History of HYDRAZINE HYDRATE explosions.

[shankerm]

I'am on the process of designing a unit which uses Hydrazine hydrate.

The MSDS says it is explosive anywhere from 3% - 100%. I'am trying to find out HISTORY of MISHAPS or ACCIDENTS/EXPLOSIONS involving hydrazine hydrate.

Can anyone help (any links on the internet? )

Thankyou !

 

[unclesyd]

I would try a search of the NASA archives as they were the big hydrazine users at one time.

 

[pmureiko]

The top cautions for using hydrazine hydrate were using proper materials of construction and good industrial hygiene.

The suppliers recommend using stainless steel since the hydrazine removes the carbon steel oxide coating by reducing it to iron. This reaction releases heat and can cause a pressure rise if the equipment is not vented.

Hydrazine exists in equilibrium above the hydrate solution and inhalation exposure is possible. The exposure limit is very low ( 1 ppb) because hydrazine is very toxic. Worker protection and emission controls are very important.