DDT scenario ravaged Beirut?

 



Comments

  1. Very convincing argument.
    Could be the reason. I have a few questions.
    1. What about the packaging?
    2. Would there not have been gaps between lots?
    3. Will not ammonium nitrate disintegrate over time?
    4. Is it hygroscopic?

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    Replies
    1. Thanks for your comments.

      Coming over to the points, (a) the packages (poly liners) are the fuels, that facilitates the redox reaction, (b) gaps in the lots mean availability of air (oxygen). This further acts as sensitizer, (c) AN does not disintegrate easily because it is a very stable salt, and (d) Yes it is hygroscopic in nature.

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  2. So would it not have become soggy over the years or did the poly liners prevent moisture?

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    1. This comment has been removed by the author.

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    2. There is no doubt that poly liners prevent absorption of moisture. But here we are speaking about the role of poly liners (low density LDPE, as well as high density HDPE poly ethylene) when a fire has erupted in the AN store house.

      Presence of LDPE and HDPE in thin liner forms facilitate to form a sort of oxidizer-fuel mixture that can burn faster and also detonate (we may imagine likes of ANFO).

      When a fire take place various parameters in and around often adds to the spread of the fire. Just like, nylon clothing may be comfortable to wear but on coming in contact with flame it gives rise to severe burns as compared to cotton clothes.

      I hope I am clear in clarifying the doubts.

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  3. Nicely explained about Beirut incident .You have clarified all the doubts about the storing and using of ammonium nitrate and its effect if it will remain unused for a long period of time .

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