Carbon monoxide: Overview
Description
Carbon monoxide is used as a chemical intermediate in some chemical processes (production of formaldehyde and methanol).
Substance details
Substance name: Carbon monoxide
CASR number: 630-08-0
Molecular formula: CO
Synonyms: carbon oxide, carbonic oxide
Physical properties
Carbon monoxide is a highly poisonous, colourless, odourless and tasteless gas. It is very flammable and mixes well with air, easily forming explosive mixtures.
Melting Point: -205°C
Boiling Point: -191°C
Vapour density: 0.967 (air=1)(at 25°C)
Chemical properties
Carbon monoxide will form when carbon in fuels (petrol, wood, coal, natural gas) is not burned completely. It is highly flammable.
Carbon monoxide is soluble in some organic solvents, such as ethyl acetate, chloroform and acetic acid. It will form toxic and flammable compounds when exposed to finely dispersed metal powders. It may react vigorously with oxygen, acetylene, chlorine, fluorine and nitrous oxide.
Further information
The National Pollutant Inventory (NPI) holds data for all sources of carbon monoxide emissions in Australia.
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