Fuel gas

Most fuel gases are composed of hydrocarbons (such as methane and propane), hydrogen, carbon monoxide, or mixtures thereof.

Such gases are sources of energy that can be readily transmitted and distributed through pipes.

There are two broad classes of fuel gases, based not on their chemical composition, but their source and the way they are produced: those found naturally, and those manufactured from other materials.

[5] In addition to chemical composition fuel gas may need to comply with parameters such as calorific value, Wobbe index, dewpoint, etc.

One of the earliest uses was gas lighting, which enabled the widespread adoption of streetlamps and the illumination of buildings in towns.

It may also be used gas heaters, camping stoves, and even to power vehicles, as they have a high calorific value.

Currently, fuel gases, especially syngas, are used heavily for the production of ammonia for fertilizers and for the preparation of many detergents and specialty chemicals.

[1] On an industrial plant fuel gas may be used to purge pipework and vessels to prevent the ingress of air.