Propane
Propane is a hydrocarbon, with a boiling point of -42 C. It has only three Carbon atoms, and eight Hydrogen atoms, making it the third smallest and most volatile hydrocarbon, after Methane and Ethane.[1]
Propane is a component of natural gas.[2] Once separated out it is typically stored and shipped under pressure, so it is a liquid. Purified components of natural gas, stored underpressure so they can be shipped as liquids, are referred to by the Petroleum industry as "liquid natural gas" (LNG).
Propane is used as a vehicle fuel, for remote generators, and for cooking and heating.[3]
Propane is typically stored at 150 pounds per square inch (1.0 MPa).[3] Due to having a higher boiling point it can be stored as a liquid at a much lower pressure than methane or ethane.[4]
Propane is also used as a propellant in aerosol cans.[4] Methane, being a greenhouse gas, and lighter than air, is unsuitable to serve in aerosol cans. Propane would serve as a greenhouse gas, except it is heavier than air.
References
[edit | edit source]- ↑ "ETHANE: What is ethane?" (PDF). Marcellus Shale Coalition. Retrieved 2026-05-05.
- ↑ "What Is Ethane (C₂H₆)? Properties, Uses & Comparison to Methane". Frontline Safety. Retrieved 2026-05-05.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1
"Alternative Fuels Data Center: Propane Basics". Alternative Fuels Data Center. 2020-01-01. Retrieved 2026-05-05.
Interest in propane as an alternative transportation fuel stems from its domestic availability, high-energy density, and relatively low cost. It is the world's third most common transportation fuel, behind gasoline and diesel, and is considered an alternative fuel under the Energy Policy Act of 1992.
- ↑ 4.0 4.1
Eric Hahn (2024-04-23). "Compressed Natural Gas". ELGAS. Retrieved 2026-05-05.
The difference between CNG (compressed natural gas) and LPG cars is storage pressure, with CNG (compressed natural gas) at 10 times the pressure with 20-25 MPa vs 2 MPa for LPG. LPG has a higher energy content so a much greater cruising range with the same size tank.