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 electrifi ed powder is fed into it or when an FIBC that contains powder is emptied. In such cases, a non-treated FIBC can be highly electrifi ed so that incendiary electrostatic discharges may take place and sometimes results in an explosion and fi re if the powder is combustible or if an explosive atmosphere exists in the vicinity of the FIBC. In this paper, recent accident cases in Japan are introduced and typical mechanisms of explosion and fi re are explained in detail. The international standard (IEC 61340-4-4:2012) and the future Japanese standard (JIS C 61340-4-4) for antielectrostatic FIBC are described together with their differences.
