Experts Warn of Dangers from Ruptured CO2 Pipelines

Retired professor advises seeking higher ground in event of a leak

Apr. 16, 2026 at 12:18pm

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A highly textured abstract painting in earthy tones, featuring sweeping geometric shapes and botanical spirals, conceptually representing the complex forces at play in a ruptured carbon dioxide pipeline.An expert's warning highlights the need for public awareness of the hazards posed by carbon dioxide pipeline leaks.Bloomington Today

In the event of a rupture in a carbon dioxide pipeline, experts are warning the public to seek higher ground immediately and avoid sheltering in place. Jeff Steinbronn, a retired chemistry and physics professor, explained that liquid CO2 can quickly displace oxygen and lead to asphyxiation if not avoided.

Why it matters

As the United States continues to expand its carbon capture and storage infrastructure, the risks of potential pipeline leaks or ruptures are becoming an increasing public safety concern. Steinbronn's advice highlights the need for clear emergency protocols and public education around the hazards of CO2 exposure.

The details

Steinbronn, a Bremer County native who taught at Indiana University Bloomington, detailed how liquefied carbon dioxide behaves when released from a pipeline. He warned that the gas can quickly displace oxygen, leading to asphyxiation, and emphasized the importance of evacuating to higher ground rather than sheltering in place.

  • Steinbronn gave his safety advice on Sunday, April 16, 2026.

The players

Jeff Steinbronn

A retired chemistry and physics adjunct professor at Indiana University Bloomington, who is an expert on the behavior of liquefied carbon dioxide.

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What they’re saying

“To avoid death, you need to get everything that's actually breathing to higher ground”

— Jeff Steinbronn, Retired Professor

The takeaway

As carbon capture and storage infrastructure expands, the public needs to be aware of the dangers posed by potential CO2 pipeline ruptures and the importance of evacuating to higher ground rather than sheltering in place.