemical and pharmaceutical industry
- Hazardous waste treatment
- Manufacturing of energy materials
- Environmental and industrial safety
- Hazardous materials logistics
This test makes it possible in particular to check whether a substance should be classified as a pyrophoric substance within the meaning of CLP Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 or the decree of 20 April 1994 relating to the labelling of dangerous substances.
Testing methods: what does the regulation say?
Pyrophoricity analysis is generally performed according to protocols defined by:
- Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008, applicable to all substances placed on the market in Europe
- The UN Manual of Tests and Criteria (Test No. 2, section 33.3.1.5.2)
- Test method A.13, often used for testing solid or liquid substances
The test involves exposing a sample to air in a reactor with controlled temperature and pressure. Auto-ignition is detected by a sudden rise in temperature or pressure. Several tests are conducted to determine the minimum auto-ignition temperature.
Which matrices are involved?
Pyrophoricity analysis can be applied to a wide range of industrial materials and by-products, including:
- Fine metallic powders (aluminum, magnesium, uranium, etc.)
- Organometallic compounds
- Used catalytic converters
- Production residues or reactive waste
- Highly unstable fluids or solvents
Interpreting the results: anticipating safety measures
The interpretation of the pyrophoricity test is not limited to simple regulatory classification. It allows manufacturers to define appropriate preventative measures: protective equipment, choice of containers, inerting systems, storage in a controlled atmosphere, etc. This step is crucial to minimizing the risk of accidents and ensuring the safety of operators, facilities, and the environment.
In the event of proven pyrophoric nature, specific obligations apply, particularly with regard to labelling, SDS (safety data sheet), or declaration to the competent authorities.
Expert support with YesWeLab
At YesWeLab , we support manufacturers in characterizing the risks associated with hazardous substances, in collaboration with a network of partner laboratories accredited to ISO 17025 and sometimes recognized by COFRAC. We connect you with experts capable of performing pyrophoricity tests in compliance with current regulatory standards.
Our scientific team analyzes your needs, selects the appropriate method, and provides personalized technical support. You can also centralize your analysis requests via our digital platform, which simplifies sample and results management.
Need a pyrophoricity test?
Whether you're a raw materials distributor, a chemical manufacturer, or an engineering firm, you can rely on YesWeLab to assess the pyrophoricity of your products. Contact us now for a personalized quote or to speak with our technical team. We address your complex needs with precision and responsiveness.
