Storing volatile chemicals

[Johnny Generic]

Any harm in storing chemicals like paint thinner, xylene, mineral spirits, denatured alcohol outside all year round? Chemicals would be in their original containers and placed in a secured steel, vented locker. Location Pittsburgh, Pa.

 

[The Cobbler]

the cold won't hurt it. overheating could be a fire hazard . rusting containers could start to leak and leach into the ground
shed near me recently exploded and burst into flames . never heard the cause but neighbours heard an explosion just before . I suspected it was spontaneous combustion of some sort

 

[Showkey]

overheating ??????

Fire and or explosion need an ignition source. Being hot is not an ignition source. Leaking is problem over time but still needs an ignition source.

Locker with no climate control and metal containers……..rust would be a concern of a long period of time.

This is related the gas can storage question in the garage or shop……….when you have 100 gallons in gas in the vehicles next to the 5-10 gallon gas cans. That is again related to the gas grill or propane cylinder stored in the garage. Which is then related to the welding gas storage in the shop/garage.

 

[Stuart in MN]

There are cabinets specifically designed for storing chemicals outdoors: https://www.uline.com/BL_2981/Outdoor-Safety-Cabinets?keywords=Outdoor+Safety+Cabinets They are pretty expensive new, but this sort of thing shows up used from time to time on Craigslist.

 

[The Cobbler]

wasn't suggesting the overheating would cause a fire, but an over filled container that gets heated can leak, a spark could cause a fire.