Water-reactive substances pose significant risks during transportation and storage, making proper classification critical for safety and regulatory compliance. At LCS Laboratory Inc., we offer comprehensive laboratory testing for the classification of water-reactive materials, conducted in full compliance with the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria, specifically paragraph 33.4 (Division 4.3). These tests identify water-reactive products and measure their gas emission rates, ensuring accurate hazard classification for the Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG) and GHS labelling.
Water-Reactive Substances: Types and Risks
Water-reactive substances, also known as Division 4.3 materials, can be inorganic or organic. Their reaction with water may produce heat, flammable gases, or spontaneous ignition, posing serious safety risks.
- Inorganic water-reactive substances:
Examples include powdered metals, amalgams, metal hydrides, sulphides, anhydrous salts, carbides, and oxides. - Organic water-reactive substances:
Organometallic compounds and anhydrides are known to react violently with water, creating potentially hazardous situations.
If your product falls into one of these categories, LCS Laboratory Inc. provides specialized testing to determine its classification and ensure compliance with international transportation and safety standards.
Testing Procedure: UN Division 4.3 Classification
The classification of water-reactive substances involves two critical stages:
1. Screening Test for Spontaneous Ignition
This test evaluates whether the substance ignites spontaneously when it comes into contact with water. A small sample (10 g) is tested by:
- Immersing it in water,
- Applying it to the water’s surface, and
- Adding water to the dry material.
If spontaneous ignition occurs, the material is classified as Packing Group I (highest hazard).
2. Rate of Gas Evolution
This test measures the rate of gas evolution over a 7-hour period to determine the appropriate packing group (I, II, or III). We require 50 g of the sample for this analysis. The data from this test is essential for assessing the degree of risk associated with gas emissions during transportation or storage.
Why Choose LCS Laboratory Inc.?
- Regulatory Compliance: We follow the strict guidelines outlined in the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria.
- Expertise in Dangerous Goods Testing: With years of experience in hazardous materials testing, we deliver precise and reliable results.
- Accurate Classification: Ensure proper labelling and packing group assignment for safe transportation of your materials.
- Customer Convenience: Access detailed instructions, request forms, and pricing on our website for a seamless experience.
Contact Us
At LCS Laboratory Inc., we are committed to ensuring the safe handling of dangerous goods. Whether you need to classify water-reactive substances or other hazardous materials, our skilled team is ready to assist.
Contact us today via email to schedule your test, discuss your project, or access our services. Please do not send the samples without discussing the product. Together, we can help ensure the safe and compliant transportation of your products.
