Hydrogen cyanide (HCN) – Highly toxic, highly flammable, life-threatening
Protection through professional gas warning technology
Hydrogen cyanide (HCN) – also known as hydrogen cyanide gas – is a colorless, extremely toxic and highly flammable gas with a bitter almond-like odor. However, the odor cannot be reliably detected and is therefore not a reliable warning signal. HCN is used industrially in plastics, chemical and metal processing and can also be released during combustion processes, decomposition of nitrogenous substances or biological decomposition processes.
The fact is: HCN is one of the most dangerous industrial chemicals in the world. Even the smallest quantities can be fatal. That is why the use of reliable HCN gas detectors is essential for occupational safety and explosion protection.
Deadly poisonous – danger even at low concentrations
HCN blocks cellular respiration – the body can no longer utilize oxygen. Even minimal exposure can lead to serious damage to health or even death within a very short time. Particularly dangerous: HCN is colourless and often odourless.
Limits & Toxicology (Germany):
- OEL (occupational exposure limit value): 1 ppm (1.1 mg/m³)
- MAK value: 1 ppm
- Odor threshold: 0.2-10 ppm (varies greatly from individual to individual)
- >50 ppm: acute danger to life within a few minutes
- >100 ppm: fatal in a very short time
Even briefly exceeding the limit value can be life-threatening – modern Gas Detectors provide the necessary early warning.
Explosion hazard – HCN is highly flammable
In addition to its toxic effect, hydrogen cyanide has a high fire and explosion potential. On contact with air, highly flammable mixtures are formed – a considerable risk in poorly ventilated areas or in the event of leaks.
Explosion-relevant data:
- Lower explosion limit (LEL): approx. 5.6% by volume
- Upper explosion limit (UEL): approx. 40 % by volume
- Ignition temperature: approx. 538 °C
- Flash point: -17.8 °C
ATEX-compliant HCN gas monitoring systems are mandatory in hazardous areas.
HCN gas detectors – Precise detection saves lives
Our gas detection systems for hydrogen cyanide (HCN) are specially developed for the rapid and reliable detection of even the smallest concentrations.
Advantages of our HCN gas detectors:
- Early detection from
- Real-time measurement with visual & audible alarm
- Connection to ventilation and security systems
- ATEX-certified sensors for potentially explosive atmospheres
- Portable devices for emergency services & service teams
- Stationary systems for production lines, storage tanks & laboratories
Typical areas of application for HCN gas detection:
- Plastics and fiber production
- Chemical industry (e.g. adiponitrile, acetone cyanohydrin)
- Electroplating, metal finishing & hardening shops
- Pest control & disinfection processes
- Biogas plants with protein/nitrogen compounds
- Fire smoke analysis, fire department and disaster control
- Transportation of hazardous goods and warehouse logistics
Conclusion: HCN gas detection is life-saving occupational safety
Hydrogen cyanide is invisible – but deadly. Modern gas detectors for HCN reliably protect your employees, production processes and systems. With our proven measurement and alarm solutions, you can rely on fast response times, high accuracy and legally compliant safety.