Ethane
Chemical Formula: C2H6
Typical Detection Wavelength: 3.349µm
Filter Type: Narrow Bandpass (NBP)
Description: Ethane has a number of uses, particularly as a precursor to producing ethylene, and is one of the largest components of natural gas. As such, it can be used as a fuel due to its highly combustible properties. Ethane is colourless and odourless, and is an asphyxiant thus making it a health and safety risk.
An infrared optical filter can be successfully used for the early detection and warning of the presence of Ethane in the atmosphere, as the C2H6 gas absorbs IR radiation at a specific wavelength with typical absorption around 3.349µm.
Example Transmission Curve:
Centre Wavelength: 3.349µm ± 0.5%
Half Bandwidth: 67nm ± 10nm
Transmission Peak: >70%
Umicore has significant experience in producing IR Filters to the highest standards for the early detection of Ethane and many other gasses.