Chemical Release Accident Caused by the Abnormal Reaction of Potassium Permanganate Mixtures during Optical Film Manufacturing: A Brief Case Review

Small- and large-scale accidents often occur in workplaces handling hazardous chemical substances. These are usually caused by leaks, explosions, fires complex chemicals; a large proportion of these leaks. A release accident that injured four people occurred during an optical film-manufacturing process. This report analyzes the causes this provides effective measures for prevention. was abnormal reaction input raw materials prior to their heating. Tertiary butyl alcohol (t-BuOH), distilled water (DW), potassium permanganate (KMnO4) were mainly used We found mixture reacted with unknown impurities. After KMnO4 added t-BuOH DW, amount heat suddenly released from reactor one minute. In particular, small methanol (4%), which could have entered cleaning process, seal oil containing glycerin (13%) suspected be key influencing rapid reaction. Given significant findings about accident, precautionary technical/administrative we provide herein may help prevent such future.