Pyrophoricity analysis
Description
What is pyrophoricity?
Pyrophoricity refers to the ability of a substance, whether solid or liquid, to ignite spontaneously upon contact with air at room temperature, without the need for external energy. This means that the auto-ignition temperature is less than or equal to room temperature. This property makes certain substances particularly dangerous to handle, store, or transport without appropriate precautions.
A material is considered pyrophoric when it can ignite within 5 minutes of exposure to air. This characteristic is common among certain fine metal powders or organometallic compounds. Examples of pyrophoric solids include white phosphorus and aluminum powder. On the liquid side, substances such as trichlorosilane and dimethylzinc are well known for their pyrophoric properties.
Why test pyrophoricity in the laboratory?
Pyrophoricity analysis is essential in industry to anticipate fire or explosion risks and ensure regulatory compliance for hazardous substances. It concerns various 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 must 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 carried out according to the protocols defined by:
- CLP 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 at controlled temperature and pressure. Autoignition is detected by a sudden rise in temperature or pressure. Several tests are conducted to determine the minimum autoignition temperature.
Which matrices are involved?
Pyrophoricity analysis can be applied to a wide range of industrial materials and by-products, including:
- Fine metal powders (aluminum, magnesium, uranium, etc.)
- Organometallic compounds
- Used catalysts
- Production residues or reactive waste
- Highly unstable fluids or solvents
Interpreting the results: anticipating security measures
Interpreting the pyrophoricity test is not limited to a simple regulatory classification. It allows manufacturers to define appropriate prevention measures: protective equipment, choice of containers, inerting systems, storage in a controlled atmosphere, etc. This step is crucial to minimize the risk of accidents and guarantee the safety of operators, facilities, and the environment.
In the event of proven pyrophoric nature, specific obligations apply, particularly in terms of labeling, SDS (safety data sheet), or declaration to the competent authorities.
Expert support with YesWeLab
At YesWeLab , we support manufacturers in characterizing risks related to hazardous substances, in collaboration with a network of ISO 17025 accredited and sometimes COFRAC-recognized partner laboratories. We put you in touch with experts capable of carrying out 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 material distributor, a chemical manufacturer, or a design office, 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 meet your complex needs with precision and responsiveness.
