WOOD PELLETS CONTAINING ADDITIVES AND/OR BINDERS
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Statutory Documents - IMO Publications and Documents - International Codes - IMSBC Code – International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes Code – Resolution MSC.268(85) - Appendix 1 – Individual Schedules of Solid Bulk Cargoes - WOOD PELLETS CONTAINING ADDITIVES AND/OR BINDERS

WOOD PELLETS CONTAINING ADDITIVES AND/OR BINDERS

Description

The wood pellets covered by this schedule are those containing additives and/or binders. These wood pellets are light blond to dark brown in colour; very hard and cannot be easily squashed; have a typical specific density between 1,100 to 1,700 kg/m3. Wood pellets are made of sawdust, planer shavings and other wood waste such as bark coming out of the lumber manufacturing processes. The raw material is fragmented, dried and extruded into pellet form using appropriate additives and/or binders. The raw material is compressed to approximately one-third of its original volume. The finished wood pellets typically have a moisture content of 4% to 8%. Wood pellets are used as a fuel in district heating and electrical power generation as well as a fuel for small space heaters such as stoves and fireplaces.

Wood pellets are also used as animal bedding due to the absorption characteristics. Such wood pellets typically have a moisture content of 8% to 10%.

For wood pellets not containing any additives and/or binders see separate schedule.

Characteristics

Physical properties
Size Angle of repose Bulk density (kg/m3) Stowage factor (m3/t)
Cylindrical with

Diameter: 3 mm to 12 mm

Length: 10 to 20 mm

 Approximately 30° 600 to 750 1.33 to 1.67
Hazard classification
Class Subsidiary hazard(s) MHB Group
Not applicable Not applicable WF B

Hazard

Shipments are subject to oxidation leading to depletion of oxygen and increase of carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide in cargo and communicating spaces (also see Weather precautions).

Swelling if exposed to moisture. Wood pellets may ferment over time if moisture content is over 15%, leading to generation of asphyxiating and flammable gases which may cause spontaneous combustion.

Handling of wood pellets may cause dust to develop. Risk of explosion at high dust concentration.

Stowage and segregation

Segregate as for class 4.1 materials.

Hold cleanliness

Clean and dry as relevant to the hazards of the cargo.

Weather precautions

This cargo shall be kept as dry as practicable. This cargo shall not be handled during precipitation. During handling of this cargo, all non-working hatches of the cargo spaces into which this cargo is loaded, or to be loaded, shall be closed. There is a high risk of renewed oxygen depletion and carbon monoxide formation in previously ventilated adjacent spaces after closure of the hatch covers.

Loading

Trim in accordance with the relevant provisions required under sections 4 and 5 of this Code.

Precautions

Entry of personnel into cargo and adjacent confined spaces shall not be permitted until tests have been carried out and it has been established that the oxygen content and carbon monoxide levels have been restored to the following levels: oxygen 21% and carbon monoxide < 100 ppm.footnote If these conditions are not met, additional ventilation shall be applied to the cargo hold or adjacent confined spaces and re-measuring shall be conducted after a suitable interval.

An oxygen and carbon monoxide meter shall be worn and activated by all crew when entering cargo and adjacent enclosed spaces.

Ventilation

Ventilation of enclosed spaces adjacent to a cargo hold before entry may be necessary even if these spaces are apparently sealed from the cargo hold.

Carriage

No special requirements.

Discharge

No special requirements.

Clean-up

No special requirements.

Emergency procedures

Special emergency equipment to be carried
Self-contained breathing apparatus and combined or individual oxygen and carbon monoxide meters should be available.
Emergency procedures
Nil
Emergency action in the event of fire
Batten down; use ship's fixed fire-fighting installation, if fitted.

Exclusion of air may be sufficient to control fire.

Extinguish fire with carbon dioxide, foam or water.

Medical first aid
Refer to the Medical First Aid Guide (MFAG), as amended.
Parent topic: Appendix 1 – Individual Schedules of Solid Bulk Cargoes
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