Hazardous and Noxious Substances Spill Incidents

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On this database it is collected information on the fate and weathering of hazardous and noxious substances (HNS) accidentally spilt at the sea around the world. It gathers and systematizes existing information to assist stakeholders involved in spill preparedness and response, and builds return of experience datasheets for the chemicals involved. It will facilitate the incorporation of lessons from past incidents on the decision process to improve preparedness.

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Puerto Rican

1984

USA

Rest of the world

Bulk

HNS Spilt

Sodium hydroxide Liquid

NaOH

Amount Spilt (T)500

CAS Number1310-73-2

D

Physical Behaviour (SEBC code)

Y

Pollution Category (MARPOL Annex 2)

8

Class according to IMDG code

-

Subsidiary Risk Class according to IMDG code

Classification as Marine Pollutant

vii

HNS Classification (2010 HNS Convention)

Fate and weathering facts observed/reported

400-500 m3 of caustic soda solution (50%) and 200 m3 of alkyl benzene had leaked, creating a flammable mixture, which ignited shortly before the explosion. The vessel was towed off shore in an effort to avoid polluting the coastline. Some days later it broke in 2 and sank in heavy seas. At sea, a spill of caustic soda will rapidly be diluted completely, almost immediately, whatever the quantity. No pollution was claimed.

Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)

http://www.sciencelab.com/msds.php?msdsId=9924997

Alkyl benzenesLiquid

C6H5CnH2n+1

Amount Spilt (T)200

CAS Number-

FE

Physical Behaviour (SEBC code)

Y

Pollution Category (MARPOL Annex 2)

-

Class according to IMDG code

-

Subsidiary Risk Class according to IMDG code

Classification as Marine Pollutant

ii, iii, vi

HNS Classification (2010 HNS Convention)

Fate and weathering facts observed/reported

The mixture of alkylbenzenes and caustic soda is flammable and an intense fire burned for several hours. Short chain (C3-C4) linear alkyl benzenes are evaporators, while longer chain are floater evaporators. It was not possible to know from the reports available which alkylbenzenes were transported and spilled. No pollution was claimed. Marpol category Y (for 4

Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)

-