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Analysis of vapor barrier experiments to evaluate their effectiveness as a means to mitigate HF concentrations: final report

Date

1988-07

Authors

Meroney, Robert N., author
Neff, David E., author
Shin, Seong-Hee, author
Steidle, Thomas C., author
Tan, Thomas Z., author
Wu, Gang, author
Fluid Mechanics and Wind Engineering Program, Department of Civil Engineering, Colorado State University, publisher

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Abstract

Accidental releases of Hydrogen Fluoride (HF) can result in initially dense, highly reactive and corrosive gas clouds. These clouds will typically contain a mixture of gases, aerosols and droplets which can be transported significant distances before lower hazard levels of HF concentration are reached. Containment fences or vapor barriers have been proposed as a means to hold-up or delay cloud expansion, elevate the plume downwind of the barriers, and enhance cloud dilution. Previous related field and laboratory experiments have been analyzed to estimate the effectiveness of barrier devices. The experiments were examined to determine their relevance to Hydrogen Fluoride spill scenarios. Wind tunnel and field data were compared where possible to validate the laboratory experiments. Barrier influence on peak concentrations, cloud arrival time, peak concentration arrival time, and cloud departure time were determined. These data were used to develop entrainment models to incorporate into integral and depth averaged numerical models. The models were then run to examine barrier performance for a typical Hydrogen Fluoride spill for a wide range of vapor barrier heights, spill sizes, meteorological conditions and release configurations. Finally the results of the data analysis and numerical sensitivity study were interpreted and expressed in a form useful to evaluate the efficacy of vapor barrier mitigation devices.

Description

CER88-89RNM-DEN-SHS-TS-TZT-GW-1.
Prepared for Exxon Research and Engineering Company.
On behalf of An Industry Cooperative HF Mitigation Program, Vapor Barrier Subcommittee.
Includes bibliographical references (pages 153-159).
July 1988 (Revised February, 1989).

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Subject

Hydrogen fluoride -- Safety measures
Vapors -- Safety measures

Citation

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