02e39f42_stem_Risks_of_Alternative_Fuel__Background
[Hazard --Event] Buildingexplosion -- fromvehicle fuelsystem leaks [Consequences] When ignited, a confined natural gas-airmixture can produce pressures of up to800 kPa -- far more than vehiclestructures can withstand. For example,overpressures greater than 7 - 15 kPawill cause a brick wall to fail. [Knowledge] Though some fluid dynamic modeling offuel system leaks has been done forFTA, there is a lack of experimental dataon flammable plume behavior and also alack of codes and standards to guide thedesign of buildings for this fuel. [Background] 
Such leaks can form a flammable zone inside vehiclestorage and maintenance buildings and if ignited can causebuilding explosions and serious injuries. Experience to datesuggests that fuel system leaks will be relatively frequentuntil the technology of CNG use on vehicles becomes moremature.
Clean Air Program -- Assesment of the Safety, Health, Environmental and System Risks of Alternative Fuel
Background