Etylen

Etylen, also known as ethylene (IUPAC name ethene), is the simplest alkene and a key industrial chemical. Its formula is C2H4, and at room temperature it is a colorless, flammable gas. The molecule contains a carbon–carbon double bond, giving it high reactivity; each carbon is sp2-hybridized and bonded to two hydrogens. Ethylene readily undergoes addition reactions across the double bond and polymerizes to form polyethylene, one of the world’s most-produced plastics.

Industrial production and sources: The primary method for producing ethylene is steam cracking of hydrocarbon feedstocks such as ethane, propane, naphtha, or gas oil, followed by separation and purification. It is also obtained as a byproduct in petroleum refining and various petrochemical processes. Global production is concentrated in large petrochemical complexes and is driven by demand for plastics and chemical intermediates.

Major uses and derivatives: Ethylene is a foundational feedstock for many chemicals and polymers. It is converted to ethylene oxide, ethylene dichloride, vinyl chloride monomer (for PVC), and various other intermediates. It is also the main building block for polyethylene and related polymers. In addition, ethylene serves as a precursor for solvents, lubricants, and specialty chemicals, and it is used in the production of ethylamines and glycols.

Plant biology and ripening: Ethylene acts as a gaseous plant hormone that regulates fruit ripening, flower senescence, leaf abscission, and stress responses. Commercially, controlled ethylene exposure is used to ripen fruits during storage and transportation.

Safety and handling: Ethylene is highly flammable and forms explosive mixtures with air over a wide concentration range. It is stored as a compressed gas or low-temperature liquid and requires proper ventilation and leak detection to prevent accumulation and ignition.