Port Neches, TX chemical plant explosion 2019

Port Neches, TX chemical plant explosion Nov. 27, 2019Show more

Chemical Plant Explosion
The explosion occurred in TPC's south unit at its Port Neches facility, which utilizes 1,3-butadiene, a highly flammable and highly reactive liquid used in the production of synthetic rubbers and resins that has been classified as carcinogenic to humans via inhalation.1 1,3-butadiene reacts readily in the presence of oxygen, sometimes forming a butadiene peroxide that can concentrate and eventually initiate a fire or explosion, and also sometimes forming "popcorn" polymers (resinous deposits that resemble popcorn) that can grow exponentially and cause equipment to rupture. The processing unit involved in the explosion had developed popcorn polymers in the past.

Massive Explosion Rips Through Texas Chemical Plant

A huge explosion early Wednesday has injured three people at a Texas chemical plant, and the strength of the blast shattered windows and damaged doors of nearby homes, startling sleeping residents.

After dark smoke billowed for hours from the plant after the 1 a.m. blast, another large explosion ripped through the plant in the early afternoon, sending up a huge ball of fire.

https://www.npr.org/2019/11/27/783263942/massive-explosion-rips-through-texas-chemical-plant