Beirut Blast: A Devastating Reminder of Unstable Chemicals
Tragedy Highlights Dangers of Poorly Stored Ammonium Nitrate
Experts Warn of Similar Incidents Worldwide
The catastrophic explosion in Beirut, Lebanon, has raised alarm bells worldwide about the dangers of improperly stored ammonium nitrate. The substance, commonly used in fertilizers and explosives, is highly unstable and can lead to devastating explosions if not handled properly.
According to experts, the explosion in Beirut is estimated to be one of the largest non-nuclear explosions in history. The blast wave caused widespread damage, flattening buildings, shattering windows, and injuring thousands of people.
Ammonium nitrate has been responsible for several other major explosions in recent years. In 2015, an explosion at a chemical plant in Texas, USA, killed 15 people and injured 270. In 2020, an explosion at a warehouse in Tianjin, China, killed 173 people.
Experts warn that similar incidents could occur in other countries where ammonium nitrate is stored in large quantities. Countries are being urged to review their safety regulations and improve the handling and storage of this dangerous substance.
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