How to Prevent Static Electricity Fires
**Hazard Restriction Method:** In locations prone to static electricity and potential for electrostatic discharge sparks, the use of flammable materials should be strictly controlled, or the oxygen content in the air should be reduced. For example, many industries, such as petrochemicals, require large quantities of flammable liquids and organic solvents (such as kerosene and gasoline). Replacing flammable and explosive solvents with non-flammable solutions like caustic soda or sodium carbonate can significantly reduce the hazards of static electricity. Tests have shown that if the oxygen content in the air is less than 8%, combustion or explosion is unlikely. For instance, in the process of transporting oil on large tankers, inert gases such as nitrogen are typically used to reduce the oxygen content and prevent fires or explosions.
**Leakage Method:** Leakage involves dissipating static electricity. Methods include grounding, humidification, adding antistatic agents, and applying conductive coatings.
**Neutralization Method:** Neutralization is another method for eliminating static electricity. Neutralization involves the neutralization of positive and negative charges, and static electricity neutralization is achieved using electrons and ions. Static electricity neutralization is accomplished by a static electricity neutralizer. Compared to antistatic additives, static electricity neutralizers do not affect product quality and are easy to use. Neutralization methods mainly include inductive neutralizers, high-voltage static electricity neutralizers, radiation neutralizers, and ion flow neutralizers. Inductive neutralizers require no power source.
Process Control Method: The process control method involves selecting materials and equipment that are unlikely to generate static electricity during the design of the product manufacturing process, controlling the process to prevent static electricity generation, or ensuring that the generated static electricity does not exceed dangerous levels.