What does BLEVE stand for in fire investigations?

BLEVE stands for Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapor Explosion. This term refers to a specific type of explosion that occurs when a vessel containing a pressurized liquid is ruptured, usually due to exposure to heat. As the pressure decreases, the liquid can rapidly boil and expand into vapor, creating a large amount of energy and potentially resulting in an explosion.

Understanding BLEVE is crucial in fire investigations because it highlights the hazards presented by pressurized containers, especially those holding flammable or combustible liquids. Investigators must consider the potential for BLEVE when assessing the circumstances surrounding a fire incident, particularly if there are signs of vessel rupture due to heat.

While the other options present variations on the concept of boiling liquids and explosions, only the definition captured in the correct answer accurately describes the phenomenon's underlying chemistry and the conditions under which it occurs. This understanding is vital in assessing risk factors related to fire and explosion hazards, especially in industrial contexts or during firefighting operations.