Page 14 - CNG ESP Participant Guide2024

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 ▪ Gaseous state
▪ Lighter than air (specific gravity <1)
▪ Colorless and tasteless
▪ Odorless (but odorants are added by utility company)
▪ 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 (CO)
Properties ▪ Lower in hydrocarbons (HC)
▪ Lower in nitrogen oxides (NOx)
▪ Less greenhouse gas emissions (CO2)
▪ Zero particulates
▪ Zero evaporative emissions

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