Vapours from inhibited materials do not contain inhibitors. If these vapours condense and form polymers, they can block vents or flame arrestors in process equipment or containers. Condensation is a chemical reaction in which two or more molecules join together to form a new substance. Water or some other simple substance may be given off as a by-product. Some polymers, such as nylon, can be formed by condensation reactions.
Vigorous condensation can produce more energy than the surroundings can safely carry away.
This could cause a fire or explosion, or rupture closed containers. Few common pure chemicals undergo vigorous condensation by themselves. Some members of the aldehyde chemical family, including butyraldehyde and acetaldehyde, condense vigorously, but bases or sometimes strong acids must also be present. Some commercial products sold to be mixed for specialized applications may undergo vigorous condensation if they are not stored, handled and used as directed by the chemical supplier. Decomposition is a chemical change in which a molecule breaks down into simpler molecules.