Acetylene gas (chemical formula C₂H₂) is a colorless, flammable gas composed of carbon and hydrogen atoms. Acetylene is widely used as a fuel gas, especially in welding and cutting processes. It is preferred in industrial applications because it can reach a very high flame temperature compared to other gases.
 

Properties of Acetylene Gas:

 
  • Chemical Structure:
    Acetylene is a hydrocarbon compound from the simplest alkyne group. There is a triple bond between the carbon atoms in its structure, which affects the chemical properties and flammability of the gas.
  • Flammability:
    Acetylene burns very quickly in air and oxygen and reaches high temperatures. When combined with oxygen, it can reach very high temperatures such as 3000-3500°C.
  • Instability:
    Acetylene gas is quite unstable in its pure form and can be explosive, especially under high pressure. For this reason, it is usually made safe by dissolving it in acetone or another solvent.
 
  • Colorless, Light and Odorless (In its Pure Form):
    Acetylene in its pure form is colorless, but commercially produced acetylene usually contains sulfur compounds and can have a yellowish color and a bad odor.
  • Density:
    Acetylene gas is lighter than air, so it tends to rise in the event of a leak. This can be dangerous in closed areas because it can accumulate near the ceiling and form explosive mixtures.


Safety and Precautions:

  • Explosion Risk: Acetylene gas can become explosive when mixed with a certain amount of air or oxygen. In addition, pure acetylene is quite unstable under high pressure and poses a risk of explosion.
  • Storage: Acetylene gas is not stored under high pressure. It is usually made safe by dissolving it in acetone and stored in special acetylene cylinders. These cylinders are filled with a porous material into which acetylene is absorbed.
  • Fire Risk: Due to its high flammability, fire, sparks and heat sources should be avoided in areas where acetylene is present.
  • Gas Leaks: Acetylene gas is produced by chemical compounds that have a bad odor, which makes it easier to detect gas leaks. However, it is still important to ensure safety by using gas detectors.

Acetylene gas has an important place in the industrial and manufacturing sectors. When used safely, it offers high efficiency, especially in welding and cutting processes. However, it is a gas that requires attention to safety precautions due to its high flammability and explosion risk.