UN Number and Packing Grade Specification for Propylene Oxide Shipping?

Propylene oxide (Propylene) is an important chemical raw material, which is widely used in the production of epoxy resin, polyurethane, surfactant and other fields. Due to its flammable and volatile characteristics, propylene oxide needs to strictly comply with the relevant regulations on the transportation of dangerous goods during transportation. Especially in marine transportation, the UN number and packaging grade specification of propylene oxide are directly related to transportation safety and compliance. This article provides a detailed analysis of the UN numbering and packing grade specifications for propylene oxide shipping to help practitioners better understand and comply with relevant regulations.

1. Propylene oxide basic properties and risk

Propylene oxide is a colorless, flammable liquid with a pungent odor. Its molecular formula is C3H6O, its boiling point is low (about 34 ° C), and it is easy to volatilize at room temperature. Propylene oxide is a dangerous chemical. According to the United Nations "Regulations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods" (UNTDG), propylene oxide is classified as a flammable liquid and has certain environmental hazards. These properties determine that propylene oxide must be operated in strict accordance with dangerous goods management requirements during transportation.

2. Propylene oxide UN number

The UN number is the United Nations identification of the uniform code of dangerous goods, which is used to identify dangerous goods on a global scale. The UN number of propylene oxide is UN 1175. This number has the force of law in international transport and is widely used in maritime, air, road and rail transport. The UN number is an essential piece of information when filling out transport documents, labeling and declaring dangerous goods.

In maritime transport, the policy requires that companies transporting propylene oxide must clearly mark their UN number in the transport documents. The label of the goods must also be clearly marked with the UN 1175 and the nature of the hazard must be indicated by graphic symbols or text. These requirements help ensure safety and compliance during transportation.

3. Propylene oxide packing grade specification

The specification for the packing class of propylene oxide is mainly based on the relevant standards for the transport of dangerous goods, in particular the International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code (IMDG Code). According to the IMDG Code, propylene oxide is classified as a flammable liquid category 1, which is highly hazardous and flammable. The specifications for different packing grades are as follows:

• Packing grade 1: Suitable for large quantities of propylene oxide. Packaging must have high strength and leak-proof properties, usually using metal or high-quality plastic containers. The label must indicate "flammable liquid" and UN number 1175, and the corresponding dangerous goods mark (e. g. flame icon) on the packaging.

• Packing class 2: suitable for medium amount of transport of propylene oxide. Packaging requirements are slightly lower than grade 1, but still need to have sufficient strength and leak resistance. Commonly used packaging materials include steel drums and composite containers.

• Packing grade 3: Suitable for transporting propylene oxide in small quantities. Packaging requirements are relatively low, but basic safety and leak-proof standards still need to be met. Common packaging types include metal drums and plastic drums.

When choosing a packaging grade, the carrier needs to consider factors such as transportation volume, transportation distance, and transportation mode. Packaging materials must comply with IMO and ISO standards to ensure that propylene oxide does not leak or volatilize during transportation to avoid harm to the environment and personnel.

4. Propylene oxide marine hazard analysis

Propylene oxide has a high risk in shipping, which is mainly reflected in the following aspects:

• Flammability: The low flash point (about -37°C) and high volatility of propylene oxide make it prone to fire risk during transportation. If the goods are stored improperly or the packaging is damaged, the volatile propylene oxide gas is easily mixed with air to form an explosive mixture.

• Environmental hazards: propylene oxide has high toxicity to aquatic organisms. Once leaked into the marine environment, it will cause serious damage to the ecosystem. Therefore, leakage must be strictly prevented during transportation and handling.

• Health risks: propylene oxide has a certain irritation and toxicity, inhalation or contact with the human body may cause health hazards. Transport personnel must wear protective equipment and undergo professional training during operation.

5. IMPORTANCE OF COMPLIANCE TRANSPORTATION

The UN number and packing grade specifications for propylene oxide are key to ensuring safety and compliance at sea. The following are the importance of compliant shipping:

• Legal compliance: failure to comply with regulations governing the transport of dangerous goods may result in legal penalties, transport delays and even transport disruptions. Compliance shipping helps avoid legal risks and ensures a smooth shipping process.

• Security: Strict packaging and transportation regulations can effectively reduce the risk during transportation. For example, the selection of suitable packaging materials can reduce the risk of leakage, and standardized operating procedures can avoid fire and explosion accidents.

• Environmental protection: Compliance transportation can effectively reduce the potential harm of propylene oxide to the environment. By preventing leakage and volatilization, the marine ecosystem can be protected and environmental pollution can be reduced.

6. Summary

As an important chemical raw material, the risk and compliance of propylene oxide in shipping can not be ignored. Knowing their UN number (UN 1175) and packing class specifications is key to ensuring transportation safety. Whether it is packaging selection, label identification or operation process, it needs to be strictly implemented in accordance with relevant regulations and standards. Only in this way can we meet the legal and environmental protection requirements in order to ensure the safety of transportation and realize the efficient and safe transportation of propylene oxide.