Liquefaction of Gas

Liquefaction of gas is the process of converting gases into a liquid form, primarily by cooling and/or applying high pressure.  This is often done to store or transport gases more efficiently, as liquids occupy much less volume than gases.  

Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG)

• LNG is primarily composed of methane and is created by cooling natural gas to around -162°C (-260°F), which turns it into a liquid.
• LNG takes up about 1/600th of the volume of natural gas in its gaseous state, making it much easier and more efficient to transport over long distances where pipelines are not feasible.
• LNG is commonly transported by special insulated tanker ships and is later regasified at receiving terminals for use in heating, electricity generation, and as a fuel for vehicles.

Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG)

• LPG typically includes propane, butane, or a mixture of the two, which are gases at room temperature but can be liquefied under moderate pressure.
• Once liquefied, LPG is stored in pressurized tanks and is commonly used as fuel for heating, cooking, and vehicles, and in industrial applications.
• LPG is easier to handle than LNG because it liquefies under much less intense cooling or pressure conditions.

Other Applications of Gas Liquefaction

Liquefaction of gases is also essential in industrial and scientific applications, where gases like oxygen, nitrogen, and hydrogen are liquefied for storage, transport, and use in various chemical processes.

Gas liquefaction plays a role in energy, transportation, and industrial sectors due to its efficiency and convenience in storage and handling.