Can ethylene oxide be extinguished with steam?

This post was last edited by Shutong on 2023-1-15 22:07. [Fire extinguishing method] Cut off the gas supply. If the gas supply cannot be cut off, it is not allowed to extinguish the flame at the leak site. Use water spray to cool the container, and move it as far as possible from the fire to an open area. Extinguishing agents: fog water, alcohol-resistant foam, dry powder, carbon dioxide. 【Leak Emergency Response】 Eliminate all ignition sources. A safety zone is established based on the affected area caused by the gas, and uninvolved personnel are evacuated to a safe area from the side wind and upwind direction. It is recommended that emergency responders wear positive-pressure self-contained breathing apparatus and anti-static clothing. All equipment used during operations should be grounded. Do not touch or step on the spill. Seal the source of leakage as much as possible. Sprayed water suppresses vapor or alters the direction of vapor clouds, preventing water flow from coming into contact with the leak. It is prohibited to direct water at the spill or the source of the leak. Prevent the spread of gases through sewers, ventilation systems, and confined spaces. Isolate the leak area until the gas has dissipated. Isolation and evacuation distances: In the case of a small leak, initial isolation should be maintained at 30 m; evacuation is required at 100 m during the day and 200 m at night in the downwind direction ； In the event of a large-scale leak, initially isolate an area of 150m; evacuate people downwind by 800m during the day and by 2500m at night.

Ethylene oxide is very dangerous when on fire, as it has a low boiling point and can sustain combustion or even explode; therefore, firefighting procedures must be followed strictly. I think using steam may not help put out the fire; in fact, it could lead to greater leaks and more burning, as the heat released by steam accelerates the evaporation and dispersion of ethylene oxide, which might end up feeding the fire.