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For most professionals, storage conjures images of neatly organized shelves and efficient inventory management. But when it comes to chemical storage, the stakes are significantly higher, involving critical safety considerations and the potential for severe consequences if mishandled. Consider the explosion that created massive casualties at a Beirut warehouse in , due to improperly stored flammable liquids. Or the toxic fumes that sent emergency responders scrambling after a corroded container leaked its acidic payload. These incidents serve as stark reminders of the vital importance of proper storing and selection of chemical storage containers.
In this article, we will provide a detailed understanding of regulatory compliance requirements, delve into the diverse range of storage container options, and empower you to match each chemical hazard with its ideal storage partner.
Understanding Chemical Storage Regulations
Chemical storage is governed by a complex web of regulations, primarily overseen by organizations such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). These regulations are designed to mitigate risks associated with chemical storage, ensuring both environmental protection and workplace safety. Here's a brief outline of key regulatory considerations:
OSHA Requirements
- Hazard Communication Standard (HCS): Mandates that chemical hazards are communicated to workers. Includes requirements for labeling, safety data sheets (SDS), and employee training.
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Process Safety Management (PSM): Applicable to industries handling large quantities of hazardous chemicals, focusing on preventing accidental releases.
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Storage Guidelines: Specific rules for storing certain chemicals, including flammables, corrosives, and reactive substances, encompassing aspects like container material, storage conditions, and segregation.
EPA Regulations
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Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA): Governs the storage of hazardous waste, with stringent guidelines on container types, inspection protocols, and record-keeping.
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Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA): Requires facilities to report on the storage, use, and release of hazardous substances to improve community safety and emergency planning.
NFPA Codes
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NFPA 30: Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code: Provides guidelines for safe storage, handling, and use of flammable and combustible liquids.
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NFPA 400: Hazardous Materials Code: Covers general requirements for managing hazardous materials in terms of storage, use, and handling.
These regulations stress the principle of container compatibility, which refers to the requirement that storage containers must be chemically compatible with the chemicals they hold. For instance, certain plastics may degrade when in contact with specific solvents, while metals might react with acidic or basic substances.
Different Materials Used for Industrial Storage Containers
Understanding the variety of materials used in industrial storage containers is crucial for making informed choices. Each material offers distinct advantages and limitations based on the chemical properties and storage conditions.
High-density Polyethylene (HDPE): The workhorse of the chemical container world. HDPE is resistant to a wide range of chemicals, making it suitable for everything from acids and bases to solvents and paints. It's also relatively lightweight and affordable, so it's a popular choice for smaller containers like drums and carboys.
- A versatile plastic, resistant to many acids, bases, and solvents.
- Lighter than metal containers, making them easier to handle.
- Suitable for both indoor and outdoor storage, with good UV resistance.
Stainless Steel: For the tough stuff, stainless steel reigns supreme. It's highly resistant to corrosion and temperature extremes, making it ideal for storing strong acids, alkalis, and even some hazardous materials. However, it's more expensive than HDPE and can be susceptible to stress cracking with certain chemicals.
- Ideal for a wide range of chemicals due to its corrosion resistance.
- Commonly used for flammable liquids, solvents, and certain acids and bases.
- Offers durability and longevity but can be expensive.
Carbon Steel: A more economical alternative to stainless steel, carbon steel offers good corrosion resistance for many common chemicals. However, it's not as durable and can rust if not properly maintained. It's often used for large storage tanks and IBC totes.
- Commonly used for petroleum products and certain chemicals.
- More cost-effective than stainless steel but less corrosion-resistant.
- Often used in larger storage tanks.
Fiberglass: Fiberglass tanks are another option for large-volume storage. They're lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and relatively affordable, but they can be brittle and susceptible to damage from UV rays.
- Excellent for storing corrosive substances.
- FRP containers are robust, corrosion-resistant, and have a long service life.
- They are, however, more costly than some other plastic options.
Different Types of Chemical Storage Containers
The industrial landscape offers a diverse array of storage containers, each designed to meet specific needs and hazards. The primary types include:
1. Drums
The classic cylindrical container, available in various sizes from 5 gallons to 55 gallons. Commonly used for a wide range of chemicals and handling hazardous materials, drums are versatile and come in various materials like steel, HDPE, and fiber. They are suitable for smaller quantities and are relatively easy to handle. They are used across chemical, pharmaceutical, and food industries for storing oils, chemicals, and food products. Strengthen storage containers security with reliable lockout drum locks.
Top Picks for Drum Storage Containers
2. Totes and Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs)
Intermediate bulk containers are essentially portable mini-tanks, typically holding around 275 gallons. These are larger than drums and are designed for transporting and storing bulk liquids including chemicals, solvents, and food-grade liquids. IBCs, in particular, are designed for efficient stacking and can be made of HDPE, stainless steel, or a reinforced composite. They are popular in manufacturing, agriculture, and food processing due to their larger capacity compared to drums, stackable design, and reusability. However, they are more expensive and require more storage space.
Top Picks for IBCs
3. Tanks
For truly large-scale storage, fixed or mobile tanks are the go-to chemical strage option. These can range in size from thousands to millions of gallons and are used for everything from storing large quantities of chemicals, water, petroleum products, and gases. Available in materials like stainless steel, fiberglass, and polyethylene, tanks can be customized for specific needs and are often used for long-term storage but require significant space and higher initial investment.
Top Picks for Tank Storage Containers
4. Carboys
These are typically crafted from glass or plastics such as HDPE or polypropylene and are used in laboratory settings, research facilities, and pharmaceuticals for storing and transporting acids, solvents, and various laboratory chemicals. These storage containers are suitable for small volume storage and offer advantages like transparency (for glass carboys) and chemical resistance. However, glass carboys are fragile and their capacity is limited.
Top Picks for Carboy Storage Containers
5. Jerry Cans
These compact, portable containers usually made of HDPE, metal, or aluminum, are used for storing and transporting flammable liquids like gasoline or solvents. Their small size and secure closures make them convenient for transporting small quantities, but remember, their limited capacity and stability necessitate extra caution during handling.
Top Picks for Jerry Can Storage Containers
Each container type has its strengths and weaknesses. For example, drums are easy to move but may not be suitable for large quantities. Tanks offer substantial capacity but require more space and infrastructure. The choice of material also plays a critical role in compatibility, with factors like chemical reactivity, UV resistance, and temperature tolerance coming into play.
Matching Storage Containers to Specific Hazards
When selecting containers for chemical storage, understanding the nature of the chemical hazards is crucial. Here are some key considerations for different types of chemicals:
Flammable Liquids: For flammables like alcohols and hydrocarbons, containers should be fire-resistant and grounded to prevent static buildup. Safety cans and drums made of non-reactive metals are commonly used.
Corrosives: Acids and bases require containers that resist corrosion. Materials like high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and certain types of glass are suitable. Carboys, IBCs, or lined drums are often used for these substances.
Hazardous Materials: For highly reactive or toxic chemicals, specialized containers are necessary. These might include double-walled containers, pressurized tanks, or containers with specific liner materials to prevent reactions.
Optimizing Storage Efficiency and Safety
Maximizing storage space while ensuring chemical safety involves several strategies:
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Ventilation: Proper ventilation is essential to prevent the buildup of hazardous fumes, especially when storing volatile chemicals. This might involve installing exhaust fans or ventilation systems in storage areas.
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Secondary Containment: Secondary containment systems, such as spill pallets or containment berms, are necessary to prevent spills or leaks from contaminating the environment and posing chemical safety risks.
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Spill Prevention: Regular inspections, spill kits, and staff training are crucial components of spill prevention. Also, consider the use of containers with spill-prevention features, such as self-closing lids or overflow prevention valves.
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Container Movement and Handling: Implementing best practices for moving and handling containers can significantly reduce the risk of accidents. This includes using appropriate lifting equipment, securing containers during transport, and training staff in safe handling procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Storage Containers
How do I determine the best material for a chemical storage container?
The choice of material depends on the chemical's properties, including reactivity, corrosion potential, and solvent action. Refer to chemical compatibility charts provided by regulatory bodies or container manufacturers, and consider factors like the chemical's pH, temperature sensitivity, and potential interactions with container materials.
What is the most important feature for a chemical storage area?
The most crucial feature is ensuring safety through proper ventilation, chemical compatibility, robust spill containment, fire safety measures, and secure access control.
What are the regulations for labeling chemical storage containers?
According to OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard, containers must be labeled with the chemical name, hazard warnings, and the manufacturer's information. Labels should also include GHS pictograms for quick hazard identification.
What types of signs are posted in chemical storage areas?
Chemical storage areas typically have hazard warning signs, GHS pictograms, NFPA 704 diamonds, emergency information signs, area identification signs, and safety requirement notices like no smoking and PPE usage.
How often should chemical storage containers be inspected?
Inspection frequency varies depending on the regulations applicable to your industry and the types of chemicals stored. Generally, regular inspections are required to check for leaks, corrosion, or other signs of container failure.
Can I store different chemicals in the same container?
Mixing chemicals in the same container is generally not recommended unless you are certain of their compatibility. Incorrect mixing can lead to dangerous reactions. Always consult material safety data sheets (MSDS) or a chemical compatibility guide before storing different chemicals together.
After you perfect your chemical blend, you need to find the ideal bottle for your chemical product. To do this, you'll need to become well-versed in the breadth of chemical packaging bottles available.
Then you'll need to make some key considerations. For example:
To help you choose the best bottle to ship, store and sell your chemical products, we created this quick guide. It walks you through what you should consider to make the best and safest choice.
Always Consider Safety First
When selecting a chemical bottle for storage or handling, safety is of utmost importance and there's a lot to consider.
For example, there are many common bottle types that are designed to handle various harmful cleaning products, cleaning chemical solutions and other potentially hazardous chemicals. These bottles are designed with narrow openings that allow the user to make more precise pours, while others have wide openings to make filling easier.
But there are many other key considerations to ensure safety:
By carefully considering these factors, you can ensure that you choose the safest bottle for your chemical storage and handling needs.
Understanding the Most Common Types of Bottles for Chemicals
The types of bottles used for shipping, storing and selling chemicals vary based on the nature of the chemicals and the required storage and shipping conditions. However, here are some of the widely used types:
- F-style bottles:
These
HDPE bottles
come in sizes as small as 8 ounces and as large as several gallons. Their rectangular shape makes them easy to store and stack, and their durability makes them perfect for holding chemicals and cleaners. With a narrow neck and built-in handle, they can make precise pours and are easy to carry.
- Carafe bottles:
Most commonly available in 16- or 32-ounce sizes, these HPDE bottles come with a 28/400 continuous thread (CT) neck finish and are great choices for acids, solvents,
car care products
, cleaning products and more.
- Pressure vessels:
For chemicals that are gases or liquids at high pressure, these specialized containers are used for shipping and selling. They are built to withstand high pressure and are regulated for safety.
- Jerricans:
Used for storing, transporting and selling larger quantities of chemicals, these durable containers are made of heavy-duty plastic and often come with a handle.
- Carboys:
These are large containers for storing, shipping and dispensing bulk liquids. Made of glass or plastic, they may include a spigot and are commonly used for
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industrial chemicals.
- Safety coated bottles
: Glass bottles with a safety coating are essential for hazardous chemicals, preventing shattering and containing spills. Ideal for storage, shipping and selling hazardous materials.
- Volumetric flasks:
While primarily used in labs for preparing solutions, they can also be used for selling and shipping chemicals that require precise volumetric measurements.
- Boston round bottles:
A versatile choice for storing, shipping and selling a wide range of liquids, their rounded shoulders and cylindrical shape make them stable and easy to handle. Available in glass or plastic and with screw caps for secure sealing.
Understanding the Most Common Types of Bottle Closures
The type of closure you choose for your bottle is just as important as the bottle type.
Tight-fitting caps should seal most bottles, except if your chemical compound produces gases that can build up inside such containers. In that case, you should use bottles that allow for venting. Will your buyer or user need a specialized lid to access your chemicals? Tamper-resistant or easy-dispensing caps may be the best option. Additionally, if you're looking to spray product onto a surface, there are multiple trigger closure options with different spray patterns, including jet stream or fine mist.
Here are some of the most common types of chemical bottle closures:
- Screw caps:
These are the most common type of closure. They can be made of plastic or metal and are designed to screw tightly onto the threads of the bottle neck. Some screw caps come with a liner or seal to prevent leaks and protect against air or moisture ingress.
- Glass stoppers:
These are used for reagent bottles and other applications where a tight, non-reactive seal is necessary. Glass stoppers are often ground to fit precisely, offering an excellent seal.
- Rubber and synthetic stoppers:
Rubber stoppers are used when a tighter seal is required and for applications where a non-reactive closure is necessary. They're often used in conjunction with glass bottles for storing sensitive chemicals.
- Cork stoppers:
Although less common in chemical storage due to their porosity, cork stoppers are sometimes used for storing certain types of chemicals. They're not suitable for volatile or highly reactive substances.
- Tamper-evident caps:
These caps provide an extra level of security by showing whether a bottle has been opened. They're often used in applications where contamination or unauthorized access is a concern.
- Child-resistant caps:
These caps require a specific mechanism to open, making them ideal for households or environments where children may be present.
- Septa and cap liners:
For bottles used in chromatography or other sensitive analytical methods, caps may have a septum a pierceable liner that allows syringe access without removing the cap.
- Dispensing caps:
These include caps with built-in droppers, pipettes or pumps for easy dispensing of the chemical in controlled quantities.
Each closure type offers different levels of chemical compatibility, air tightness and ease of use, so the choice depends on the specific requirements of the chemical being stored and the safety protocols in place.
Chemical Bottle Materials
The most common materials used for bottles to store, ship or sell chemicals are chosen based on their chemical resistance, durability and safety features. Here are the common materials used:
Glasses
Plastics
- High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE):
Popular for its chemical resistance, durability and versatility, HDPE is used for a wide range of chemicals, including acids, bases and solvents.
- Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET):
Known for its clarity and strength, PET is commonly used for consumer products. It's also the right choice for oils, alcohols and non-solvent-based chemicals.
- Polypropylene (PP):
PP offers excellent chemical resistance and can withstand higher temperatures. It's used for containers that need to be autoclaved.
- Low-density polyethylene (LDPE):
More flexible than HDPE, LDPE is used for squeeze bottles and containers that require easy dispensing.
Fluorinated polyethylene/polypropylene:
This type of plastic is used to enhance barrier properties and chemical resistance, particularly against solvents and hydrocarbons.
Metals
- Stainless steel:
Chosen for its durability and high resistance to corrosion and heat, stainless steel is used for highly corrosive or reactive chemicals, especially in industrial settings.
- Aluminum:
Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, aluminum is used for specific chemicals that require light protection and resistance to rust. Bottles made from aluminum are lightweight, sturdy, corrosion-resistant and 100% recyclable. These bottles are perfect for long-term storage and shipping chemicals that can be easily contaminated, such as pesticides.
Composite materials
These include combinations like plastic-coated glass or multi-layer plastics, which provide the benefits of different materials, such as enhanced durability or chemical resistance.
The case for plastic bottles in chemical storage & handling
Unlike glass, plastic chemical bottles are lightweight and shatter-resistant, which comes in handy when they're shipped. They're made from either high-density or low-density plastic and all plastic bottles identify their origin materials via a resin identification code marked on their base.
Some plastic chemical bottles are stackable with an interlocking lid and base configurations to make storage easier and more convenient. You can find a seemingly endless selection of plastic bottle configurations, from tightly sealed to vented tops that allow gases to escape.
HDPE bottles with a barrier
If your chemical compound contains hydrocarbons or aromatic solvents, you can still consider using HDPE bottles, but they require a barrier. Fluoride-treated HDPE bottles provide that extra protection by exposing the bottles to fluorine gas. These specialized bottles best contain chemical compounds such as pesticides, herbicides, photographic chemicals, cleaning products and more.
How are LDPE bottles different from HDPE bottles?
LDPE bottles allow users to squeeze the chemical compound out of the container as they're more elastic than HDPE. LDPE bottles are also more translucent and much less rigid than those made from HDPE plastic. However, they're less resistant to chemical contents and more costly.
Is PET a viable option for you?
PET bottles are the plastic bottles of choice for beverages and food packaging due to their durability, high shatter resistance, transparency and light weight. PET provides an oil barrier that helps protect the plastic from any chemicals being stored inside. The composition of PET bottles can also be a viable option for many chemical compounds outside of acetones and ketones.
Need rigidity? Consider polypropylene bottles
When you imagine a typical screw cap jar, you're thinking of a bottle made from polypropylene plastic. It's more rigid than polyethylene, resistant to the chemicals inside and is compatible with a variety of lab agents such as most acids, bases, alcohols, aldehydes, esters and aliphatic hydrocarbons.
Why are PVC bottles declining in usage?
Polyvinyl chloride, or PVC, bottles are chemically resistant but vulnerable to some solvents. PVC is very dense, affordable, rigid, durable and strong. However, it will distort and become malleable at around 160 °F (71 °C), making it less than ideal in some storage situations. But this also means that it can be liquified for injection molding. In recent years, concerns regarding potential health risks have arisen, making it less attractive as an option.
Teflon-coated bottles
The non-stick nature of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), commonly known as Teflon, along with its resistance to powerful acids and bases, makes it a perfect coating for storage containers that demand more protective containers.
Bottle Closure Materials
The closure materials used for chemical bottles are selected based on their chemical compatibility, durability and the specific storage requirements of the chemicals. Here are some of the most common types of closure materials:
- Polyethylene (PE):
Polyethylene closures, including HDPE and low-density polyethylene (LDPE), are widely used due to their good chemical resistance, especially against acids, alcohols and bases. They're also impact-resistant and flexible.
- Polypropylene (PP):
Polypropylene caps are known for their excellent chemical resistance and are often used for containers that store corrosive chemicals. They can withstand higher temperatures than polyethylene, making them suitable for autoclaving.
- Phenolic (Bakelite):
Phenolic caps are typically used with glass bottles and are known for their high heat resistance and durability. They often have a liner like PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) to provide an inert barrier between the cap and the chemical.
- Teflon (PTFE):
Teflon is used for liners and seals in bottle caps. It has excellent chemical resistance, including resistance to solvents, and is non-reactive.
- Silicone:
Silicone liners or seals are used for their flexibility and chemical stability. They provide a good seal and are often used in pharmaceutical and biotech applications.
- Aluminum:
Aluminum caps are sometimes used for glass bottles, especially in laboratory settings. They provide a good seal and are resistant to many chemicals, but they can corrode with certain substances.
- Stainless steel:
Used in more specialized applications, stainless steel caps offer high resistance to corrosion and heat. They're often used in high-purity environments or with highly reactive chemicals.
- Rubber and synthetic elastomers:
Rubber (natural or synthetic) is used in stoppers and seals. It's important to match the type of rubber to the chemical stored, as some chemicals can degrade certain rubbers.
Each material has its advantages and limitations, and the choice depends on the chemical properties of the contents, the required seal quality and environmental factors like temperature and UV exposure. Compatibility with the chemical being stored is the most critical factor to prevent degradation of the cap and contamination of the contents.
Understanding the Best Chemical Bottle Storage Conditions
Here are a few dos and donts to maximize the shelf life and efficacy of your chemical compounds.
Do:
- Choose a controlled environment for storage
- Provide a dark, dry space without moisture (ideal storage temperatures range from 36°85°F [2°29°C]; your specific chemical compound may vary)
- Replace the caps right after use
- Try to turn inventory within 12 months to ensure total chemical efficacy
Don't:
- Leave your chemical storage bottles out while transporting
- Let them sit directly in the sun
- Risk contamination by switching caps or placing caps on an unclean surface
Reach Out To Find the Best Bottle for Your Chemical Blend
Trust the industry experts at Royal Chemical to help you store and handle your chemicals successfully and safely.
Reach out to schedule a free consultation today to find the best bottles for your blends.
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