IBCs that transport and house flammable/combustibles are recommended to have clear labeling and stored within properly secured structures and according to federal regulations, such as NFPA and OSHA. Metal IBCs (as carbon steel and stainless steel) are often approved per UL 142 requirements for housing these materials long term. Accordingly, metal IBC tanks can be used for Class I materials, while rigid plastic IBCs can be used for Class II/III materials. Concerning the mechanical stability and sloshing of intermediate bulk containers during transport, some research has been performed through the U.S. Department of Transportation which seems to indicate that IBC containers perform overall very well during transit in terms of sloshing and mechanical stability. For metal IBCs, test reports by the German Bundesanstalt für Materialforschung und -prüfung (BAM) show that a metal IBC can withstand fire for at least 30 minutes, if it is equipped with a pressure venting device. History The concept of the IBC was patented in 1992 by inventor Olivier J. L. D'Hollander working for Dow Corning S.A. It was inspired by the patent of a "Fold up wire frame containing a plastic bottle", patented in 1990 by Dwight E. Nicols for Hoover Group, Inc. See also Barrel Bulk box CargoBeamer Drum Drum pump Dutch flower bucket Flexible intermediate bulk container Intermodal container Liquid hydrogen tanktainer Roller container Spill pallet Tank container Wooden box Further reading Yam, K. L., "Encyclopedia of Packaging Technology", John Wiley & Sons, 2009, References Containers Packaging Shipping containers