acetyleengas

Acetylene gas, also known as ethyne, is the simplest alkyne (C2H2). It is a colorless, highly flammable gas. The molecule contains a carbon–carbon triple bond, which makes it relatively reactive among hydrocarbons and yields a very hot flame when burned with oxygen.

Production and storage: The principal industrial method is the hydrolysis of calcium carbide: CaC2 + H2O → C2H2 + Ca(OH)2. In many applications, acetylene is stored under pressure dissolved in a stabilizing solvent such as acetone or dimethylformamide within cylinders lined with a porous material; this arrangement prevents rapid decomposition and makes handling safer. Acetylene is unstable at high pressures and can form explosive acetylides with certain metals, so it is stored and conducted with care.

Uses: The dominant use is as a fuel for welding and cutting in oxyacetylene equipment, because of the very high flame temperature. It is also a versatile chemical feedstock for the synthesis of a wide range of compounds, including vinyl chloride monomer and various acetylene-based intermediates used in the plastics and chemical industries.

Safety and regulation: Acetylene readily forms explosive mixtures with air and must be handled with appropriate equipment and ventilation. It can form unstable acetylides with copper and some other metals; contact with oils or greases must be avoided. Cylinders are subject to strict storage, handling, and transportation regulations in most countries.