Green Chemistry in Teaching Laboratory

Microwave Induced Reactions

 

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Safety Tips

 

According to Food and Drug Administration, the maximum amount of microwave radiation that can leak out from the microwave oven can be 5 mill watts throughout its lifetime. It’s always considered safe to work at a distance from the oven as microwave energy decreases with increase in distance from its source of radiation. The microwave oven must have two independent interlock systems such that the production of microwave radiation ceases when the door opens.  Care should be taken while working with microwave ovens, as microwave radiation can cause serious injuries to human body. Exposure to large amount of microwave radiations can lead to injuries like- burns, cataract, temporary sterility.

  1. Read all instructions before using the microwave.

  2. Avoid possible exposure to excessive microwave energy.

  3. Do not attempt to operate this oven with the door open since open-door operation can result in harmful exposure to microwave energy. It is important not to tamper with the safety interlocks r drill holes with the external body.

  4. Do not operate the oven if it is damaged. It is particularly important that the oven door closes properly and that there is no damage to the: (1) door (bent), (2) hinges and latches (broken or loosened), (3) door seals and sealing surfaces.

  5. Take special care to ensure that no damage occurs to the part of the oven making contact with the door or door seals .Do not by pass the door interlocks.

  6. The appliance must be grounded properly. Ensure that the microwave is unplugged or disconnected from electrical power before reaching into any accessible openings or attempting any repairs.

  7. Do not test a microwave power generating component without an appropriate load connected to its output. The power generated must never be allowed to radiate freely into occupied areas.

  8. Ensure that the adjustment of applied voltages, replacement of the microwave power generating component, dismantling of the oven components, and refitting of waveguides are undertaken only by persons who have been specially trained for such tasks. The services of a qualified repairman should be sought when any malfunction is suspected.

  9. Never operate an empty microwave. If you want to practice using it, place a cup of water inside to absorb the microwave energy.

  10. Keep the inside of the microwave clean. Wipe up chemical spills as they occur.

  11. Metallic vessels are not recommended for microwave use. Do not use aluminum foil or metallic components.

  12. Sealed containers tend may explode. Such containers must not be heated in a kitchen microwave with a special pressure sensor are recommended. .

  13. Do not cover or block any openings on the appliance.

  14. Do not store a microwave outdoors. Do not use it near water– for example, near a laboratory kitchen sink,

  15. If materials inside the oven ignite, keep oven door closed, turn oven off, and disconnect the power cord, or shut off power at the fuse or circuit breaker panel.

  16. Do not use the cavity for storage purposes. Do not leave paper products, cooking utensils, or food in the cavity when not in use.

  17. Experiments that required the use of volatile solvents and hazardous chemicals are to be used carefully. Fire hazard is also an important consideration when microwaves are concerned.

 

S. No:

Unsafe for Microwave use

1

Brown paper bags and newspaper

2

Metal pans

3

Foam insulated cup, bowls, plates or trays

4

Aluminum foil

5

Plastic wraps and cold storage containers