Dow Explosion Triggered By Chemical Reaction

Jan. 8, 2016
Four employees injured in blast at Boston plant.

On Jan. 7 an explosion at a Dow Chemical plant in northeastern Massachusetts injured five employees. The employees received critical burns and shrapnel-like wounds.

According to the State Fire Marshal Stephen Coan, a chemical (trimethylaluminum) reacted with water in a lab in Dow Chemical, which caused the explosion.

“What we know is that the chemical we speak of here is highly reactive to water and to air,” Coan said. “So that’s why the investigation is leading itself in that direction.”

For more on this story, read the article from CBS Boston.

Sponsored Recommendations

Heat Recovery: Turning Air Compressors into an Energy Source

More than just providing plant air, they're also a useful source of heat, energy savings, and sustainable operations.

Controls for Industrial Compressed Air Systems

Master controllers leverage the advantages of each type of compressor control and take air system operations and efficiency to new heights.

Discover Your Savings Potential with the Kaeser Toolbox

Discover your compressed air station savings potential today with our toolbox full of calculators that will help you determine how you can optimize your system!

The Art of Dryer Sizing

Read how to size compressed air dryers with these tips and simple calculations and correction factors from air system specialists.