Explosive Reaction Between Swimming Pool Chlorine and Brake Fluid

• NCJ Number: 130223
• Journal: Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 36 Issue: 3 Dated: (May 1991) Pages: 902-907
• Author(s): K P Kirkbride; H J Kobus
• Date Published: 1991
• Length: 6 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Research (Applied/Empirical)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

Granular swimming pool chlorine (calcium hypochlorite) and brake fluid (polyethylene glycol) react violently when mixed together, producing a fierce fireball.

Abstract

This paper proposes a mechanism which explains the production of the flammable products of the reaction by means of a radical fragmentation of polyethylene glycol. 2 tables, 4 figures, and 3 references (Author abstract)