Use of thermal analysis to predict the conditions for thermal explosion to occur: application to a Ce triethanolamine complex

This contribution explores the capabilities of combined thermal analysis methods to predict the ignition condition for a thermal runaway event to occur in a system heated at a constant rate. In particular, for a Ce triethanolamine complex, thermogravimetry has been used to determine the kinetic parameters, while enthalpy, thermal conductivity and thermal capacity have been measured by means of DSC. Once these parameters are known, it is possible to predict the critical mass for different heating rates and crucible sizes. Besides, thermogravimetry allowed us to assess if thermal runaway occurred as well as to monitor its evolution. Good agreement between the predicted and the experimental critical masses has been observed.