In the event of a fire, personnel entering the area should use a fresh air supply. An electrostatic charge can potentially build up during pouring powder or pellets. The peroxides used are in many cases very unstable and care should be used in formulating and handling. In addition, the hydrazide type blowing agents are flammable and care should be used to avoid sparks and open flames when handling them. Combustion and Pyrolysis Thermal decomposition of resins produces fumes that can be potentially hazardous.
Decomposition is a function of both processing temperature and time at that temperature.
It should be noted further that some decomposition can occur at a very slow rate below the recommended processing temperature limits for all resins. Toxicity Various polyolefins, in film form, have been used for more than 25 years in fabrics, industrial applications and food packaging. Thermal Burns Precautions for working around resin processing equipment should be obtained from the vendors of these machines. If contact with molten polymer is made, immediately flush the burned areas of the skin with cold running water or treat with ice packs. Continue the treatment for 15 minutes or until the pain has diminished.