How to Store Benzene

Proper storage of benzene is absolutely essential to ensure that plant workers and people living in the surrounding areas are not exposed to the harmful chemical. It is also necessary to reduce the fire hazard posed by benzene, as it is highly flammable. Benzene is a chemical used in industrial applications. Molecules of benzene are composed of six carbon atoms and six hydrogen atoms. Benzene is stored at plants where it is used as a chemical precursor to other chemicals used to manufacture certain adhesives, cleaning products, plastics and fibers.

Instructions

• 1

  Keep benzene in tightly sealed containers in an area with good ventilation.

• 2

  Clearly label the containers and specify their contents.

• 3

  Maintain the temperature above 46 degrees Fahrenheit (8 degrees Celsius) to prevent benzene from freezing.

• 4

  Install heating pads or heating coils in and around the tank if the temperature in the area in which the benzene is stored may drop below 46 degrees Fahrenheit.

• 5

  Insulate the tank so that the internal temperature will fluctuate as little as possible.

• 6

  Monitor the tank and the area around it to check for any hazards or potential hazards. These include any sources of ignition or problems with heating mechanisms.

• 7

  Inspect the tank regularly to check for leaks.

• 8

  Service the tank in accordance with the standards set by the American Petroleum Institute for benzene storage tanks.