If the maximum adiabatic temperature exceeds the boiling point, what is the expected hazard?

• A. Potential pressure buildup in a closed vessel
• B. Color change
• C. No hazard
• D. Leaking solvent

Answer: (A)

Adiabatic temperature rise means the system heats up quickly with little or no heat loss to the surroundings. If that peak temperature exceeds the substance’s boiling point, the material will start to boil and generate vapor. In a closed vessel, the vapor takes up more space and the pressure rises because the gas has nowhere to escape. That overpressure is the real hazard here: a closed container can rupture or vent violently if the pressure gets high enough.

Color change isn’t a reliable indicator of this risk, and saying there’s no hazard ignores the pressure buildup. Leaking solvent could occur if containment fails, but the primary hazard from exceeding the boiling point in a closed system is overpressure.