Authorities tell Action News that the fire is under control and there are no need for evacuations.
Emergency personnel were called out the Sunoco refinery on Ridge Avenue near Blue Ball Road in New Castle County, Delaware around 10:20 p.m.
This is connected to the Marcus Hook Sun Oil refinery in Marcus Hook, Pa, but the explosion happened in Delaware.
It is reported to be ethylene oxide that exploded.
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Witnesses tell Action News there was more than one explosion.
Ethylene oxide does lose its toxicity when its ignited.
Here is what the United States Department of Labor Occupational Safety & Health Admistration says about Ethylene oxide:
Ethylene oxide (EtO) is produced in large volumes and is primarily used as an intermediate in the production of several industrial chemicals, the most notable of which is ethylene glycol. It is also used as a fumigant in certain agricultural products and as a sterilant for medical equipment and supplies. Unfortunately, EtO possesses several physical and health hazards that merit special attention. EtO is both flammable and highly reactive. Acute exposures to EtO gas may result in respiratory irritation and lung injury, headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, shortness of breath, and cyanosis. Chronic exposure has been associated with the occurrence of cancer, reproductive effects, mutagenic changes, neurotoxicity, and sensitization.
For more information on Ethylene oxide click here.
Authorities have told Action News that everyone from the refinery is accounted for and there are no reported injuries.
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