Context

• Seventeen people were killed in a chemical reactor explosion at Escientia plant, a pharmaceutical manufacturing company, in Andhra Pradesh.

Key Highlights

• The Escientia plant is located in the 'Special Economic Zone' of Anakapalli district.
• The distillate solvent leaked in the explosion has been identified as methylene tertiary butyl ether or MTBE.
• MTBE: A flammable liquid used as an additive in unleaded gasoline for more efficient combustion.

What is a chemical reactor?

• A chemical reactor is a structure in which chemical reactions take place and different substances are mixed to form new substances, which is also called a chemical reaction.
• Uses: Reactors are used in various industries, such as chemical, petrochemical, pharmaceutical and food industries, etc.

Components of a Chemical Reactor

A chemical reactor has various components, including:

• Container: This is the main container in which the reaction takes place. It can be made of various materials such as steel, glass or ceramic.
• Reactants: Substances that undergo a chemical reaction. These are added to the reactor.
• Products: Substances formed as a result of a chemical reaction.
• Catalyst (optional): This is a substance that increases the rate of the reaction without participating in the chemical reaction itself.
• Heating/cooling system: This can be a coil or external heat exchanger to control the temperature of the reaction.
• Mixing system: This can be a stirrer, agitator or gas sparger to ensure proper mixing of the reactants.
• Pressure control system: This can be a pressure regulator or valves to maintain the desired pressure within the reactor.
• Feed and product lines: Pipes or valves are used to introduce reactants into the reactor and remove products.

Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO)

• It is a regulatory body in India that oversees safety aspects relating to the manufacture, use, sale, transport, import and export of explosives, compressed gases and petroleum products.
• It is responsible for administering the rules made under the Explosives Act 1884.

Explosives Act, 1884 

• It is an important legislation in India that governs all aspects of the manufacture, storage, transportation and use of explosives.
• It aims to ensure the safety of the public and prevent misuse of explosives.

The Explosives Bill, 2024

• The Government of India has introduced a new Explosives Bill 2024 to more effectively regulate the manufacture, storage, transport and use of explosives. This bill will replace the old Explosives Act of 1884.

Main characteristics:

• Streamlined licensing: The licensing process will be made more transparent and efficient.
• Strict monitoring: The production and use of explosives will be strictly monitored.
• Use of modern technology: Modern technologies will be used for safe handling of explosives.
• Conformity to international standards: Explosives will be manufactured following international standards.