Page 15 - ESP Participant Guide_Neat

Module 1: Properties and Characteristics of Natural Gas

Lesson 1.2: Properties and Characteristics of Natural Gas

Chemical Properties ▪ 90-96% methane
▪ Other components include ethane, propane and butane
▪ Compared to gasoline, diesel, and propane, natural gas has the least carbon content,
which makes it a cleaner fuel going into the engine
▪ Chemical composition compared to gasoline and diesel
o Natural gas (methane) CH4
o Propane C3H8
o Gasoline C8H18
o Diesel C14H30

Physical Properties ▪ Lighter than air (specific gravity <1)
▪ Colorless and tasteless
▪ Odorless (but odorants are added)
▪ Non-toxic
▪ Non-corrosive

Flammability ▪ Ignition temperature 900-1080°F
Properties ▪ Flammability range 5-15%
o <5% mixture is too lean to burn
o >15% mixture is too rich to burn

Emissions ▪ Lower in carbon monoxide
Properties ▪ Lower in hydrocarbons
▪ Lower in nitrogen oxides
▪ Less greenhouse gas emissions (CO2)
▪ Zero particulates
▪ Zero evaporative emissions

NGV Essentials and Safety Practices © 2019 NGVi All Rights Reserved Page 1-3