Ethylene - Thermophysical Properties

Ethylene, a colorless gas with a sweet odor, is one of the simplest alkenes and plays a significant role in the chemical industry due to its diverse thermophysical properties. Understanding these properties is crucial for various applications, including its use as a plant hormone, in petrochemical processes, and as an industrial feedstock for producing other chemicals.

Key Thermophysical Properties of Ethylene

The key thermophysical properties of ethylene include its boiling point, melting point, density, and critical properties. Ethylene has a boiling point of -103.7 °C and a melting point of -169.4 °C, making it a gas at room temperature under atmospheric pressure. Its critical temperature is 9.2 °C with a critical pressure of 50.4 atm, indicating the conditions under which ethylene can transition to its supercritical state.

Density and Viscosity

At 25 °C, ethylene has a density of approximately 1.178 kg/m³, making it lighter than air. This property is critical in various applications, particularly in plant physiology, where ethylene acts as a signaling molecule influencing growth and fruit ripening. The viscosity of ethylene is approximately 0.09 mPa·s at room temperature, allowing it to flow easily, which is advantageous in industrial processes.

Thermal Conductivity and Specific Heat

The thermal conductivity of ethylene is around 0.178 W/m·K, which is higher than that of many other gases, facilitating efficient heat transfer in industrial applications. The specific heat capacity, measured at constant pressure, is about 1.40 kJ/kg·K, which is essential for calculating thermal loads in processes that involve heating or cooling ethylene.

Applications of Ethylene

One of the most significant uses of ethylene is in the production of polyethylene, one of the most widely used plastics worldwide. Ethylene serves as a precursor in the synthesis of various chemical products such as ethylene oxide, ethylene glycol, and vinyl chloride. Furthermore, its role as a ripening agent in fruits makes it an important compound in the agriculture sector.

The versatility of ethylene extends to the energy sector, where it is used in the synthesis of fuels and other valuable hydrocarbons. Its ability to undergo various chemical reactions makes it indispensable in both organic chemistry and industrial manufacturing.

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Conclusion

In summary, ethylene is not only a critical component in numerous industrial processes but also a vital element in understanding plant physiology and producing essential chemicals and materials. As the industry continues to innovate and demand for ethylene grows, keeping abreast of its thermophysical properties will be essential for optimizing its applications.

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