Will Alcohol Left in a Car Spontaneously Combust in Summer?
2 Answers
Leaving alcohol in a car during summer can lead to spontaneous combustion, which is extremely dangerous. Here are some key points about alcohol: 1. Ignition Point: Medical alcohol with a concentration of 75% has an ignition point of 20 degrees Celsius. During summer, outdoor temperatures at noon can exceed 40 degrees Celsius, and the temperature inside a car parked in direct sunlight can reach over 50 degrees Celsius, making it highly susceptible to spontaneous combustion and explosion. Alcohol left in a car under direct sunlight can explode. 2. Risk of Explosion: Alcohol is a flammable and explosive substance. In a sealed car exposed to sunlight, temperatures can soar to 50-60 degrees Celsius. Without proper ventilation, exposure to an open flame or ignition source (such as a cigarette) can trigger an explosion. If stored in a glass bottle, sunlight can create a magnifying glass effect, focusing light and igniting the alcohol, significantly increasing the risk of explosion.
I once witnessed a case of alcohol explosion inside a car at an auto repair shop, which really highlights the importance of this issue. In summer, the temperature on the dashboard of a car parked outdoors can soar above 70°C, while the ignition point of medical alcohol is only around 13°C. When an alcohol bottle is exposed to intense sunlight, the internal vapor pressure increases dramatically, and even slight shaking or tiny cracks in the bottle can trigger a vapor flash explosion. Last year, an SUV in our neighborhood caught fire because a disinfectant alcohol spray left on the center console expanded due to heat, causing the cap to pop off. The spray then ignited instantly upon contact with hot metal parts. It's recommended to use individually packaged alcohol wipes instead, or store liquid alcohol in sealed aluminum cans placed in the heat-insulated trunk. Never leave it near the driver's seat for convenience.
