8.4 Spontaneously Combustible

Spontaneously combustible materials are also known as pyrophorics; these chemicals can spontaneously ignite in the presence of air, some are reactive with water vapor, and most are reactive with oxygen. Two common examples are tert-Butyllithium under Hexanes and White Phosphorus. In addition to the hazard of the spontaneously combustible chemical itself, many of these chemicals are also stored under flammable liquids. In the event of an accident, such as a bottle being knocked off a shelf, the chemical can spontaneously ignite and a fire can occur. Extra care must be taken when handling spontaneously combustible chemicals. When transporting these chemicals, it is best to use a bottle carrier and carts.