[APML] Forming gas handling

["D. Kodama" <kodama@alumni.caltech.edu>]

Hello everyone,

I've been attempting to get forming gas in bulk since some OCA members
here and myself are getting into Tech Pan and may be using larger volumes
for hypering up to 4x5 film.

A fellow imager who has a company which deals with various inquired for me
and got the following info:

"I have spoken to Praxair again this morning with the
changes you made on this order . The gentleman I
talked to wanted me to make you aware that you friend
has to be " VERY " careful with this mix . The
Hydrogen will separate in the air because it is
lighter than Nitrogen . His concern was that it will
settle at the top of the ceiling and it is  "
EXTREMELY " Flammable . I'm sure your friend is
totally aware of this , just a heads up."

So my questions are:

  - Is this an over-conservative warning about hydrogen gas danger?

  - Do I really have to "shake before using" forming gas?

I've heard vastly different opinions on handling hydrogen gas.  Fuel cell
proponents seem to think a 5000 PSI tank of pure hydrogen in your car is
not a problem, yet I get a caution about handling forming gas, which I've
been led to believe is a safe mixture.

If anyone has expertise in handling gases with hydrogen, I'd appreciate
hearing your take on it.

Dave Kodama



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