What is the odorant added to propane for leak detection?

The proper odorant added to propane for leak detection is ethyl mercaptan. This odorant is specifically chosen because it has a strong, distinctive smell similar to that of rotten eggs, which makes it easily detectable even at very low concentrations. This property is crucial for safety, as propane is an odorless gas in its natural state, and the addition of ethyl mercaptan helps individuals quickly identify a gas leak, prompting necessary safety measures before an incident occurs.

Ethyl mercaptan's effectiveness as an odorant is widely recognized in the propane and natural gas industries, enhancing public safety by ensuring that leaks can be detected by human senses. The addition of this substance is a standard practice in the industry, making it a vital component of propane distribution and usage.