Natural Gas

Name:
Natural Gas
Detailed information:
A mixture of low molecular weight hydrocarbons obtained in petroleum-bearing regions throughout the world. Its composition is 85% methane 10% ethane, the balance being made up of propane, butane, and nitrogen. In the U.S. it occurs chiefly in the southwestern states and Alaska. An as yet unexploited source of natural gas under extremely high pressure (so-called geopressurized gas) exists in Texas and Louisiana at depths of 15,000–20,000 ft. The tremendous pressures involved present formidable engineering problems. Natural gas is classed as a simple asphyxiant. It should not be confused with natural gasoline. About 3% of the natural gas consumed in the U.S. is used as feedstocks by the chemical industries.

Properties:

Colorless, flammable gas or liquid; almost odorless. Autoign temp 900–1100F, heating value 1000 Btu/ft3. A warning odor is added to household fuel gas as a safety precaution.

Hazard:

Flammable, dangerous fire and explosion risk; explosive limits in air 3.8–17%.

Use:

Fuel and cooking gas, ammonia synthesis, formaldehyde and other petrochemical feedstocks, source of synthesis gas and methanol.

See Liquefied Petroleum Gas; Synthetic Natural Gas.