Method and apparatus for neutralizing and destroying pentaborane

Abstract

A method and apparatus for neutralizing pentaborane. A high-capacity pentaborane processing system is disclosed that may be employed at a variety of sites where pentaborane may be stored. Remote monitoring and worker interface with the pentaboraneis limited to placement of a target cylinder into an airtight chamber and connection of process piping to each cylinder valve. Hydrolysis of the pentaborane is achieved in the system by rapid and extensive physical mixing of the pentaborane with water, which yields gaseous elemental hydrogen and residual boric acid. Sodium hydroxide may be provided to neutralize boric acid and form borax, which may be later precipitated out of the waste stream. Continuous monitoring through various pH and ORP sensors give operators information needed to maintain correct chemical balance throughout the reaction process. A cylinder or other container filled with pentaborane may be connected to an airtight system. A padding element may be used to extract the pentaborane from the container and deliver it to a metering pump or valve. The pump then delivers the pentaborane to an injection point where the pentaborane is introduced to a reagent, which may be water or some other suitable reagent. A reaction ensues, whereby the elemental hydrogen is isolated from the pentaborane. The elemental hydrogen is vented and oxidized. Residual boron is maintained in solution as boric acid and can be processed into borax. A secondary alcoholytic reaction may be utilized to further destroy any gas-phase pentaborane.