Methane / CH₄

Methane is the simplest hydrocarbon, and the first of the alkane family. It was discovered and isolated by Alessandro Volta between 1776 and 1778. It is found in abundance in nature. It is a high-potential fuel as there is a strong energy release. Gaseous under normal temperature and pressure conditions, it can generally be transported in this state via pipelines, or via an LNG carrier in liquid state and more rarely via lorry. Methane is available in various qualities depending on its intended use and the purity required. Commercial grade methane is generally found in the workplace.
As this gas is odourless and flammable, a very small quantity of odourising agent is added to it so that any leaks can be detected. This chemical fragrance is generally made up of mercaptans of low molecular weight. It is a colourless and odourless gas in either liquefied or compressed form.

Flammability: Methane is a highly flammable gas. When it burns it produces a pale, slightly luminous flame. It catches fire quickly in air in the presence of a source of static electricity, a spark, an open flame or any other source of ignition or combustion.
Explosiveness: Methane forms an explosive mixture with air when found in concentrations of between 5.0 and 15.4%.