Pure EO vapor or EO vapor mixed with air or an
insufficient amount of inert gases can decompose
explosively. The primary decomposition reaction is
expressed by the following equation:
EO (C2H4O) CO + CH4
+ 1312 BTU/lb
The reaction can also produce ethane, ethylene,
hydrogen, carbon and acetaldehyde [10, 17].
At atmospheric pressure, thermal decomposition
of pure EO vapor occurs at 932°F (500°C) [17].
Both lower and higher gaseous EO decomposition
temperatures have been reported – indicating
that decomposition temperature is affected by
pressure, surface characteristics, volume and
geometry. EO can also ignite and decompose
explosively below atmospheric pressures, down to
a pressure of around 4.8-5.8 psia, but at greater
than 932°F (500°C).