Chemical of the Week Part 2 - Propane

Hazard Profile

Chemical Name and Pseudonyms

Propane

Dimethyl methane, Propyl hydride. LP Gas, Liquified Petroleum Gas

UN Number

1075, 1978

Chemical Formula

CH₃CH₂CH₃

Primary Hazards

Flammable gas, pressurized, oxygen displacing (simple asphyxiant)

PPE Considerations

Structural Fire Protective Clothing with SCBA

Fire Fighting Considerations

Water to cool container, dry chemical or CO₂ to extinguish flames

Decontamination

Ventilation for garment and equipment

Detection and Monitoring

4-gas meter (LEL), electrochemical sensor, colormetric, IP = 11.07 eV

Chemical and Physical Properties

Physical State

Colorless liquefied gas that may be odorized

Vapor Pressure

6.4 ATM

Boiling Point

~-44^oF

Vapor Density

1.55

Specific Gravity

N/A

Miscibility

Negligible

Flash Point

N/A

LEL/UEL

~2.1-9.5%

Auto Ignition Temperature

842^oF

Flash Point

N/A

Routes of Exposure

Inhalation, contact

IDLH

2100 ppm (10% LEL)

PEL/REL/STEL

1000 ppm/1000 min/-

pH

N/A

Radioactive (Yes/No)

No

Medical

Toxicological Considerations

Contact with escaping liquid may cause freeze injuries, simple asphyxiant

Signs/Symptoms of Exposure

Oxygen displacement (CNS, unconsciousness), frostbite

Medical Treatment

Fresh air, supportive care

Other Information

Flammable gas, incompatible with strong oxidizers,

Chemical Structure