LPG stands for liquefied petroleum gas, a flammable hydrocarbon gas used as fuel for heating and cooking. It includes propane and butane, both commonly used for these purposes. Stored under pressure in liquid form, LPG vaporizes into a gas when released from its container. It’s favored for its portability, clean-burning nature, and efficiency.

• Composition: LPG primarily consists of propane (C3H8) and butane (C4H10), with minor amounts of other hydrocarbons.

• Sources: LPG is typically obtained from natural gas processing and petroleum refining, where propane and butane are separated from the raw natural gas or crude oil.

• Properties: In its natural state, LPG is colorless and odorless, but an odorant is usually added for safety reasons to help detect leaks. Since it is heavier than air, it tends to sink and accumulate in low-lying areas in case of a leak.

LPG is stored and transported under pressure as a liquid in specialized containers like cylinders or tanks. When released, it vaporizes into a gas used as fuel.

• Residential and Commercial Heating: LPG is widely used for space heating, water heating, and cooking in homes and businesses, especially in areas without natural gas infrastructure.
• Industrial Applications: It serves as fuel in various industrial processes, including powering forklifts, heating in manufacturing, and as a feedstock in chemical production.

While LPG burns cleaner than many other fossil fuels, producing lower levels of pollutants like particulate matter and sulfur dioxide compared to coal or oil, it still emits carbon dioxide (CO2) when burned.

Due to its flammability, proper handling and storage of LPG are crucial to prevent accidents. Safety measures include proper ventilation, leak detection systems, and regular maintenance of equipment and storage facilities. Additionally, LPG equipment typically features safety devices like flame failure devices.