C3H8
Propane
Propane (C3H8) is a colourless, highly flammable gas that is commonly used as a fuel for heating, cooking, and as an engine fuel in certain vehicles.
It is a major component of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and is stored as a liquid under pressure in tanks and cylinders. Propane is widely used in residential, commercial, and industrial settings, including in barbecue grills, heaters, and forklifts. While generally safe when handled properly, propane is extremely flammable and can pose explosion risks. In confined spaces, it can displace oxygen and cause asphyxiation.
Due to its widespread use and flammability, propane requires careful handling, proper storage, and leak detection systems to prevent accidents.
Colourless and odourless (when pure)
Highly flammable
Stored under pressure as a liquid
Explosion and asphyxiation hazards
Common fuel for heating, cooking, and vehicles
More about propane
Hazard | Highly flammable, asphyxiant in confined areas |
Classification | Flammable gas |
Exposure limits |
(OSHA) PEL\TWA: 1000 ppm |
Industries present | Residential heating, commercial cooking, agriculture, automotive fuel, industrial heating, construction |
Health effects | Asphyxiation in enclosed areas, frostbite from liquid contact, mild dizziness from inhalation |
Environmental impact | Contributes to greenhouse gases, but burns cleanly with minimal pollutantsCan cause eutrophication in water bodies, harmful to aquatic life |
Duration in air | Breaks down in the atmosphere within days |
Propane is extremely flammable and poses a risk of fire or explosion when mixed with air in concentrations between 2.1% and 9.5%. When stored under pressure as a liquid, it expands rapidly upon release, increasing the risk of fire or explosion in poorly ventilated areas. Exposure to propane gas can cause dizziness, difficulty breathing and unconsciousness, particularly in confined spaces where the gas can displace oxygen.
Direct contact with liquid propane can cause frostbite, as the liquid evaporates quickly and absorbs heat from the skin. High concentrations of propane inhalation can also depress the central nervous system, causing symptoms like confusion, headaches, and nausea.
Medical attention should be sought in the event of frostbite to the eyes, face or extremities. If frostbite has not occurred, then thorough washing with large amounts of water for up to 15 minutes is very important to reduce the impact.
For issues related to the respiratory system, caused through inhalation of propane, fresh air and rest are required. For more severe cases, artificial respiration may be required, and in worst cases resuscitation.
How to detect propane
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