E2610-LEL
Rev 10.05.2021
Methane
A colorless flammable gas, the main component of natural gas, marsh gases. Methane
results from bacterial decomposition of plant and animal matter (landfill gas).
Methane is widely used as a fuel and chemical feedstock.
Synonyms: Marsh Gas, Natural Gas, Carbon tetrahydride, Hydrogen carbide.
Chemical formula
CH
4
Molar weight
16
Relative gas density (to air)
0.55
Conversion
1 ppm = 0.65 mg/m
3
Boiling point
−161.49 °C
Low explosive limit (LEL), % vol. in air
4.4* (5.0**)
Upper explosive limit (UEL), % vol. in air
15
Odor
Odorless when pure. Methane used in the kitchens
contains an odorant
Hazards
Highly flammable, mixtures with air are explosive.
Asphyxiant.
Exposure limits
not established
6
