Chemical Energy

Chemical Energy

 Chemical energy is energy stored within chemical compounds which can be released through a chemical reaction and to produce by-products. The most common of which is usually heat. This is more commonly known as an exothermic reaction. Once that energy has been released, the original state is transformed into a new state. For example, when wood burns, it releases heat and is transformed into smoke and ash.

Fire and Explosions

Fire is the rapid oxidation of a substance. The process in which this reaction occurs produces a large amount of heat. The heat generated is potentially dangerous to a person depending on their proximity to the energy source. The human body can tolerate up to forty-three degrees for a sustained period, however, if the temperature exceeds this threshold, burns can occur. Burns can be very damaging to the human body depending on their severity. First degree burns cause minor surface damage whereas fourth degree burns can cause muscle or organ damage, possibility resulting in death. If the damage caused by the energy source is sufficient, then severe scarring, loss of movement, and quality of life are very likely possibilities. Smoke inhalation is another very serious risk when talking about fire as an energy source. Smoke is a by-product of the exothermal reaction and if inhaled for a long enough period of time, may result in asphyxiation and possibly death. Even a short periods of exposure can cause irreversible damage to the lungs, causing reduced lung capacity. Should someone be inflicted with burns, immediately place the affected area under cool running water for a period of approximately twenty minutes. If the burn appears to break the skin or cover a large area, seek medical attention immediately.

Explosions are very similar to fire, in that they are caused by the same process, the rapid oxidation of a substance. However, the key difference between fire and an explosion is the manner in which the oxidation occurs. Fire is comparatively slower when observed side by side with an explosion. The reaction of an explosive energy transformation is much faster and violent. Explosions come in two main forms. The first is in the form of a fireball. Extreme heat but no concussive wave. A prime example is to throw a small bottle of fuel on an open fire. Once heated enough, the fuel ignites and expands in a fireball. The second is a much more devastating occurrence. Substances such as high-grade explosives, C-4 as an example, create a much more violent reaction which subsequently results in a supersonic shockwave. This shockwave is extremely dangerous and capable of causing mass amounts of damage to anything within the blast radius. Both of these explosive energy sources are more than capable of causing high degree burns, however, the later has the added effect of the shockwave. This shockwave is capable of causing very serious internal damage on any persons unfortunate enough to be caught within the blast radius. Due to the nature of fire and explosions, it can be extremely difficult to counter act against the reaction and in most cases it is better to evacuate the area and seek cover to avoid any possible damage. The best solution is to avoid the potential of either of these scenarios from occurring by practising proper handling procedures when interacting with any substance that could succumb to this state of energy transformation.

The storing, use and transportation of these substances are strictly controlled and regulated to decrease risks of an energy transformation.  The Queensland government states that, “any vehicle carrying either 500 litres, or 500 kilograms of a dangerous substance must display a placard containing the appropriate information regarding the substance and the driver must carry a dangerous goods licence.”(Safe Work Australia 2016)

Chemical Hazard

A hazardous chemical is a substance that can cause harm. Chemicals are part of our everyday life and can be found in almost all households. Substances such as bleach and toilet cleaner are prime examples. If proper care is not taken while using and storing said chemicals then there is a very possible chance of a fatality occurring. The effects on the human body varies from chemical to chemical. Some can be toxic if inhaled or ingested, others can produce burns if direct contact is made with the skin. Hazardous chemicals can also be found in most workplaces. These industrial chemicals are usually more concentrated than the household versions. Due to this fact alone, a higher level of care should be taken when storing or handling them. In 2012, Australia began to use the GHS, or Globally Harmonised System, to classify dangerous chemicals. This is an internationally recognised system and will become mandatory in Australia in 2017.

Chemical Burns

Chemical burns occurs when a caustic substance, such as an acid, comes into direct contact with organic tissue, such as skin. The severity of chemical burns are near identical to that of burns caused by extreme heat, such as the earlier energy source of fire. Though it is worth noting that chemicals can be ingested, as such this can cause even greater internal damage. Ingesting hazardous chemicals will likely cause extreme pain and possibility irreversible damage and in the worse cases, death. Caution and care should be taken handling and/or storing chemicals. Personal protective equipment should be readily available and used. Also, any spills should be cleaned and reported immediately. If a chemical comes into contact with the skin wash the area immediately. Also, remove and dispose of any contaminated clothing, if the burns cover a reasonable area seek medical attention. If chemicals come in contact with the eyes, wash thoroughly for a minimum of twenty minutes and if any hazardous chemicals are ingested, seek immediate medical attention.

References

Safe Work Australia, Hazardous chemicals including globally harmonised system of classification and labelling of chemicals, viewed 14 June 2016, http://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/sites/swa/whs-information/hazardous-chemicals/pages/hazardous-chemicals-other-substances

Queensland Government Business and industry Portal, 2015, Placard requirements, viewed 14 June 2016, https://www.business.qld.gov.au/industry/transport/transporting-dangerous-goods/placard-requirements

RespectTheFlame 2012, What is fire?, video, 22 March, viewed 14 June 2016, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DIslIeE2irE

A Guide to Chemical Hazard Symbols 2017, viewed 21 February 2017, http://www.compoundchem.com/2015/05/19/hazard-symbols/

Energy - Chemical energy 2017, viewed 21 February 2017, http://www1.curriculum.edu.au/sciencepd/energy/chem.htm