Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) – Description

Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) is a clear, colorless, and non-toxic liquid formed by cooling natural gas to approximately -162°C (-260°F). This process reduces its volume by about 600 times, making it easier to store and transport over long distances. LNG is primarily composed of methane (CH₄) with small amounts of other hydrocarbons.

Key Properties of LNG:

• Non-Toxic & Odorless (unlike LPG, no odorant is added).

• Extremely Cold (-162°C) and stored in cryogenic tanks.

• Highly Flammable in Vapor Form but not explosive in liquid form.

• Lighter than Air when vaporized, reducing accumulation risks.

Common Uses of LNG:

• Power Generation: Used in gas-fired power plants.

• Industrial Fuel: Alternative to diesel and heavy fuel oils.

• Transportation: Used in LNG-powered trucks, ships, and buses.

• Residential & Commercial: Heating, cooking, and water heating in some regions.

Advantages of LNG:

✅ Environmentally Friendly: Lower carbon emissions compared to coal and oil.
✅ Efficient Storage & Transport: Compressed into a liquid for easy handling.
✅ Safer than Other Fuels: Does not explode in liquid form.
✅ High Energy Density: Produces more energy per unit than other fossil fuels.

Safety Considerations:

• Stored in insulated cryogenic tanks to maintain low temperatures.

• Requires special handling equipment to prevent cold burns.

• Leaks can cause asphyxiation in enclosed spaces due to oxygen displacement.

• Vaporized LNG can ignite in the presence of an ignition source.