Propane is naturally odorless, but have you ever wondered why propane smells when it leaks from the cylinder? That smell is crucial when it comes to propane safety, although it’s unpleasant. It helps you detect a leak from the propane tank or cylinder easier and faster before it causes a fire accident. Discover what contributes to propane gas smell.

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Propane manufacturers usually add chemicals to the propane gas to smell like rotten eggs. The most common odorant used is Ethyl Mercaptan, and it is what makes propane smell. If your propane tank or cylinder experiences leaks, you’ll find it easy to detect. You will feel the smell of rotten eggs or rotten cabbage.

Here are the facts you should know about propane.

Propane is an Odorless Gas

In its natural state, propane smells like nothing as it’s naturally odorless. When the propane manufacturers don’t add an odorant, it will be tricky for users to detect a leak. Some facilities that rely on odorless propane always have gas detection equipment to detect potential leaks.

Using Odor Additives 

Since propane is odorless, adding an odorant helps to improve its detection. Without adding an odorant to propane, the leaking gas could collect in a room without getting detected. That could cause fire or even an explosion. The popular Ethyl Mercaptan additive is not a gas but a chemical odorant (a sulfur compound).

Odorant Fading 

The chemical additive can fade away in certain circumstances, making it tricky for users to detect leaks. Odorant fading can occur due to adsorption, where the odorant sticks to the inside wall of the propane tank or cylinder. It can also result from absorption of the odorant by other substances like water.

Here are what propane suppliers do to prevent fading.

  • Ensure the LPG has the correct amount of odorant
  • Monitor the odorant levels at all points of the supply chain
  • Ensure proper conditioning of tanks and gas bottles before filling
  • Ensure propane gas bottles and storage tanks are clean inside and out
  • Gas tanks and bottles are free of air, moisture, and other substance before use

Detecting the Smell of Propane Gas 

Additives like Ethyl Mercaptan play a significant role in detecting propane smell during a leak. While the chemical can make you feel uncomfortable, its use has effectively improved propane safety in residential and commercial properties.

Connect with us to learn what to do when there’s a propane smell on your property.