Chemical Fires Associated with Two Major Earthquakes in Japan

Abstract

This study describes the characteristics of chemical fires (fires in laboratories, oil factories, etc.,) caused by earthquakes. First, the relationship between earthquakes and fires (particularly chemical laboratory fires) in Japan is described; afterward, the relationship between chemical substances and the natural environment (particularly fires) is described. Next, we explain the relationship between fire and chemistry after explaining the two past major earthquakes in Japan, the great Hanshin-Awaji earthquake and the great East Japan earthquake, based on statistics and records. Finally, we describe the measures taken against chemical fires and future earthquakes.