Technological problems often have multiple solutions that involve different products and processes. All technological solutions or “fixes” have consequences. 

A decision to use one approach or another involves looking at the risks and benefits of each.

Suppose a tanker truck, carrying a concentrated solution of sodium hydroxide destined for a pulp and paper company, crashes on the highway. Should this dangerous chemical spill be neutralized or diluted? Discuss the pros and cons for each proposed solution.

Read the article below about a similar crash situation. Which chemicals were being transported? Do you think it was safe to store these chemicals together? Why or why not?

Grass, J. (2015). 18-wheeler fire, chemical spill shuts down I-59/20, prompts evacuation. Alabama Media Group. Accessed at http://www.al.com/news/birmingham/index.ssf/2015/12/18-wheeler_wreck_hazmat_spill.html on December 1, 2016.

Incompatible Chemical Hazard Groups. Accessed at http://www.sfsu.edu/~safety/Web_documents/files_lab/Incompatible%20Chemical%20Groups.pdf on December 1, 2016.