Acetylene

Physical Properties

• Acetylene is a colorless gas at room temperature and atmospheric pressure.

• It has a characteristic pungent odor.

• Its boiling point is -84 °C and freezing point is -80 °C.

 

Production

• Acetylene is produced by a chemical reaction between calcium carbide and water. The gas produced in this reaction is then subjected to purification and storage.

• Acetylene production is industrially important, especially as it is used in welding processes.

 

Areas of Use

• Welding and Cutting: Acetylene can be used in combination with oxygen to produce flames that reach high temperatures. This makes it possible to use it in metal cutting and welding processes.

• Metallurgy: Acetylene is a fuel gas used in metallurgy. It is especially used in iron and steel production processes.

• Chemical Industry: Acetylene is used as an intermediate in the synthesis of organic compounds and other chemical processes.

• Transportation and Storage: Acetylene can be stored in a carrier containing liquid acetylene or acetylene in cylinders specially designed for transportation and storage.

• Lighting: Historically, acetylene has also been used in acetylene lamps for lighting.

 

General Features

• Today, with the development of environmentally friendly alternative fuel sources, acetylene is being replaced by safer and more sustainable gases. These gases are particularly favored in line with trends towards environmentally friendly and safe energy production.

 

Safety

• Because acetylene is heavier than air, it can be dangerous as it accumulates. Ventilation and safety precautions are therefore important, especially in confined spaces.

• As it is an explosive gas, it must be handled carefully during storage and transportation.