ASTM is set to host a two-day workshop on particle impact (PI) ignition organized by the ASTM Committee G04 on the Compatibility and Sensitivity of Materials in Oxygen Enriched Atmospheres.

The event will be held from April 25-26, 2023, at NASA White Sands Test Facility (WSTF) in Las Cruces, NM. Dr. Gwenael Chiffoleau of WHA International will co-chair.

What is Particle Impact Ignition?

Many oxygen components feature designs or are utilized in a manner that creates high internal gas velocities. Particle impact ignition refers to situations where the oxygen gas propels small particles with enough energy to ignite upon impact.

Because materials burn more easily and energetically within oxygen systems, even a small particle ignition event can lead to a dangerous oxygen fire.

Advancing the Science of Particle Impact Ignition

The ASTM workshop will feature presentations and open discussions on a range of topics related to PI ignition, including test data, modeling using computational fluid dynamics (CFD), investigating fires caused by PI ignition, and more.

WHA International will present work on several projects, including PI testing featuring curved tubes of stainless steel. They also plan to present historical data and ongoing research on the ignition of particles and target materials in oxygen-rich environments.

Evaluating Particle Impact Test Methods

One goal of the event is to explore whether there is a path forward for a working group to develop an ASTM standard for performing PI testing.

“NASA has provided particle impact testing for a long time generating highly beneficial test data,” explains Gwenael, “and we have also developed our own test methods that are a little different from NASA — able to evaluate materials and components, but smaller in scale and more cost-effective. Others around the world have been performing PI testing too. We want to see whether we can agree on a method we can all use.”

Evaluating Particle Impact Test Methods

With global participation expected, this workshop is an excellent opportunity to learn about the latest advances in particle impact testing and network with other experts in the field of oxygen safety.

To learn more and register, visit https://na.eventscloud.com/website/51921/g04-particle-impact-workshop-apr-2023/.