answersLogoWhite

0

When produced propane and butane is odorless and colorless. Ethyl mercaptan is the odorant added to propane and butane in the processing and refining process to provide a detectable odor. Under certain conditions the odorant in propane may oxidize and lose its destictive odor. This odor fade can occur in new steel containers when first placed into service and in older steel containers that have been left open to the atmosphere. Air, water, or rust in a propane tank or cylinder can also reduce propane odor concentration. Ethyl mercaptan is toxic although the amount added to propane is non-threatening.

User Avatar

Wiki User

17y ago

What else can I help you with?