Facts about Propane

Facts about Propane: Chemical Properties

The LPG or LP gas that we are conversant with, is a mixture propane, propylene, butylene and butane. The odor is emitted by ethanethiol, an additive to prevent wanton leakage. Propane burns to form carbon dioxide and water, in the presence of excess oxygen. It is heavier than air and in the raw, unprocessed state, with a density of nearly 1.5 times that of air, propane sinks to the ground. Liquid propane evaporates at atmospheric pressure. Under proper combustion, propane produces 91 megajoules per cubic meter.

Physical Properties:

Propane is a three-carbon alkane, non-toxic in nature. When inhaled deliberately, it causes asphyxiation or oxygen deprivation. Commercial products that contain propane and hydrocarbons increase this risk. Propane is stored at room temperature, under pressure. The sudden expansion and cooling on release is known to cause frostbite. Propane combustion is clean and the C-C bonds, along with those of propylene and butylene, generate organic exhaust. Propane burns with a clear, visible flame.

Propane Facts:

Propane was first identified by Dr. Walter Snelling, in 1910. Dr. Snelling worked with liquefied gas and discovered that a bottle full of propane was sufficient to light a home for three weeks! He invented ways to liquefy the LP gas while refining of natural oil. His production of pure propane in 1911 was issued a patent. Propane is a commonly preferred cooking fuel, also used in vehicles. It's low boiling point of −43.6°F enables a vaporization on release, rendering it safe for transportation and as a compressant within pressurized containers. This property eliminates the need for a vaporizing device. It fuels forklifts, locomotives and heavy ice resurfacing machines. It also powers water heaters and other heating appliances. Commercially marketed propane fuel contains 90% propane and 10% butane, propylene and odorants.

The fuel propane is transported via large tanks and service trucks. It is compressed within cylinders or transported from the excavation site via a pipeline to the nearest delivery plant. Consumers get their supply of the fuel in individual tanks of varying sizes. Propane heaters are quickly replacing traditional ones fueled by fossil fuel. Industries are now using propane in brick kilns, glass manufacturing units and similar industries that use heat-blasts. Propane blends with isopropane to fuel a refrigerator that works on gas absorption. The mixture has a greatly reduced ozone depletion effect and successfully replaces chlorofluorocarbon and hydrofluorocarbon refrigerants. This ability makes it a great replacement as an alternative fuel in refrigerators and air conditioners.

Propane is the third choice in vehicle fuels, after gasoline and diesel. The autogas vehicles make optimum use of propane in the liquid state. Quicker refills, increased cost effectiveness and cleaner handling makes it a popular choice. The fuel is a byproduct of two natural gas processing and refining of petroleum. It involves removal of butane and large amounts of ethane, alongside propane. Oil refineries also produce propane while processing 'crack' petroleum. Propane gas helps to save a lot on energy bills,. It is not only cleaner than most other fuels, but also one of the most environment friendly source of energy. It is recognized within the 'Clean Air Act Amendments' of 1990.