Dust explosions--Emerging/unique scenarios

Emerging technologies and processes, such as nano and green technologies, sustainable processes, and additive manufacturing processes, have led to the development and handling of "novel" materials, which pose significant safety issues as they exhibit properties different from those of commonly used materials. The main differences are related to the particle size (from micro to nano), shape (non spherical), density and structure (porous particles), and composition (metal alloys and hybrid mixtures). Data on flammability and explosion behavior, as well as standard procedures and equipment derived for spherical dusts with micro size, cannot be directly applied to these emerging materials. In this chapter, the main literature findings on the flammability and explosion behavior of hybrid mixtures, non spherical dusts, nano materials, and additive manufacturing dusts are discussed. The physical-chemical properties of the particles have an impact on relevant issues, such as the interaction with turbulence, the combustion reaction mechanism, and the dust propensity to dispersion/sedimentation (dustiness). The full characterization of the link between the particle properties and these issues is an essential preliminary step in the study of the flammability and explosion behavior of emerging materials.