Ethylene (C2H4)
- Is not hazardous to water or soil and is not toxic to humans or animals.
- Ethylene is a colourless, slightly sweet-smelling gas that is lighter than air under normal conditions. In the past, ethylene was also used as an anaesthetic alongside nitrous oxide for weak anaesthesia. It has a narcotic and muscle-relaxing effect.
- In the past, ethylene was also used as an anaesthetic alongside nitrous oxide for weak anaesthesia. It has a narcotic and muscle-relaxing effect.
- In the pipeline, ethylene is transported as a fluid, i.e. in a state between gas and liquid.
- Ethylene is an important raw material for the chemical industry and the starting material for around 30 per cent of all petrochemical products.
- Ethylene (ethene) is also found in nature (plants, etc.)
Apples, pears, nectarines and plums, but also tomatoes and avocados are examples of fruit and vegetables that release ethylene. Ethylene is a ripening gas that accelerates the ripening of other fruits and vegetables.
Bananas, kiwis, broccoli, cabbage and mangoes are particularly sensitive. They should therefore not be stored directly next to apples or tomatoes. Within a short time, bananas, for example, become blotchy and overripe due to ethylene.