Calculating the Maximum Safe Volume of Ethanol in a Confined Space

  • Thread starter Shannon hunt
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In summary, to work out the maximum volume of ethanol that can be safely stored in a specified space, you can estimate the number of moles in 3.5 liters of ethanol vapors assuming ideal gas behavior. Then, using the molar mass and density of liquid, you can calculate the volume of liquid that corresponds to that mass.
  • #1
Shannon hunt
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Hello
The lower flammability point of ethanol is 3.5% v/v. How can I work out the max volume of ethanol in a specified space to be lower than the flammability point
Eg
If I have a 100l vessel 3.5% will be 3.5l of vapour in that 100l vessel that will make it ignitable - how can I convert 3.5 l of ethanol vapour back to the volume of ethanol as liquid(pressure and t at ambient at this point)
Thank u
 
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  • #2
You can have an estimate by assuming the vapors behave like an ideal gas.
In normal conditions, you can find the number of moles in 3.5 L of vapors like
N=3.5/22.4
Then multiply by molar mass o get the mass of ethanol in these 3.5 L.
And knowing the mass and density of liquid you can find the volume of liquid.
 

Related to Calculating the Maximum Safe Volume of Ethanol in a Confined Space

1. What is ethanol's lower flammability limit?

Ethanol's lower flammability limit (LFL) is the lowest concentration of ethanol vapor in air that is capable of producing a flash of fire when exposed to an ignition source. It is expressed as a percentage by volume, and for ethanol it is typically around 3.3-3.8%.

2. What makes ethanol's lower flammability limit important?

The LFL is important because it indicates the level of vapor concentration in the air at which ethanol can ignite and cause a fire. Knowing the LFL can help prevent accidents and ensure safe handling and storage of ethanol.

3. How does ethanol's lower flammability limit compare to other fuels?

Ethanol's LFL is relatively low compared to other fuels, such as gasoline and diesel, which have LFLs of around 1.4-7.6% and 0.6-6.5%, respectively. This means that ethanol has a higher risk of igniting in the presence of an ignition source compared to these fuels.

4. Can ethanol's lower flammability limit change?

Yes, the LFL of ethanol can change depending on factors such as temperature, pressure, and the presence of other substances. For example, at higher temperatures, the LFL of ethanol can decrease, making it more flammable.

5. How can ethanol's lower flammability limit be reduced?

There are several ways to reduce ethanol's LFL and minimize the risk of fire. These include using closed storage and handling systems, improving ventilation in areas where ethanol is present, and using proper safety precautions when handling and storing ethanol. It is also important to follow regulations and guidelines set by regulatory agencies for safe handling of ethanol.

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