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Propylene Gas Properties

Propylene gas is a versatile, flammable hydrocarbon used in manufacturing and metalworking. It is valued for its unique physical and chemical properties.

Propylene Versus Propane Gas

Propylene and propane gas are similar. The primary difference is that propylene has a double bond between two carbon atoms. This molecular structure allows propylene to burn hotter than propane, making it ideal for heating and cutting applications.

Chemical and Physical Properties of Propylene

Propylene properties include the following:

Physical and Chemical Properties of Polypropylene
PropertyValue
Molecular FormulaC3H6
Propylene Molar Mass42.08 g/mol
Propylene Boiling Point-47.68 °C
Propylene Melting Point-185.3 °C
Density as a Gas1.81 kg/m3 at 15 °C
Density as a Liquid613.9 kg/m3
Vapor Density1.46 if air = 1
SolubilitySlightly soluble in water and very soluble in ethanol and acetic acid

Grades of Propylene Gas

Industrial-grade propylene gas is available in three types:

  • Refinery grade: Refinery grade is the liquid form of propylene with a minimum purity of 65%.
  • Chemical grade: Chemical-grade propylene has a purity level of 94%.
  • Polymer grade: The highest propylene gas grade, polymer-grade propylene, has a purity level of 99%.

Safety, Hazard and Handling Information

Propylene has some safety risks to consider for storage and use. Propylene gas can displace air, leading to oxygen deprivation and asphyxiation. Since it is highly flammable, open flames and ignition sources can cause propylene containers to rupture or explode.

Propylene is available in cylinders, liquid or bulk quantities. When you’re done using propylene and the tank is empty, make sure the valves are closed. Keep these storage containers away from sparks, hot surfaces, flames and ignition sources. Propylene will remain stable under these recommended storage conditions.

Propylene Production and Usage

Propylene gas is used for:

  • Manufacturing: This gas is used to manufacture polypropylene and other chemicals.
  • Petrochemicals: Propylene is a feedstock and major chemical intermediate in the gas industry.
  • Welding: Propylene is used in oxy-fuel to provide better heat transfer during welding and other metalworking processes.
  • Fuel: Propylene is a viable alternative to propane fuel for manufacturing processes that need hotter temperatures.
  • Plastics: Propylene plastics are used in injection molding.

Choose Meritus Gas Partners for Your Propylene Needs

Meritus Gas Partners is your trusted partner for industrial gas solutions like propylene. Get the gas products and related services your application needs by finding a partner near you or contacting us to learn more.

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