A major fire in the port of Antwerp has been brought under control, the port authority said, but could go on burning for the rest of the week.
The fire started in a consignment of 5,000 tonnes of nickel oxide in a warehouse on the Leopold Dock. The burning product causes an unpleasant smell, and can also affect the breathing of anyone within range, up to and including cancer.
In its various stages of purity, nickel oxide can be used in specialised applications such as ceramics, or in a less refined state in the production of nickel alloys.
As a result of the dangers, the municipality of Antwerp launched its disaster plan, which in the port is particularly strict given the presence of various chemical and petrochemical businesses there.
Read more on The Brussels Times.
