In the natural gas energy industry, mixed gas usually refers to natural gas itself, as natural gas itself is a mixture composed of multiple gases. The following is a detailed explanation of natural gas as a mixed gas:
1. The basic composition of natural gas
Natural gas is a general term for mixed gases mainly composed of hydrocarbons that exist in underground rock reservoirs. Its main components are alkanes, of which methane (CH4) accounts for the vast majority, generally accounting for 80% to 99.9% of the total volume. In addition, natural gas also contains small amounts of ethane (C ₂ H ₆), propane (C ∝ H ₈), butane (C ₄ H ₁₀), as well as trace amounts of hydrogen sulfide (H ₂ S), carbon dioxide (CO ₂), nitrogen (N ₂), carbon monoxide (CO), and rare gases (such as helium He, argon Ar, etc.).
2. Classification of natural gas
Natural gas can be divided into free state, dissolved state, adsorbed state, and solid hydrate according to the phase existing underground. Only when free natural gas accumulates to form a natural gas reservoir can it be developed and utilized.
According to the form of storage, natural gas can be divided into two types: associated gas and non associated gas. Associated gas is a gas that coexists with oil, while non associated gas is a standalone natural gas deposit.
3. Characteristics of natural gas
Specific gravity: Natural gas has a specific gravity of about 0.65, which is lighter than air.
Color and odor: Natural gas has the characteristics of being colorless, odorless, and non-toxic. But in order to facilitate leak detection, natural gas is odorized with thiols, tetrahydrothiophene, and other additives before being delivered to end-users.
Flammability: Natural gas is a flammable and explosive gas that, when mixed with air, can explode when exposed to open flames or high temperatures within a certain concentration range.
4. Application of natural gas
Natural gas, as a clean energy source, has a wide range of applications in the energy industry. It is mainly used for power generation, heating, cooling, cooking, and industrial purposes. In addition, natural gas can also be used as a chemical raw material for the production of petrochemical products such as methanol and ethylene.
In summary, the mixed gas in the natural gas energy industry refers to natural gas itself, which is a mixture of multiple gases with broad application prospects and important economic value.
