Chemical Vapor Concentration Estimation and Benzene Evaporation Rate Calculation
Question # 1:
Sixty gallon drum are being filled with 2-butanol (C4H9OH). The drums are being splash-filled at the rate of 25 drums per hour. The bung opening through which the drums are being filled has an area of 8 cm2. Estimate the ambient vapor concentration if the ventilation rate is 2000 ft3/min. The vapor pressure of 2-butanol is 0.6 mmHg under present operating condition. (Molecular weight of C=12, O=16, H=1). k mixing factor = 0.6, 1 drum = 55 gallons.
Question # 2:
A tank truck carrying benzene (C6H6) has overturned on the highway and a pool of benzene 50 m in diameter has formed. It is 1-pm in the afternoon on a clear, sunny day, the ambient temperature is 30°C. (P Sat Benzene= 0.156 atm). Estimate the evaporation rate of benzene in kg/s.
Answer:
The ambient vapor concentration can be estimated using the equation: Vapor Concentration = (Rate of filling the drums × Vapor Pressure) / (Ventilation Rate × Bung Opening Area)Substituting the given values: Vapor Concentration = (25 drums/hour × 0.6 mmHg) / (2000 ft3/min × 8 cm2)Solving the equation yields the ambient vapor concentration in the desired units.
The evaporation rate of benzene can be estimated by using the formula: Evaporation Rate = (π × (Pool Diameter/2)^2 × (P Sat Benzene × Molar Mass Benzene)) / (RT × Conversion Factor)Substituting the given values: Evaporation Rate = (π × (50 m/2)^2 × (0.156 atm × Molar Mass Benzene)) / (R × 30 + 273.15)Solving the equation gives the evaporation rate of benzene in kg/s.
Chemical vapor concentration estimation and benzene evaporation rate calculation are crucial factors in understanding and managing chemical processes and spills. When dealing with substances like 2-butanol and benzene, it is important to consider their vapor concentrations and evaporation rates to ensure safety and environmental protection.
Vapor concentration, also known as vapor pressure, is the measure of the amount of vapor molecules present in the air at a specific temperature. It is an important parameter in various fields such as meteorology, environmental chemistry, and process engineering. Vapor concentration can be expressed in different units such as grams per cubic meter, millibars, or parts per million.
On the other hand, benzene evaporation rate calculation involves determining how quickly benzene molecules will evaporate into the surrounding environment. Factors such as temperature, pressure, and molecular weight play a crucial role in calculating the evaporation rate accurately.
By understanding the equations and principles behind vapor concentration estimation and evaporation rate calculation, individuals can make informed decisions to mitigate risks associated with chemical exposure and spills.