Acetylene (C2H2) is an unstable compound. Several conditions can trigger sudden decomposition with release of a large amount of energy. It can deflagrate in the absence of oxygen.
Risk factors for an explosion while handling acetylene:
(1) pure acetylene (the addition of other compounds significantly improves stability)
(2) sudden shock (dropping a cylinder, etc)
(3) excessive turbulence during gas release (from high pressure tank to a low pressure gas line)
(4) excessive heat or exposure to flame
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