Methane Information
Methane
Other Names |
Methyl hydride, Marsh gas |
Chemical Formula |
CH4 |
CAS Number |
74 – 82 – 8 |
Industry Uses |
Natural Gas; Fuels |
Health Risks |
Dizziness, Asphyxiation |
Vapor Pressure |
258,574 mmHg |
Water Solubility |
Insoluble |
Flammability |
Extremely Flammable |
Odor |
Odorless |
Methane MSDS
What is Methane?
Methane is a nontoxic, colorless, odorless gas. Methane is a gas produced by a group of colonic anaerobes. All methane produced by human beings is a metabolic product of intestinal bacteria, and about 50% of it is excreted. Methane is also found below ground and under the sea floor. It is emitted during production and transport of coal, natural gas, and oil, as well as from lifestock. Methane makes up roughly 10% of U.S. Greenhouse Gas emissions. It is easily ignited, and it may explode when heated under pressure. It may form explosive mixtures with air. Methane is harmful to aquatic life and can cause lasting damage.
Methane Exposure and Health Risks
Methane can be harmful if inhaled. Vapors can cause dizziness or asphyxiation. Methane inhalation is suspected to damage fertility or fetuses in utero. Contact with gas or liquid methane may cause burns or frostbite. Fire can cause irritating and/or toxic gases.
Regulations
The table below summarizes the most-recent exposure limits.
Limit/Level |
Type |
Organization |
1,000 ppm |
TWA (8 hrs) |
NIOSH |
Sources: NIOSH
Measuring Methane
Methane concentration in the air can be measured in units of parts per million (ppm). Many of our products have digital communication capabilities for easy monitoring and control. We carry portable and fixed methane monitors and kits. All of our methane products can be viewed HERE.
D16 |
The D16 is a versatile tool designed for gas leak detection, personal safety, spot checking, confined entry, and data logging, and more. It can be used as a portable monitor or as a stationary one that can be set to log data over long periods of time. This customizable unit can be fitted with a variety of sensors and is sold with every accessory you may need for fast and accurate portable gas detection. | 100%LEL |
D12-IR |
The D12-IR is designed for operation in hazardous areas using a compact infrared sensor. Its explosion-proof cast aluminum housing is rated for Class 1, Division 1, Group B, C, D locations and is UL, FM, and CSA certified. This monitor can be fitted with a variety of sensors to be used on a wide range of toxic and combustible gases. | |
S200 |
The Series 200 portable gas monitor uses Gas Sensitive Electrochemical technology (GSE) to measure gases found in indoor or industrial environments. It is designed for spot checking, personal exposure monitoring, and leak identification. This monitor can be fitted with a variety of sensor heads to be used on a wide range of toxic gases. | 0-10000ppm |
S300 |
The Series 300 portable gas monitor uses Gas Sensitive Electrochemical technology (GSE) to measure gases found in indoor or industrial environments. It shares the same features as the S200 with the additions of audible alarms and relay and voltage outputs which allow you to interface with control systems, data loggers, and other equipment. This monitor can be fitted with a variety of sensor heads to be used on a wide range of toxic gases. | 0-10000ppm |
S500 |
The Series 500 portable gas monitor uses Gas Sensitive Electrochemical technology (GSE) to measure gases found in indoor or industrial environments. It shares the same features as the S200 and S300 with the additions of internal data logging as well as PC connections cables. This monitor can be fitted with a variety of sensor heads to be used on a wide range of toxic gases. | 0-10000ppm |
S900 |
The Series 900 fixed gas monitor uses Gas Sensitive Electrochemical technology (GSE) designed to operate as a relay controller, gas transmitter, or networked device. It can also monitor temperature and humidity if needed. This monitor can be fitted with a variety of sensor heads to be used on a wide range of toxic gases. | 0-10000ppm |
Contact us for help choosing the right monitor for your application