The Rise Of LP Gas
In our modern world of rapid technological advancement, it can be hard to keep track of how everything works. However, everything that we use runs on some type of fuel. Understanding those energy sources and how they work can help you develop a much greater understanding of the world around you.
A fuel source that has recently risen in popularity is liquid petroleum gas, so here's the breakdown on exactly what it is and how it works:
What is liquid petroleum?
In terms of composition, liquid petroleum is either butane or propane. This means that each molecule is composed of 3-4 carbons and 8 or 10 hydrogens. Like other natural gases, it is burned in order to release energy.
It is called liquid petroleum because it can be stored in liquid form to drastically increase its density. Liquid petroleum only takes up 1/270th of the space as a liquid when compared to its gaseous form, so transportation and storage is generally conducted in a liquid state. However, in order to reach a liquid state, it must drop below -44 degrees Fahrenheit, which means that specialized devices are needed.
What is it used for?
It is sometimes used to power cars and other vehicles. However, it is more commonly used in the home for heating, air conditioning, barbecues, or lighting, as well as on farms.
It is the most common car fuel aside from gasoline, and is used by several hundred thousand vehicles in the United States alone. Because liquid petroleum can be stored so efficiently in liquid form, it makes an excellent option for home energy. It takes up very little space, while simultaneously providing a large amount of total energy.
How is it transported?
As was stated earlier, liquid petroleum is normally stored in a liquid form in specific containers. These containers are designed to keep the liquid very dense and at a very low temperature. Once the container is opened, the liquid petroleum will become a gas, at which point it can be burned to release energy.
Special transportation precautions must often be taken when moving liquid petroleum, including special hazard warnings.
What is the environmental impact?
One of the primary benefits of liquid petroleum is its environmental-friendliness. Unlike chlorofluorocarbons, liquid petroleum does not damage the ozone layer. Therefore, liquid petroleum has become increasingly common in both aerosols and refrigerants.
Liquid petroleum also releases much less carbon dioxide than other options relative to the amount of energy produced. For more information, contact Avery Oil And Propane or a similar company.