Kinetic modeling for thermal hazard of 2,2′-azobis (2-methylpropionamide) dihydrochloride using calorimetric approach and simulation

Azo compounds are usually used as initiators and blowing agents. They are also typically self-reactive materials capable of undergoing a runaway reaction during storage or transportation, which can cause serious fires and explosions. To prevent the thermal hazard of azos occurring in a real process, transportation, or storage, azo initiator 2,2′-azobis (2-methylpropionamide) dihydrochloride (AIBA), which has few studies on relevant research in thermal safety, was selected to be investigated. First, the features of thermal decomposition under non-isothermal condition of AIBA were attained through differential scanning calorimetry and simultaneous thermal analysis. Second, the collected data were substituted into mathematical analyzer to evaluate the basic thermal hazard for AIBA. In addition, based on Semenov theoretical model and thermokinetic parameters, the critical ignition temperature (TCI) was extrapolated for consideration of surroundings temperature under specific cooling system (TS). The results provided process control data and the consequences of thermal runaway for AIBA. In addition, the related numerical methods for prevention of thermal runaway reaction could be calculated during process deviation. Therefore, the assessment conclusions also showed that process parameters must be measured and controlled strictly to generate the desired reaction. The results showed that the various TCI were all less than 70 °C. Therefore, it is essential to avoid a temperature beyond the TCI or cooling system failure.