Gas Properties - Ethylene

Gas Name	Chemical Formula	Chemical Family
Ethylene	C₂H₄	Alkenes, Aliphatic Hydrocarbons
Synonym(s)	Bicarburated Hydrogen, Acetene, Elayl, Etherin

Molecular Weight	Critical Pressure (psia)	Critical Temperature (R)	Ratio of Specific Heats
28.050	748	509.5	1.255
Physical Characteristics		Solubility
Flammable, Colorless, Slightly sweet odor		Soluble in water and alcohol. Dilutes lube oil.
Applications or Uses
Manufacture of Ethylene Glycol. Plastics at higher pressures. Food Processing. Also used as an illuminant with other gasses for lighting. Generally used at relatively higher pressures. .
Hazards
Asphyxiant. Dispersible over a large area and does not dissipate into atmosphere. Long range ignition possible. Handle in well ventilated area.
Material Requirements
Non-corrosive. Standard materials apply.
Lubrication
Standard guidelines for lube or non-lube service. Has a tendency to dissolve into lube oil, thereby reducing oil viscosity.
Comments
No special problems with compression. However, in the event ethylene oxide can be formed, extreme care is required. In certain cases, Ethylene Oxide and copper can combine to form Acetylene. If Ethylene Oxide is present, do not use yellow metals.

Application Manual