Methane - CH4
This page presents information about methane (CH4) – also known as natural gas - appropriate detection means - methane CH4 gas detector - and respiratory protective equipment (self-contained breathing apparatus and supplied air respirator).
Methane properties (CH4)
Natural gas - or methane - (CH4) is naturally produced from decomposition of organic matter in poorly oxygenated areas. Its anthropogenic version is massively produced through the exploitation and combustion of fossil matter and in any other field of activity with organic matter decomposition: waste landfill sites, biogas production.
| CAS | LEL | LSE | IP | Density / Air | Filter / SCBA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 74-82-8 | 5 % | 15.4 % | 12.51 eV | 0.6 | SCBA |
Dangers of methane gas
Methane (CH4) is colorless, odorless and heavier than air. Because of these properties, this gas cannot be detected without proper equipment and can accumulate in suspended ceilings and other high-up areas. This gas is above all extremely flammable (R12) and explosive, with explosive limits between 5 and 15% volume.
Methane - CH4 gas - is not a toxic gas but it might replace oxygen when reaching high concentration levels in poorly ventilated areas. It is also responsible of the greenhouse effect as it absorbs earth infrared rays that enhance climate warming. Methane is one of the six major gases covered by the Kyoto protocol.
Methane CH4 gas detector
As methane is not detectable through smell, only a CH4 gas detector can accurately measure the presence of this combustible gas. It is recommended to use a methane detection system that will be monitoring concentrations in percentage of the LEL (explosimeter or combustible gas monitor).
For calibration and gas testing of your fixed or portable gas detectors, methane calibration gas cylinders are available.
CH4 respiratory protection - Methane
As methane is an asphyxiating gas featuring high risks of suffocation, it is recommended to wear an open circuit self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) or an air supplying respirator for long-term applications.