Revisiting of a silane explosion in a photovoltaic fabrication plant

A second possible cause of a previously described silane explosion is proposed based on a more detailed examination of the physical evidence. The explosion and fire occurred in a silane gas room in a photovoltaic fabrication plant. This investigation recommends more research to investigate the characteristics of a silane release and the resulting fires and explosions. Suggestions are also made for a better silane cylinder valve design and cabinet design. Silane leaks are difficult to detect; therefore the recommendations include the need for a silane gas detector to warn the operator when there are leaks. © 2007 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog, 2007.