Key Considerations for Safe Maritime Transport of Bulk Aluminium Fluoride

—— A Focus on Shipping Aluminium Fluoride Bulk from China

The document outlines the critical safety procedures and characteristics for the ocean transport of bulk Aluminium Fluoride, a Group A cargo under the International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes (IMSBC) Code. Here are the essential points:

1. Cargo Profile & Primary Hazards

Proper Shipping Name: ALUMINIUM FLUORIDE.
IMSBC Code Group: Group A – Cargoes which may liquefy. This is the most significant hazard.
Physical Form: A fine, white, non-cohesive powder with a typical angle of repose between 32° and 35°.
Key Hazards:
- Liquefaction (Fluidization): The primary risk. It can occur if the cargo's moisture content exceeds its Transportable Moisture Limit (TML).
- Health: The dust irritates the eyes and mucous membranes.
- Chemical: Contact with acids or fire releases toxic hydrogen fluoride gas.

2. Mandatory Operational & Management Requirements

Moisture Control (Most Critical): The cargo's moisture content must be kept below the TML during loading and throughout the voyage. The Master can demand re-testing if precipitation occurs or if the cargo condition seems inconsistent with the moisture certificate.
Trimming: Due to its non-cohesive nature, strict trimming per IMSBC Code 5.4.4 is required to prevent shifting. The trimmed surface must be sufficiently level.
Dust Protection & Housekeeping: Personnel must wear appropriate PPE (gloves, goggles, dust masks). Hatches to non-active holds must be closed during loading/unloading. Areas should be swept clean before washing down.
In-Transit Monitoring: The cargo surface must be inspected regularly for signs of free moisture or fluidization.

3. Emergency Response Preparedness

Liquefaction at Sea: If fluidization is observed, the Master must take immediate action to prevent cargo shift/capsize, which may include proceeding to a place of refuge.
Personal Exposure:
- Skin/Eye Contact: Immediately flush with plenty of water.
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air.
- Medical Attention: Seek immediate medical help in all cases and inform about the chemical involved.

Core Takeaway

The safe transport of bulk Aluminium Fluoride depends fundamentally on rigorous moisture control, proper hold preparation and trimming to mitigate shift risk, and strict adherence to personal and operational safety protocols as defined by the IMSBC Code.

Pre-Shipment Checklist for Aluminium Fluoride Bulk Shipments from China

✔ Confirm cargo classification: IMSBC Code Group A (liquefaction risk)
✔ Obtain and review moisture content certificate and TML (Transportable Moisture Limit)
✔ Ensure cargo moisture content is below TML before loading
✔ Verify proper trimming per IMSBC Code 5.4.4 (level surface required)
✔ Prepare PPE for crew and loading personnel (gloves, goggles, dust masks)
✔ Close hatches to non-active holds during loading/unloading
✔ Establish in-transit monitoring plan for signs of free moisture or fluidization
✔ Brief emergency response procedures for liquefaction and chemical exposure
✔ Ensure hydrogen fluoride gas hazard is communicated to all personnel

Disclaimer: This guide is based on the IMSBC Code provisions. Regulations are subject to change. Always consult your freight forwarder and certified dangerous goods personnel before shipping bulk cargo.