Expanded Polymeric Absorbents

Examples of Expanded Polymeric Absorbents include "plastic pigs" (primarily polyethylene and polypropylene). The following categories of chemicals have been known to react (that is, are incompatibleSubstances that react together, if mixed.) with Expanded Polymeric Absorbents:

Category: Strong Oxidizers

  • Reason for Concern:听These may oxidize the polymerThe product of polymerization. Proteins, starches, cellulose and natural rubber are naturally occurring polymers; polystyrene, nylon, Teflon, and synthetic rubber are synthetic polymers. backbone, leading to an uncontrolled thermal runaway, which could result in a fire or explosionA chemical or physical process in which the rate at which energy is being generated exceeds its ability to escape to its surrounding environment. The hazards of an explosion can include a shock wave (especially near the point of explosion) and projectiles generated by the shock wave.. Note: Since Expanded Polymeric Absorbents tend to be less reactiveReadily reacts with other chemicals. than Cellulose-Based Absorbents, they present less of a hazard when combined with strong oxidizersOr oxidizing agent. A material that can cause or enhance the combustion of other materials, usually by providing oxygen.听than Cellulose-Based Absorbents do.
  • Examples:听Nitric acid; Concentrated peroxide-containing compounds; Concentrated persulfate compounds
  • Reactive Groups:听Acids, Strong Oxidizing; Nitrate and Nitrite Compounds, Inorganic; Nitro, Nitroso, Nitrate, and Nitrite Compounds, Organic; Oxidizing Agents, Strong; Peroxides, Organic

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