At standard temperature and pressure, ethylene is a colorless, odorless gas & highly flammable gas.
Industrial Use
- In terms of quantity produced, ethylene is the most important organic chemical. It is the feedstock in the manufacture of the most important polymer (polyethylene).
- As a fuel for cutting and welding of metal.
- In the production of ethyl, mustard gas, ethylene oxide, ethylene, alcohol, polyethylene and other plastics.
- For accelerating the ripening of bananas and maturing the color of citrus fruits.
- To increase the growth rate of seedling, vegetables and fruit trees.
Physical and Chemical Properties:
| Asphyxiant |
Yes |
| Boiling Point |
-104 °C |
| Category |
Flammable Gas |
| Chemical Abstracts Service Number |
74-85-1 |
| Chemical Name |
C2H4 |
| Flammability Range |
Yes - High Flammable |
| Molecular Weight |
28.054 g/mol |
| Phase |
Gas |
| Solubility [mg/l] in Water |
22.6% |
| Toxic |
No |
| UN Number |
1962 - Gas, 1038 - Liquid |
| Vapour Pressure |
Vapor Pressure @ -104 °C is 760mmHg |
cylinders