Pyrophoric Materials: The Chemicals That Ignite on Contact with Air

Pyrophoric materials are substances that spontaneously ignite upon exposure to air, moisture in the air, or at temperatures below 130 degrees Fahrenheit. Common examples include white phosphorus, alkali metals like sodium and potassium, and certain organometallic compounds used in industrial settings.

In industrial and laboratory environments, pyrophoric materials require specialized storage, handling procedures, and fire suppression systems. The hazard is not just the material itself but the reactive byproducts of combustion, which can include toxic gases and shrapnel.

Homeowners rarely encounter true pyrophoric materials, but some common household substances—rust-removing compounds containing fine metal shavings, for example—can produce hazardous reactions if stored improperly. Always read Safety Data Sheets for any chemical product.