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Galvanised steel coating reaction with caustic chemicals

I am investigating the affect of MEK / methyl ethyl ketone (60% proof) reacting with galvanised steel.

In the late 80s I was involved in commissioning an MEK production plant in Warrington England.

MEK is used as a solvent in industrial paint finishes and Adhesives and is highly reactive with almost anything. Several incidents happened where drops of MEK 60% dripped onto galvanised steal and reacted violently producing clouds of highly caustic vapour causing incredible burning to the face, lips, mouth etc. nasal passages and lungs. All flesh exposed to it became damaged ... permanently with a stinging sensation and an altered structure to flesh. I later discovered that MEK causes CNS (brain) damage and particularly when it is allowed to react with a second element. Fumes from welding Galvanised steel seem to make people really ill with flu like symptoms and particularly can cause sickness and drowsiness. The nature of the drowsy effect is of most interest.

MEK reacts with galvanised steel- what I understand with related research is that a other chemical combinations result and can then take the reacted MEK to the area Galvanised welding fumes cause damage and cause further undocumented, unresearched damage,

Anyone with any data on this area?

Mike Westlale
consultant - Manchester, Manchester, England
2004

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Toxic fumes from welding materials is common.

We have eliminated most of it by using hydrogen flame or torch, using a hydrogen generator by electrolysis that supplies gas at will.

We cut dirty metals without sputtering.

No fumes no pollution better for workers lungs.

It safe because of the no gas retention, storage no cylinder handling.

Louis Joannette
- Montreal, Quebec, Canada
2004