Fluosilicic Acid Release; Braithwaite, LA

Braithwaite, LA | 2008-Mar-17

Initial Notification: On March 17, 2008, the NOAA SSC was notified of a fluosilicic Acid release at the Stolt-Haven Facility across the Mississippi River from Belle Chasse, LA. This is a fuming acid (creates fumes) that is highly toxic by inhalation. The leaking tank has a capacity of 12,500 barrels and is leaking at an estimate rate of 50 gallons per minute. The tank has been leaking for at least 6 hours and is ongoing. The spilled material is currently contained within the facility but is creating hazardous fumes. The river has been closed to traffic for a mile above and below the facility. NOAA ERD has been requested to evaluate the migration of the fumes, potential response options to minimize fumes, and potential impacts and fates if the spilled acid is released into the river. On 17 March 2008, 430,000 gallons of this acid solution was discharged into the Mississippi River. Two weeks later, additional leaks were detected at the facility. The response continues as a managed emergency to remove this product safely from the facility at the direction of the USCG. NOAA continues to provide scientific support as requested.