M/V Marine Chemist; Freeport, TX

Freeport, TX | 1990-May-30

Initial Notification: At approximately 2000 PDT on May 29, two chemicals were accidentally mixed aboard the vessel, M/V Marine Chemist, located at the Dow Chemical dock A-4 near Freeport, Texas. Chemicals: 1,3 Dichloropropene (approx. 5000 gals.) Aminoethylethanolamine (approx. 20,000 gals.) . Concern is that unknown gases may be generated. It is unknown what type of reaction(s) and duration of reaction(s) to be expected. It has been observed that some type of exothermic reaction is occuring periodically with periods of apparent stability. Chemical mixture temperature is estimated at approx. 450 deg. F. Dow is currently conducting tests for reactivity. Area is currently being monitored for gas generation. Coast Guard reports tank is all stainless steel with a double bottom. Incident was created during loading process when hoses were incorrectly connected from tank cars to the ship. Tank is vented and manholes are opened, therefore mixture is not under pressure. . Location of incident: Lat. 28 deg. 56.3 min. N Long. 95 deg. 18.4 min. W . Town of Freeport is approx. 2.5 miles on bearing 287 deg. from A-4 dock. . Weather at time of incident: Winds- ESE at 10-15 KTS. Seas- 1-2 ft. Visibility- Clear Temperature- not reported . Coast Guard has closed the shipping channel and continuing to monitor situation. USCG district 8.