What is methane gas?

Methane (CH₄) is the simplest hydrocarbon and the primary component of natural gas, accounting for 70–90% of its composition12. It is a colorless, odorless, flammable gas under standard conditions. While naturally occurring in biogas, landfills, and fossil fuel deposits, industrial-grade methane is purified for applications ranging from energy production to advanced manufacturing.

What are methane’s key physical properties and parameters?

• State: Colorless gas (liquefies at –161°C under pressure).

• Density: 0.717 kg/m³ (lighter than air).

• Flammability Range: 5–15% concentration in air.

• Boiling Point: –161.5°C (–258.7°F)1.

• CAS Number: 74-82-8; UN Number: UN1971 (Class 2.1 Flammable Gas).

• Purity: Industrial grades exceed 99.9% for semiconductor and LNG applications.

What are methane’s primary industrial uses?
Methane drives innovation across sectors:

• Energy Production: As natural gas, it powers electricity generation, heating, and cooking.

• Chemical Manufacturing: Feedstock for methanol, hydrogen, formaldehyde, and synthetic fuels.

• Semiconductors: High-purity methane aids in silicon wafer etching and thin-film deposition6.

• Transportation: LNG (liquefied methane) fuels ships and trucks, reducing CO₂ emissions by 20–30%.

• Agriculture: Enhances greenhouse crop growth and biogas production from organic waste.

  
  

How is methane transported internationally?

Methane’s transport adheres to strict safety protocols:

• Packaging: High-pressure steel cylinders or ISO tanks with anti-corrosion coatings.

• Regulations: Complies with IMDG, IATA, and DOT standards (Class 2.1). LNG shipments require specialized cryogenic containers.

• Certification: Mandatory documentation includes MSDS, UN certification, and customs clearance for hazardous materials.

  
  

What are best practices for methane storage?

Safe storage requires:

• Facility Design: Ventilated, fireproof storage areas away from oxidizers and heat sources.

• Material Compatibility: Stainless steel or carbon steel containers; avoid plastics for high-pressure LNG.

• Safety Systems: Leak detectors, emergency shutoff valves, and fire suppression equipment.

  
  

Expert Insight:
Dr. Li Wei, a chemical logistics specialist, notes: “Methane’s flammability demands rigorous leak prevention. Regular cylinder inspections and staff training are non-negotiable for compliance.”

What trends are shaping methane’s future?

• LNG Expansion: Rising demand for liquefied methane in shipping and heavy transport.

• Carbon Capture: Innovations in methane-to-hydrogen conversion with reduced emissions.

• Regulatory Shifts: Tighter IEA standards for methane leakage control in energy sectors.

  
  

Call to Action:
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