Kitchens by Riland

By definition, propane and butane are tow gases which are derived from petroleum. They are generally used as fuels for different engines, barbeques or stoves. Propane is a three carbon alkane containing carbon and hydrogen atoms. Propane has been found in 1910 by Dr. Walter O. Snelling who identified it as a volatile material in the unrefined gasoline.

Propane is used as fuel for barbeques, stoves or vehicles. It is advisable to use it, as it boils at low levels. It also vaporizes very fast when being released from its container. This gas has no colour, is odourless and it can be easily inflamed. Propane is easy to store since it can be transformed into a liquid form. You can keep it in special containers or in disposable bottles.

If you purchase a propane barbeque, there are some safety issues to consider. Before lightening your grill, open its lid in case there is any gas accumulation to prevent explosions. Don’t let your children play around your barbeque and keep the matches away. When lightening the grill, always use long tools to avoid burning yourself. It is ideal to place your barbeque at a considerable distance from your house or any other things that catch fire.

Unlike propane, butane is a four carbon alkane. It is also used as fuel for barbeques or stoves. Even if it’s cheaper, butane is also highly flammable. Since it is not used as often as propane, it is difficult to find devices that work by using butane tanks. Depending on the amount of oxygen, butane burns forming carbon dioxide. If there is not enough oxygen, through the burning process, butane can form carbon or carbon monoxide.

There are some differences between these tow gases. For instance, propane has a lower boiling point than butane therefore it can be easily stored even in adverse weather conditions. Unlike propane, butane is less toxic therefore it can be legally stored even indoors. Since it doesn’t freeze as fast as butane, propane can be easily used at lower temperatures making it possible to use it more frequently.

When dealing with butane, it is preferable to keep the cylinder warm as it is not that resistant to low temperatures. There are certain risks when using butane as it has harmful effects over our health. If inhaled, it causes disorders such as euphoria, cardiac arrhythmia, asphyxia or drowsiness leading sometimes to death. Butane is also used in many industries when producing appliances such as refrigerators, freezers, aerosol sprays or even for small things like cigarette lighters.