Butane: Difference between revisions

Freshly after it was discovered by Dr. Walter Snelling in 1912, butane was used as fuel. This was done by storing the butane in bottles and then placing it into residential buildings for both warmth and power. <ref>[http://www.answerbag.com/q_view/2032209 How was butane discovered?]. ''Answer Bag''. Web. Published 25 April 2010. Cartmell, Paul.</ref> Today, butane has a wide variety of uses, the most common of which can be found in the cigarette lighter. Butane serves as fuel for both the disposable and refillable lighter. Butane is used in this item for its high flammability and its low cost to produce. The butane torch is another item that takes advantage of its flammable [[properties]]. The butane torch is most commonly used for craft projects, glass making, certain plumbing projects that require heat and caramelizing desserts in the kitchen. Campers can make use of butane while using portable grills. In these cases, the butane is stored in a gas canister. Cordless hair straighteners or irons make use of butane gas canisters as well. Propane and other substances can combine with butane to form liquefied [[petroleum gas]], otherwise known as LPG. LPG is found in the manufacturing of petrochemicals, which are used in various heating appliances, in fuel for vehicles, and can be used in [[aerosol]] cans. In its purest state, butane is used as a refrigerant and can be used for calibrating instruments. Butane has replaced the use of methane derivatives in household refrigerators due to the risk [[methane]] places on the [[ozone layer]]. Surprisingly, adding butane to gasoline does not increase the gasoline's flammability, but enhances its quality and performance. This hydrocarbon is also used as a [[food]] additive <ref>[http://wanttoknowit.com/uses-of-butane Uses of Butane]. ''Want to Know It''. Web. Accessed 26 February 2013. Unknown Author. </ref>