Water Gas

Name:
Water Gas
Detailed information:
(blue gas). A mixture of gases made from coke, air, and steam. The steam is decomposed by passing it over a bed of incandescent coke or by high-temperature reaction with natural gas or similar hydrocarbons. Approximate composition: carbon monoxide 40%, hydrogen 50%, carbon dioxide 3%, and nitrogen 3%.

Hazard:

Flammable, dangerous fire and explosion risk. Explosive limits 7–72% in air. Toxic by inhalation.

Use:

Organic synthesis, fuel gas, ammonia synthesis.

See Synthesis Gas.