Butane

Gas: Butane

By: Katelin Kukk

 

Butane in its pure form is an odorless, colorless gas made up of carbon and hydrogen. However, companies add a foul-smelling chemical, like ethyl mercaptan, giving it a rotten egg smell. At lower temperatures or certain pressures, butane can also turn into a solid or liquid. This gas is one of the most popular fuel choices in the world and is used in a variety of fields.

Butane is used as a component in gasoline and other petrochemicals, refrigeration, and more. It occurs during the extraction of natural gas and crude oil, as well as through the natural decomposition of plants and animals. You can find it in portable stoves, lighters, aerosol sprays and more. It is commonly mixed with propane to work better in a wider range of temperatures. Although it’s used in everyday life, butane can be a very dangerous gas if not handled correctly. 
 
This gas is highly flammable and labeled as a fire hazard. High exposure levels of butane can cause organ failure or even death. There have been reports of healthy people mishandling this gas, leading to diagnoses of dizziness, liver damage, brain damage, and more. It is always important to pay close attention to proper instructions for handling butane and make sure to use it accordingly. 

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