# Methane #gas-type #flammable-gas #safety Methane (CH4) is the primary component of natural gas and a common flammable gas in industrial environments. ## Properties - Chemical formula: CH4 - Main component of natural gas - Colorless - Odorless (odorant added for safety) - Highly flammable - Lighter than air (buoyant) ## Flammability - LEL: ~5% by volume - UEL: ~15% by volume - Auto-ignition Temperature: 595°C - Temperature class T1 (450°C) is sufficient ## Detection - Measured as %LEL or %Vol - Detected by catalytic bead sensors - Also detected by IR absorption sensors - Critical for natural gas facilities - Important in oil and gas operations ## Safety Considerations - Can cause explosions at low concentrations (5% LEL) - Buoyant gas (rises in air) - Requires proper ventilation - Needs appropriate detector placement - Common in confined spaces ## Applications - Natural gas distribution - Oil and gas extraction - Landfill gas monitoring - Mining operations - Industrial processes ## Related Concepts - [[Catalytic Bead Sensor]] - [[IR Absorption]]