CAS No. 74-85-1 Ethylene Supplier. Characteristics of Ethylene
CAS Number 74-85-1 corresponds to Ethylene, a colorless, flammable gas that plays a fundamental role in the petrochemical industry and plant biology. Here are the key characteristics of Ethylene:
Chemical Formula: C2H4
Physical State: At standard temperature and pressure, ethylene is a gas.
Molecular Weight: Approximately 28.05 g/mol.
Boiling Point: -103.7°C (-154.66°F) at 1 atmosphere.
Melting Point: -169.2°C (-272.56°F).
Density: Around 1.18 kg/m³ at STP, slightly lighter than air.
Solubility: Slightly soluble in water and soluble in most organic solvents.
Flammability and Reactivity: Highly flammable and can form explosive mixtures with air. Reacts with halogens, oxidizers, and strong acids.
Uses of Ethylene:
** Petrochemical Industry**: Ethylene is a primary building block in the production of numerous chemicals and plastics, including polyethylene (the world's most common plastic), ethylene glycol (used in antifreeze and polyester fibers), and ethylene oxide (used to make detergents and plastics).
Agriculture: Applied as a ripening agent for fruits and as a growth regulator in horticulture due to its role as a natural plant hormone, promoting fruit ripening, flower senescence, and abscission.
Manufacturing: Used in the production of vinyl chloride (for PVC), styrene (for polystyrene), and other organic chemicals.
Safety Considerations:
Fire and Explosion Risk: Ethylene's high flammability necessitates strict adherence to fire prevention measures and proper ventilation during handling and storage.
Toxicity: Prolonged exposure to high concentrations can lead to dizziness, headache, and asphyxiation in oxygen-deficient environments.
Environmental Impact: While ethylene itself breaks down rapidly in the atmosphere, its production and use contribute to greenhouse gas emissions indirectly through energy consumption and the production of related chemicals.
Supply Sources:
Suppliers of ethylene typically include large-scale petrochemical companies and gas distribution firms specializing in industrial gases. These suppliers often have integrated operations that include the extraction of ethylene from crude oil or natural gas streams, its purification, and distribution to customers via pipelines, tankers, or cylinders, depending on the quantity and end-use requirements. When sourcing ethylene, it's crucial to engage with reputable suppliers who adhere to strict safety and environmental standards, ensuring the product's quality and responsible handling practices.
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