Abstract
Flexible intermediate bulk containers (FIBC) are widely used for the storage, transportation, and handling of powder. However, a large amount of electrostatic charge can be generated in an FIBC when electrified powder is fed into it or when an FIBC that contains powder is emptied. In such cases, a non-treated FIBC can become highly electrified to the point whereby incendiary electrostatic discharges take place, sometimes resulting in explosions and fires if the powder is combustible or if an explosive atmosphere exists in the vicinity of the FIBC. In this paper, recent cases of accidents in Japan are introduced and the typical mechanisms of explosions and fires are explained in detail. The international standard (IEC 61340-4-4:2012) and the future Japanese standard (JIS C 61340-4-4) for anti-electrostatic FIBC are described together with their differences.
