The Odor in Natural Gas

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An Ingredient Added to Natural Gas
Get Back! I’m claustrophobic.

Phew! Man! What is the Odor in Natural Gas? In order to use odorless gas safely in households, it is important for safety to add something to warn the consumer of leakage. Otherwise, he may be exposed to suffocation or explosion!

Natural Gas: But What to Add?

To circumvent these dangers compounds such as the sulfur analogs of alcohols called thiols or mercaptans are added. These resemble the odor of garlic, or even that of a skunk.

Quantities required are very small—merely a few parts per million. Even if there is the hint of a skunk in cooking gas, Would you not agree our safety must override any displeasure we might experience from the odor of leaking gas?

No! How About…

But maybe you feel producers could have chosen a better aroma. Say strawberries, lavender, coffee, or bacon? But if those choices were used, would you be as quick to recognize the presence of danger? Face it, no. The odor in natural gas being that of a skunk was a wise choice.

Note: You might also enjoy Why Dogs Pee on Tires

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